New study presented at a conference suggests that eating processed meats like hot dogs and bacon often may raise the risk of dementia. The study followed 130,000 US adults for up to 43 years and found that those who ate two servings of processed meat weekly had a 14% higher risk of dementia. Eating more processed meat daily was also linked to faster cognitive decline in language and thinking skills.
Experts believe that processed foods may harm the brain by lacking nutrients, affecting blood vessels, and damaging brain cells. While the study had limitations in its group of participants, other studies in Brazil and the UK have found similar results. To reduce the risk of dementia, experts recommend eating unprocessed meats like steak, along with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s best to avoid processed foods as much as possible for a healthier brain.
Vocabulary List:
- Dementia /dɪˈmɛnʃə/ (noun): A chronic disorder of the mental processes caused by brain disease or injury characterized by memory disorders personality changes and impaired reasoning.
- Processed /ˈprɒsesd/ (adjective): Subjected to a treatment process especially in order to preserve or prepare for consumption.
- Cognitive /ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv/ (adjective): Related to the mental processes of perception memory judgment and reasoning.
- Decline /dɪˈklaɪn/ (verb): To decrease in quality quantity or strength.
- Nutrients /ˈnjuː.tri.ənts/ (noun): Substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
- Limitations /ˌlɪmɪˈteɪʃənz/ (noun): Restrictions or constraints that affect the extent or effectiveness of something.
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