Most people are aware of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, but did you know there is a type 3 diabetes as well! It is a more obscure term. Although it is not an accepted medical diagnosis, type 3 diabetes has been discussed in the literature as a possible relationship between insulin resistance in the brain and Alzheimer's disease. This link has been described to help explain how metabolic disorders impact brain health, causing cognitive decline and dementia.

What is Type 3 Diabetes?

Type 3 diabetes is more of a misnomer because it should not be confused with type 3c diabetes, which relates to pancreatic dysfunction. The term "type 3 diabetes," on the other hand, has been loosely used by some scientists to analogously propose that Alzheimer's disease is strongly implicated with insulin resistance in the brain.

This concept was conceptualized by Dr. Suzanne de la Monte and Dr. Jack Wands of Brown University in the year 2008. This hypothesis postulated that Alzheimer's disease may be called type 3 diabetes for it bears many similarities with glucose metabolism disorder type 2 diabetes. Their concept arises from the basic principle that insulin is fundamental to blood sugar regulation, but it is also the case with the brain. When brain cells become insulin-resistant, they lose access to glucose, impairing their function.

Research published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology supports this hypothesis by indicating that insulin resistance can be a significant contributor to the occurrence of dementia, also referred to as Alzheimer's. The symptoms of memory loss and diminished reasoning are associated with impaired glucose metabolism in the body, especially in the cerebral tissue.

Symptoms of Type 3 Diabetes

Although type 3 diabetes is not a "medical term," its symptoms correlate well with Alzheimer's diseases that are known to reduce the ability to think in an efficient manner and bring down brain health. These signs are:

- Loss of memory, especially short-term.

- Poor judgment and judgment ability

- Failure in recognizing people or places familiar once.

- Failure in the process of reading, writing or processing numbers

- Anxiety, agitation, or mood changes.

- Disorganized thoughts or confusion

- Lack of impulse control

As the disease advances, patients may be afflicted with severe complications including an inability to swallow or control their bodily functions. In the final stages, most patients die from fatal complications such as aspiration pneumonia.

Causes of Type 3 Diabetes

This may not be well understood with regards to type 3 diabetes, or the exact link between insulin resistance and Alzheimer's disease. Some identified contributing factors include the following:

1. Insulin Resistance

Insulin acts as an important regulatory mechanism of brain functions such as memory and cognition. The reduction in insulin signaling may impair metabolism of brain cells, thus bringing about neurodegeneration.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

These diseases show a strong relationship and those individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes have double chances of getting Alzheimer's. In the two, the main causes can be chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and a defect in glucose metabolism.

3. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Insulin resistance associated with obesity, stress, and an unhealthy diet is considered a cause that may increase the chances of Alzheimer's disease.

Researches in Frontiers in Neuroscience and The Lancet Neurology have also highlighted that drugs used for antidiabetic medication may be crucial for the prevention or at least slowing down the course of Alzheimer's.

Treatments for Type 3 Diabetes

In 2022, in a study in Pharmaceuticals, researchers studied biomarker uptake in brain regions implicated in the faulty uptake and metabolism of blood sugar in Alzheimer’s patients.

Emerging Therapies

Research into such treatments as intranasal insulin has also been promising. Intranasal delivery of insulin directly to the brain has been reported to enhance glucose uptake by brain cells, improve memory, and boost cognitive performance. While such clinical trials have been shown to be successful, additional research is needed for safety and efficacy.

Medications

For patients being aggressive or agitated, antipsychotic drugs may be prescribed; however, therapies such as cognitive rehabilitation as well as cognitive stimulation therapy serve to preserve memory and executive function.

Lifestyle Interventions

Diet, exercise, and stress management are critical in preventing and managing insulin resistance. A review in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease also highlighted the benefits of Kirtan Kriya meditation, which can regulate genes involved in insulin and glucose metabolism, improve sleep, and reduce inflammation.

Can Type 3 Diabetes Be Prevented?

Although type 3 diabetes is not officially recognized, its connection to Alzheimer’s disease underscores the importance of proactive measures for brain health. Some prevention strategies include:

1. Healthy Diet

Consuming a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, whole grains, and healthy fats may support brain health.

2. Regular Exercise

Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and enhances overall metabolic health.

3. Stress Reduction

Mindfulness practices, including meditation, have been shown to lower stress levels, which can reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

The term type 3 diabetes brings out the complex relationship between metabolic disorders and brain health. Even though it is not a recognized medical condition, the concept emphasizes the crucial role of insulin in brain function and its possible contribution to Alzheimer's disease. Continued research will hopefully provide hope for therapies such as intranasal insulin and lifestyle modifications.

New research suggests that menopause may be linked to a loss of grey matter in the brain, which could help explain why women face a higher risk of dementia compared to men. Scientists from the University of Cambridge analysed data from 124,780 women to explore how menopause affects the brain and whether hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might help protect against cognitive decline.

