If you exclude them, then not only health, but also mood will gradually improve.
The brain is the most important organ that is responsible for all systems. Therefore, it is very important to feed him well. Good – not in the sense of the cakes, but the right food. After all, some foods have a negative effect on him: memory, mood worsens and the risk of developing dementia (acquired dementia, persistent decrease in cognitive activity) increases. Researchers estimate that by 2030, dementia will affect more than 65 million people worldwide. Fortunately, you can help yourself by eliminating junk food.
1. Sweet drinks
These include soda, fruit juices, sports drinks, and energy drinks. Oftentimes, consuming them not only increases the waistline and increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease, but also negatively affects the functioning of the brain. The main component of the drinks is corn syrup, which consists of 55% fructose and 45% glucose. It turns out that the sweet treat can cause brain inflammation and memory lapses.
Animal studies have shown that high fructose levels can lead to insulin resistance (resistance). Insulin is responsible for blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance indicates that the body is not performing well. Then the pancreas begins to produce more peptide hormones (its goal is to prevent excess sugar). She has a double job.
2. Refined carbohydrates
Of course, white flour and instant sugar are always more attractive than slightly bitter fructose and other substitutes. However, they lead to a sharp increase in blood sugar levels, which can cause diabetes and kidney problems.
– It is best to buy whole grain bread, – nutritionist Elena Aseeva. – Rice should not be polished, since this type of cereal belongs to dietary ones. Also, make sure that the oil is unrefined. For dressings and light roasting, olive, sunflower or corn is perfect. Of course, if you have been consuming harmful foods for a long time, then taste buds will not be easy to wean. To avoid a relapse, gradually introduce healthy foods. When health begins to fail, it is no longer up to the interests of the stomach.
3. Foods high in trans fats
Trans fats are a type of unsaturated fat that can be very bad for the brain. Those found in dairy products and meat are not dangerous. And industrial oils, among which the most common vegetable oils, cause many problems. They can be found in margarine, frostings, appetizers, ready-made cakes, and prepackaged biscuits.
Studies have shown that people who consume more trans fats have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (a disease in which certain systems of brain cells of neurons die off, leading to the development of senile dementia). They also negatively affect heart health and existing inflammation.
– To prevent cognitive decline, it is necessary to eat foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids (fish, chia seeds, flax seeds and walnuts), – continues the nutritionist. – They increase the release of anti-inflammatory compounds in the brain and may have protective effects, especially in the elderly.
4. Processed foods
– Foods with a high degree of processing, as a rule, contain a lot of sugar, fat and salt, – says Aseeva… – These include chips, sweets, instant noodles, popcorn, store bought sauces and ready-to-eat foods. These meals are very high in calories and low in nutrients. This all contributes to rapid weight gain. Fried food leads to degenerative disorders (diseases resulting from cell death and impaired brain plasticity. – Note. Ed.). Therefore, it is best to eat cooked food, steamed or raw.
5. Aspartame
– Aspartame is an artificial sweetener found in many soft drinks and foods, — the expert explains. – People often choose to add it when trying to lose weight. Although this is a dietary product, it can cause cognitive problems. Long-term use of it can cause headaches, tinnitus, allegria, depression, insomnia, and even swelling. In the body, it breaks down into two amino acids (aspartic and phenylalanine) and methanol. The latter is poison (5-10 ml of methanol leads to severe poisoning, and 30 ml or more – to death. – Approx. Ed.).
6. Fish from muddy ponds
Mercury is a heavy metal pollutant and neurological poison that can be stored in animal tissues for a long time. For this reason, the main food source of mercury in the human body is seafood, especially wild varieties.
After a person takes mercury, it spreads throughout the body, concentrating in the brain, liver and kidneys. In pregnant women, it also concentrates in the placenta and fetus.