Type 3 diabetes explained

What is type 3 diabetes?

“Type 3 diabetes” is a term some people use to describe Alzheimer’s disease. First coined in 2005, some scientists proposed the term because they believe insulin dysregulation, (an inability to control or regulate responses to insulin) in the brain causes dementia. However, type 3 diabetes is not an officially recognised health condition. Various major health organisations do not list Alzheimer’s disease as a type of diabetes within their classification.

Other well known types of diabetes include type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. In addition, some research uses the term “type 3c” to classify pancreatogenic diabetes that may result from pancreatitis. This type is different from Alzheimer’s disease.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Doctors do not use “type 3 diabetes” as a diagnostic term, because it is not an official classification. They can, however, diagnose Alzheimer’s disease using physical and mental tests, neurological exams, and brain imaging.

The early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:

• memory loss that negatively impacts daily life

• trouble resolving problems or making plans

• difficulty carrying out familiar tasks

• confusion about location or time

• difficulty using and understanding written and spoken language

• mislaying things

• decreased judgment

• withdrawal from social activities or work

• mood and personality changes

It is important to note that some changes in memory and habits can be a natural part of aging. However, if a person is concerned about any changes they are experiencing, they should seek guidance from their GP.

Causes of type 3 diabetes

Authors of a 2008 review conclude that the term “type 3 diabetes” accurately reflects the fact that Alzheimer’s disease is a form of diabetes that affects the brain. They used human and animal studies to explain how this happens.

They describe Alzheimer’s disease as a neuroendocrine disease, (The neuroendocrine system consists of nerve and gland cells. It produces hormones and releases them into the bloodstream) involving impaired insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signalling. The condition can also involve inflammation and oxidative stress. The authors note that while obesity and type 2 diabetes might contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, they are not sufficient causes by themselves.

However, a more recent study suggests that impaired insulin that encourages a shift from type 2 diabetes to type 3 diabetes may result in oxidative stress and beta-amyloid in the brain, which are both characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease.

Treatment

There is no cure for type 3 diabetes (Alzheimer’s disease), but doctors may prescribe drugs to slow the progression of the condition or treat its symptoms.

Prevention

There is encouraging, although inconclusive, evidence that the following may help prevent or delay type 3 diabetes (Alzheimer’s disease) and cognitive decline:

• increasing physical activity

• monitoring blood pressure

• doing cognitive training - a series of regular mental activities designed to help maintain or even increase a person's thinking abilities.

There is also no definite evidence concerning dietary therapies for Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Some research has explored curcumin (an active component of the Turmeric spice), a ketogenic diet, and antioxidants as potential therapeutic agents, but so far, studies have been inconclusive. Further advice suggests that reaching or maintaining moderate body weight and engaging in enough physical activity may help prevent insulin resistance and prediabetes.

Although scientists have not proven the effectiveness of any strategies for avoiding Alzheimer’s disease, managing blood glucose may be a sensible approach. A doctor may also prescribe metformin to delay the onset of or treat diabetes.

Comparison of types of diabetes

There are fundamental differences between type 3 diabetes (Alzheimer’s disease) and type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Alzheimer’s disease is an entirely separate condition.

Outlook

There is no cure for type 3 diabetes (Alzheimer’s disease). However, there are many treatment options available that may lessen the severity of symptoms and prolong a person’s life. Some people with Alzheimer’s disease will not develop symptoms for years, although this can vary from person to person. Most people with Alzheimer’s disease will die from another cause. However, since Alzheimer’s disease causes neurological problems, it could lead to:

• a person inhaling food into their lungs, possibly causing a chest infection

• difficulty eating

• reduced appetite

People with Alzheimer’s disease may require palliative care to improve their quality of life in the final stages of the condition.

Extracts taken from Michelle L. Griffith, MD & Louisa Richards from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com