Certain Meats May Lead to a Greater Dementia Risk

A recent study that was presented at the International Conference of the Alzheimer’s Association revealed that eating ultra-processed meats on a regular basis, like hot dogs, sausage, bacon, and salami, may raise the risk of dementia. The results, which drew from data gathered over 40 years, haven’t yet been released in a peer-reviewed publication, but they provided experts with a preview of “one of the most robust studies” connecting nutrition and cognitive decline, according to Dr. Maria Carrillo, chief science officer of the Alzheimer’s Association, who speaks with NBC News.

• The study: For up to 43 years, more than 130,000 US citizens were monitored. 11,173 people, or about 8.5% of the total, experienced dementia, and the researchers were able to compare how much processed meat they typically consumed.
• It was important to consider frequency: According to the New York Times, individuals who had roughly two servings of processed meat every week had a 14% higher chance of dementia than those who consumed it much less frequently (less than three servings per month). Additionally, they discovered that consuming one more serving of beef each day was associated with an additional 1.6 years of cognitive aging, particularly with relation to language and “executive function,” as reported by NBC.
• Hypotheses: We don’t know why ultra-processed diets are associated with deteriorating brain health. According to theories, they harm brain cells, are detrimental to vascular health, and substitute meals for essential nutrients.
• Proof of support: According to NBC, the study’s demographics were restricted because it was carried out on a primarily white group with a higher socioeconomic standing than the norm and might not be representative of the broader community. However, recent research from the UK and Brazil has similarly connected diets heavy in ultra-processed foods to cognitive deterioration.
• What to consume in its place: According to the experts, there are fewer dangers associated with unprocessed meats such ground beef and steak. Additionally, they promoted a diet high in lean proteins and green vegetables. “The less processed, the better,” Massachusetts General Hospital’s Dr. Ulma Naidoo tells NBC. “Good servings of vegetables and fruits bring fiber, nutrients, minerals, and vitamins to the body and the brain.”