2024-02-02 08:37:49
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What we eat influences our health immensely. Certain foods also increase the risk of dementia. This includes sweets.
Mental decline is a big issue in old age. Many older people struggle with forgetfulness and have increasing problems taking part in discussions because complex information cannot be processed more quickly. Mental decline does not necessarily mean that dementia will develop. However, if you experience increased forgetfulness, you should get a medical examination to rule out illness as a cause.
There are a few things we can do to stay mentally fit for a long time. This includes challenging the brain as often as possible. And healthy habits such as enough sleep and exercise also keep the mind young. It is already recognized that nutrition plays an essential role in maintaining mental fitness. But new studies continue to support the relevance of a healthy diet.
Ready-made pizza promotes mental decline: which foods you should avoid
According to Brazilian researchers, highly processed foods should be eaten as rarely as possible. In the specialist magazine Jama Neurology you published your study warning against frequent consumption. “When a high percentage of daily energy intake comes from ultra-processed foods, this is associated with cognitive decline in adults from an ethnically diverse sample,” the researchers concluded. The study results would support the current recommendations, according to which one should rarely use highly processed foods, it goes on to say.
What are ultra-highly processed products?
When a food is industrially produced and contains five or more ingredients, nutritionists speak of ultra-processed products. But it depends on the composition of the ingredients. Ultra-highly processed products consist predominantly of oils, fats, starch and sugar. Additives such as emulsifiers or flavors are also often added. Examples include industrially produced cakes, ready-made pizza, energy drinks or sweets.
The more often you eat highly processed foods, the worse it is for your memory, researchers have found. © Imago
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The researchers evaluated the data from 10,775 study participants. The average age of the test subjects was almost 52 years. The study results were clear: During an average follow-up period of eight years, cognitive decline was increased by 28 percent in those who ate a large portion of highly processed foods. The study authors see a connection here with dementia diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
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Prefer plant-based foods
Nutritionists generally recommend not banning yourself from any foods. The quantity makes the poison. Anyone who covers the majority of their energy needs with plant-based foods such as vegetables and whole grain products will, among other things, prevent colon cancer. Luxury foods such as ready-made pizza are also allowed – but in much smaller quantities. The traditional Mediterranean diet, in which unprocessed foods make up the majority of the diet, is considered extremely healthy. Sweets and fast food, on the other hand, are very rarely served.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
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