cognitive Archives

Are sweeteners speeding up your brain’s ageing?

In an Instagram post shared on September 11, Dr Sanjay Bhojraj, MD, an interventional cardiologist and functional medicine doctor, highlighted the fact that sweeteners may be harming our brains and explained how they cause brain ageing. He wrote, “Small swaps today. Stronger brain tomorrow.”

Dr Bhojraj explained, “Most people swap sugar for artificial sweeteners, believing they’re the safer choice. But new research is sounding the alarm.”

He cited a neurology study conducted with 12,000+ adults and pointed out: “Could artificial sweeteners be stealing years from your brain? Researchers observed clear patterns in cognitive health. This isn’t just about replacing sugar. I’ve seen this story before: choices that look harmless end up silently costing health and longevity.”

Harmless choices silently cost health and longevity

The cardiologist warned, “Artificial sweeteners can disrupt metabolism, interfere with the gut-brain connection, and add long-term stress to your cardiovascular and cognitive systems. What feels like a safer choice today may quietly accelerate decline tomorrow.”

Additionally, he highlighted several facts associated with sweeteners that prove that they are harmful to the brain. Here’s what the expert said:

High sweetener intake was linked to a 62 percent faster cognitive decline

Equivalent to 1.6 years of accelerated brain ageing

Strongest impact on people under 60 and those with diabetes

He added, “The good news? Longevity isn’t about luck – it’s about making smarter decisions based on science, not shortcuts.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

Alzheimer’s, one of the most common causes of dementia, is one of the fast-evolving public health concerns. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aravind Badiger, technical director, BDR Pharmaceuticals said, “In India alone, nearly 5.3 million people are impacted and Alzheimer’s accounts for approximately 70% of them. While age remains the largest risk factor, current scientific research is increasingly showing that our daily decisions can affect brain health and can even lower the risk of Alzheimer’s.” Also read | Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in your 20s? Experts weigh in

Alzheimer’s is a pressing concern.(Pexels)

Dr Aravind Badiger further shared key brain habits that can help in avoiding Alzheimer’s:

1. Stay active physically

Exercise regularly will boost blood flow to the brain, suppress inflammation, and stimulate the release of protective chemicals. Even 30 minutes of brisk walking, yoga, or cycling a day, five days a week, will sharply lower the risk of intellectual decline.

2. Challenge the mind

Brain exercise is mental exercise. Reading, puzzles, learning another language, or playing an instrument exercises brain links and builds cognitive reserve that delays dementia.

In the study, the team led by Universite de Montreal psychology professor Sylvie Belleville, found hyperactivation in certain brain areas in people not yet diagnosed with Alzheimer's but who were worried about their memory and who exhibited risk factors for the disease.(Unsplash) — In the study, the team led by Universite de Montreal psychology professor Sylvie Belleville, found hyperactivation in certain brain areas in people not yet diagnosed with Alzheimer’s but who were worried about their memory and who exhibited risk factors for the disease.(Unsplash)

3. Eating food that nourishes the brain

Better brain function is linked to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish, and healthy fats. A diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids reduces cognitive impairment risk. Also read | Walking daily may protect your brain from Alzheimer’s, reveals 10-year study

4. Get enough sleep

The brain’s health is determined by having sufficient sleep. At deep sleep, the brain also removes harmful proteins such as beta-amyloid, which is linked with Alzheimer’s disease. Adults require 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep at night.

5. Reduce stress

Chronic stress and depression both accelerate brain aging. Evidence-based strategies to promote mental health and cognitive performance include mindfulness, meditation, relaxation breathing techniques, and physical relaxation activities.

6. Continue to be socially active

Developing relationships with people protects the brain, but social isolation raises the risk of dementia. Both intellectual and emotional stimulation can be obtained through encouraging communication, taking part in group activities, and having deep discussions.

cognitive

Cardiologist warns artificial sweeteners stealing years from your brain: ‘62% faster cognitive decline with high intake’