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.

Constipation is one of the most common digestive complaints affecting people of all ages. It is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, passing hard stools, excessive straining, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

While occasional constipation is usually not a cause for concern and can often be managed through lifestyle changes, persistent or severe constipation may sometimes indicate an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.

Common Causes of Constipation

Several factors can contribute to constipation, including inadequate fiber intake, insufficient water consumption, lack of physical activity, stress, changes in routine, and certain medications. In many cases, improving dietary habits and maintaining an active lifestyle can help restore normal bowel function. However, when constipation becomes chronic or is accompanied by other symptoms, it should not be ignored.

Warning Signs

One of the most important warning signs is a sudden change in bowel habits, particularly in adults over the age of 50. Persistent constipation associated with unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, abdominal pain, bloating, or blood in the stool may indicate a more serious condition, such as colorectal cancer. Early detection is crucial, making timely medical evaluation essential.

What's Behind Chronic Constipation

Chronic constipation may also be linked to several medical disorders. Conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and certain neurological disorders can affect the normal movement of the intestines. In some individuals, constipation may result from pelvic floor dysfunction, where the muscles involved in bowel movements do not coordinate properly.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), particularly the constipation-predominant type, is another common cause of ongoing bowel difficulties. Inflammatory bowel diseases, intestinal narrowing, or bowel obstruction can also present with severe constipation and abdominal discomfort.

Many people rely on over-the-counter laxatives for relief. While these medications can be effective when used appropriately, long-term or excessive use without medical supervision may mask an underlying problem and can sometimes worsen bowel function over time.

How To Maintain Good Digestive Health

To maintain good digestive health, individuals should consume a fibre-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Adequate hydration, regular exercise, and responding promptly to the urge to pass stools are equally important.

Constipation is often harmless, but persistent symptoms should never be dismissed. If constipation lasts for several weeks, becomes increasingly severe, or is associated with alarming symptoms such as bleeding, significant weight loss, or severe abdominal pain, seeking medical advice is essential. Recognizing these warning signs early can help identify serious health conditions and ensure timely treatment.

(By Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Sethy, Director Gastroenterology, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass & Mukundupur)

Yoga may offer benefits beyond flexibility and stress relief, with doctors from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, ahead of International Yoga Day 2026, saying that studies have shown the ancient practice could help improve outcomes in conditions ranging from unexplained male infertility to autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.

This year marks the 12th International Day of Yoga, observed annually on June 21. The theme for this year, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," highlights the practice's potential to enhance mobility, balance, flexibility, and mental well-being, helping people maintain health and independence at every stage of life.

Yoga And Unexplained Male Infertility

Dr. Rima Dada, Professor at the Laboratory for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, AIIMS Delhi, told HealthandMe that cases of unexplained male factor infertility have increased in recent decades. In many of these cases, standard sperm parameters appear normal, but sperm cells are affected by oxidative stress and DNA damage.

According to Dr. Rima, studies conducted in men with unexplained infertility found that regular yoga practice reduced oxidative stress, decreased sperm DNA damage, and normalized the expression of genes critical for early embryonic development. These benefits, however, generally require consistent practice for more than six months.

Also read:International Yoga Day 2026: 10 Desk Yoga Poses That Can Undo Hours of Sitting

Dr. Rima described yoga as an “art of living” that combines

• mindful asanas,
• relaxation techniques,
• pranayama,
• meditation,
• healthy nutrition,
• adequate sleep.

According to her, such lifestyle measures may improve sperm DNA quality, motility, and overall reproductive health while potentially reducing the burden of genetic and epigenetic disorders in future generations.

Yoga And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Dr. Rima also highlighted the role of yoga in rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that typically affects small joints initially and may later involve larger joints as well as organs such as the lungs, heart, and brain.

She described yoga as an "art of living" that should be incorporated into daily life through mindful asanas, relaxation techniques, pranayama, meditation, a whole plant-based diet, and adequate sleep.

Read More: Trying to Quit Tobacco? Yoga Could Improve Your Chances, Suggests Study

She added that research has shown that yoga, including asanas, pranayama, and meditation, can help reduce inflammatory cytokines linked to swelling, pain, stiffness, and joint damage. Pranayama practices such as Anulom Vilom, Bhramari, and Ujjayi were highlighted as particularly beneficial.

