Diabetic Mothers and Memory Loss

New research shows that children born to diabetic mothers are more likely to suffer from memory loss, and therefore, associated the associated learning disabilities. High blood-sugar levels have been found to affect the development of the hippocampus, the memory center of the brain. Although the exact mechanism of this is not exact, Dr. Tracy DeBoer believes that low iron levels may be associated. In rodents, the fetus of diabetic rodents develops an iron shortage that dampens neuronal activity in this particular region of the brain.

This research is of special importance because it emphasizes the importance of controlling expecting mothers' diets so as to protect the child of the fetus. Also, this research may serve as an explanation for children that suffer from memory loss.

http://sciencenow.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/2007/217/3