Diabetes linked with loss of brain power

Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes is reported to negatively influence the function of the brain in the long run, the findings of a new study suggest. While previous studies had linked type 2 diabetes to a doubled risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, the new study reveals a high incidence of cognitive decline in individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes are more likely to experience multiple episodes of hypoglycemia, a condition in which the blood sugar levels drop dangerously low, reducing the amount of sugar reaching the brain. The condition is characterized by sweating, fatigue, hunger, dizziness, increased heart rate and blurred vision. Severe episodes may lead to temporary loss of consciousness, convulsions and coma. According to the recent study conducted in Britain, severe hypoglycemic episodes negatively affect the brain power, resulting in a poor memory. Diabetics who experience a larger number of hypos are reported to have a poorer performance in general mental ability and vocabulary. Scientists therefore urge diabetics to manage their blood glucose levels through adopting a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy foods, exercising, testing their blood sugar regularly and taking the diabetic medications as prescribed by their doctor.