A Combined Diet Of High Fat, Sugar, And Salt Affects Development And Aging In Drosophila Melanogaster

Abstract

Background:
The increasing consumption of high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt (HFSS) diets, particularly among children, is a growing global health concern due to its association with metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and accelerated aging. Aim: To investigate the impact of a combined HFSS diet on development and aging using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. Methods: Drosophila larvae were exposed to an HFSS diet from the developmental stage to adulthood. Neurobehavioral assays, biochemical analyses (protein, triglycerides, glucose), oxidative stress markers, lifespan evaluation, and DCFDA gut staining were performed. Raman spectroscopy and FTIR were used to confirm the presence of fat, sugar, and salt components. Statistical significance was considered at p < 0.05. Results: Larvae fed the HFSS diet showed a significant increase in body weight, triglycerides, glucose, and oxidative stress, with a decrease in protein levels and lifespan. Neurobehavioral impairments were observed, and DCFDA staining confirmed elevated ROS levels in gut tissues. Raman and FTIR analyses validated the presence of HFSS components in the diet. Conclusions: Exposure to a combined HFSS diet during early development negatively impacts metabolism, neurobehavior, and lifespan, suggesting that such diets may contribute to early-onset aging and chronic health conditions. Early dietary interventions are essential for long-term health outcomes.