Men’s Mental Health at Risk in Latest Sugar Shocker
Sugar solidifies its bad guy image in study that shows links to depression and anxiety in men.
As if we needed another reason to stay out of the biscuit tin. A link has been found between high sugar intake and an increased risk of developing common mental health disorders in men.
Yep, I’m gonna need solid evidence on that **dunks hobnob in brew**
A 22-year study between 1983 and 2013 analysed sugar intake from sweet food and drinks and the occurrence of common mental disorders in over 5000 men and 2000 women. They found that men in the top sugar-intake third, (over 67g a day), were 23% more likely to suffer from common mental disorders like anxiety and depression after five years. And that was totally independent of health behaviour, social demographic or dietary factors.
**Puts down hobnob**
According to a National Diet and Nutrition Survey from 2013, men in the UK consume on average 68.4g of added sugar a day. That’s more than double the recommended daily amount.
What about women?
Interestingly, in the same study – no link was found between increased sugar consumption and mental disorders in women. It’s unclear why. Mysterious. And unfair!
That sugar-levy is probably on to something then.
Yep, ‘fraid so. A few weeks ago, we talked about the physiological effects of sugar on the brain – and now we know how it can take its toll on mood and disposition too. In summation, you just gotta not do it man.
Tips to cut the sweet stuff
A lot of sugar sneaks its way in through convenience, don’t give it chance by keeping low-sugar snacks with you, like nuts, seeds and fruit. And I know you know to leave fizzy drinks and concentrated juice alone too.
If you find you’re craving sugar, try adding naturally sweet veg like carrots, sweet potato and squash to your meals. That should satisfy your cravings, keep you full and eventually “crowd out” your need for sweets.
FOR THE NERDY: Sugar strikes again [source: neurosciencenews.com]