Most people want to do everything possible to protect their brain’s health and functionality. Fortunately, we have significant control over how our brains change as we age.
We know that persistent head trauma can lead to brain degeneration. This is evident in professional football players and others involved in contact sports. Many studies also highlight the benefits of exercise for preserving brain health. Sleep has gained attention as well. During deep sleep, the brain clears harmful chemicals and debris, which helps maintain its health.
One of the most critical factors we can control is blood sugar levels. A study published in Neurology, titled Higher Normal Fasting Plasma Glucose is Associated with Hippocampal Atrophy, explored how blood sugar affects brain shrinkage. The researchers focused on two key regions: the hippocampus, which supports memory, and the amygdala, which regulates emotion and decision-making.
he study involved 266 individuals aged 60 to 64 without cognitive issues or diabetes. At the beginning, researchers measured fasting blood sugar and used MRI scans to assess hippocampal and amygdala volumes. After four years, participants underwent the same tests, and researchers analyzed the results.
The findings were striking. Higher blood sugar levels at the start of the study correlated directly with more shrinkage in the hippocampus and amygdala. Blood sugar accounted for 6% to 10% of the volume loss in these regions. This remained true even after adjusting for age, gender, BMI, blood pressure, alcohol, and smoking.
Conclusion
The conclusion was clear. Even “normal” blood sugar levels below 110 mg/dl were linked to greater brain atrophy. The authors explained:
These findings suggest that even in the subclinical range and in the absence of diabetes, monitoring and managing plasma glucose levels could improve cerebral health. If replicated, this finding may lead to a reevaluation of what is considered normal blood glucose and diabetes definitions.
This research sends a critical message. Blood sugar in the “normal range” may still harm the brain. The study authors emphasized striving for the lower end of this range to protect cognitive health. Perhaps it’s time to move beyond “normal” and focus on what is truly optimal.
