Bite of Mind

Ep 12: The Link Between Blood Sugar Instability and Cognition


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In this episode of Bite of Mind, we're breaking down the science of glucose and brain function. We are looking at what the research actually says, what it doesn't, and why some of the most popular dietary trends right now are accidentally getting one thing right for completely the wrong reasons.



Time Stamps:

(00:00) Intro

(01:03) The role of glucose in the brain, glucose facilitation effect, and cognitive function

(06:20) How blood sugar stability affects our mood and executive functions 

(18:36) Low vs high carb diets, ket, carnivore, and cognitive function

(32:53) Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGMs) - is it needed if you don’t have diabetes?

(41:53) Practical tips for managing blood sugar without diabetes

(52:53) Summary, thank you, and dietitian word of wisdom


Connect:

A huge thank you to our listeners for supporting us on this new adventure! We’re still figuring things out, so if you hear strange audio or a few awkward pauses… just know it’s part of the real, unfiltered journey :)


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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening does not establish a provider–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.



Research:

  1. Sugar for the brain: the role of glucose in physiological and pathological brain function PMID: 23968694

  2. Fuel for Thought? A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Studies into Glucose Enhancement of Cognitive Performance. PMID: 32162177

  3. Acute hypoglycemia impairs executive cognitive function in adults with and without type 1 diabetes. PMID: 23780950

  4. Does Glycemic Variability Impact Mood and Quality of Life? PMID: 22324383

  5. Risk of depression and anxiety disorders according to long-term glycemic variability. PMID: 37734626

  6. Role of Dietary Carbohydrates in Cognitive Function: A Review. PMID: 40599356

  7. Personalized Nutrition by Prediction of Glycemic Responses. PMID: 26590418

  8. Reactive hypoglycemia in binge eating disorder, food addiction, and the comorbid phenotype: unravelling the metabolic drive to disordered eating behaviours. PMID: 37726785

  9. Low Glycemic Food Index Link: https://glycemic-index.net 


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Bite of MindBy Rachel Robinson, MS, RD