Despite its sweetness and popularity in almost every type of food and drink, sugar has a bad reputation for contributing to almost every health concern, from tooth decay and diabetes to obesity and hyperactivity. Researchers have discovered another link to an increasingly common condition: dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Surprisingly, the risk of higher intakes of sugar contributing to dementia is higher in women. The South Mountain Memory Care community, serving Allentown and the greater Lehigh Valley, PA, takes these studies seriously and offers this brief summary to help our neighbors make wise dietary decisions, and to encourage you to seek more information.
What we eat and how much we eat have consequences for our health, some of which are obvious and well-known. However, as we focus on heart health, obesity, diabetes, oral health, and other members of the body, we may overlook the fact that the brain also partakes of the nutrients from the food we eat. We may also forget that the brain ages just like other body parts.
Alzheimer’s disease is often referred to as diabetes of the brain. The body’s response to poorly controlled sugar levels can result in inflammation of tissues and organs, including brain tissue. This can cause cognitive symptoms such as memory lapses.
Glycogen, a form of sugar, is broken down and used to nourish the brain cells. When that ability is hindered, the brain cannot use the glycogen, contributing to aging and brain diseases.
Reducing calorie intake, including sugars, has been shown to help the brain break down and use the glycogen to protect the brain cells from neuron damage.
If you are concerned about your sugar intake, consult your healthcare provider or other trusted source. There is a variety of natural, processed, and synthetic sugars hidden in most foods and beverages, in places you might not suspect. Some are more harmful than others. The right combination of diet, exercise, and if necessary, medication can help keep your brain healthy!
Whatever the cause or level of your or your loved one’s memory issues, South Mountain Memory Care, with our unique culture, “small house” model, and abundance of certified caregivers, offers you the peace of mind of knowing your loved one will be cared for as if they were our family—which they are!
South Mountain Memory Care is committed to providing individualized, compassionate care to support our residents in achieving a well-balanced lifestyle. We strive to allow our residents to remain independent while emphasizing safety. Our focus is to enrich their life—mind, body, and spirit—by bringing new initiatives into their day-to-day regimen while maintaining the activities they find comfort in. South Mountain Memory Care offers the peace of mind you deserve. When it comes to those you care so deeply about, we understand because we care, too.
NOTE: This article is for information purposes only, and is not intended to provide research or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provided for medical advice and care.