Alzheimer's disease: Watch out for sugar in your tea!

This is the result of a study conducted by researchers at Columbia University. These findings were obtained by analyzing the correlation between sugar intake and the risks of dementia development. To do so, researchers examined the data of 2,226 participants who had shown no signs of dementia for approximately seven years. All participants filled out questionnaires indicating whether they added sugar to their food or beverages. During the study, 429 participants developed Alzheimer's disease. The analysis of the results based on sugar consumption revealed that those who added 30.3 grams of sugar to their food or drinks each day had a 33% higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease than those who consumed only 5.8 grams.

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One sugary soda can per day increases dementia risk by 47%.

According to the same study, individuals who consume a lot of sugary punch or soft drinks are also 27% more likely to develop dementia than others. These results were presented at the International Alzheimer's Association Conference in Chicago. According to Doug Brown of the Alzheimer's Society, "Too much sugar is linked to type 2 diabetes, and previous research has identified type 2 diabetes as a risk factor for dementia." Therefore, "by reducing the consumption of sugary drinks, sweets, and cakes and adopting a varied and balanced diet, you will be able to reduce the risk of developing dementia later in life." These findings are certainly food for thought!

Alzheimer's vs. Dementia: How to Tell the Difference?

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and is also the most well-known. But how do you distinguish Alzheimer's disease from other forms of dementia? In general, dementia refers to a gradual decline in mental abilities. It affects intellectual and social capabilities to the extent that daily life becomes challenging. It can also alter memory and judgment, leading to disorientation and changes in the individual's personality. In Alzheimer's disease, you will typically find a gradual loss of recent memory, repetitive speech, misplacing objects, progressive personality changes, and an increased tendency towards irritability, anxiety, depression, confusion, and agitation.

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