Chronic high blood sugar has long been associated with the risk of dementia and other health problems. However, in a new study, researchers have explored the long-term effects of periodic low blood sugar on mental impairment.

Author of the study Rachel Whitmer, an epidemiologist at the Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, in Oakland, California, felt that Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar that was acute enough to require immediate medical intervention increased the hazards of dementia, particularly for patients who had multiple episodes.

She stated: "Episodes of hypoglycemia may be associated with neurological consequences in patients already at risk for dementia. This study seems to suggest that hypoglycemia is one of the reasons people with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk for dementia. It also adds to the evidence base that balance of glycemic control is a critical issue, and particularly for the elderly."

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