A study has reveal that controlling sugar intake in infancy can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, later in life. Researchers analysing historical data from World War II’s sugar rationing in the United Kingdom found that limited sugar consumption in childhood led to healthier adult outcomes, emphasising the importance of diet in the early stages of life.
Economist Dr Tadeja Gracner from the University of Southern California led the research, publish in Science.org.
As per the report, the team explore the long-term effects of rationed sugar intake by reviewing health records of over 60,000 UK Biobank participants born from 1951 to 1956.
The team then reportedly divide the participants into two groups, one experience sugar rationing in early childhood and the other grew up after the restrictions were lift in 1953.
Findings show that those who had limited sugar intake as children were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes or hypertension later in life.
The risk of diabetes was reduce by 38% and hypertension risk drop by 21% for those who grew up during sugar rationing, as per Science News.
Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes, a register dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told the publication that the first 1,000 days of life, starting from conception, play a crucial role in long-term health outcomes.
Nutrient intake during this period can shape the development of a child’s body and brain.
Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes said :
“The food a mother consumes directly influences fetal development,”.
Limiting sugar in children’s diets can be challenging, given the prevalence of adds sugars in processed foods.
This study notes that educating parents about nutritional choices with clearer food labelling, could empower families to make healthier choices.
The research further laid emphasises that occasional sugar treats aren’t harmful, but reducing regular sugar intake from an early age could be a simple way to promote better health over a lifetime.
