It is an undeniable fact that the food we consume directly affects both our physical and mental health. But did you know that certain foods can cause poor memory and focus problems? At Harvard Medical School, Dr. Uma Naidoo explains the effects of the food we eat on our brain in her book “This Is Your Brain on Food”.
Naidoo said that some of the foods we consume weaken our memory and explained 5 types of foods that should be avoided as much as possible.
Foods with added sugar:
Stating that our brain needs a sugar called ‘glucose’ to carry out daily activities, Naidoo states that when foods containing added sugar are consumed excessively, more ‘glucose’ accumulates in the brain and this weakens memory.
Frying foods:
Perhaps most of our readers will want to leave the news as soon as they see this headline. Because if there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that fried foods are perfectly delicious. However, Naidoo says this habit is not healthy for the brain at all. In a test of nearly 20,000 participants, those who ate excessively fried foods had reduced learning and memory levels. The reason for this is that fried foods cause vascular problems over time and reduce blood flow to the brain.
High glycemic index carbohydrates:
Saying that carbohydrates with a high glycemic index have the same effect as sugar in the body, Naidoo believes that processed foods such as bread, pasta, white rice and potatoes are harmful for memory. In a study conducted in this area, it was determined that individuals who consume carbohydrates with a low glycemic index are 30% less depressed. Naidoo; she says we can have a healthier mind with green vegetables, fruits and whole grain breads and fiber foods.
Alcohol:
Perhaps the least surprising on this list is alcohol. Studies conducted for many years present findings that excessive alcohol consumption causes damage to brain neurons and can lead to memory loss over time. Naidoo points out that alcohol consumption should be as little as possible.
Foods containing nitrates:
The additive known as ‘nitrate’, which is found in processed meat products such as salami, sausage and sausage, can cause cancer, memory loss and brain damage when consumed excessively. Naidoo states that in a new study, nitrate consumption can even lead to bipolar disorder by changing the balance of intestinal flora.
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