2023-09-01 13:55:00
New Study Links Highly Processed Foods to Mental Health Issues
A recent study from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine has found a strong link between the consumption of highly processed foods and an increased risk of anxiety and depressive moods. The study, which involved over 10,000 participants, was published in the journal “Public Health Nutrition.”
According to lead author Eric M. Hecht, those who consumed at least 60 percent of their calorie intake from highly processed foods reported a higher number of mentally unwell days. While the study does not establish a definitive cause-and-effect relationship, there is a clear connection between poor mental health and a diet high in junk food.
But the detrimental effects of highly processed foods on the brain don’t stop there. Another study conducted by the University of São Paulo examined the effects of these foods on cognitive abilities such as language and memory. Over a period of almost ten years, more than 10,000 subjects were monitored, and the results, published in Jama Neurology in 2022, were alarming.
The study found that a higher proportion of highly processed foods in the daily calorie intake led to a decline in cognitive performance. Participants experienced difficulties remembering information, acquiring new knowledge, and coping with complex tasks. These findings align with previous research on rats, which suggested that junk food consumption could contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
The exact mechanisms behind the negative impact of highly processed foods on the brain are not yet fully understood. However, researchers have discovered that the additives and ingredients used in the industrial processing of these foods can trigger a dangerous chain reaction. They often contain preservatives, flavors, and colorings, along with harmful trans fats, sugar, and salt. These ingredients stimulate the brain’s reward system and trigger the release of dopamine, the “happiness hormone,” which can create addictive tendencies towards junk food.
In addition to mental health issues, highly processed foods also disrupt the gut flora, cause chronic inflammation, and contribute to weight gain. All of these factors can affect both physical and mental well-being.
While it’s important to enjoy junk food in moderation, experts suggest opting for alternatives such as canned or frozen vegetables and fruits, as long as they are prepared with fresh ingredients. Even typical fast food items like pizza and burgers can be less harmful when made at home with carefully selected ingredients.
The implications of this research highlight the need for individuals to be mindful of their dietary choices, recognizing the potential long-term effects on both physical and mental health. By making informed choices about what we eat, we can help protect and promote our overall well-being.]
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