What Does Ultra-Processed Food Do to Your Brain? Scientists Found a Pattern
Summary
A new review of scientific research found that eating a lot of ultra-processed foods may harm brain health, especially as people get older. These foods, often high in sugar and unhealthy fats, might increase the risk of memory problems and dementia.Key Facts
- Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrially made and often include artificial ingredients not usually found in home cooking.
- Examples of UPFs are packaged snacks, sugary drinks, instant meals, processed meats, and some breakfast cereals.
- People who eat more UPFs tend to perform worse on memory and thinking tests.
- UPFs are linked to health issues like obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, which also raise dementia risk.
- UPFs may cause low-level inflammation in the body, which could harm the brain over time.
- The gut microbiome, which affects brain health, may be disrupted by highly processed diets.
- Not all processed foods are unhealthy; minimally processed options like frozen vegetables and canned beans can be good.
- Experts recommend eating more fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and other minimally processed foods to protect brain health.
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