1. What is the condition?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. It is the most common cause of dementia and typically worsens over time, eventually interfering with daily life and independence. Although traditionally viewed as a brain-only condition, growing research now confirms that Alzheimer’s is deeply tied to metabolic dysfunction. It’s been called “type 3 diabetes,” because the brain, gut, and metabolism are so closely linked.
2. What are common signs and symptoms?
– Short-term memory loss
– Difficulty finding words or forming thoughts
– Confusion with time or place
– Mood or personality changes
– Repeating questions or losing track of conversations
– Trouble with familiar tasks, like handling finances or cooking
– Withdrawal from social activities
– Poor judgment or decision-making
3. What is the difference between the conventional view and the functional medicine perspective?
Conventional View:
Alzheimer’s is often viewed as a mystery illness caused by plaques and tangles in the brain. Traditional treatment focuses on slowing symptoms with medications like donepezil or memantine, with little emphasis on prevention or root-cause reversal and no hope for recovery.
Functional View:
Alzheimer’s is increasingly recognized as a metabolic disease of the brain.
This condition is driven by insulin resistance in the brain, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and disconnection between the brain and the gut.
Cognitive decline can often be slowed—or even improved—by restoring metabolic and nerve flexibility.
4. How does the condition stem from metabolic dysfunction?
In metabolic dysfunction, brain cells become insulin resistant, so they struggle to use glucose for energy, leading to neuronal starvation and degeneration. High insulin levels also increase beta-amyloid production and reduce brain cleansing paths. Gut bacteria imbalances (dysbiosis) lead to systemic inflammation and increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier, allowing neurotoxins to enter the brain.
This bacterial imbalance is also associated with impaired neurotransmitter balance and mood disorders.
Alzheimer’s may not start in the brain; it may start in the gut and mitochondria.
5. Is there a solution?
Two products from Feel Great, Unimate and Balance, work in harmony to reverse the root metabolic dysfunctions behind Alzheimer’s, especially insulin resistance and dysbiosis. Balance stabilizes blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity, which is critical for brain energy regulation. Its prebiotic fiber supports gut-brain signaling and reduces inflammation. Unimate enhances mitochondrial energy, supports memory and focus, and reduces oxidative stress, all of which are vital for neuronal health and long-term cognition. Together, Unimate and Balance help improve metabolic and cognitive function, supporting a sharper brain and slowing the drivers of neurodegeneration.
Additional Functional Medicine Strategies:
– Adopt a low-glycemic, anti-inflammatory diet, rich in omega-3s, polyphenols, and antioxidants
– Consider intermittent fasting and ketogenic dietary strategies
– Target beneficial nutrients in the diet, like DHA omega-3s, curcumin, magnesium threonate, B vitamins, and lion’s mane mushroom
– Include physical activity, including resistance training
– Engage and challenge the mind, including with social engagement
Alzheimer’s may appear in the brain, but it starts with metabolic dysfunction deep within the body. And that means there’s hope. Address the root and you can protect, and even restore, cognitive health.
I’m Dr. Dieter, and I’m here to help you Reclaim Your Health.