In recent years, a new form of diabetes has emerged in medical literature, shedding light on the intricate relationship between insulin resistance and cognitive function. Dr. Justin Marchegiani, a renowned functional medicine practitioner, explores this concept known as “Type 3 Diabetes” and its potential impact on brain health.

Understanding Type 3 Diabetes

Type 3 Diabetes, unlike its more well-known counterparts Type 1 and Type 2, specifically refers to insulin resistance in the brain. Dr. Marchegiani explains that this condition occurs when brain cells become resistant to insulin, leading to impaired glucose utilization and potential cognitive decline.

To better understand Type 3 Diabetes, it's essential to review the other types of diabetes:

Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition typically diagnosed in childhood, where the immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Type 2 Diabetes: A metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance in the body's cells, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and increased insulin production.

Type 3 Diabetes, however, focuses on the brain's ability to use glucose effectively. When brain cells become insulin resistant, they struggle to utilize glucose as an energy source, potentially leading to cognitive impairment, memory issues, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

The Impact of Insulin Resistance on Brain Function

Insulin resistance in the brain can have far-reaching consequences:

Energy Starvation: When brain cells can't effectively use glucose, certain areas of the brain may become energy-starved, leading to impaired cognitive function.

Plaque Buildup: Insulin plays a crucial role in activating the insulin-degrading enzyme, which helps clear brain plaque. When insulin resistance occurs, this clearing mechanism may be compromised, potentially increasing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Inflammation: Chronic high insulin levels can promote inflammation throughout the body, including the brain, further compromising cognitive function.

Addressing Type 3 Diabetes

Dr. Marchegiani emphasizes several key strategies for combating Type 3 Diabetes and improving brain health:

Improve Insulin Sensitivity: Focusing on reducing inflammation and improving overall metabolic health can help increase insulin sensitivity throughout the body, including the brain.

Alternative Fuel Sources: Introducing ketones as an alternative fuel source for the brain can be beneficial. The brain can efficiently use ketones for energy, potentially bypassing the issues caused by glucose resistance.

Reduce Inflammatory Foods: Limiting refined sugars, excess omega-6 fatty acids, and other inflammatory foods can help improve cell membrane health and overall cellular function.

Balanced Nutrition: Incorporating healthy fats and proteins with each meal can support brain health and improve insulin sensitivity.

Functional Medicine Lab Testing for Brain Health

Functional medicine offers a comprehensive approach to assessing and addressing Type 3 Diabetes and overall brain health. Dr. Marchegiani recommends several key lab tests to evaluate cognitive function and metabolic health:

Fasting Insulin: Levels above 10-15 μIU/mL may indicate insulin resistance.

Functional Glucose Tolerance Test: This test assesses how well the body handles glucose over time, with blood sugar levels remaining above 140 mg/dL one to two hours after a meal potentially indicating insulin resistance.

Hemoglobin A1C: This marker provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, with levels above 5.7% suggesting prediabetes or diabetes.

Brain Inflammation Markers: Picolinate and quinolinate levels can provide insights into brain inflammation and function.

Nutrient Status: Assessing levels of crucial nutrients like magnesium and vitamin B6, which are essential for brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Lipid Panel: Evaluating cholesterol and triglyceride levels can provide additional information about metabolic health and inflammation.

By utilizing these advanced testing methods, functional medicine practitioners can develop personalized treatment plans to address Type 3 Diabetes and support optimal brain health.

Lifestyle Interventions for Brain Health

In addition to addressing insulin resistance and inflammation, Dr. Marchegiani emphasizes the importance of lifestyle interventions to support brain health:

Regular Exercise: Physical activity has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and promote brain health.

Quality Sleep: Adequate, restful sleep is crucial for cognitive function and overall metabolic health.

Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance, making stress reduction techniques essential.

Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help maintain and improve cognitive function.

Conclusion

Type 3 Diabetes represents a growing concern in the field of brain health and cognitive function. By understanding the relationship between insulin resistance and brain health, individuals can take proactive steps to support their cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Through a combination of targeted nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and functional medicine approaches, it's possible to address the underlying causes of Type 3 Diabetes and promote optimal brain health.

Call to Action

If you're concerned about your cognitive function, experiencing symptoms of brain fog, or have a family history of neurodegenerative diseases, it's crucial to take action. Dr. Justin Marchegiani and his team of functional medicine experts are here to help you uncover the root causes of your health concerns and develop a personalized plan to optimize your brain health.

Don't let cognitive decline hold you back from living your best life. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. J today at www.justinhealth.com/free-consult and take the first step towards better brain health and overall wellness.

Citations:

1. de la Monte, S. M., & Wands, J. R. (2008). Alzheimer's disease is type 3 diabetes—evidence reviewed. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 2(6), 1101-1113.
2. Butterfield, D. A., Di Domenico, F., & Barone, E. (2014). Elevated risk of type 2 diabetes for development of Alzheimer disease: a key role for oxidative stress in brain. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)-Molecular Basis of Disease, 1842(9), 1693-1706.
3. Cunnane, S. C., Courchesne‐Loyer, A., St‐Pierre, V., Vandenberghe, C., Pierotti, T., Fortier, M., … & Castellano, C. A. (2016). Can ketones compensate for deteriorating brain glucose uptake during aging? Implications for the risk and treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1367(1), 12-20.