Australian scientists have determined that even moderate consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with decreased attention and slowed information processing speed.
According to information, the results of the study were published in the journal “Alzheimer's & Dementia: Diagnosis Assessment & Disease Monitoring.”
The study involved more than 2100 Australian residents without symptoms of dementia. The scientists compared participants' dietary habits with the results of cognitive tests measuring attention and thinking speed. The results showed that as the share of ultra-processed foods in the daily diet increased, attention indicators decreased.
Ultra-processed foods include products that have undergone industrial deep processing with the addition of various additives—flavorings, stabilizers, flavor enhancers, and other technological components. This category includes carbonated soft drinks, chips, fast food, and ready meals.
According to the calculations of the study authors, even a 10 percent increase in the share of these types of foods in the daily diet (approximately one packet of chips) is associated with a decline in attention. Interestingly, this effect was observed regardless of overall diet quality. That is, even in people who eat relatively healthily, a high proportion of ultra-processed products has a negative effect.
Scientists state that this association cannot be explained solely by the lack of beneficial foods. It is presumed that the main role belongs to the level of food processing. The processing can alter the product's structure and potentially lead to the formation of substances harmful to brain function.
Although the study did not find a direct link to memory decline, experts emphasize that attention is one of the key cognitive functions for learning, decision-making, and daily activities.Demokrat.az