Glucose – a simple sugar found in most carbohydrate-rich foods – is the main source of energy for the brain, providing nutrients for the brain to grow, learn and develop. However, according to experts, this does not mean that consuming a lot of sugar is good for the brain. In fact, eating too much sugar can negatively affect this important organ.
Lina Begdache, clinical nutritionist, Professor of Nutrition, Binghamton University, USA, said consuming a lot of sugary foods can easily cause anxiety, depression, and disrupted sleep.
She said the brain is made up of neurons and glial cells. These two cell types have different metabolic needs, but glucose is the main source of energy. Eating too much glucose or sugar can cause the brain to become overactive. Some evidence suggests that brain hyperactivity after eating sugar in adolescents may cause cognitive deficits in adulthood.
In a study conducted by the Neuroscience and Obesity Laboratory, Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, scientists divided laboratory mice into two groups and were given sugar or purified water. The results showed that rats drinking sugar showed hyperactivity and increased irritability. High sugar intake reduces hippocampal cells, affecting neurogenesis.
Eating too many sweets can affect the development of the brain and nervous system. Photo: Freepik
Eating too many sweets can affect the development of the brain and nervous system. Photo: Freepik
Sugar also has an addictive effect, as it stimulates neurons in the brain's reward system, also known as the limbic system. When activated, the limbic system produces heightened emotions, similar to pleasure. This causes people to consume even more sugar.
Research published in Science Direct in 2007 found that consistently eating sugar caused many people to exhibit behaviors similar to those observed in drug-dependent lab rats.
In fact, the concept of "sugar addiction" has also been mentioned by scientists for many years. Clinical reports of sugar addiction have appeared since 1996. Scientists described trial participants having a "withdrawal reaction" when sugar-rich foods were removed from their daily diets. day. They also show cravings, especially for sweets or carbohydrates. This can lead to impulsive, uncontrolled eating.
Additionally, within the limbic system there is a small structure called the amygdala, which processes emotional information. An overactive amygdala when eating sugar can exaggerate feelings of fear and anxiety.
A 2019 study in the journal Science Direct showed a close relationship between the habit of eating sweets and the phenomenon of behavioral changes and poor emotional regulation. Scientists say consuming sugar may improve mood momentarily, but increases the risk of long-term mental health problems.
Source (According to Conversation )
