Scientists warn over key ingredient to stop giving children to prevent severe illnesses

Scientists have suggested that limiting sugar exposure in the first 1,000 days of life could reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure later in life. They believe this early period - from conception to the age of two - is a critical window where poor diet can have long-term health impacts.

The study, published in Science, used data from over 60,000 Britons conceived between 1951 and 1956, before and after the end of sugar rationing in 1953. The researchers compared the wartime sugar restrictions to current dietary guidelines.

The NHS recommends no more than 30g of free sugars per day, equivalent to about seven sugar cubes. The study found those exposed to sugar rationing had a 35% lower risk of type 2 diabetes and a 20% lower risk of hypertension.

The most significant protective effect was seen in those exposed to restricted sugar while still in the womb. Today's children are exposed to excessive sugar in the womb through the mother’s diet, breast milk, infant formula and solids, the scientists noted.

The UK populace now derives up to 12.5% of its energy (in terms of calories) from free sugars, surpassing the advised 5%. While there are no official limits for children under four, research demonstrates that the average UK toddler consumes more than six teaspoons (26.6g) of free sugars daily, with long-lasting health implications.

Tadeja Gracner, a lead researcher from the University of Southern California's Centre for Economic and Social Research, noted in a study: "Our findings provide insights beyond the context of rationing.

"In conclusion, limiting exposure to sugar in utero and in early life can protect against T2DM (type 2 diabetes) and hypertension (high blood