consume High amount of red meatProcessed foods, especially bacon, sausage, and bologna, may increase your risk of cognitive decline and dementia, according to a new study published in the journal Neurology. This large-scale study National Institutes of Health (NIH)there is a growing body of evidence linking dietary habits and long-term brain health. By analyzing dietary patterns and cognitive outcomes, this study reveals how processed red meat may contribute to factors that accelerate brain aging and increase susceptibility to neurodegenerative conditions. I’m doing it. These findings highlight the important role of nutrition in maintaining cognitive function and the importance of dietary choices in preventing conditions such as dementia and supporting overall brain health as we age. is emphasized.
How can your favorite meat harm your memory?
of study We analyzed data from 133,771 people, with an average age of 49 years, who were followed for up to 43 years. Participants reported their eating habits through questionnaires every two to four years, and researchers focused on processed food intake. red meat This includes things like bacon, hot dogs, and salami, as well as unprocessed red meats like beef, pork, and lamb.
Researchers stratified participants into groups based on red meat intake. For processed red meat, the highest consumption groups (those eating 0.25 or more servings per day) 13% higher risk of developing dementia This was compared to people in the lowest intake group, who ate less than 0.10 servings per day.
For unprocessed red meat, one or more servings per day is 16% higher risk of subjective cognitive declinea condition in which an individual notices problems with memory or thinking that cannot yet be detected by standard cognitive tests.
The study also assessed objective cognitive function in a group of 17,458 women with an average age of 74 years. The results showed that the higher the intake of processed red meat. Accelerated brain agingoverall cognitive ability decreases approx. 1.6 years for each additional daily intake.
Are saturated fats a silent killer of brain health?
Researchers found that high levels of saturated fat Cholesterol in red meat can impair metabolism, leading to inflammation and insulin resistance. This is a factor associated with age-related cognitive decline. In previous research, The relationship between red meat and brain health Although mixed results have been shown, this study provides strong evidence due to its large participant base and long follow-up period.
“We designed this study to investigate the potential association between red meat intake and cognitive decline and dementia risk,” said study lead author Yuhan Li from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. “We carried out this,” he said. “Understanding this relationship is critical given the increasing prevalence of dementia and the lack of a cure.”
Want to stay sharp? These protein replacements are the key
The study also investigated: Benefits of replacing processed red meat with healthier protein sources. Replace 1 serving of processed red meat with 1 serving of food per day nuts and legumes Reduced risk of dementia 19% increase And it delayed cognitive aging by about 1.4 years.
instead of processed meat fish brought even greater profits, Reduces dementia risk by 28%while chicken substitutes lowered the risk by 16%.
Experts evaluate research results
The research has received attention from leading health experts who emphasize the impact on public health and dietary habits. Dr. Judith HeidebrinkA research professor specializing in Alzheimer’s disease at the University of Michigan praised the study for contributing to the growing body of evidence linking lifestyle choices and brain health.
“This study provides another example that a healthier diet with less processed foods is associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline,” Heidebrink said.
However, some experts have pointed to limitations of the study, including its focus on primarily white medical professionals, which could limit its applicability to other populations. he pointed out. Dr. Karima Benamur, professor of neurology at Emory University, also emphasized the role of: cooking method Affects health outcomes. “There is evidence that cooking methods are equally important in reducing risk,” she explained.
Food choices and long-term brain health
With an estimated 55 million people worldwide living with dementia, and that number expected to triple by 2050, these findings highlight the importance of dietary prevention. While genetics and other factors contribute to cognitive decline, lifestyle choices, especially dietary habits, play a role in shaping long-term brain health.
This study reminds us that our food choices have a huge impact not only on our bodies, but also on our minds. “What we eat can have a huge impact not only on our physical health, but also on the longevity and function of our brain.”
By making small, manageable changes to their daily diet, individuals can take positive steps toward goals such as: maintain cognitive function And your quality of life will improve as you get older. Whether you replace your burger with grilled fish or incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet, these changes can have big benefits for your brain health and overall well-being.
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