The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 5.8 million people of all ages had Alzheimer’s disease in the United States in 2020. One in ten people age 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease and about one-third of people age 85 and older have Alzheimer’s disease. That is a significant portion of the population. Alzheimer’s prevalence can occur in people of all ages 30s, 40s, and 50s; however, it mostly affects people who are 65 and older.
Research has recently started calling Alzheimer’s disease “Type 3 Diabetes”. Do you wonder why? What is the link between Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes? The common denominator between the two is insulin resistance.
This means eating too many calories from processed food, refined carbohydrates, and sugar is a major factor in starting the brain damage cascade resulting in memory loss. Does this mean younger folks are safe from developing dementia? The answer is no. Too much insulin impacts younger people in the same way – it just takes years to develop and worsen.
Recent studies show that people with Type 2 Diabetes have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and those who are pre-diabetic are at higher risk for having pre-dementia. The good news is that pre-dementia and early onset memory loss is preventable and can be reversed with lifestyle and dietary changes. This means brain function can be optimized by eliminating sugar and processed food and incorporating healthy fats and whole foods.
Optimal blood sugar and insulin control can help reverse cognitive decline. Here are 5 steps to optimize brain function and reverse memory loss:
1. Balance blood sugar and keep insulin in control with a low-glycemic, whole foods, plant-rich diet. Cut out processed foods containing sugar, refined carbohydrates, dairy, and alcohol.
2. Eat healthy fats. Eliminate all vegetable oils such as canola oil, sunflower oil, grapeseed oil etc as these oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids thus promoting inflammation. Instead, consume more avocadoes, extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, nuts and seeds, and whole eggs.
3. Exercise daily. Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. Numerous studies show that physical activity can prevent and slow down progression of cognitive decline.
4. Control stress level. People with acute and chronic stress levels are at higher risk for developing memory loss. To de-stress, consider yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation.
5. Detox. If you have been exposed to mercury or other heavy metals, consider choosing a medically supervised detox program to remove any heavy metals that may be present in the body.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product mentioned in this article are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information in this article is not intended to replace any recommendations or relationship with your physician. Please review references sited at end of article for scientific support of any claims made.