University of Liverpool Study Finds Link
Researchers Stress Importance of Post-Meal Blood Sugar Control
A new study has found that so-called "blood sugar spikes"-sharp increases in blood glucose levels after meals-may significantly raise the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
According to Science Daily on January 15 (local time), a research team from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom recently published their findings in the latest issue of the medical journal "Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism," analyzing the link between post-meal blood sugar increases and the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
A blood sugar spike refers to a rapid rise in blood glucose after consuming carbohydrates in a meal, which can cause post-meal fatigue, drowsiness, and reduced concentration.
Previous studies have consistently reported that metabolic abnormalities such as hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance are associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia. However, the exact pathways by which impaired blood sugar control affects brain health have not been clearly identified.
To investigate this association, the researchers analyzed genetic and health data from over 350,000 adults aged 40 to 69 registered in the UK Biobank. The analysis included key indicators of blood sugar regulation, such as fasting glucose, insulin levels, and blood glucose measured two hours after eating.
The study utilized the Mendelian randomization technique, which uses genetic variations to assess whether a specific biological factor directly influences the risk of disease, allowing for a more precise estimation of causality.
The results showed that individuals with higher post-meal blood sugar levels had about a 69% greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In particular, postprandial hyperglycemia was identified as a significant risk factor among various blood sugar indicators.
The researchers noted that this increased risk could not be explained by overall brain atrophy or white matter damage. In other words, a sharp rise in blood sugar after eating may affect brain function through mechanisms that have yet to be fully elucidated.
Dr. Andrew Mason, who led the study, stated, "These findings highlight the importance of managing post-meal blood sugar levels, not just average or fasting glucose, and may inform future strategies for dementia prevention."
Co-lead author Professor Victoria Garfield added, "Further studies in different populations and ethnic groups are needed to replicate these findings and clarify the underlying mechanisms. If the association is confirmed, it could lead to new approaches to reducing dementia risk, especially in people with diabetes."
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