High blood glucose levels and diabetes have been linked to numerous health issues and a new study has found yet another link. Researchers have discovered that high blood glucose levels and diabetes are linked to memory loss.
Researchers studied individuals and used MRI tests which showed that high blood glucose levels were linked to changes in the hippocampal region of the brain which involves memory. Decline of memory and lower cognitive abilities were found to be directly linked to high blood glucose levels, especially in older individuals.
In addition to studying the fMRI results of people, researchers also ran tests on rhesus monkeys and diabetic mice and found that blood glucose was the underlying cause to changes in the hippocampal region of the brain, therefore creating memory problems. These changes in the brain were actually visible on the fMRI. The research showed that blood vessels were damaged in this area of the brain (which involves memory) and at times there was temporary los of blood supply in this area as well.
This is the first study to find a direct link between blood glucose levels and memory/cognitive issues. It is an important and defining study that not only provides information to help look for ways to avoid or at least diminish memory loss by controlling blood glucose levels, and can also begin to define and develop treatment and prevention regimens to deal with this critical issue.
If you happen to have diabetes or you develop high blood glucose levels or diabetes in the future, this groundbreaking study should strongly encourage you to do everything you can to keep your levels under control. Take your medicine, eat healthy, get enough exercise and rest and check in with your doctor. It could mean a difference of remembering or not remembering your spouse, children and grandchildren in the future.
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