Researchers at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas have discovered evidence that Type 2 diabetes “rewires” the brain in ways similar to early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

Diabetes is known to cause many medical issues, from heart disease to vision problems — and now a new study suggests it could also impact memory and other cognitive functions.

More than 36 million Americans have type 2 diabetes, meaning their blood sugar levels are always top of mind. After all, when people with diabetes have blood sugar levels that are too low or too high, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms like brain fog and moodiness. And if you develop hypo- or hyperglycemia (when your blood sugar is way too high or too low), you can also suffer from pretty serious health issues including a diabetic coma.

A new study by the UNLV Research team has found a connection between diabetes and memory loss. It also shows high blood sugar levels appeared to mimic Alzheimer's disease.

People with Type 2 diabetes are at a much higher risk for Alzheimer's disease than people without diabetes, and a new study might have unearthed the connection. Researchers from University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) took a closer look at how type 2 diabetes alters brain activity in areas tied to memory and motivation.

In 25 years, it’s estimated that the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease in this country will almost triple. That’s also about the same amount of time researchers have also found it might take for the disease to grow and develop in the human brain. But UNLV researchers have published a new study uncovering another clue as to what could be causing brain disease—while also pointing to a possible hedge against that development.

A new study is making the connection between diabetes and memory loss, with the UNLV research team saying high blood sugar levels appear to weaken brain function, mimicking Alzheimer’s Disease.

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