Diabetics have an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. While this connection has already been demonstrated by multiple contemporary studies, the exact cause of diabetes related cognitive decline remained murky. A new study by University of Bath scientists may have found the molecular ‘tipping point’ that leads to the development of Alzheimer’s in those with high blood sugar problems.
The Possible Disease Process
Essentially, researchers found that glucose and its by-products damage macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) enzymes. These enzymes are involved in clearing away unwanted beta amyloids, a waste product that builds up in the brain. This may be a gradual process with the ‘tipping point’ occurring when enough MIF enzymes are inhibited from working properly. Here’s how it may happen:
- Excess amounts of glucose either enter the brain or sit in the brain due to insulin insensitivity.
- Glucose damages MIF enzymatic proteins via glycation.
- The enzyme, MIF, no longer works effectively.
- MIF can’t stimulate glial cells to remove buildup of beta amyloids.
- Beta amyloids form tangles and plaques that cause brain damage.
This study provides one more piece to the puzzle that is Alzheimer’s Disease. It could help future researchers develop models of disease progression or even help in the development of an early treatment.
Ways To Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
The need to keep your blood sugar levels stable and under control is more obvious than ever. One of the best things you can do to help keep Alzheimer’s Disease from developing is to avoid excess sugar and keep up with any prescribed diabetic medications.
You can also start eating more omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant-rich berries, like blueberries. Cognitive Vitality states that people with higher levels of DHA, a type of fatty acid, in their bodies are less likely to develop dementia.
It is also important to get plenty of sleep. Another recent study appearing in the Journal of Neuroscience found that sleep and sleep posture influences the glymphatic system. This is part of the lymph system that removes waste products, such as plaque-forming beta amyloids. When you sleep, the brain’s cells shrink, allowing for more lymph fluid to move through the brain in flushing out waste. They also found that this process is more efficient when you sleep on your side rather than on your back or upright. So, getting regular, restful sleep can offer neuroprotective benefits.
[expand title=”References“]
University of Bath. URL Link. Accessed March 3rd, 2017.
Cognitive Vitality. URL Link. Accessed March 3rd, 2017.
The Journal Of Neuroscience. URL Link. Accessed March 3rd, 2017.
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