cross-posted from: https://exploding-heads.com/post/56020

One of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of dementia is to start eating more plant-based, whole foods and limiting processed foods in your diet. Adding more fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to your diet can reduce your risk of cognitive decline, according to a 2021 study published in Molecular Nutrition Food Research. In addition, the researchers noted that foods such as blueberries, mushrooms, coffee, cocoa, and apples had protective effects on brain health.

The worst culprits to leave off your grocery list for better brain health are ultra-processed foods high in saturated fat and added sugars. Foods like processed meats, soft drinks, sweets, pastries, and sugary cereals can all elevate your likelihood of developing dementia. A study from 2017 published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia found that higher sugar intake from sodas and sugar-sweetened fruit juices was associated with lower total brain volume and poor memory.