New research reports an association between lower added sugar intake in early life and a reduced risk of dementia decades later. The findings come from an analysis of evidence tied to United Kingdom sugar rationing during World War II, which created variation in how much added sugar people consumed as children. Researchers compare adults who, during their early years, experienced different levels of sugar availability and exposure.
According to the study, those who were exposed to less added sugar before and during toddlerhood show a lower long-term likelihood of developing dementia. One source also describes differences in later brain-related outcomes, including better measures of brain structure and a later onset of symptoms among the group with lower early sugar exposure.
The research is presented as suggesting that restricting added sugar from conception through age two may have long-term effects on cognitive health. However, the reports focus on the study’s observational design and the historical context of rationing, which means the results describe an association rather than definitive proof of cause.
