Neurologists have identified three common foods they say are among the worst for brain health and could be linked to future dementia risk. While research on diet and dementia is ongoing, experts widely agree that healthier eating patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with better overall and brain health.
The Alzheimer’s Society says the Mediterranean diet may help maintain brain function because it is rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables. “These may help to protect against some of the damage to brain cells associated with Alzheimer’s disease,” the charity said, adding that studies suggest dementia risk could be reduced by up to 23%.
Neurologists cited fizzy drinks, margarine, and French fries as foods to limit. Dr Shaheen Lakhan said soda’s high sugar content damages blood vessels supplying the brain, while Dr Shae Datta warned about trans fats in margarine. Dr Pedram Navab added that fatty foods like fries can impair blood vessels and memory-related brain regions.