Boston: A new study has found that ultra-processed foods not only increase the risk of obesity, but also memory or thinking problems related to stroke and dementia.
In a study published in the journal Neurology, researchers recruited more than 30,000 people aged 45 and over and had them fill out questionnaires about their eating and drinking habits.
The study compared ultra-processed foods with unprocessed or minimally processed foods (such as vegetables, fruit and small pieces of beef or chicken).
The study found that a 10 percent increase in consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with a 16 percent increase in the risk of mental problems. While there was an eight percent increase in the risk of stroke.
Dr. W. Taylor Kimberley, a researcher at Boston-based Massachusetts General Hospital, said the findings suggest that the way food is processed plays an important role in overall mental health.
Ultra-processed foods are usually factory-made foods that contain high amounts of sugar, fat, and salt. Also, a large amount of ingredients are added to increase their taste and shelf life.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, past studies have already linked ultra-processed foods to increased risks of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.
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