Early-life sugar exposure linked to lower cancer risk and slower aging

1 min read
Source: The Conversation
Early-life sugar exposure linked to lower cancer risk and slower aging
Photo: The Conversation
TL;DR

A study analyzing data from about 64,000 Britons born between 1951 and 1956 finds that longer exposure to Britain's sugar rationing during the first 1,000 days (conception through age 2) is associated with a lower risk of several cancers later in life— notably liver cancer, which dropped ~69%—and with indicators of slower cellular ageing (longer telomeres, lower granzyme B). Interestingly, those exposed to rationing in early life also tended to consume less sugar and have healthier diets in adulthood, suggesting both biological and behavioral mechanisms. The results highlight the lasting impact of early nutrition on long-term health but do not endorse sugar rationing today.

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