High blood sugar can lead to memory loss and Alzheimer’s, warn diabetologist and neurologist

Health risks of high blood sugar: Chronic spikes in sugar levels lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, particularly in the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for memory, warn experts (Image: Pexels)

Are you managing diabetes, but noticing changes in memory or mental sharpness? Doctors now warn that diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, maybe deeply linked to Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia in older adults.

Experts now call Alzheimer’s the Type 3 diabetes.

Doctors say this is more than coincidence. “We often overlook the brain when talking about diabetes complications,” Dr Manoj Chawla, Consultant Diabetologist at P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Khar, Mumbai, tells Moneycontrol. “But high blood sugar and insulin resistance can directly affect brain health, sometimes irreversibly,” he adds.

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India is home to one of the fastest-growing diabetic populations in the world, with cases expected to rise by 46 percent by 2045. But what's rarely spoken about is what this means for our brains. Research now suggests that diabetes not only increases the risk of heart disease and kidney failure, it can significantly raise your chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease too.

According to Dr Rohin Dubbal, Consultant Neurologist, Fortis Hospitals, Mumbai, “The brain is not immune to the effects of high glucose. Chronic spikes in sugar levels lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, particularly in the hippocampus, the region of the brain responsible for memory.”

Studies show diabetics are 50–60 percent more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. One theory even suggests Alzheimer’s may be a form of “Type 3 diabetes,” because of how it reflects insulin resistance in the brain. “This resistance limits how brain cells process energy. That’s when we see early cognitive decline, and it can happen regardless of age,” explains Dr Dubbal.

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Doctors recommend a proactive approach for all diabetic patients: maintain strict blood sugar control, follow a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and stay mentally active through reading, puzzles, or social interaction. “While we may not be able to reverse cognitive decline completely, we can definitely slow it down. It’s about consistent effort and early action. The brain thrives on good blood flow and nutrition. Glycaemic control, regular check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, these aren’t just diabetic essentials, they’re brain protectors,” says Dr Chawla.

There’s more. Hypoglycaemia (sudden drops in blood sugar), say the experts, can be just as damaging. “Low sugar episodes cause vascular damage in the brain, especially if they’re severe or frequent,” cautions Dr Dubbal.

Early action for better memory and more

While there’s no cure yet for Alzheimer’s, early intervention can slow its progression. Both Dr Chawla and Dr Dubbal agree that early cognitive assessments for diabetic patients over 50 should become routine. “Prevention is powerful. And in the case of brain health, timing is everything,” says Dr Chawla.

Preventive tips:

“Small, consistent actions, like morning walks, puzzles, home-cooked meals, good sleep, and managing stress, are powerful tools,” Dr Chawla says. As India braces for a dual epidemic of diabetes and dementia, recognising this link could be the key to protecting millions of minds. “Diabetes is no longer just about sugar levels. It’s about preserving independence, memory, and dignity as you age,” Dr Dubbal concludes.

FAQs on Health Risks of High Blood Sugar:

1. What are the long-term risks of high blood sugar?

High blood sugar can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage, including an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

2. How does high blood sugar affect the brain?

Chronic high sugar levels cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, leading to memory issues and cognitive decline.

3. Can high blood sugar cause Alzheimer's disease?

Studies suggest a link between diabetes and Alzheimer's, with some experts referring to Alzheimer's as "Type 3 diabetes" due to insulin resistance in the brain.

4. What can diabetic patients do to protect their brain health?

Diabetic patients should maintain strict blood sugar control, follow a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, and stay mentally active to protect brain health.

5. How does hypoglycaemia impact brain health?

Frequent or severe low blood sugar episodes can cause vascular damage in the brain, contributing to cognitive issues and potential long-term damage.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.