According to a new study, people who routinely consume highly processed foods and beverages, including cheeseburgers, chips, fried chicken, sausage, pizza, biscuits, and sugary sodas, are more likely to acquire dementia. According to the study, the risk of dementia increased by 25% for every 10% increase in daily intake of highly processed foods. According to the study, consuming whole or little processed foods reduced the incidence of dementia.
The findings add to the mounting proof that what we eat might impact the health of our brains. Several studies indicate that eating highly processed fast food and other junk food increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent type of dementia worldwide. On the other hand, eating a high-protein, high-fiber diet rich in lean meats, seafood that hasn’t been fried, whole fruits, and vegetables may reduce the risk of dementia. The following foods can prevent cognitive deterioration and keep you healthy as you age:
Nuts
Nuts Pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, and peanuts are full of beneficial fats, magnesium, vitamin E, and B vitamins, all proven to support sharp thinking and fend against dementia symptoms. It has been demonstrated that women over 70 who eat at least five servings of nuts each week have much better brain health than those who don’t. Another study indicates that English walnuts’ anti-inflammatory phytochemicals help lower brain cell inflammation and preserve good brain health as people age.
Cruciferous plants
The cruciferous vegetables broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and others are rich in carotenoids and B vitamins that can lower homocysteine levels, an amino acid associated with dementia, brain atrophy, and cognitive decline. If you want to sneak these superfoods into smoothies, soups, and condiments, try sautéing cruciferous veggies in garlic and olive oil.
Leafy Leaves
Leafy greens are rich in vital B vitamins like folate and B9, which might lessen depression while enhancing cognition, including kale, collard greens, spinach, and Swiss chard. Add these nutritious vegetables to soups, stews, and chilis instead of eating them in salads. You can also purée them in sauces, pesto, and hummus.
Spices
When used to season food, spices like sage, cumin, and cinnamon have a fantastic flavor and are rich in polyphenols, which have several advantages for memory and brain function. Certain herbs can weaken brain plaque and lower inflammation to fend off cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Start stocking your spice cabinet with spices that will flavor your food and support brain health.
Berries
Anthocyanin, a flavonoid found in cherries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, slows the course of brain damage brought on by free radicals. Strawberries and other berries are also loaded with anti-inflammatory antioxidants and various vitamins that support maintaining excellent brain function.
A carefully chosen diet can shield the brain from damage and stop it from deteriorating. Yet, the best advice regarding a diet to ward off dementia can only come from a specialist.