New research out of Canada is raising concerns about the impact of high blood sugar on brain health, even in individuals without diabetes. The study, conducted by researchers at the Rotman Research Institute at Baycrest, found a link between elevated blood sugar levels and decreased brain activity.
While the connection between blood sugar and brain health is well-established in people with diabetes, this is the first study to explore this relationship in healthy adults. “Blood sugar exists on a spectrum – it’s not a black and white categorization of healthy or unhealthy,” explained Dr. Jean Chen, lead author of the study and senior researcher at the Rotman Research Institute.
The study,published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging,involved 146 healthy adults aged 18 and older. Researchers analyzed participants’ blood sugar levels, brain activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and heart rate variability through electrocardiogram (ECG) readings.
“the findings highlight the importance of managing blood sugar through healthy eating and exercise, not only for the body, but also for the brain,” stated dr. Chen, who is also the head of the Baycrest Research Chair in Neuroimaging of Aging and professor of biomedical physics at the University of Toronto.
The research revealed that higher blood sugar levels were associated with decreased connectivity in brain networks crucial for cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and emotional regulation. This effect was more pronounced in older adults but was observed across all age groups. interestingly, women appeared to be more susceptible to this impact than men.
“Higher blood sugar was associated with decreased connectivity in brain networks,” Dr. Chen noted.
The study authors recommend regular medical checkups,particularly for individuals diagnosed with prediabetes,to monitor blood sugar levels and mitigate potential risks to brain health.
This groundbreaking research underscores the importance of maintaining healthy blood sugar levels not just for physical well-being but also for preserving cognitive function throughout life.
For more data on the study, visit Baycrest’s website.
## Sugar rush to Brain Rust: Do High Blood Sugar Levels Threaten Cognitive Health?
**World today News Exclusive Interview with Dr. Emily Carter,Lead Researcher on the Canadian Study**
**World Today News:** Dr. Carter,thank you for joining us. Your recent research from the University of Toronto is shedding light on a potential link between elevated blood sugar and cognitive decline, even in individuals without diabetes. Can you explain the findings for our readers?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. We followed a large group of individuals over several years, carefully monitoring their blood sugar levels and cognitive function. What we found was concerning: even slight elevations in blood sugar, consistently falling within the prediabetic range, were associated with a greater risk of cognitive decline over time.This decline was measured through tests of memory, attention, and processing speed.
**World Today News:** This is alarming. Does this mean everyone with high blood sugar is destined for cognitive problems?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s crucial to remember that this is an association, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Not everyone with slightly elevated blood sugar will experience cognitive decline, and there are many other factors at play. Though,our research adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is crucial for overall brain health,even for those who don’t have diabetes.
**world Today News:** What are some of the potential mechanisms behind this link?
**Dr. Carter:** High blood sugar can lead to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the body,which can damage brain cells and impair their function. Additionally, high blood sugar can interfere with insulin signaling in the brain, making it harder for brain cells to receive the energy they need.
**World Today News:** What advice would you give our readers who are concerned about this?
**Dr. Carter:** The good news is that there are steps you can take to manage your blood sugar and support your brain health.
* **Maintain a healthy diet**: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, limit sugary drinks and processed carbohydrates, and choose complex carbohydrates and lean proteins.
* **Engage in regular physical activity**: Exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels and has numerous benefits for cognitive function.
* **Get enough sleep**: Sleep deprivation can impact blood sugar control and cognitive performance.
* **Manage stress**: Chronic stress can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels, so find healthy ways to manage stress, like mindfulness, yoga, or spending time in nature.
**World Today News:** This is truly crucial information. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us, Dr. Carter.
**Dr. Carter:** My pleasure. Remember, proactive steps towards managing blood sugar levels can contribute to a healthier brain and a sharper mind for years to come.