Dementia risk rises with common food type millions eat every day, study suggests

Key Points:

• A study published in Alzheimer's and Dementia found that ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) are linked to over 30 adverse health outcomes, including dementia risk factors such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
• Researchers from Monash University analyzed diets and cognitive function in over 2,000 dementia-free Australian adults aged 40 to 70, finding that a 10% increase in UPF intake was associated with lower attention scores and higher dementia risk, regardless of adherence to healthy diets.
• The study found no significant link between UPF consumption and memory but emphasized the need to refine dietary guidelines to address the impact of food processing on cognition.
• Dr. Daniel Amen highlighted that UPFs, often high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, can promote inflammation and oxidative stress harmful to the brain, and even small increases in UPF intake can reduce attention, a critical cognitive function.
• Experts recommend replacing ultraprocessed foods with whole, plant- or animal-based foods rich in nutrients to support brain health, especially for those at risk of cognitive decline or with family histories of dementia.