Menopause May Be Linked to Changes in Brain Structure

The researchers found that menopause was associated with reduced levels of grey matter, an essential part of the brain involved in thinking, memory, emotional processing and movement. The findings also noted that this stage of life is often accompanied by anxiety, depression and sleep problems. Previous research has already shown that menopause can affect cognitive abilities such as attention, language, learning and memory.

How Menopause And HRT Affect Thinking Speed

Published in the journal Psychological Medicine, the research divided participants into three groups: women who had not yet reached menopause, post-menopausal women who had never used HRT, and post-menopausal women who were taking HRT. Participants answered questions about sleep patterns, anxiety and depression, and some completed cognitive tests measuring memory and reaction time.

Around 11,000 women also underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, allowing scientists to closely examine brain structure. On average, menopause began at age 49 among the participants, and women who started HRT typically began treatment at around the same age.

Sleep, Fatigue and Mental Health Changes

The findings showed that post-menopausal women were more likely to struggle with insomnia, get less sleep overall and feel more fatigued. Interestingly, women using HRT reported the highest levels of tiredness across all three groups, even though they slept for a similar amount of time as those not taking HRT.

All post-menopausal women, regardless of whether they were using hormone therapy, reported greater fatigue compared to women who had not yet experienced menopause. Researchers also observed that this stage of life had an impact on cognitive function.

Dr Katharina Zuhlsdorff, from the psychology department at the University of Cambridge, explained: “As we age, our reaction times naturally slow down. This happens to both women and men and is part of normal ageing. You might still reach the right answer to a quiz question, but younger people tend to respond faster. Our findings suggest menopause speeds up this slowing process, while HRT seems to slow it down slightly.”

Brain Regions Linked to Memory and Emotion Affected

The study identified significant reductions in grey matter volume among post-menopausal women. These changes were seen in the hippocampus, which plays a key role in learning and memory, the entorhinal cortex, which supports memory formation and spatial awareness, and the anterior cingulate cortex, which helps regulate attention and emotions.

Menopause As A Period of Increased Vulnerability

Professor Barbara Sahakian, the senior author of the study from the department of psychiatry, said: “The brain areas where we observed these changes are the same regions commonly affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Menopause may make women more vulnerable later in life. While it does not explain everything, it could help clarify why dementia affects nearly twice as many women as men.”

Michelle Dyson, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, noted that women account for roughly two-thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the UK. “Although we do not yet fully understand why women are more affected than men, hormones are thought to play a role,” she said.

“This large-scale study strengthens evidence that menopause has an impact on the brain, including physical changes such as reduced brain volume. However, without long-term follow-up to see whether participants later develop dementia, we cannot be certain that these menopause-related brain changes directly increase dementia risk.

“There are steps people can take today to lower their dementia risk, including regular exercise, avoiding smoking and cutting back on alcohol. Anyone concerned about themselves or a loved one can use the Alzheimer’s Society dementia symptoms checklist as a starting point before speaking to a GP.”

The research also found that women taking HRT were more likely to report mental health challenges. However, the analysis suggested these women already had poorer psychological wellbeing before starting hormone treatment.

Dr Christelle Langley, from the psychiatry department, said: “Menopause is something most women will experience, and it can be a major life change whether or not HRT is used. During this time, healthy habits such as staying active, exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet become especially important to help reduce some of its effects.”

Dr Louise Newson, a GP and women’s hormone specialist, added: “Many women notice changes in memory and concentration around menopause. This study suggests these symptoms may have a biological explanation rather than being brushed off as stress or ageing, highlighting menopause as a key window for protecting brain health and providing personalised care.”

More than 10 million adults, young people, and children in the UK are currently living with arthritis, according to a 2025 report by Arthritis UK. The NHS states that osteoarthritis is the most common form of the condition nationwide.

As per Cleveland Clinic, osteoarthritis develops gradually as joints become stiff and painful due to wear and tear. Symptoms can vary depending on the joint affected and the extent of damage, but pain, swelling, and reduced movement are common. While medication is often prescribed to manage symptoms, the NHS cautions that some commonly used treatments can carry health risks if taken long-term or without proper guidance.

One of the most frequently used pain relief options is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as NSAIDs.

What Are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are commonly prescribed by GPs to help relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation. They are available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, suppositories, creams, gels, and injections. Some NSAIDs can be purchased over the counter, while stronger versions require a prescription.

These medicines are often relied upon for day-to-day pain relief by people with osteoarthritis, particularly during flare-ups.

NHS Warning: Who Should Be Cautious When Using NSAIDs?

The NHS advises that NSAIDs may not be suitable for everyone. Extra caution is recommended for people with asthma, a history of stomach ulcers, angina, or those who have previously experienced a heart attack or stroke. The NHS also advises that individuals taking low-dose aspirin should always consult their GP before using NSAIDs.

Long-term or incorrect use can increase the risk of stomach bleeding, cardiovascular problems, and kidney issues, making it important to review pain management plans regularly.

Can Natural Compounds Like GOPO Support Joint Health?

Consultant Rheumatologist Dr Rod Hughes explains that natural compounds are increasingly being explored as supportive options for joint health.

