A diet high in sugar, particularly as an afternoon snack, is linked to an increased risk of developing dementia, according to experts.

Eating sugary foods like cake or cookies causes blood glucose levels to spike. Over time, these large fluctuations can damage blood vessels in the brain and cause inflammation, starving brain cells of the fuel they need.

The problem stems from insulin resistance, which can be caused by a high-sugar diet. This resistance can lead to memory loss and is a significant factor in the development of dementia.

Doctors explain that unstable blood sugar contributes to oxidative stress and damages the tiny blood vessels that feed the brain. It also interferes with how brain cells use energy, as glucose is their main fuel.

The afternoon is a particularly bad time for a sugar fix because the body’s blood glucose intolerance is naturally lower then. This makes the blood sugar spike even more dramatic than it would be earlier in the day.

Furthermore, eating sugar late in the day can disrupt sleep. Quality sleep is crucial because it allows the brain to purge neurotoxic proteins; a buildup of these proteins can interfere with communication between neurons.

Instead of cookies or candy, experts recommend reaching for whole fruit. The fiber in fruit slows down sugar absorption, preventing a rapid spike. Fruit also provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that actively protect brain cells and support overall brain health.