Research published in Science reveals that limiting sugar intake in the first 1,000 days after conception through gestation to age 2 can significantly reduce the risk of chronic illnesses in adulthood. The study found that reducing sugar consumption during this period decreases the risk of type 2 diabetes by 35% and high blood pressure by 20%, delaying disease onset by four and two years, respectively.
Key findings:
Reduced sugar intake in the first 1,000 days lowers chronic illness risk
35% decrease in type 2 diabetes risk
20% decrease in high blood pressure risk
30% decrease in obesity risk during sugar rationing
Limiting sugar exposure reduces lifelong preference for sweets
The researchers analyzed data from the UK Biobank, focusing on 60,183 participants born between 1951 and 1956, before and after the UK's World War II-era sugar rationing ended in 1953.
We are designed to like sweet things from the moment of birth
Dr. Mark Corkins, the division chief of pediatric gastroenterology and professor of pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Pregnant and lactating women consume over triple the recommended daily sugar intake (80g+). Limiting sugar consumption in utero and early life may also reduce lifelong preference for sweets. Dr. Mark Corkins notes that humans are naturally drawn to sweet tastes but refined sugar's concentrated levels have altered our preferences.
World Health Organization recommends limiting daily sugar intake to <10% of total energy intake.
High sugar consumption affects metabolism, leading to fat storage. The US consumes extremely high amounts of sugar, with pregnant and lactating women exceeding triple the recommended daily intake. Offer water, milk, or 100% fruit juice instead of soda, sports drinks, or sweetened beverages. This simple swap can significantly decrease sugar consumption and foster a lifelong preference for healthier drinks. Children ages 1-5 often lack essential fruits and vegetables but regularly consume sugary drinks.
References:
1. Exposure to sugar rationing in the first 1000 Days of life ... Accessed November 12, 2024. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adn5421.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)
