By now, we all know that refined sugar isn’t good for us. However, scientists have now discovered that refined sugar can lead to much more than just weight gain and bad teeth. Several studies have highlighted the ill-effects of refined sugar in the brain. But can a high intake of refined sugars damage your memory?
The Impact of Refined Sugar on the Brain
As our biggest organ, the brain uses most of the glucose we consume. Without sugars, the brain cannot function properly, as the nerves and cells need the sugar energy to transmit all the information. If your brain doesn’t get enough glucose, the communication between the brain cells can break down.
Hence, the brain needs sugar for thinking, learning, and memorizing. However, recent studies have indicated that an excess of glucose is just as detrimental.
Too Much Refine Sugar Is Bad for Your Memory
So, can a high intake of refined sugars damage your memory? Two recent US studies indicate that consuming too much refined sugar may lead to premature aging of our brain cells. What’s more, too much refined sugar can also impair our memory and cognitive skills.
Scientific Animal Studies
Conducted in 2012 at the University of California, this study showed that overeating refined sugar can make our brain cells age faster than they normally would. A 2009 study on rats had already indicated that memory loss and a reduction in cognitive skills can result from the consumption of too many sugars.
Final Thoughts
Hence, the answer to the question can a high intake of refined sugars damage your memory must be a resounding yes. Perhaps it’s time to reduce our sugar intake, not just for weight control and a healthy heart, but also for our brain’s sake.
