High sugar intake may harm brain health, neurologists warn

Sugar is a common part of modern diets, found in sweets, beverages, packaged snacks and even everyday foods. While it may offer a quick burst of energy and pleasure, experts warn that consuming too much sugar can have harmful effects on brain health over time.

According to Dr Bhupesh Kumar Mansukhani, Director of Neurology at Neuromet Wellness, Gurgaon, sugar stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward in the brain.

This temporary “feel-good” effect can make people crave more sugar and, over time, may affect self-control, attention and decision-making.

Dr Mansukhani explains that high sugar intake can interfere with important brain functions such as memory, learning and emotional regulation.

Overloading the brain’s reward centres may weaken concentration and reduce cognitive performance.

Excess sugar may also trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, slowing nerve signals and affecting coordination.

Eating sugary



foods can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels followed by a rapid drop. This “sugar crash” can make people feel tired, sleepy and mentally foggy.

The brain reacts by slowing down activity, which often results in low motivation and reduced physical energy.

According to Dr Gaurav Batra, Neurosurgeon at Max Hospital, Vaishali, sugar particularly affects the prefrontal cortex, which controls judgment and focus, and the hippocampus, which plays a key role in memory and learning.

Regular high sugar consumption may reduce brain plasticity, making it harder to concentrate and retain information.

Experts say uncontrolled blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerve cells in the brain. Over time, this may increase the risk of serious neurological conditions such as stroke, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Doctors emphasise that many brain disorders develop slowly due to long-term metabolic damage. Making healthier food choices today can help protect brain health and reduce future neurological risks.