Eating a poor diet increases your risk of developing dementia, according to a study published in the journal Lancet. The study found that people who eat unhealthy diets are three times more likely to develop dementia than those who eat healthy diets. This is as your body will lack the necessary nutrients to improve your brain health. Learn more about this fact at this supplements 101. Today, we will discuss some of the worst eating habits that can increase your risk of dementia.
Eating Too Much Processed Foods
Processed foods have been altered from their natural state, often to make them more convenient or delicious. However, processed foods are typically high in unhealthy ingredients like salt, sugar, and fat, damaging your brain health over time. A diet rich in processed foods has been linked to a higher risk of dementia, so limiting your intake of these foods is best.
Fulfilling Your Sugary Snack Cravings
You might not realize it, but a lot of sugar is hiding in many foods you eat. From candy, snacks, and cake to soda and sports drinks, sugar is added to countless products. And eating too much sugar can be detrimental to your brain health. Sugar has been linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging brain cells and leading to dementia. So, it’s best to satisfy your sweet tooth in moderation. In fact, you can try skipping the sugar altogether and opting for healthy alternatives like fruit.
Skipping Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables are packed with nutrients that are essential for brain health. These include vitamins A, C, and E, as well as folic acid and magnesium. Leafy greens also contain antioxidants, which can protect your brain from damage. But despite their many benefits, many people don’t get enough leafy greens in their diet. In a study of over 16,000 adults, only 15 percent met the daily recommended intake of leafy greens. So, include plenty of leafy greens in your diet to reduce your risk of dementia.
Skipping Breakfast
Many people think they can save calories by skipping breakfast. But not eating breakfast can actually lead to weight gain and other health problems. And new research suggests that skipping breakfast may also increase your risk of dementia. In a study of over 500 adults, those who skipped breakfast were more likely to develop dementia than those who ate breakfast regularly. So, make sure to start your day with a nutritious breakfast to help reduce your risk of dementia. These are just some of the worst eating habits that can increase your risk of dementia.
Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential to lower your risk. And be sure to limit your intake of processed foods, sugar, and other unhealthy ingredients. Avoiding these bad eating habits can help keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of dementia.