Mice that consumed a diet consisting of excess sugar were found to die earlier, mate less, and be bullied more by other mice.
For their study, researchers divided the mice into two groups. The control group received a healthy, whole grain-based diet, while the test group received a diet that was 25% sugar, and 75% whole grain-based. A diet that is 25% sugar is equivalent to drinking three sodas a day for humans.
Results
After observing the mice, researchers noted:
- Females in the test group were twice as likely to die compared to the control group.
- Males in the sugar group weren’t able to control territory in the enclosure as well as males in the control group.
- Females in the test group showed a steady decline in offspring compared to the whole grain-based diet group.
- Males in the sugar group produced ¼ less offspring than the males in the control group.
Researchers hope that the results of the study help people to understand the dangersous side effects of consuming a diet rich in sugar.
“We have shown that levels of sugar that people typically consume – and that are considered safe by regulatory agencies – impair the health of mice,” said lead author of the study Dr. James S. Ruff.
Dr. Silverman comments
This study parallels western society, and people need to open their eyes to the dangers of excessive sugar intake.
We’ve written about it time and time again on our blog. Sugar has been linked to obesity in children, an increased in diabetes development in adults, and adverse side effects in low-income neighborhoods.
People need to put down the Pepsi and pick up a glass of water.
Related source: MedPage Today