Be careful about what you eat! Neuroscientist flags food items that can increase the risk of dementia

Dementia is a nightmare for anyone who is aware of its impact on a person's cognitive abilities. It is commonly experienced by older folks, particularly those above 65 years of age, However, an early onset of dementia can also affect people in their 30s and 40s.

What is dementia?

Dementia does not refer to a single disease, but is, instead, an umbrella for a group of symptoms that affect a person's memory, thinking ability, and their mental capacity, greatly impacting their day-to-day life. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. Several lifestyle habits, such as excessive alcohol consumption and inadequate physical activity, are linked to an increased risk of dementia.

Neuroscientist weighs in on eating habits

Recently, a neuroscientist flagged some foods that can increase the pace of cognitive decline in a person and may even increase their chances of developing dementia. Ramon Velazquez, who is a research advisor and neuroscience consultant at Mind Lab Pro, has asserted that a person's eating habits shapes their brain's "future".

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Here are the food items that he warned about:

1. According to the New York Post, Velazquez said that multiple studies have shown that people consuming "highest amounts" of ultra-processed foods (UFPs) exhibit a 28 per cent faster rate of cognitive decline.

2. He also drew attention towards Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs). These are harmful compounds that are generated when food is cooked in high-temperatures. As per the New York Post, Velazquez said that AGEs are responsible for oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.

3. While fishes are generally considered as a healthy protein option, some species like swordfish and sharks, among others, are known to be naturally contaminated with harmful levels of mercury. Velazquez explained the harmful impact of mercury, noting that it is "particularly damaging to neural tissue". He suggests that people switch to smaller fishes that don't contain toxic levels of the chemical element.

4. The neuroscientist also noted that some recent studies have suggested a few specific artificial sweeteners that can alter gut bacteria in a manner which may lead to inflammation, which, in turn, can impact a person's cognitive abilities. This may also increase the chances of developing neurodegenerative disorders, he added.

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FAQs

1. What is Dementia?
"Dementia" is an umbrella term. It is used to describe a group of symptoms that primarily impact memory and thinking ability in humans.

2 . Which is Alzheimer's?
It is the most prevalent form of dementia.