a product that we consume daily and which must be excluded from the diet

Harvard

feeding This is one of the fundamental principles of a long and healthy life. Eating Habits They affect not only our physical well-being, but also our mental health and emotional. Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet can prevent a wide range of chronic diseases and significantly improve our quality of life. However, in a world where the food industry is dominated by ultra-processed products, it is essentialpay attention to what we eat and receive information about the potential dangers of certain foods, as warned Harvard University.

Nutrition and public health experts are warning about the risks associated with consuming ultra-processed foods, and recently you…The study, conducted by the prestigious Harvard University, focused on a specific product. This food, which many of us consume daily, has been linked to serious health problems, including cognitive decline and an increased risk of stroke. It is critical that we are aware of these findings and take steps to adjust our diets accordingly.

Harvard study warns us to reconsider our food choices and eliminating certain foods from our diet. Below, we take a closer look at the findings of this research and offer practical, science-based recommendations for protecting our brains and overall health.

The brain’s worst enemy, according to Harvard

Scientists at Harvard University have identified ultra-processed foods as the main culprits in cognitive decline. and strokes. Among these products, potato chips in bags stand out as particularly harmful food. This study, based on data from the REGARDS project, followed more than 20,000 participants over several years and found that 10% increase in consumption of ultra-processed foods associated with significant risk of serious cognitive impairment and stroke.

Ultra-processed foods, such as potato chips, are quickly broken down by the body into simple sugars, which causes insulin spikes. These adhesions can disrupt the normal function of brain cells, negatively impacting brain health. In addition, these products are closely related tometabolic syndrome and obesityconditions that increase the risk of high blood pressure, abnormal blood lipid levels, and type 2 diabetes. The additives and preservatives present in these foods can also disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and cognitive problems.

Impact on brain health

A Harvard study highlights that participants who follow a healthy dietsuch as the Mediterranean diet or the DASH diet, and avoided ultra-processed foods, supports better brain health. These diets are characterized by high intakes of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and fish—foods rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants that promote brain health.

ultra-processed foods, On the other hand, they are designed to be tasty and convenient, but lack nutritional value. They contain high amounts of added sugar, unhealthy fats and sodium, which can contribute to chronic health problems. Chronic inflammation caused by a diet rich in ultra-processed foods can damage blood vessels in the brain.increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and negatively affect memory and cognitive function.

Harvard’s Recommendations for Improving Brain Health

To protect our brains and overall health, Harvard experts suggest avoiding certain ultra-processed foods, including bagged chips, packaged snacks, commercial baked goods, sugary soft drinks, prepared meals and processed meats. Instead of these products It is preferable to choose fresh and natural products that have higher nutritional value. Accept a diet rich in fish, olive oil, avocados, whole fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains. Not only does it improve overall health, but it also protects the brain from neurodegenerative diseases.

Benefits of a fresh food diet

Focusing on unprocessed or minimally processed foods can provide immediate benefits to our health. For example, fresh fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. necessary for brain function. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve cognitive function. In addition, whole grains and legumes provide a constant source of energy, helping to maintain stable blood glucose levels, which is vital for brain health.

Finally, Taking care of your diet is essential to living a long, healthy life. Paying close attention to what health and nutrition experts tell us can change the quality of our lives. The Harvard study’s findings remind us of the importance of avoiding ultra-processed foods and choosing a diet rich in fresh, whole foods. By making these changes, we will protect not only our physical health, but also our mental and emotional well-being.