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Is there a link between eating fast food and dementia? Yes, say researchers from Australia. Accordingly, brain function can be significantly impaired by an unhealthy diet.

People would “eat their brains out” with fast food

The scientists at the Australian National University put forward the thesis that people who eat unhealthy food and do not exercise enough “the brain

The researchers presented the worrying results in the journal Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology. The Australian scientists evaluated around 200 international studies. They found that a person’s diet increases their likelihood of developing cognitive dysfunction.

Impaired brain function due to type 2 diabetes

Impaired brain function can result from type 2 diabetes, which is also triggered by fast food. However, there is also a direct connection between the performance of the brain and the diet – so the brain is damaged even without diabetes. ‘We found a clear link between brain deterioration and unhealthy lifestyle choices,’ the scientists explain.

Unhealthy Diet: Damage is irreversible

According to the researchers, anyone who had an unhealthy diet and exercised little up to their middle age can no longer reverse this damage – it is therefore irreversible. That’s why the Australians want to encourage people to think more about a healthy lifestyle and implement it as early as possible. This can protect you from dementia.

Can coffee be dangerous? Researchers Say “Yes”: According to a new study, drinking too much coffee can lead to serious illnesses and even change the size of the brain.

Then coffee becomes harmful: too much consumption can impair brain health

The data also showed a link between increased coffee consumption and reduced brain volume. “Basically, drinking more than six cups of coffee a day can increase your risk of brain diseases like dementia or stroke,” said lead researcher Kitty Pham of the University of South Australia in a press release.

In view of the high consumption of coffee worldwide, the researchers want to better understand the effects of the hot drink. They are not alone in this: long before that, other researchers had been investigating how much coffee is still acceptable.

However, study author Elina Hyppönen emphasizes: “This research provides important insights into heavy coffee consumption and brain health, but as with many things in life, moderation is key.” The exact mechanism behind how coffee affects our brain is not yet clear. According to the researchers, however, it is advisable to stay well hydrated and drink water in addition to the cup of coffee.

Average coffee consumption: One to two cups a day

“Typical daily coffee consumption is somewhere between one and two standard cups of coffee. Of course, units of measurement can vary, but a couple of cups of coffee per day is generally fine,” says Hyppönen.

However, if one notices that the daily coffee consumption is heading for more than six cups, it is time to “reconsider the next drink.”

You can keep your brain fit through your diet. If you want to reduce your risk of dementia, there are some foods that you can incorporate into your diet. Here is a list of the most important nutrients.

Reduce risk of dementia: These nutrients are particularly important for your brain

Alzheimer’s research assumes that a targeted and conscious diet has a strong influence on the development of our brain. Of course, there is no specific recipe that helps against dementia. Still, certain foods can help with prevention.

Although our brain makes up only a fraction of our body weight, it accounts for about 20 percent of our energy needs. The ideal diet to reduce the risk of dementia consists of various components.

Nutrient combination to prevent dementia:
Secondary plant substances: The polyphenols ensure better blood flow in the brain and are intended to counteract dementia
Vitamins C and E: high doses of these antioxidant vitamins are said to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s
“Nerve” vitamins from the B group, especially B6, B12 and folic acid (B9): Deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with memory problems and an early stage of Alzheimer’s dementia
Omega-3 fatty acids: The fatty acids are said to have a positive effect on the brain and improve memory and everyday skills

1. Polyphenols (plant substances): Tea, coffee and vegetables help against dementia

In addition to water, which we should drink enough of every day, we should also have two to three cups of coffee, black or green tea. The polyphenols it contains stimulate blood circulation in the brain. The secondary plant substance is also contained in red wine. Here, too, a glass in the evening is fine.

3. Vitamin C: Dark berries are said to protect against Alzheimer’s

Vitamin C reduces plaque formation in our vessels, which is considered a risk factor for dementia. Fresh fruit should be included in every diet. Here, too, the German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends that two meals of 250 grams each are best.

