Type 2 diabetes has been associated with increased risks of cognitive problems, including an increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The earlier people with type 2 diabetes act to prevent memory decline and keep your mind sharp, the better it is for your overall cognitive health. The greater risks exist among those who have poorly controlled diabetes, so the measures to prevent memory loss and keep your mind sharp with diabetes involve managing your diabetes and sharpening your mind. Here’s what you need to know.
Blood Sugar Management is Key
The standards for good blood sugar management always come back to three basics:
- Diet.
- Weight.
- Exercise.
Eat healthy foods that are low in sugar and carbohydrates. Get plenty of exercises. Lose weight. You don’t have to have a perfect BMI to enjoy major improvements in your blood sugar levels. Losing only five to 10 percent of your body weight can deliver impressive results.
Preventing Memory Loss and Progression of Dementia
When it comes to sharpening the mind, there are many things you can do that will help exercise your brain, including those listed below.
- Play memory-boosting games.
- Learn to play an instrument.
- Take cooking classes.
- Take art classes.
- Work crossword puzzles.
These things all work to exercise your brain and sharpen your mind. While there is little that can restore memories once lost, these types of exercises can delay the onset of cognitive conditions, like Alzheimer’s, and slow their progression.
