Less sugar as a baby, fewer heart attacks as an adult
Science Daily
February 23, 2026
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Restricting sugar consumption during early childhood could significantly reduce the risk of heart disease in adulthood, according to a study published in *The BMJ*. Researchers analyzed data from over 63,000 individuals born in the UK between 1951 and 1956, comparing those exposed to sugar rationing before and after its end in 1953. The findings revealed that individuals with limited sugar intake during critical early life stages—specifically from conception through age 2—had a 20–30% lower risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and cardiovascular death compared to those who were not exposed to rationing.
The study highlights the importance of the first 1,000 days of life (from conception to age 2) as a critical window for nutrition. During this period, early sugar exposure appears to influence long-term health outcomes. Participants exposed to sugar rationing experienced not only lower risks but also delayed onset of cardiovascular issues by up to two and a half years compared to those with unrestricted sugar intake. Additionally, the research noted improvements in heart function among individuals who had been exposed to rationing.
The natural experiment leveraged historical UK sugar rationing policies, which capped daily sugar intake at 40 grams for most people—aligning closely with modern dietary recommendations for young children. Infants under age 2 were even prohibited from consuming added sugars during this period. The study’s large scale and careful design allowed researchers to account for genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that might influence heart health. While the study cannot prove causation, it underscores the potential benefits of early life interventions to reduce sugar intake.
This research matters because it provides strong evidence for public health strategies focused
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/23/2026