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Scientists from the University of Konstanz discovered that sugar consumption activates the sympathetic nervous system and prevents the body from truly relaxing — even when a person feels like they are resting. The results of the study were published in the journal Nutrients.

The experiment involved 94 healthy adult volunteers. Some of them abstained from eating before visiting the laboratory. One group was then offered a glucose drink, while another received plain water. Meanwhile, half of the participants received a relaxing massage, while the rest simply rested.

Throughout the entire experiment, the scientists continuously monitored cardiac activity indicators — heart rate variability and pre-ejection periods, which reflect the functioning of the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems.

It was found that massage and simple rest activated the parasympathetic system, responsible for relaxation — regardless of whether the person had consumed sugar.

"However, after glucose intake, the sympathetic system was simultaneously activated as well — the very system that keeps the body in a state of heightened alertness and triggers the stress response. This means that, although a person subjectively feels calm, their body continues to remain in a state of heightened arousal," the researchers explained.

As the scientists explain, sugar helps briefly mobilize energy to cope with stressful situations, but at the same time deprives the body of the ability to fully recover. Regular and frequent consumption of sweets, according to the specialists, can increase the risks of developing hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases.