Type 3 Diabetes: A New Take on Alzheimer’s
What is Type 3 Diabetes?
Type 3 diabetes is a term used to describe the link between insulin resistance in the brain and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. While this concept is not officially recognized by all medical authorities, emerging research suggests that insulin dysfunction may play a significant role in the neurodegenerative processes associated with Alzheimer’s.
Understanding the Connection
People with type 2 diabetes have long been known to have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This is partly because diabetes can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the brain, impairing its ability to function properly. However, recent research points to a deeper connection between insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, and the brain itself. Some researchers now refer to Alzheimer’s as « diabetes of the brain » or type 3 diabetes because of these common underlying mechanisms
In Alzheimer’s disease, insulin resistance disrupts how brain cells use glucose for energy, leading to cognitive decline and the buildup of harmful proteins, such as beta-amyloid. These proteins contribute to the formation of amyloid plaques, one of the defining characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease
Prevalence and Impact
Globally, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to rise sharply as populations age. By 2050, more than 150 million people are projected to suffer from Alzheimer’s or related dementias
MDPI. In the U.S., Alzheimer’s is already the sixth leading cause of death and disproportionately affects older adults with type 2 diabetes. It has been shown that those with type 2 diabetes are up to 60% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to those without diabetes
Future Research and Treatment
Several studies are exploring potential treatments targeting this insulin resistance in the brain. For example, a nasal insulin spray is being studied for its potential to improve cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients by delivering insulin directly to the brain
Mayo Clinic News Network. Although this research is still in its early stages, the promising results could pave the way for new treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s, focusing on metabolic health.
In conclusion, while type 3 diabetes is not officially recognized, the connection between insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s disease continues to be a focus of growing research. Addressing brain insulin dysfunction may offer new avenues for treating or preventing Alzheimer’s, especially in those with diabetes or prediabetes.