“Natural compounds derived from plants have long been used in both traditional and modern medicine to support joint health. One such compound is GOPO, which is derived from rose hips (Rosa canina). Research indicates that GOPO can help relieve joint pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties,” he says.

“Rather than simply masking symptoms, GOPO works by helping to regulate the body’s inflammatory response, which is a key driver of joint stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. It offers a promising alternative to traditional painkillers, with fewer risks of side effects, making it a more sustainable option for managing joint discomfort.”

Lifestyle Changes Proven To Ease Osteoarthritis Pain

According to Dr Hughes, lifestyle measures form the foundation of osteoarthritis management.

“Lifestyle choices play a central role in relieving osteoarthritis pain and helping people stay active,” he explains. “Research shows that regular, gentle exercise supported by physiotherapy, such as walking, swimming, and yoga, can be highly effective.”

“These activities help keep joints mobile and strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support them, which reduces stiffness and eases pressure on painful joints. It is also important to balance activity with rest to avoid flare-ups caused by overuse.”

Why Weight Management Matters For Joint Health

Weight management is another key factor in controlling osteoarthritis symptoms. “Maintaining a healthy body weight is especially important,” says Dr Hughes. “Extra weight places additional load on joints, particularly the knees and hips, which can worsen pain and accelerate joint damage. Even modest weight loss has been shown to significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.”

How Diet Influences Inflammation And Joint Pain

Interestingly, diet can also play a role in managing inflammation linked to osteoarthritis. “Eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, along with at least two portions of oily fish each week, provides antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage,” Dr Hughes explains.

“In my practice, I often recommend combining these dietary changes with natural supplements such as turmeric or GOPO to provide additional support for joint health.”

Reducing Reliance On Long-Term NSAIDs Safely

For patients hoping to reduce their dependence on NSAIDs, Dr Hughes stresses the importance of medical supervision.

“Any reduction in NSAIDs should be done gradually and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This helps ensure pain remains well controlled while avoiding sudden flare-ups or withdrawal issues,” he says.

“By combining regular movement, physiotherapy, supportive nutrition, and appropriate natural supplements, many patients can take a more balanced approach to managing chronic joint pain. Over time, these strategies may allow people to rely less on medication while maintaining a good quality of life.”

A doctor has cautioned that certain people may need to cut back on their favourite fruits if they are taking specific heart or blood pressure medicines. Ignoring this advice could lead to a serious but preventable health issue. Speaking during a past appearance on ITV’s This Morning, as reported by the Mirror, GP Dr Chris Steele explained that some prescribed drugs can react poorly with everyday foods. Eating these foods in large amounts may interfere with how the medication works and, in some cases, cause dangerous side effects.

He drew attention to two common fruits that many households keep on hand. The doctor warned that anyone taking medicines known as ACE inhibitors should avoid bananas and oranges. During the interview, he said: “Bananas are high in potassium, which is not suitable for certain medications. People taking ACE inhibitors such as captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, and others should try not to eat bananas or oranges.”

ACE inhibitors are used to lower blood pressure and treat heart failure by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to circulate more easily. They are often prescribed as a first-line treatment for high blood pressure, heart failure, and some kidney conditions, though regular monitoring is needed to watch for possible side effects.

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when blood pushes too forcefully against artery walls. Over time, this can damage blood vessels as well as vital organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. The condition often has no obvious symptoms, but it can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, vision problems, and aneurysms. Constant pressure makes the heart work harder, which may eventually lead to heart failure or thickening of the heart muscle, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Hypertension is usually linked to lifestyle factors like a high-salt diet, excess weight, lack of physical activity, and smoking. Age, genetics, and underlying health problems such as kidney disease also play a role. The condition develops when pressure inside the arteries rises, sometimes due to stress, hormonal changes, or long-term poor eating habits.

Why Are Blood Pressure Patients Being Advised To Avoid These Fruits?

Bananas, along with oranges and some salt substitutes, contain high levels of potassium. When combined with ACE inhibitors, these foods can cause potassium levels in the blood to rise too much. Mild increases may lead to symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting. However, many people do not notice any symptoms until potassium levels become dangerously high, which can increase the risk of chest pain, heart palpitations, and an irregular, rapid, or fluttering heartbeat.

Patients are advised to inform their GP if they are taking potassium supplements or diuretics alongside blood pressure medication. Those on ACE inhibitors should avoid eating large quantities of foods that are high in potassium.

The NHS advises people in the UK to aim for five portions of fruit and vegetables each day. Since all fruits contain some potassium, no option is completely risk-free when eaten in excess. That said, some fruits are much lower in potassium than bananas and oranges. These include apples, berries, grapes, pineapples, and pears.

Watermelon is generally classed as low to moderate in potassium, making it a suitable choice for people following a low-potassium diet. One standard serving of diced watermelon contains roughly 170 to 180 mg of potassium, which is far lower than levels found in fruits like cantaloupe.

According to the NHS, adults aged 19 to 64 need about 3,500 mg of potassium each day, which can usually be met through a balanced diet. A doctor can help address individual concerns and offer guidance based on personal health needs.