Aging naturally brings small changes, stiff joints, slower recall, or occasional forgetfulness. But when memory issues persist or interfere with daily life, they may signal something more serious. Alzheimer’s Disease, a progressive neurological disorder, affects over 50 million people worldwide, including nearly 4 million in India.
One factor often overlooked in preserving brain health, particularly for people with diabetes, is glucose stability. Research increasingly shows a strong connection between insulin resistance and cognitive decline. In fact, some experts refer to Alzheimer’s as ‘Type 3 diabetes’ due to insulin dysfunction in the brain. For those managing diabetes, especially older adults this raises a crucial question: how can blood sugar be controlled to protect cognitive function?
Dr. Abhijit Bhograj, Endocrinologist & Diabetologist at Manipal Hospital, Hebbal, Bangalore, explains, “Blood sugar variability, particularly in older adults, can negatively impact brain health. Continuous Glucose Monitoring, or CGM, allows precise tracking of fluctuations. This technology provides early insights for intervention, potentially slowing cognitive effects of insulin resistance. CGMs also offer optional alarms for high or low glucose, enabling faster, safer action.”
Beyond personal monitoring, CGM devices have transformed diabetes care by connecting patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers in real time. Dr. Vivek Iyer, Head of Medical Affairs at Abbott Diabetes Care, South Asia, says, “CGMs enable more than self-monitoring; they build vital connections between patients and their support network. Even when someone manages diabetes remotely or faces memory challenges, caregivers can stay informed and act quickly. This connectivity can make the difference between stable glucose and a crisis, ultimately supporting brain health.”
Research highlights that insulin resistance in the brain may trigger cognitive decline. People with Type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s, while Type 1 diabetes patients may face age-related cognitive issues. Blood sugar spikes are linked to beta-amyloid protein accumulation, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s that disrupts neural communication. CGMs, like Freestyle Libre 2+, provide real-time insights on glucose patterns, helping manage both metabolic health and potentially cognitive decline.
Diet also plays a critical role. Brain-healthy eating patterns such as the MIND diet, which includes leafy greens, berries, legumes, and healthy fats, support both metabolic and cognitive health. Fermented foods and fiber-rich vegetables further aid brain function through the gut-brain axis.
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, early lifestyle changes and real-time glucose monitoring offer hope. Combining CGM insights, balanced diet, and regular physical activity can help individuals take control protecting brain function, independence, and quality of life while managing diabetes.
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