Diabetes Ups Alzheimer's Risk by 65 Percent

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http://www.mercola.com/2004/jun/2/diabetes_alzheimers.htm Diabetes Ups Alzheimer's Risk by 65 Percent People with diabetes might have a 65 percent higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. A study took into account how various cognitive functions might be affected differently in those with diabetes. The study also provided strong evidence on the importance of controlling diabetes to stave off vascular problems and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Researchers suggested that diabetics keep close watch over their diabetes by taking oral agents and using relatively painless glucometers to ensure the blood sugars were at safe levels. As the number of people afflicted with Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes continues to rise, the association between the two has become more prevalent than ever before. It is estimated that 20 percent of Americans aged 65 and older have been diagnosed with diabetes, which if left untreated, could lead to many health complications such as heart problems, kidney problems, cognitive impairment, atherosclerosis and high cholesterol. The study used to analyze the association involved 824 subjects who were observed for approximately 5.5 years, while being administered periodic neuropsychological testing of cognitive "systems." These systems included:General knowledge Working memory Perceptual speed The ability to identify spatial patterns Over the course of the study, it was discovered that 151 of the subjects developed Alzheimer’s, which included 31 who had diabetes. These numbers represented a 65 percent increase in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s in the group of those who had diabetes, compared with the group who did not have the disease. The study also revealed an apparent decline rate of perceptual speed in the people with Alzheimer’s and diabetes, compared to those who had Alzheimer’s but not diabetes. This link was believed to hold a link to strokes, which has been a common symptom in people with diabetes. Archives of Neurology May, 2004;61(5):661-6Dr. Mercola's Comment:This is a significant issue considering that one in five Americans have diabetes or pre-diabetes, however it also means there may be things people can do to stave off Alzheimer's. Since there appears to be a link between diabetes and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, the key to avoiding both diseases is prevention. Diabetes strikes 800,000 people annually and cases of children developing type 2 diabetes, which was previously thought to be an adult illness, are becoming more and more common. The good news is that studies have demonstrated that lifestyle changes could actually prevent diabetes in nearly 60 percent of those who are poised to develop the disease.Type 2 diabetes can be prevented and even reversed with diet and exercise.So by following a good nutrition plan and sticking to a solid exercise routine, you could significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes and avoid the associated risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Another effective way to control your insulin levels, which is crucial if you have diabetes, is by taking fish oil or cod liver oil. This is because the omega-3 in fish oil is high in two fatty acids crucial to human health, DHA and EPA. The EPA and DHA most likely work by improving sensitivity of insulin receptors. Not only will this help for diabetes, but it will also help control your weight.Additionally, of course, there are a variety of other major benefits for omega-3 oils. It seems they are just as important as restricting sugar and grains. Related Articles:'Pre-Diabetes' Tests Urged for Overweight AmericansHow to Best Test for Undiagnosed DiabetesWant to Stop Diabetes? Start ExercisingGet Enough Sleep to Avoid DiabetesReturn to Table of Contents #539