Suche
Mein Konto
Sugar and the Brain: Dangers to Memory and Health
Learn how sugar damages the brain and can contribute to the development of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Tips for healthy eating.
Sugar and the Brain: Dangers to Memory and Health
The danger of high sugar consumption for health
The consumption of sugar has increased significantly in recent years, with an average of 33 kilograms of sugar being consumed per year in Germany. This is almost twice the recommended intake of 18 kilograms from the German Nutrition Society (DGE). While the connection between sugar, diabetes and obesity is well known, the connection between sugar and brain disease is often overlooked.
Sugar as a neurotoxic substance
According to experts, including Prof. Frank Erbguth from the German Heart Foundation, sugar is a neurotoxic substance that damages nerve cells. This damage can result from high sugar consumption, which significantly increases the risk of serious diseases such as Alzheimer's, dementia and strokes. The hippocampus, a brain region that is crucial for memory and learning, is particularly affected.
Long-term consequences and inflammatory processes
The dangers of a sugary diet go beyond short-term performance losses. Excessive sugar intake can trigger inflammatory processes in the body, which have a negative impact on insulin metabolism. These processes promote deposits in the vessels that supply blood to the brain and thus increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Prevention through a healthy lifestyle
A more conscious approach to sugar and an overall healthier lifestyle could help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. This includes not only reducing sugar consumption, but also integrating healthy lifestyle habits that can have a positive impact on cognitive abilities.
Important insights into sugar consumption
It's crucial to be aware of the long-term effects of sugar consumption. While sugar serves as a short-term source of energy and can potentially increase mental performance, excessive consumption leads to a deterioration in cognitive abilities in the long term. A balanced diet and an active lifestyle are essential to promote health and minimize the risk of obesity and related diseases.