If you indulge in sugar-laden foods and beverages, you may be increasing your risk of Alzheimer's disease, according to a recent study conducted at the University of Alabama.

The researchers worked with mice that were genetically bred to develop Alzheimer's-like symptoms in adulthood. The mice were separated into two groups. One group had a regular, balanced diet, and the other group was supplemented with 10 percent sugar water. After 25 weeks, the researchers compared the metabolism, brain composition, and memory skills of the two groups.

The sugar-fed mice gained approximately 17 percent more weight than the control group, developed insulin resistance, and had higher cholesterol levels. These mice also demonstrated more difficulty with learning and memory retention, and their brains had over twice the amount of amyloid plaque deposits - a hallmark of Alzheimer's.

The researchers noted that the human equivalent of the mouse diet would be about five cans of soda per day. But since mice have a higher metabolism, it may actually take less sugar for humans to develop the same health-harming results.

Ban the sugar in your home and cater to your sweet cravings with the latest all-natural, no-calorie, sugar-free sweeteners. Use erythritol instead of sugar, cup for cup, to create delicious baked goodies, and use stevia to sweeten up your coffee and tea.