Sugar triggers dopamine release in the brain, creating a pleasure response similar to other rewarding activities, potentially leading to happiness or a 'high'.
The dopamine response can cause cravings for more sugar, resembling addiction-like behavior, with a strong desire for sugary foods.
Excessive sugar can impair memory and reduce brain volume, particularly in areas responsible for short-term memory.
Sugar causes rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes, affecting mood, energy, and concentration.
Chronic high sugar intake can increase brain inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially leading to neurodegenerative diseases.
Sugar alters gut microbiota, affecting the brain-gut axis and potentially influencing mood and cognition.
High sugar diets may be linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety, though research on this relationship is ongoing.