Food for Thought: Investigating the Diet-Disease Links in Diabetes & Alzheimer's

This thesis explores the nature of Type II diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease to better understand their symptoms, treatments, and the factors that lead to further development; with a specific focus on the role that diet plays. Alternate connections outside of diet, including amyloidosis and inflammation, are additionally analyzed, but the emphasis remains on introducing diets that may be helpful in terms of preventative measures and controlling symptoms of diseases. Two major diets investigated are the Mediterranean diet and DASH, and it will be discussed why these diets are better suited for overall health, in comparison to a diet based primarily in high-fat or ultra-processed foods. This paper integrates information from scientists, medical professionals, and even a personal testimony from a diabetic patient. This thesis will recommend legislation to better regulate ultra-processed foods based on the current models of the United States FDA and the EU and will further recommend better education implementation discussing healthier diets and overall disease prevention. Despite the current research and statistics outlined on these two diseases, with their respective connections to diet, deeper investigation and analysis remains to be done in order to better understand diet-disease links.