New research from the University of Waterloo, published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, is the first to identify a reduction in executive functions of the brain that govern habitual thinking patterns, knee-jerk emotional reactions, and reflexive behaviors — such as making impulse purchases or automatically following social cues.
 

To reach their conclusions, researchers reviewed 60 studies comparing 9,815 individuals with type 2 diabetes to 69,254 healthy individuals and examined their performance on measures of executive function.
 

"This facet of brain function is particularly important because we rely on it when we are attempting to behave in a way that is contrary to our natural inclinations or what the environment impels us to do," said lead researcher Corrie Vincent, a graduate student in the School of Public Health and Health Systems at Waterloo.
 

The findings are especially troubling in light of the fact that individuals with type 2 diabetes must consistently monitor their dietary choices, check their blood sugar, and adhere to medication schedules.
 

"The types of behaviors that are recommended to help individuals control type 2 diabetes are all things that do not come naturally to most people. Human beings have fairly reliable preferences for high-calorie foods and to resist medical routines that are inconvenient or time-consuming," said Peter Hall, a senior author on the study.
 

Recent studies suggest that older adults can improve their executive function by engaging in cognitively stimulating activities and staying physically active, Hall added.
 

"Fortunately, there are a few things that can help optimize the brain structures that support executive function," he said. "Aerobic exercise and cognitively challenging activities -- such as learning new things, solving difficult puzzles and other problem solving activities --all help to keep your brain sharp. Aerobic exercise is probably the most important, however, because it has benefits to both the brain and the rest of the body simultaneously."
 

About 600 million people live with type 2 diabetes worldwide, with nearly 800 million cases expected by 2030.