Past studies show that an infant’s nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life can affect their health later in life. Share on Pinterest New research has linked less sugar exposure during the first 1,000 days of life to lower Alzheimer’s risk. Johnny Greig/Getty Images“The end of sugar rationing in the UK in 1953 created a unique natural experiment: individuals conceived during rationing consumed far less sugar in early life than those born shortly after. Researchers also noted that participants exposed to sugar restriction also lowered their depression risk by 11% and anxiety risk by 20%. Does restricting sugar in midlife affect dementia risk?