Professor of nutritional psychiatry, Felice Jacka spoke on the ZOE health podcast, in an episode dedicated to the impact of ultra-processed foods on the brain and hosted by Jonathan Wolf.
The nutrition expert defined ultra-processed foods as “foods deconstructed from their original ingredients and reconstituted. They usually contain a list of other ingredients that are not found in whole foods”.
Indeed, ultra-processed foods undergo intensive industrial manufacturing processes and have additives added, such as artificial colors, emulsifiers, preservatives, etc. Crisps, ice cream, sandwich bread and prepared meals are typical examples of ultra-processed foods.
The consequences of excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods on the brain
In order to demonstrate the risks that excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods could cause on the brain, Felice Jack relied on the results of a study. During it, young and healthy participants received a chocolate milkshake and cheese toast for breakfast for four days. The expert explained: “In one group their version was very high in fat and sugar, and in the other it wasn’t. It was observed that the most processed breakfast had an impact on hippocampal-related learning and memory tasks in these young people.”
“It’s a bit like going to the gym, but for your brain”
Nevertheless, the specialist wants to be reassuring and highlights the fact that reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods can improve brain health. “in just 3 weeks”.
“(…) There is this possibility of improving your diet. It’s not too late. You can actually grow your hippocampus. I love it. It’s a bit like going to the gym, but for your brain”concludes the nutrition expert.
Source : Felice Jacka in the Zoe Podcast, Ultra-processed foods will damage your brain!
Source: www.topsante.com
