(PCM) People with high blood sugar levels now have more to worry about than just type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease. As if those complications weren’t enough, people with high blood sugar levels – even at the high end of the normal range – may be at increased risk for brain shrinkage that occurs with aging or dementia, according to new research.
Previous research has found a link between type 2 diabetes and brain shrinkage, however, this is the first study to find similar effects in people still considered to be in the “normal” range of blood sugar levels. Researchers from the Australian National University in Canberra studied 249 people, aged 60 to 64, with normal blood sugar levels. They were given brain scans at the start of the study and four years later and found that people with higher fasting blood sugar levels within the normal range were more likely to have a loss of brain volume in the areas of the hippocampus and the amygdala than those with lower blood sugar levels. The hippocampus and amygdala are areas in the brain responsible for memory and thinking skills.
Study author Nicolas Cherbuin noted:
“These findings suggest that even for people who do not have diabetes, blood sugar levels could have an impact on brain health. More research is needed, but these findings may lead us to re-evaluate the concept of normal blood sugar levels and the definition of diabetes.”
Just another reason to start getting healthy today! Cut down on fast food, processed junk, and refined carbs, and start adding more fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains to your diet. Limit alcoholic beverages, don’t smoke, and make sure you’re exercising 3-4 days a week.
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