There is a connection between diabetes and memory loss. So you already are aware that when the blood glucose levels, sometimes called blood sugar, is too high, it can lead to various heart problems- heart attacks, strokes. However, you may be wondering about what relation diabetes has with memory loss, which this article aims to discuss in detail. The silver lining in all of this is there are measures you can adopt to take control of diabetes and keep its problems at bay. So without any further delay and on a positive note, let’s get into our explainer.

Let’s begin by talking about how prevalent really is diabetes as a problem in America, and the numbers may come as a shocker. Over 34 million adults in America are living with diabetes with females having a higher risk for developing diabetes than their male counterparts. Unfortunately, most cases remain undiagnosed. Imagine what this can really lead to. Type-2 is the most common type of diabetes where body makes insulin but is unable to use it the right way. It is the type-2 diabetes that can lead to memory loss.

Not every diabetic is susceptible to memory loss. It’s basically 4 in 10 individuals, age 65 years and above that may start showing dementia signs or memory loss. It must be noted that uncontrolled diabetes greatly increases the risk for any cognitive issue, heart attack, memory loss, etc.

When your blood glucose levels are higher, it can harm your nerve cells, leading to damaging your brain slowly and steadily. It happens gradually making it important to spot the first signs to act quickly. Dementia risk is higher when diabetes is poorly controlled. However, a good thing is the fact that memory loss in diabetics could be a short-term problem brought on by excessive or too low glucose levels. This means it is well within your means to keep it under check. Uncontrolled cholesterol and blood pressure will just further aggravate/speed up your memory loss problems. The key is to spot it in the short-term to prevent it from staying there in the long-term.

1.      Difficulty recalling a significant event in your life

2.      Forgetting dates, people’s names (close to you) or even what you’ve just done

3.      Misplacing things frequently

If you are a diabetic and of older age, and experience these symptoms, bring it to the notice of your doctor right away.

Tips to control it or make it low risk:

1.      Avoid sugar and artificial sweeteners at all costs

2.      Limit intake of high glycemic or low fiber food (cakes, cookies, potatoes, fries, chips, white rice). It is wise to switch to the Mediterranean eating pattern that comprises foods high in fiber and low-glycemic, such as fruits, vegetables, quinoa. Increase omega-3 fats intake (eat fish like sardines, tuna, mackerel, and flaxseeds), which can help prevent cognitive decline.

3.      To stabilize blood sugar levels, eating small amounts of healthy fat and high-quality protein (quinoa) with every meal will do your brain a world of good.

4.      Consult with your health care provider before taking any supplements.

5.      Make physical activity a part of your daily routine

6.      Last, but not the least, supplementing your diet with a high-end multi vitamin/mineral is also crucial.