A new study suggests that limiting sugar intake during a child’s first two years of life could provide long-term benefits for brain health later in life.
Researchers analysed data from nearly 65,000 people born in the United Kingdom before and after post-World War II sugar rationing ended.
The study found that people who grew up under sugar rationing until the age of two had a lower risk of developing dementia.
Their dementia diagnosis was also delayed by an average of about two and a half years compared to others.
After sugar rationing ended, the UK’s average daily sugar consumption nearly doubled from 41 grams to 80 grams.
While the findings do not prove that sugar restriction directly prevents dementia, researchers say reducing added sugar during a child’s first 1,000 days may be important for lifelong brain health.