For people living with rheumatoid arthritis, she recommended beginning with gentle loosening exercises under the supervision of a trained yoga therapist and avoiding strenuous postures during acute flare-ups. Pranayama and meditation, she said, may help reduce inflammation, improve emotional resilience, and support longer periods of remission.

Yoga As An Adjunct Therapy

Dr. Uma Kumar, Head of the Department of Rheumatology at AIIMS New Delhi, explained that autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues and organs.

Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren’s syndrome, myositis, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and IgG4-related disease can significantly affect quality of life, often leading to pain, fatigue, depression, sleep disturbances, and reduced mobility.

“All these components are improved by yoga,” Dr. Kumar said.

However, she stressed that yoga should be viewed as an adjunct to medical treatment rather than a replacement. According to her, yoga may complement conventional therapies by improving sleep, flexibility, mental well-being, lifestyle habits, and overall quality of life.

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Yoga's Benefits For Fibromyalgia

Dr. Renu Bhatia, Additional Professor in the Department of Physiology at AIIMS Delhi, said supervised yoga therapy may help improve physical activity, sleep quality, muscle blood flow, pain levels, and flexibility in people with fibromyalgia.

The experts described fibromyalgia as a condition characterized by widespread pain despite normal laboratory findings and the absence of obvious inflammation.

Dr. Renu noted that studies have shown six weeks of supervised yoga intervention can reduce tender points while improving sensory symptoms, brain function, and neural excitability. However, she cautioned that yoga should be practiced under supervision, as excessive joint movement may aggravate symptoms in some patients.

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of India’s most pressing inherited blood disorders, with an estimated 1 in 86 births among tribal and disadvantaged groups affected.

Despite advances in diagnostics and treatment, families continue to face uncertainty, stigma, and limited awareness.

Why Genetic Counselling Matters

A crucial distinction often overlooked is between sickle cell trait (SCT) and sickle cell disease. Carriers with one gene are usually healthy but can pass the trait to their children, while those with two defective genes live with lifelong complications.

When both parents carry SCT, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the trait and a 25% chance of developing the disease. This is why genetic counselling must be recognized as an integral part of the care continuum.

Genetic counselling provides clarity on inheritance patterns, transmission risks, and reproductive choices. In high-prevalence communities, it serves as a preventive strategy. Counselling is equally vital after diagnosis, guiding parents on managing complications, navigating education and employment, and preparing adolescents to understand their carrier status before marriage.

Also read: Sickle Cell Disease: Why India Must Add Curative Treatment to Meet Its 2047 Elimination Goal

The Role of National Sickle Cell Anemia Elimination Mission

India’s National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (2023) prioritizes screening in high-burden states, with clear objectives:

• to provide affordable, accessible, and quality care to all SCD patients;
• reduce prevalence through awareness campaigns and premarital genetic counselling;
• conduct targeted screening and early detection using validated Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) kits;
• ensure holistic management through primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities;
• enable community involvement by linking patients with social security schemes.

Embedding counselling into primary healthcare ensures every positive test is followed by culturally sensitive, professional support.

Sickle Cell Disease: Tackling Stigma and Misconceptions

SCD is often misinterpreted as a curse or lifestyle issue, leading to stigma and blame. Such misconceptions not only deepen emotional distress but also delay timely medical intervention. Genetic counselling reframes the condition as a scientifically understood, inherited disorder, shifting the narrative from superstition to evidence-based care.

By normalizing dialogue, it drives empathy-centered healthcare conversations and strengthens community resilience.

SCD is also often misinterpreted as a curse or lifestyle issue, leading to stigma and often blame. Such misconceptions not only deepen emotional distress but also delay timely medical intervention.

Genetic counselling reframes the condition as a scientifically understood, inherited disorder, shifting the narrative from superstition to evidence-based care. By normalizing dialogue, it encourages empathy-driven healthcare conversations and strengthens community resilience.

Sickle Cell Disease: Why Genetic Counseling Is Important

Sickle cell care cannot stop at diagnosis; counselling must accompany patients across every life stage from childhood through adolescence, marriage, pregnancy, and adulthood. This continuity transforms care from reactive to proactive, ensuring families are never left alone in their journey.

At the same time, awareness, education, and collaboration among clinicians, policymakers, patient groups, and communities are essential. Genetic counselling serves as the bridge between science and lived experience, enabling informed choices, reducing stigma, and promoting compassionate care that strengthens both families and the wider community.

(The author is Dr Manisha Madkaikar, Director - ICMR-National Institute for Research on Blood and Immune Disorders – Mumbai).