Alzheimer’s risk linked to how body handles sugar after eating, study says
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People who tend to experience blood sugar spikes in the hours after eating could face a higher risk of a common brain disorder.
Using the UK Biobank, a new study led by the University of Liverpool analyzed genetic data from more than 350,000 people aged 40 to 69, according to a press release.
The researchers examined genetic markers related to how the body processes sugar and then used a technique called Mendelian randomization to compare disease rates in people who were genetically predisposed to higher blood glucose levels.
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They determined that people with elevated blood sugar levels two hours after eating (a condition called postprandial hyperglycemia) were 69% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
In those participants, the disease was not associated with any change in brain size or evidence of damage.
People who tend to experience blood sugar spikes in the hours after eating could face a higher risk of a common brain disorder. (iStock)
Other markers of glucose regulation (including fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and measures of insulin resistance) were not significantly associated with Alzheimer’s risk, the researchers noted.
The findings were published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
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“This finding could help shape future prevention strategies by highlighting the importance of controlling blood sugar not only in general, but specifically after meals,” lead author Dr. Andrew Mason said in the release.
People who have elevated blood sugar levels two hours after eating are 69% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, research suggests. (iStock)
Tanya Freirich, a registered dietitian and CDCES (certified diabetes care and education specialist) in North Carolina, said the link between increased genetic risk for high blood sugar and Alzheimer’s is consistent with previous studies.
“Over time, high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of memory and learning problems,” Freirich, who was not involved in the study, told News Digital.
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“The brain depends on glucose for fuel, so any restriction of that source due to damaged blood vessels can further damage the brain’s functional connectivity. Excess glucose also impairs our brain function.”
Erin Palinski-Wade, a registered dietitian based in New Jersey, agreed that the study points to postprandial glucose control as a potential target for protecting the brain.
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“This study suggests that when it comes to brain health, what matters is not just whether someone has diabetes, but how high their blood sugar rises in the two hours after eating,” Palinski-Wade, who was also not involved in the new research, told News Digital.
“Interestingly, traditional fasting glucose and insulin levels were not linked to Alzheimer’s risk, suggesting we may be missing part of the picture if we only focus on fasting labs and ignore what happens after meals.”
Limitations of the study
The link between blood glucose spikes and dementia outcome was not confirmed in a separate Alzheimer’s genetic data set, raising questions about the application of the findings to broader populations, the published paper noted.
An expert recommends eating balanced meals that include vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates, in addition to reducing excessive sugar consumption and choosing whole grains instead of refined ones. (iStock)
People in the UK Biobank also tended to be limited to healthier, white British participants.
“We first need to replicate these results in other populations and ancestors to confirm the link and better understand the underlying biology,” lead author Dr. Vicky Garfield said in the statement.
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There is also a risk that some dementia diagnoses were inaccurate or missed entirely, since the study relied on medical records and self-reports.
“If validated, the study could pave the way for new approaches to reducing the risk of dementia in people with diabetes.”
Preventive measures
While some people may have a genetic propensity for greater blood sugar spikes after eating, Freirich noted that dietary choices can have a big impact.
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It recommends eating balanced meals that include vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates, in addition to reducing excessive sugar consumption and choosing whole grains instead of refined ones.
The expert is also in favor of increasing fiber consumption, pointing out that the daily goal for adults is between 25 and 35 grams per day.
“A short period of activity after eating, such as a walk, can also help reduce the blood sugar spike after eating.” (iStock)
“Fiber is useful for improving blood sugar stability, but it is also beneficial for heart health, digestion, and reducing inflammation, all of which contribute to improved brain health,” Freirich said.
It also suggests restricting sodas, juices, sugar-sweetened tea and coffee drinks, and limiting desserts.
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“In addition to diet, a short period of activity after eating, such as a walk, can also help reduce the blood sugar spike after eating,” Freirich said.
Anyone with questions about blood sugar levels should talk to a doctor about testing to assess risk.
Melissa Rudy is a senior health editor and member of the lifestyle team at News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@News.com.