For the normal functioning of neurons in the brain, glucose is essential. However, for glucose to enter the cell, insulin and sensitive receptors are needed. In the brain, insulin resistance develops in Alzheimer's disease: receptors stop responding to insulin signals, and neurons gradually lose the ability to absorb glucose.
This "energy starvation" leads to mitochondrial damage, accumulation of amyloid and tau proteins, and neuronal death. Essentially, brain cells slowly "starve to death," even if there is enough sugar in the blood.
Why is it called "Type 3 Diabetes"?
In classic type II diabetes, body tissues (muscles, liver, adipose tissue) do not respond to insulin. In "type 3 diabetes," a similar situation occurs in the brain.
There is evidence that carbohydrate metabolism disorders, metabolic syndrome, and chronically high blood sugar levels increase the risk of dementia and accelerate the development of Alzheimer's disease.
When carbohydrates are restricted and a ketogenic diet is adopted, the body begins to use ketone bodies (beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate) formed from fats.
Ketones can penetrate the brain and provide neurons with energy without the involvement of insulin. In other words, they "bypass the broken lock" of glucose metabolism and supply nutrients to cells that can no longer absorb sugar.
Studies have shown that ketones improve cognitive functions, reduce the accumulation of toxic proteins, decrease inflammation in the brain, and support mitochondrial function.
Ketogenic Diet and Alzheimer's Remission
Patients on a ketogenic diet show improvements in memory, concentration, and behavior. This is not a "magic cure," but rather a relief from the brain's energy starvation and a slowing of neuronal degeneration.
In combination with antioxidants, omega-3s, B vitamins (especially B1, B12, folate), and correction of insulin resistance, this offers a chance for stabilization and remission.
