Ep 12: The Link Between Blood Sugar Instability and Cognition

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 wisdomConnect: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 :)Want to stick with us as we grow? Hit the like and subscribe buttons @bite.of.mind.podcast to catch every new episode and get more tips and real talk on nutrition and mental health!You can also follow us on instagram or TikTok! 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:Sugar for the brain: the role of glucose in physiological and pathological brain function PMID: 23968694Fuel for Thought? A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Studies into Glucose Enhancement of Cognitive Performance. PMID: 32162177Acute hypoglycemia impairs executive cognitive function in adults with and without type 1 diabetes. PMID: 23780950Does Glycemic Variability Impact Mood and Quality of Life? PMID: 22324383Risk of depression and anxiety disorders according to long-term glycemic variability. PMID: 37734626Role of Dietary Carbohydrates in Cognitive Function: A Review. PMID: 40599356Personalized Nutrition by Prediction of Glycemic Responses. PMID: 26590418Reactive hypoglycemia in binge eating disorder, food addiction, and the comorbid phenotype: unravelling the metabolic drive to disordered eating behaviours. PMID: 37726785Low Glycemic Food Index Link: https://glycemic-index.net