Study Links Junk Food to Brain Decline

Packaged, ultra-processed foods are convenient and tasty. They’re handy around the house for the grandkids or snacking. But they’re not good for us – not our bodies or brains.

We’re talking hot dogs, burgers, sausages, cookies, cakes, doughnuts, and the like. You already know they contribute to obesity and other negative physical effects.

Now a new study says people who overeat have a higher risk of cognitive decline – just 20% of the daily recommended caloric intake. That’s about 400 calories if you aim to consume 2,000 calories daily.

The study published in JAMA Neurology found that people who ate that much junk had a 25% faster rate of executive function decline and a 28% more rapid rate of overall cognitive impairment compared with those who ate the least amount of overly processed food. Executive function is the ability to process information and make decisions.

Interestingly, the study also found that eating an overall healthy diet erases the adverse effects of processed foods. That means fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole foods, etc.

The study looked at the habits and health of 10,000 people in Brazil for a decade; their average age was 51.

Researchers said that Brazil’s ultra-processed foods make up 25% to 30% of caloric intake. But it’s 58% in the United States, 57% in the United Kingdom, and 48% in Canada.

These foods also raise the risk of obesity, heart health, diabetes, and early death. Please don’t fall victim to these diseases; try our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program and speak with our functional aging experts about your nutrition and health.