Post-Meal Blood Sugar Spikes Tied to Alzheimer’s Risk in Genetic Study

A 69% higher risk of Alzheimer’s was linked to blood sugar spikes after meals, according to a genetic study of over 350,000 people. The analysis, using Mendelian randomization to assess causal relationships, found that elevated postprandial blood sugar levels correlated with significantly increased dementia risk.

Researchers emphasize the need for replication in diverse populations before drawing definitive conclusions.

The study examined genetic data from 350,000 UK Biobank participants, focusing on how post-meal glucose regulation interacts with Alzheimer’s risk. Dr. Andrew Mason, lead author, noted that the findings “could help shape future prevention strategies... specifically after meals.”

However, Dr. Vicky Garfield, senior author, cautioned that “we first need to replicate these results in other populations” to confirm the association.

Notably, the increased risk was not explained by visible brain damage such as shrinkage or white matter loss. This suggests alternative biological pathways may be involved, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear.

The team explicitly distinguished their findings from speculative claims about “hidden pathways,” stressing that the observed association does not prove causation.

Methodologically, the study leveraged Mendelian randomization—a technique using genetic variants as proxies for environmental exposures—to minimize confounding factors.

While the 69% risk increase is statistically significant, the authors acknowledge limitations including potential population-specific genetic factors and the need for longitudinal validation.