Researchers have long explored the link between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. In recent years, some scientists began referring to Alzheimer’s as Type 3 diabetes. This nickname reflects growing evidence that insulin resistance plays a role in the development of Alzheimer’s.
What Is Type 3 Diabetes?
Type 3 diabetes is not an officially recognized medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a term used to describe the connection between Alzheimer’s disease and insulin resistance in the brain.
Insulin helps brain cells use glucose for energy. When the brain becomes resistant to insulin, it cannot process glucose efficiently. As a result, brain cells may not function properly. Over time, this can lead to cognitive decline, memory loss, and other symptoms seen in Alzheimer’s disease.
Insulin helps brain cells use glucose for energy.
How Insulin Resistance Affects the Brain
Insulin does more than regulate blood sugar. In the brain, it supports learning, memory, and nerve function. When insulin signaling breaks down, these functions suffer.
Researchers have found that people with Alzheimer’s often show signs of insulin resistance in the brain. Some also have lower insulin levels in cerebrospinal fluid compared to people without the disease.
A study from the National Institute on Aging notes that insulin resistance and inflammation may lead to the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles—two hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. These harmful proteins damage nerve cells and disrupt communication between them.
📖 Resource: Learn more about this connection from the National Institutes on Aging.
Diabetes Increases the Risk of Alzheimer’s
People with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Both diseases share risk factors such as:
- High blood sugar
- Obesity
- Inflammation
- Oxidative stress
Type 2 diabetes may speed up brain aging and worsen memory problems. The damage caused by long-term high blood sugar may harm blood vessels in the brain, reducing oxygen supply and increasing risk of dementia.
Can Better Blood Sugar Control Help?
While researchers continue to study this question, early evidence suggests that managing insulin levels could help protect brain health.
Some approaches include:
- Eating a low-sugar, high-fiber diet
- Getting regular physical activity
- Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol in check
- Sleeping well and managing stress
There is also interest in repurposing diabetes medications for Alzheimer’s treatment. Some clinical trials are testing drugs like metformin and intranasal insulin to see if they slow memory loss or improve brain function.
What This Means for Families
Understanding the link between Alzheimer’s and insulin resistance gives caregivers another tool. If your loved one has diabetes or prediabetes, help them maintain healthy habits. If they show signs of memory loss, talk to a doctor right away.At Avanti Senior Living, we offer support for residents living with Alzheimer’s and related conditions. Our memory care approach encourages engagement, promotes dignity, and supports whole-body wellness.
Final Thoughts
The idea of Alzheimer’s as Type 3 diabetes reminds us how closely the brain and body are connected. While there’s still much to learn, research continues to point toward metabolic health as a key factor in cognitive aging.
Taking steps to improve brain and body wellness may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s or slow its progress. Early action and everyday care matter.
