New research into post-war food rationing in the United Kingdom suggests that low sugar intake during the first two years of life could be connected to better brain health decades later.
Researchers examined the period after rationing ended in September 1953, when sugar consumption in the UK soared. The shift created what scientists call a “natural experiment", allowing them to compare people exposed to different levels of sugar early in life.
The study found that those who were toddlers when sugar rationing was still in place had a 23% lower risk of developing dementia later in life than those born after rationing ended.
But the researchers cautioned that the findings show an association, not a direct causative link in which less sugar consumption prevents dementia. Other social, economic and health factors may have also influenced the results.
This study adds to a growing body of evidence that the first 1,000 days of life—from conception to a child’s second birthday—are important for long-term health. Previous studies have linked nutrition during this period with outcomes such as cardiovascular health, metabolism and cognitive development.
When sugar rationing was lifted in September 1953, the average daily consumption of sugar in the UK was estimated to go up from about 41 grams to 80 grams, almost doubling overnight.
The findings support current dietary recommendations that encourage parents to cut back on added sugars in the diets of young children, health experts say. While a balanced, nutritious diet is widely regarded as beneficial for overall brain health during life, further research is needed to make a direct causal link with dementia.
