A recent study has revealed that consuming ultra-processed foods, such as hamburgers and French fries, could increase the risk of cognitive decline if they make up more than 20% of daily calorie intake. Processed foods are easy to consume in excess, since they don't fill you up as much as whole foods. The findings, which have not yet been peer-reviewed, showed that participants who consumed 20% or more of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods experienced a faster decline in cognitive performance over a period of six to 10 years than people with few processed foods in their diets. As an expert in nutrition and health, I can tell you that there are ways to avoid this cognitive decline.
Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet that is low in processed foods and rich in nutritious whole foods, such as vegetables and fruits, is key. Other studies have examined the alternative healthy eating index (11), the healthy eating indicator r (11), the healthy eating index and the healthy eating indices in Canada (11), the score of the guidelines of the French National Nutrition and Health Program (11), the comprehensive healthy diet pattern (11) and the recommended food score (11). To maintain your cognitive health, it is important to avoid processed foods as much as possible. Eating mostly fresh, whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, meat and fish is a great way to ensure that you are getting all of the essential nutrients your body needs.
Additionally, it is important to pay attention to portion sizes and not overeat. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh produce can help you maintain your cognitive health.