Review of 27 Studies Finds Rodent Memory Recovery Incomplete After High-Sugar Diets
Updated
Updated · ScienceAlert · May 25
Review of 27 Studies Finds Rodent Memory Recovery Incomplete After High-Sugar Diets
2 articles · Updated · ScienceAlert · May 25
A meta-analysis of 27 rodent studies found switching from unhealthy diets to healthier food improved memory, but did not restore it to levels seen in animals that had always eaten well.
At least 2 weeks on high-fat, high-sugar diets followed by as little as 24 hours of healthier eating consistently beat staying on junk food in memory tests, while other cognitive measures showed no reliable gains.
Sugar appeared to be the main obstacle: memory recovery was significant after high-fat diets were replaced, but not after high-sugar or combined high-fat, high-sugar diets.
The researchers said the pattern points to the hippocampus, a brain region tied to memory and appetite, and suggests prolonged exposure to added sugar may leave more persistent cognitive effects.
Is the cognitive damage from your past high-sugar diet truly irreversible?
Are popular sugar substitutes a safe alternative or a hidden danger for your brain?