Lifestyle

Low-Sugar Diet In Early Life Reduces Risk Of Diabetes And Hypertension, Study Shows

A new study led by researchers in the US and Canada shows that a low-sugar diet during pregnancy and the first two years of life can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases in adulthood. Published in the journal *Science*, the study found that children with sugar restrictions in their first 1,000 days after conception had up to a 35% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and a 20% reduced risk of hypertension as adults.

Diabetes and hypertension, two prevalent non-communicable diseases, contribute to substantial global health burdens. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises no added sugars for children under two and limits adults to 12 teaspoons (50g) of added sugar daily. Researchers from McGill University in Montreal and the University of California, Berkeley, highlighted the benefits of prenatal and early-life sugar restrictions, which they linked to reduced disease risks later in life.

Health and Economic Benefits of Sugar Reduction

The researchers noted that limiting sugar could reduce medical costs, extend life expectancy, and improve quality of life. An early diabetes diagnosis cuts life expectancy by three to four years per decade of earlier onset, underscoring the importance of preventive measures. By examining long-term health outcomes of sugar rationing during World War II, researchers gained insights into the benefits of early-life sugar restrictions.

Need for Policy Action and Reformulation of Baby Foods

Despite the challenges in reducing added sugar due to its presence in baby and toddler foods, researchers urged policymakers to push food companies toward healthier formulations. They recommended stricter regulations on marketing sugary foods targeted at children and suggested taxes on such products to protect long-term health.

Also Read: Devotees Celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas At Golden Temple

Ajaypal Choudhary

Recent Posts

Sensex Falls 931 Points As Trump’s Tariff Move Triggers Global Selloff

The Sensex dropped 930.67 points, or 1.22 per cent, to settle at 75,364.69. It moved…

1 hour ago

Supreme Court To Hear Muslim Side’s Plea In Mathura Dispute On April 8

The SC will hear the Muslim side’s petition in the Mathura Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute on…

2 hours ago

DNA Can’t Confirm Rape Without Proof Of Lack Of Consent: Delhi High Court

Justice Amit Mahajan said that even if DNA proves the accused is the biological father…

2 hours ago

Supreme Court Allows Yasin Malik To Cross-Examine Witnesses Via Video From Tihar Jail

The SC allowed Yasin Malik to cross-examine prosecution witnesses via video conferencing from Tihar jail,…

2 hours ago

Delhi HC Orders Customs To Stop Seizing Personal Jewellery Of Air Passengers

The Delhi HC directed Customs Department officials not to confiscate old or personal jewellery worn…

2 hours ago

PM Modi Unveils 21-Point Action Plan To Boost BIMSTEC Cooperation At Bangkok Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday unveiled a 21-point action plan at the BIMSTEC Summit…

4 hours ago