Against the Grain: Diet and Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by neurodegeneration and loss of cognitive functions. Although its etiology is not yet clear, evidence suggests that AD, diabetes, and obesity may share a common pathophysiology of disordered insulin signaling. Currently, there is growing evidence that hyperinsulinemia may play a key role in the development of AD, with some researchers dubbing it as “type 3 diabetes”. This paper addresses the recently increasing incidence of AD by adopting an interdisciplinary approach that unites anthropological, biological, and psychological research to create a holistic understanding of how an evolutionary mismatch between our ancestral and current environment contributes to the development of lifestyle diseases. Lastly, this paper discusses the theoretical implications of using nutritional therapy to treat cognitive symptoms of AD.