Renowned nutrition dietitian and child care specialist Dr Archita Mahajan has warned that diabetes can significantly affect brain health and may lead to memory loss, a condition often referred to as “diabetic brain” or cognitive decline.
Dr Mahajan, who holds a Master’s degree in Food Nutrition and Dietetics and is also a homeopathic pharmacist and trained yoga teacher, has been nominated for the Padma Bhushan National Award and honored by the Punjab Government, Himachal Pradesh Government, and Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta.
According to Dr Mahajan, prolonged uncontrolled blood sugar levels are one of the primary reasons behind declining memory and reduced cognitive function among diabetic patients. She explained that excessive insulin activity in the body prioritizes breaking down insulin itself, allowing amyloid-beta proteins to accumulate in the brain. These protein deposits form plaques that disrupt communication between brain cells, gradually weakening memory.
Major Causes of Memory Loss in Diabetes
High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia):
Persistently high glucose levels damage tiny blood vessels in the brain, reducing oxygen and blood supply to areas responsible for memory and thinking abilities.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia):
Extremely low sugar levels deprive brain cells of glucose — the brain’s main energy source — leading to cell damage and impaired memory over time.
Insulin Resistance:
In Type 2 diabetes, the body cannot effectively use insulin. Since the brain requires insulin for proper functioning, insulin resistance prevents brain cells from utilizing glucose efficiently, affecting cognitive performance.
Neuroinflammation:
Long-term elevated sugar levels can cause inflammation in the brain, damaging neurons and weakening mental functions.
Risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia:
Research has shown a strong connection between diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, sometimes described as “Type 3 Diabetes,” where insulin activity in the brain declines.
Prevention and Management
Dr Mahajan emphasized that maintaining controlled blood sugar levels is the most important step in preventing cognitive decline. She advised adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes balanced nutrition, regular physical exercise, yoga, and adequate sleep to protect brain health and memory.
Health experts recommend early diabetes management and regular monitoring to reduce long-term neurological complications.
