How junk food can accelerate brain aging

Image credit: jeswinthomas via Unsplash

Although indulging in junk food may be a convenient choice, it comes with a significant cost to your brain health. Diets rich in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can accelerate cognitive decline and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. These foods contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage brain cells and impair memory and learning. Furthermore, the resulting inflammation can hinder the creation of new neurons, accelerating brain aging. Prioritizing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is essential for maintaining optimal brain function and protecting against premature aging.

Source

Oginsky MF, Goforth PB, Nobile CW, Lopez-Santiago LF, Ferrario CR. Eating 'Junk-Food' Produces Rapid and Long-Lasting Increases in NAc CP-AMPA Receptors: Implications for Enhanced Cue-Induced Motivation and Food Addiction. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2016 Dec;41(13):2977-2986. doi: 10.1038/npp.2016.111. Epub 2016 Jul 7. PMID: 27383008; PMCID: PMC5101548.

Additional Reading

https://betterreport.com/habits-aging-your-brain/

https://www.cnn.com/2022/12/05/health/dementia-ultraprocessed-food-wellness/index.html

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/worst-foods-for-your-brain#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5