Warning! Avoid reading this article until after lunch. Do read this article ahead of the next grocery run. A new study published in JAMA Neurology reveals people could be at a higher risk for dementia depending on their daily intake of highly processed foods.
The study shows that if you eat 400 calories of highly processed foods in a diet of 2,000 calories, you increase your risk of cognitive decline by 20%. Yes, this means the doughnuts for breakfast and the quick burger and fries on your lunch break are filling you up now but putting your future in jeopardy. That sounds extreme because it is. Researchers show 58% of the calories eaten by Americans and 56.8% of the calories consumed by British citizens are highly processed foods. Just to name a few this includes hotdogs, french fries, cookies, cakes, and soda. These foods impact the part of your brain that processes information and decisions.
With a bit of research, you can make better food options. A quick Google search recommends what foods to eat to boost brain power. That list includes fatty fish, coffee, blueberries, turmeric, and broccoli. If you want to walk into the new year feeling good and looking good, consider consulting with a nutritionist for a more accurate menu.
This study doesn’t mean you have to ultimately say goodbye to your favorite addicting foods. I’m also not saying count your calories. Instead, challenge yourself to reduce how much highly processed foods you eat and research what other foods you can enjoy almost as much.
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