The TRUTH About Diabetes Drugs and Brain Aging

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted October 19, 2024

You’ve probably seen the gushing headlines…

Most say something like, “Common diabetes drug protects the brain against aging!”

And let’s face it, that sounds fantastic.

After all, who doesn’t want to keep their brain young and in tip-top shape?

The headlines refer to the results of a new study that suggests the widely prescribed type 2 diabetes drug metformin may slow brain aging.

But let’s take a quick look at this research, including WHY it might work.

And then, I’ll reveal how you could achieve similar results WITHOUT the drugs…

The study published in the prestigious journal Cell focused on monkeys.

After three years of dosing the critters up on metformin, the researchers reported promising signs that the drug could slow brain aging and potentially treat neurodegenerative diseases and other chronic conditions.

There were signs that the drug affected aging pathways and provided neuroprotection that dialed back time on the macaque’s frontal lobes to the tune of about six years.

It’s undoubtedly impressive. But before you rush to your doctor demanding a metformin prescription, let’s take a closer look.

It’s not yet entirely understood HOW this drug protects the brain. But there are some clues, most of which center around the med’s primary purpose, reducing blood sugar.

Excess glucose in the body does bad things to your brain health. It can affect the brain’s connectivity, which links brain regions, reducing functionality. It triggers damaging inflammation. And it negatively affects mitochondrial health and causes oxidative damage.

Reducing glucose with metformin could help with all of these issues and effectively reduce brain aging.

But remember, there are many NATURAL ways to support healthy blood sugar levels that don’t require a trip to the pharmacy or the need to battle drug side effects.

Here’s a list of effective, natural strategies to keep your blood sugar in check:

• Embrace a low-glycemic diet: Focus on foods that don’t cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, like good-quality proteins (organic meats, cheeses, and eggs for example) and non-starchy vegetables.
• Get moving: Regular exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on blood sugar. Try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Prioritize sleep: Poor sleep can affect insulin sensitivity. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys flush out excess blood sugar through urine.
• Spice it up: Studies show cinnamon, turmeric, and fenugreek have natural blood-sugar-lowering effects.
• Go nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and other nuts can improve blood sugar control when eaten in moderation.
• Try apple cider vinegar: A tablespoon in water before meals may improve insulin sensitivity.
• Consider supplements: The minerals chromium and magnesium play crucial roles in blood sugar regulation. Check with your doctor about adding them to your routine.
• Try berberine: Research found this natural compound could lower blood sugar levels almost as effectively as metformin.

When you incorporate these natural approaches into your daily routine, you’re supporting healthy blood sugar levels, investing in your long-term health, and keeping your brain young and sharp.

Remember, you should always consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk for it.

P.S. Nature’s brilliant secret for better brain health.

Source:

Yang, Yuanhan et al., Metformin decelerates aging clock in male monkeys, Cell, Volume 0, Issue 0, Online: 9.12.24

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND