Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Eating Ultra Processed Foods Has This Weird Effect On Your Brain

Researchers examined 10,000 middle-aged and older adults and found that those who consumed over 20% of their calories from processed foods experienced a faster decline in cognitive performance.

Ultra-processed foods is a term we’re likely all familiar with: junk foods that have very little to no nutritional value. More specifically, the term refers to “industrial formulations of food substances (oils, fats, sugars, starch, and protein isolates) that contain little or no whole foods and typically include flavorings, colorings, emulsifiers, and other cosmetic additives,” according to a new study that found these foods are bad for our brains.

The study was presented at this week’s Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in San Diego and pointed out how these foods are linked to cognitive decline.

fast food munchies
Photo by Ziga Plahutar/Getty Images

The results of the study are concerning since ultra-processed foods can be easily packaged and disguised as healthy, particularly since they’re convenient and can save a lot of time for people, including frozen meals, hot dogs, ice cream, breads, crackers, and more.

Researchers in Brazil examined 10,000 middle-aged and older adults and found that those who consumed over 20% of their calories from processed foods experienced a faster decline in cognitive performance. In America, where diets are made up of 58% ultra-processed foods, this is very concerning.

RELATED: High Protein Diets May Hurt Your Heart

Previous studies have linked ultra-processed foods with a variety of diseases, from obesity to cardiovascular disease. This new study focused on the food’s effect on the mind and found that inflammation was the culprit.

“That’s because they cause inflammation, which can affect neurotransmitters in the brain. Processed foods also operate on a micro level with billions and billions of bacteria cells that (impair) functioning,” Rafael Perez-Escamilla, professor of public health at Yale University, told USA Today.

RELATED: Drinking This Popular Beverage Increases Your Odds Of Dementia

Ultra-processed foods are a serious problem in the US, being cheaper and easier to access than a large number of healthy, whole foods. They have longer shelf lives and are easier to cook, becoming a convenient option for people who don’t have the time to cook or are simply looking for cheaper options.

Still, it’s important for people to know this information on these types of foods, and to keep in mind that they take a toll in the long run, depriving you of years of health.

MUST READ

The Best Cocktails For An Easy Festive Thanksgiving

Why not kick the holiday gathering up a notch with the best cocktails for an easy festive Thanksgiving.

MORE BY THIS AUTHOR

The Best Small Ways To Improve Work Productivity

Some days you feel like you are on a hamster wheel, here are the best small ways to improve work productivity.

Don't Miss Your Weekly Dose of The Fresh Toast.

Stay informed with exclusive news briefs delivered directly to your inbox every Friday.

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.