Consumption of other rationed foods, such as cheese, milk, and fresh fruits remained relatively constant once rationing ended.
The researchers found that people who experienced sugar rationing early in life were less likely to develop type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure in adulthood than people who did not experience sugar rationing.
The risk of developing diabetes among people who rationed early in life was about 62 per cent of the risk experienced by those whose sugar intake was not rationed.
The risk of developing hypertension among those who experienced rationing was about 79 per cent of the risk of those who did not.
Infants who experienced sugar rationing early weren't immune to developing chronic conditions, but are prone to happen later in life.
If one experienced sugar rationing in utero, they are less likely to develop diabetes and hypertension even if the participant did not experience rationing after birth.
In the ongoing global dialogue about childhood nutritional effects, attention has been drawn to certain practices of major food companies.
In May, Nestle was in the spotlight for applying a "double standard" in sugar levels contained in its 'Cerelac' baby food product in low- and middle-income countries.
This report originated from a study conducted by Public Eye, a non-partisan, independent investigative organisation based in Switzerland.
According to the report, the baby cereal sold in Switzerland contains no added sugar. However, a serving of the same product distributed in Senegal and South Africa has 6 grammes of added sugar.
Responding to the allegations, Nestle said via its website, "We have reduced the sugar in many of our infant cereals. While there are added sugars in some, we are making progress towards reducing this further, as well as providing more options without added sugar.
WHO guidelines further show that no added sugar should be used in foods for infants under the age of three.
After the report raised concerns, Mandatory front-of-pack warning labels (FOPWLs) emerged as a potential evidence-based solution to address the challenge.
The labels are effective in helping consumers identify products high in harmful ingredients like sugar, sodium, saturated fat, and trans fat, and improve awareness of the health risks associated with these foods and beverages.
Despite the availability of several types of front-of-pack labelling, studies have shown that the most effective are warning labels that appear on the front package.
According to local and international activists, this disparity is fuelling obesity among infants and needs to be curbed.
"We strongly advocate for the urgent implementation of evidence-based mandatory FOPWLs in Kenya. By providing clear and accessible information about the sugar content in food products, the Ministry of Health can empower parents to make healthier choices and protect children's health from the dangers of excessive sugar consumption," said Celine Awuor, CEO of the International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA).
Prioritising the implementation of FOPWLs is aimed at holding companies accountable for their actions and protecting the health and well-being of children.