DOCTOR WARNS THESE COMMON DRINKS MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF DEMENTIA

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people around the world. It develops gradually, impairing memory, thinking, and overall brain function. While genetics and aging play key roles, emerging research suggests that what you drink every day could also make a difference in your long-term cognitive health.

       

How Sugar and Alcohol May Affect the Brain

According to a report by the Thai health outlet Sanook.com, American physician Dr. Sarabh Sethi recently explained in a TikTok video that certain beverages may influence dementia risk — though he emphasized that research still lacks definitive answers. One major culprit, he says, is sports drinks, which are often loaded with sugar and contain little to no fiber. “They cause rapid spikes in blood sugar, and over time, this may lead to insulin resistance,” Dr. Sethi noted. Several studies have linked insulin resistance to a higher risk of dementia, although the connection remains correlational rather than proven cause-and-effect.

 

Alcohol, another common beverage, may also pose a risk — not necessarily through direct damage to brain cells, but by disrupting sleep quality. Sleep plays a crucial role in clearing out waste products from the brain, and according to the National Institutes of Health, chronic sleep deprivation in midlife has been associated with a higher likelihood of developing dementia later on. Regular alcohol use, even in moderate amounts, can interfere with this natural cleansing process.

Perhaps the most surprising beverage on Dr. Sethi’s list is sugar-free soft drinks. Often marketed as a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, they may not be as brain-friendly as they seem. Artificial sweeteners used in these beverages can disrupt gut bacteria, which are increasingly recognized for their connection to brain function and mental health.

In fact, a study from the American Academy of Neurology found that people who consumed the highest amounts of artificial sweeteners experienced a faster decline in memory and thinking compared to those who consumed little or none. This suggests that even sugar-free options might carry hidden risks when it comes to cognitive decline.

While none of these findings prove that any single drink causes dementia, Dr. Sethi recommends moderation and mindfulness in beverage choices. Limiting added sugars, cutting back on alcohol, and prioritizing water, herbal teas, and unsweetened drinks may help protect both your metabolic and brain health.

Ultimately, what you drink daily matters more than most people realize. As Dr. Sethi concludes, “Supporting brain health isn’t just about what you eat — it’s also about what you choose to drink.”

2026-01-19T15:42:07Z