High Blood Sugar

High Blood Sugar May Be Secretly Hurting Your Brain, Even Without Diabetes

A recent study from Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care reveals that high blood sugar could negatively impact brain health, even in people who don’t have diabetes. The research shows that this effect is especially noticeable in older adults and women.

High blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia, occurs when there is too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. Glucose comes from the food we eat, and it’s the body's main source of energy. Normally, the body regulates blood sugar with the help of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream.

However, when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn't use it properly, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Causes of High Blood Sugar

Diabetes: People with diabetes (especially type 1 and type 2) have trouble regulating blood sugar due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance.
Stress: Stress can cause the release of hormones that raise blood sugar levels.
Poor Diet: Eating foods high in sugar and carbohydrates can cause blood sugar spikes.
Inactivity: Lack of exercise can also contribute to higher blood sugar levels, as physical activity helps the body use glucose more efficiently.
Illness or Infection: The body may release stress hormones to fight infections, which can raise blood sugar levels.

Key Findings from the Study

Blood Sugar and Brain Health: High blood sugar is linked to weakened brain connections that are important for memory, attention, and emotional regulation.
Older Adults and Women at Higher Risk: The study found that older adults, who typically have higher blood sugar levels, were more affected. Women were also found to be more vulnerable than men.
Heart Health Connection: The study also found a link between high blood sugar and lower heart rate variability, a key indicator of heart health that may also reflect brain health.

Study Details

Participants: 146 healthy adults aged 18 and older.
Methods: Researchers looked at blood sugar levels, brain activity (using MRI scans), and heart rate variability (using ECG readings).
Publication: The study was published in the Neurobiology of Aging journal.

Why Does This Matter?

Even without diabetes, high blood sugar can impact brain function. This highlights the importance of managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and regular health checkups. It's especially important for those who are pre-diabetic or at risk of developing diabetes.

What Can You Do?

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet and regular physical activity can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Regular Checkups: If you're at risk for diabetes, regular checkups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor blood sugar and overall health.

This study underscores the idea that blood sugar management is important not only for physical health but also for maintaining brain function. Simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in supporting both your body and your mind.

Source:
Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care. "The associations among glycemic control, heart variability, and autonomic brain function in healthy individuals: Age- and sex-related differences." Neurobiology of Aging, May 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.05.007

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