Continuous Glucose Monitors: A Potential Ally in Reducing Dementia Risks

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is vital for individuals with diabetes. Not only does it prevent complications such as kidney issues and blindness, but it also plays a significant role in protecting brain health.

According to Dr. Michael S. Okun, medical advisor to the Parkinson’s Foundation and director of the Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida, “The collective data on blood glucose and its effects on cognitive health, as well as on dementia, continue to rapidly grow.” Recent research from the U.K., published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, indicates that wearing continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) may help lower dementia risk.

How Continuous Glucose Monitors Work

Continuous glucose monitors are innovative wearable devices designed to track blood sugar levels effectively. They resemble patches that stick to the arm, housing built-in sensors that relay glucose readings to a smartphone app, as explained by GoodRx. This technology allows diabetics to monitor their blood sugar without the need for frequent finger pricks — a common practice in traditional glucose testing.

Individuals dealing with type 1 diabetes, especially those on insulin, significantly benefit from CGMs. Past studies have shown that these devices offer modest improvements in sugar control compared to conventional monitoring methods.

The Brain Connection

Dr. Okun emphasizes the positive impact of continuous glucose monitoring on brain function: “Not only does continuous monitoring improve glucose levels in the blood and prevent low blood sugars, but it has also been shown that a steady supply of glucose enhances brain function.” This connection highlights the potential of CGMs not only in diabetes management but also in the realm of cognitive health.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite their advantages, some experts raise concerns. Dr. Michael Hornberger, a professor of applied dementia research at the Norwich Medical School in England, believes that real-time glucose tracking could lead to unnecessary anxiety for some users. Costs associated with these devices and the need for attentive data interpretation also pose challenges.

“Cost, requirements for attentive caregivers, and how to use the data for real-time decision-making all remain challenges in the field,” Dr. Okun stated. Furthermore, the existing research mainly focuses on individuals with diabetes, leaving the benefits for non-diabetics less understood.

Understanding the Risk Factors

The connection between high blood sugar and increased dementia risk has gained attention. Dr. Hornberger’s investigation revealed that elevated blood sugar levels are linked to a higher likelihood of developing dementia. High blood sugar can stimulate insulin production, which in turn influences cell function and brain metabolism.

Neurons depend on glucose for energy, essential for cognitive function and movement coordination. However, excessive blood sugar levels may negatively affect neuronal activity, leading to cognitive impairments.

A Path Forward

Although the link between CGMs and reduced dementia risk is promising, experts unanimously agree that more research is necessary. Dr. Hornberger pointed out that current studies have not matured enough to recommend glucose monitoring devices for cognitive symptom improvement or dementia prevention.

Moreover, both dementia and diabetes share numerous risk factors, including age and cardiovascular health, which complicates the relationship between these conditions. In fact, a 2017 study in JAMA Neurology identified diabetes as an independent risk factor for dementia.

Accessing Continuous Glucose Monitors

Consumers can now purchase several brands of CGMs over the counter without a prescription. For instance, the Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System received FDA approval in March 2024 for individuals over 18 who do not use insulin. The one-month supply is priced at around $99.

Similarly, Abbott’s Lingo, approved in June 2024, is designed for healthy adults 18 years and older interested in wellness (not diabetes management) and is available for $89 for a four-week plan.

Consulting Healthcare Professionals

Experts advise potential users to consult healthcare providers to discuss the benefits and risks associated with continuous glucose monitors. Given the evolving nature of diabetes and dementia research, personalized medical advice remains paramount.

In conclusion, while continuous glucose monitors show promise as a tool to potentially mitigate dementia risk, further investigation is essential to fully understand their impact. By closely monitoring blood sugar levels, individuals may take proactive steps towards both metabolic and brain health.