LONDON: Consuming very little sugar during the first two years of life may help protect the brain from dementia decades later, according to a new study that examined the long-term effects of sugar consumption in early childhood.
Researchers analyzed the impact of the end of sugar rationing in the United Kingdom after World War II, a period that led to a dramatic increase in sugar consumption across the country. Their findings suggest that children who experienced lower sugar intake during infancy and toddlerhood were significantly less likely to develop dementia later in life.
The research found that people who were toddlers while sugar rationing remained in place had a 23% lower risk of developing dementia compared with those born after rationing ended and sugar consumption increased.
Scientists believe that limiting sugar during the earliest stages of life may support healthier brain development and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
However, researchers stressed that the study shows an association rather than direct proof that reducing sugar prevents dementia.
The study is part of a broader series of investigations examining Britain’s recovery after World War II, when food rationing gradually ended.
Researchers described the end of sugar rationing as a unique “natural experiment” because it created a sudden and measurable change in dietary habits across the population.
When sugar rationing ended in September 1953, average daily sugar consumption in the UK reportedly increased from about 41 grams (around 10 sugar cubes) to nearly 80 grams (around 20 sugar cubes) almost overnight.
This sharp rise allowed scientists to compare the long-term health outcomes of people exposed to different levels of sugar during early childhood.
First 1,000 Days Are Critical
Health experts have increasingly emphasized that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception until around a child’s second birthday—play a crucial role in shaping lifelong health.
Previous research has linked excessive sugar consumption during this critical period to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses later in life.
The latest findings suggest that brain health may also be affected by dietary habits established during infancy.
Although the study does not prove that reducing sugar directly prevents dementia, experts say the findings reinforce existing advice to limit added sugars in young children’s diets.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and essential nutrients is widely recognized as beneficial for both physical and cognitive health.
Researchers say additional studies are needed to better understand how early nutrition influences the risk of dementia and other neurological conditions later in life.