4. B-group “nerve” vitamins: Beans, peas and lentils help the brain cells

Legumes contain plenty of natural B vitamins, folic acid and polyphenols for the brain. B vitamins are healthy and stimulate communication between cells and each other. They increase the performance of the brain and protect against memory disorders.

5. Whole grain: Reduce the risk of dementia with the brain food par excellence

Whole grain products contain a lot of dietary fiber. The complex carbohydrates help to keep the blood sugar level constant and thereby increase the ability to concentrate. The amino acids it contains, such as methionine, have also proven to be particularly valuable for healthy brain function.

6. Omega-3 fatty acids: Oil for a fit brain – reduce the risk of dementia

Omega-3 fatty acids are among the “good fats”. They are said to protect against cardiovascular diseases and improve metabolism. But the fats are also supposed to help against dementia. Omega-3 increases the performance of the brain and helps us with our daily processes. Top omega-3 suppliers include flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Our brain works around the clock: Whether it’s at school or work, driving a car, cooking and even while we sleep, our brain does a lot. With certain foods we can maintain these functions and slow down the aging process.

It controls every reaction that happens in the body by perceiving influences, forwarding and processing impulses: the brain. The brain takes over many subconscious processes such as breathing or reflexes for us. The cerebral cortex takes up 80 percent of the total volume and is responsible for processing mental images and visual information. But areas such as the thalamus or hippocampus also have their own tasks.

With its several hundred billion nerve cells, the brain is one of our most important organs: as soon as a nerve cell is defective or damaged, it can no longer regenerate. It is therefore important that we protect our brain and give it the nutrients it needs to maintain the nerve cells and support them in their functions.

Brainfood: These are the main nutrients for the brain

With a balanced diet, you can keep your brain permanently fit. But which foods are good for the brain and which are harmful?

1. Carbohydrates

Serve as the main source of energy
Overall, the brain uses a fifth of the energy that we absorb from food. However, water also plays an important role in smooth functioning. It is therefore important that we drink enough liquid.

2. Albumen

Proteins are made up of different amino acids that help form cells. In addition, amino acids control different metabolic processes such as the sleep-wake cycle or the ability to learn. A combination of different protein sources represents an optimal supply of nutrients for the brain: Soy flakes, Parmesan, Harz cheese, beef, lentils or peanuts are good sources of protein.

3. Fat

Just as the body uses fat to protect itself from the cold, fat also protects our nerve cells in the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids play a role here
Salmon, herring, mackerel and certain oils such as flaxseed oil or walnut oil contain these important omega-3 fatty acids.

Micronutrients for the brain

In addition to protein, carbohydrates and fats, micronutrients also contribute

1. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an important factor in the maturation and function of nerve cells. The vitamin also supports the reduction of stress factors in the brain. Too high a proportion of this oxidative stress can increase the risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases as well as neurological diseases.

2. B vitamins

We can absorb eight different B vitamins through food, with vitamins B6 and B12 being particularly important. Deficiency symptoms of the former can manifest themselves in a depressive mood, tiredness and cramps. B6 vitamins can be found in meat, fish, bananas, nuts and legumes. Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is only found in animal products such as cheese. Deficiency symptoms of this vitamin are expressed in behavioral fluctuations and a limited ability to think and concentrate.

3. Potassium

Potassium is one of the minerals and influences the regulation of blood pressure. Optimal intake can therefore reduce the risk of a stroke or cardiovascular disease. The brain needs potassium to ensure the transmission of stimuli in the nervous system.

4. Selenium

The trace element selenium is vital for the brain. It is important for motor performance, coordination and memory. A sufficient supply is therefore important to ensure the function of the brain and nerve cells. But the immune system and the thyroid gland also need selenium to be functional.

