Alzheimer’s as Type 3 Diabetes: The Link Between Blood Sugar & Brain Health
- Xenia
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
Why is Alzheimer’s Called Type 3 Diabetes?
Alzheimer’s disease is often referred to as Type 3 Diabetes because of its strong connection to insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction in the brain. Research suggests that impaired glucose metabolism, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s.
The brain requires a steady supply of glucose for energy, and insulin plays a key role in regulating that process. When brain cells become insulin resistant, they struggle to absorb glucose, leading to cell damage, cognitive decline, and neurodegeneration. Understanding this link allows us to take proactive steps to prevent Alzheimer’s through optimizing metabolic health, lifestyle changes, and various other functional medicine approaches.
Do you have family history of dementia or Alzheimer's? Get tested today for a genetic risk factor that can predispose you to the development of Alzheimer's disease. If you live in Austin, or anywhere else in Texas, you can order the genetic test for yourself though my online lab store here.
How Insulin Resistance Contributes to Alzheimer’s
Chronic High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia) – Excess glucose leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, damaging brain cells.
Insulin Resistance in the Brain – Neurons lose their ability to absorb glucose efficiently, leading to energy deficits, memory loss, and impaired cognition.
Increased Amyloid Plaque Formation – Insulin resistance is linked to the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
Neuroinflammation & Mitochondrial Dysfunction – Chronic inflammation and energy deficits cause brain cell damage and accelerate cognitive decline.
Who is at Risk of Developing Alzheimer's?
If you have any of the following conditions, your risk for Type 3 Diabetes and Alzheimer’s may be higher:
Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes
Chronic High Blood Sugar
Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome
Chronic Inflammation
Poor Diet & Sedentary Lifestyle
Family History of Alzheimer’s
If you are concerned about your health and developing Alzheimer's disease, contact Xenia, your go to functional medicine provider in Austin, to get started on your journey of better health!
How to Prevent Alzheimer’s (Type 3 Diabetes) Naturally
1️⃣ Maintain Stable Blood Sugar Levels
Follow a low-glycemic, whole-food diet to reduce glucose spikes.
Limit refined sugars, processed foods, and high-carb meals.
Eat healthy fats & fiber to improve insulin sensitivity.
2️⃣ Support Insulin Sensitivity
Take key nutrients like magnesium, chromium, alpha-lipoic acid, and berberine.
Engage in daily movement & strength training to improve glucose uptake.
Get quality sleep—poor sleep impairs insulin function.
3️⃣ Reduce Inflammation & Oxidative Stress
Increase antioxidant-rich foods like berries, turmeric, and green tea.
Support mitochondrial health with CoQ10, resveratrol, and omega-3s.
Manage stress with meditation, breath work, and nature exposure.
4️⃣ Improve Brain Health & Cognitive Function
Stimulate your brain with learning, puzzles, and new experiences.
Practice intermittent fasting to enhance autophagy & brain energy metabolism.
Consider functional medicine testing to assess insulin resistance, nutrient levels, and inflammation markers.
Austin! Take Control of Brain Health Today with the Help of Functional Medicine
The connection between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s highlights the critical role of metabolic health in brain function. By addressing blood sugar regulation, inflammation, and mitochondrial support, we can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and optimize brain longevity.
Want to assess your brain health & metabolic function?
Book a consultation today with Xenia, your go to Functional Medicine Provider in Austin, for a personalized plan to protect cognitive health!
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