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 Free Articles
Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring. So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it. But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be...
Nature's Powerful COVID-19 Defense REVEALED
While Big Pharma scrambles to cash in on new COVID-19 treatments, Mother Nature already has powerful allies waiting in the wings. A groundbreaking review in the journal Nutrients revealed a secret that Big Pharma won’t advertise—common herbs and supplements could ease mild COVID-19 symptoms. And the best part? You won’t need a prescription or to...
Women, Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs!
I’ve spent decades in medicine, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that women are tough as nails. They’re pros at pushing through discomfort and brushing off warning signs. But that strength can also be their biggest health risk. Feeling tired? Well, of course—after all, you’re juggling a million things! Short of breath? It...
5 Warning Signs Men Should NEVER Ignore!
Men—listen up. I know you pride yourself on being tough. You insist on pushing through and refuse to make a fuss about “every little ache and pain.” But here’s the cold, hard truth… That tough guy act? It could KILL you. As a doctor I get an unwanted first-row seat to some hard-learned lessons. Hardly...
Mailbag: Is Your Gut Secretly Attacking Your Joints?
“Can a leaky gut cause sudden onset arthritis? My wife has developed arthritis over a 2-month period that is almost debilitating at this point, and she has constant diarrhea. Are these symptoms connected in some way?” -Leaky and Lost Hi Lost, When my patients ask me about leaky gut, my answer is always the same: “It’s...
“Brain Brew” SLASHES Dementia Risk
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a coffee fan. There are plenty of good reasons to stay that way. In fact, I shared a reason just last week. But I’ve also made room in my life for another hot beverage—and that’s green tea. Now, new research suggests it was a...
Nature's New Mood Booster? (It's Already in Your Kitchen!)
Scientists uncovered something surprising hiding in plain sight in our kitchens. And it might turn out to be nature’s answer to fighting depression. The best part? You’re probably already eating it… Let’s find out. An exciting new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that naturally occurring spermidine could help keep the blues...
Coffee Mug Hack Could Head Off Cancer
If you’re a coffee lover, it doesn’t get much better than that first cup of morning coffee. But before you reach for your favorite mug, I have some news that might make that java taste EVEN better. A new study finds your coffee habit could protect you from one of the world’s most common cancers…...
WALK Away from Cancer? Study Says “Yes!”
When you’re battling cancer, the LAST thing you need is more questionable advice. Yet a parade of well-meaning folks will insist you must do everything from running marathons to moving to a Greek island in order to outsmart the disease. But what if something as simple as a daily walk could give you the extra...
Separating Diet Fact from Fad
We’ve all been there, scrolling through social media, bombarded by images of perfectly arranged açai bowls and bulletproof coffee, wondering if this is the secret to optimal health. In a world of juice cleanses, paleo, gluten-free, and acai-topped everything, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of the latest and greatest diet trends. But...