These foods damage the brain

Fast food, sweets or too much fat

1. Sugar: Addicted to the reward

Sugar serves the brain as a quick source of energy. Especially in ready meals, the component is increasing more and more. According to studies, the consumption of sugary drinks is also increasing in society. Too much sugar not only increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, but also acts like a drug on the brain. With a high-sugar diet, the receptors are activated and send a reward signal to the brain. In doing so, they override the self-control mechanisms and create constant cravings. So you can get really addicted to sugar. It is better to use alternative sweeteners such as thick juice or rice syrup.

2. Cola Zero: Aspartame can limit brain power

Not all sweeteners are necessarily better than sugar.

It was found that high consumption of aspartame had a particularly negative effect on spatial orientation and mood

You can keep your brain fit through your diet. If you want to reduce your risk of dementia, there are some foods that you can incorporate into your diet. Here is a list of the most important nutrients.

Reduce risk of dementia: These nutrients are particularly important for your brain

Alzheimer’s research assumes that a targeted and conscious diet has a strong influence on the development of our brain. Of course, there is no specific recipe that helps against dementia. Still, certain foods can help with prevention.

Although our brain makes up only a fraction of our body weight, it accounts for about 20 percent of our energy needs. The ideal diet to reduce the risk of dementia consists of various components.

Nutrient combination to prevent dementia:
Secondary plant substances: The polyphenols ensure better blood flow in the brain and are intended to counteract dementia
Vitamins C and E: high doses of these antioxidant vitamins are said to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s
“Nerve” vitamins from the B group, especially B6, B12 and folic acid (B9): Deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with memory problems and an early stage of Alzheimer’s dementia
Omega-3 fatty acids: The fatty acids are said to have a positive effect on the brain and improve memory and everyday skills

1. Polyphenols (plant substances): Tea, coffee and vegetables help against dementia

In addition to water, which we should drink enough of every day, we should also have two to three cups of coffee, black or green tea. The polyphenols it contains stimulate blood circulation in the brain. The secondary plant substance is also contained in red wine. Here, too, a glass in the evening is fine.

It is obvious – the secondary plant substances are also found in vegetables. Since secondary plant substances bring the color to the vegetables, it is advisable to eat colorful food in order to get a bit of everything. As for the amount: The German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends three servings of vegetables per day. One serving (400 grams) is about the amount of vegetables that fits in the palm of your hand. Aside from the few calories, vegetables are high in polyphenols and the brain-friendly folic acid.

2. Vitamin C: Dark berries are said to protect against Alzheimer’s

Vitamin C reduces plaque formation in our vessels, which is considered a risk factor for dementia. Fresh fruit should be included in every diet. Here, too, the German Society for Nutrition (DGE) recommends that two meals of 250 grams each are best.

According to the DGE, sea buckthorn berries (juice), peppers, black currants and parsley (all offer over 100 milligrams per 100 grams of vitamin C) contain a lot of vitamin C. However, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, lemon, kiwi and lychee also work.

3. B-group “nerve” vitamins: Beans, peas and lentils help the brain cells

Legumes contain plenty of natural B vitamins, folic acid and polyphenols for the brain. B vitamins are healthy and stimulate communication between cells and each other. They increase the performance of the brain and protect against memory disorders.

As an alternative to beans, peas, lentils and the like, tofu schnitzel, falafel or hummus can also be used. The vitamins are also included here.

4. Whole grain: Reduce the risk of dementia with the brain food par excellence

Whole grain products contain a lot of dietary fiber. The complex carbohydrates help to keep the blood sugar level constant and thereby increase the ability to concentrate. The amino acids it contains, such as methionine, have also proven to be particularly valuable for healthy brain function.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids: Oil for a fit brain – reduce the risk of dementia

Omega-3 fatty acids are among the “good fats”. They are said to protect against cardiovascular diseases and improve metabolism. But the fats are also supposed to help against dementia. Omega-3 increases the performance of the brain and helps us with our daily processes. Top omega-3 suppliers include flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and walnuts.

All of the foods mentioned can be combined into wonderful recipes and thus contribute in a delicious way to reducing the risk of dementia. So you can do something for your physical and mental fitness at the same time.