Everyday eating habits may influence dementia risk, scientists say

A large genetic analysis of more than 350,000 UK Biobank participants linked genetically higher blood sugar two hours after eating to a 69% greater risk of Alzheimer's, though the result did not replicate in a separate international dataset.

New research suggests everyday eating habits could influence dementia risk later in life. Scientists say the way the body processes food over time can affect brain health, including in people without diabetes. The study analysed genetic and health data from more than 350,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Researchers report an association between genetically higher post-meal blood sugar and later Alzheimer's disease. Key findings: - The analysis used data from over 350,000 UK Biobank participants aged 40–69, with an average age of 59.9. - Genetic predisposition to higher blood glucose two hours after eating (postprandial glucose) was associated with a 69% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. - No similar association was found for fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, or measures of insulin resistance. - The study used Mendelian randomisation to assess potential causal links, but the main finding did not replicate in a separate international Alzheimer's genetic dataset. Summary: If confirmed, the association points to post-meal blood sugar patterns as a possible factor in Alzheimer's risk beyond diagnosed diabetes. The failure to replicate the result in another dataset leaves implications for prevention undetermined at this time.