There’s nothing like a candy to brighten up the day. Who doesn’t enjoy dessert? However, sugar abuse can have many consequences. Among them, one that is not mentioned very often. Too much sugar affects memory.
Rat memory
There is a risk of excessive consumption of sweets in children and adolescents. In fact, there may be memory issues in the future. It is the result of a research study. It was recently carried out by a group of American scientists.
During the experiment, the specialists divided a group of rats into two groups. One of them was given regularly sugary drinks during his first phase of life. As the animals got older, the team gave the rats memory tests. He observed that his hippocampal function – the area of the brain responsible for memory – was changed. This means that too much sugar affects memory. This function deteriorated in adulthood without affecting body weight or causing anxiety.
“It’s the excessive consumption of sugar and other unhealthy dietary factors. In the early stages of development, they lead to changes in the gut microbiome. Neurocognitive disorders too, ”the study says.
recommendations
Scientists emphasize it. Daily sugar consumption is closely related to the age of the minors. The recommended consumption limits are:
- No more than 19 grams of sugar per day for those under four to six years of age;
- A maximum of 24 grams of sugar per day for children between the ages of seven and ten;
- No more than 30 grams of sugar per day for people aged 11 and over.
The results of this study highlight the important role of the gut microbiota. It is important to measure the harmful effects of unhealthy eating habits on memory in early life.
The team wondered if a healthy diet or exercise could help lessen the damage caused by sugar. They warn that upcoming tests should be aimed at this goal.
The research results were published in the journal Translational Psychiatry.
