As we age, we must take care of our general health. This means understanding that there are some foods that we should avoid to prevent any health risks. Consuming foods that are full of added sugar can increase your risk of getting dementia. Here are some reasons that link sugar and dementia.
It May Result in Insulin Resistant Cells
The increased risk of changing body cells into insulin-resistant cells is one of the major dangers of consuming food with added or refined sugar.
Your body requires energy to perform normally. They acquire energy from the food you consume, particularly carbohydrates and sugars. Too much sugar in the blood can be unhealthy, which is why your pancreas produces the hormone insulin to keep your blood sugar levels in check.
Insulin is a hormone that helps your body store excess sugar in muscle cells for future use. When the cells are full, they reject these carbohydrates and change into insulin-resistant cells to protect themselves.
Due to the high sugar level in your blood, your pancreas will continue to produce more insulin which then results in excess insulin and sugar in your bloodstream, and insulin-resistant cells. The excess insulin and sugar will eventually make their way into your brain, drowning the cells.
It May Cause Cognitive Decline
Consuming too much sugar can cause delayed cognitive performance and even memory difficulties. It also weakens and destroys the blood vessels, resulting in a decline in mental capacity which can lead to dementia and Alzheimer’s. Compromised blood vessels in the brain can result in ministrokes, which can lead to various types of dementia.
It May Cause Brain Inflammation
Excess sugar consumption has been linked to inflammation in the body and brain. This occurs when the body has too much sugar, causing some to be converted to fat. These fats would then release inflammatory protein, causing inflammation in the brain and body, resulting in memory problems.
Tips to Reduce Sugar Cravings
However, these can be reversed if you consume a proper diet. Here are some tips to help reduce your sugar cravings:
- Avoid Foods with Added Sugar: Processed foods contain a lot of added sugars, so avoid them. If you find yourself having a hard time, you should try to gradually cut back on your consumption.
- Drink Water: You should avoid drinks with added sugar. Instead, you should drink loads of water to rehydrate your system. Drink at least seven or eight cups of water daily. Tea or roasted coffee beans can be included in your drinking routine.
- Munch on Fruits: Natural sugar-containing foods are a delicious and healthy approach to fulfilling your sweet tooth. This includes berries, apples, or cherries that are fresh, canned, or frozen.
These fruits are high in healthy sugar and can provide you with important vitamins and minerals. These nutrients can help to maintain a healthy brain and prevent disorders like dementia.
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