July 19, 2009

Sweet Forgetfulness

Insulin helps the body convert glucose (sugar) to energy and, in doing so, keeps glucose blood levels moderated. Starting in people's thirties however, for unknown reasons, insulin does not work as well, and people tend to experience glucose spikes particularly after meals or sugar binges.

It has recently been found that these glucose spikes can damage the part of the brain that is responsible for recall. One thing you can do to reduce the frequency or intensity of the spikes and hopefully minimize age-related memory decline is to exercise, as this reduces blood glucose by converting it to muscle energy. Also, it probably wouldn't hurt to eat smaller meals and eschew frequent candy bar and ice-cream orgies.

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