From Newsweek · · 1m 10s
Ultra-processed foods linked to silent brain damage
Ultra-processed foods may increase stroke risk through brain damage signs.
In brief
Ultra-processed foods may increase stroke risk through brain damage signs. Adults eating more ultra-processed foods show higher risk of silent brain damage linked to stroke. Originally reported by Newsweek.
Study finds link
Researchers discovered adults eating more ultra-processed foods show signs of brain damage linked to higher stroke risk.
Ultra-processed foods definition
Ultra-processed foods include sodas, prepackaged snacks, boxed macaroni and cheese, frozen meals, lunch meats, jerky, and hot dogs.
Study details
The study reviewed MRI scans of 9,000 Canadians aged 35-69 with no heart disease history.
Consumption levels
On average, ultra-processed foods made up 25 percent of daily intake, ranging from 16 percent for low eaters to 45 percent for high eaters.
Brain damage signs
Those eating most ultra-processed foods were 40 percent more likely to show small brain damage areas on MRI scans.
Health implications
Higher ultra-processed food intake linked to increased body fat, deep belly fat, and inflammation that affects blood vessels and the brain.
Gender differences
Women with highest ultra-processed food consumption were twice as likely to show brain damage signs compared to low consumers.
The headline
Adults eating more ultra-processed foods show higher risk of silent brain damage linked to stroke.
