A recent study has identified a link between the consumption of highly processed foods and reduced concentration levels in older adults. Even when these foods made up only a small portion of their diet, the risk of cognitive decline increased, along with a higher likelihood of developing dementia. The findings were published in the journal Alz & Dementia.
The research was conducted by scientists at Monash University. The study involved over 2,000 Australian residents aged 40 to 70, none of whom had neurological disorders or dementia at the outset. The researchers analyzed participants’ diets from the previous year and assessed the share of highly processed foods in their overall intake. On average, these foods accounted for about 41% of daily calories, a figure roughly comparable to the national average.
Afterward, the participants completed a series of computer-based tests designed to evaluate their reaction times, attention, working memory, and visual identification abilities. The researchers also estimated dementia risk, taking into account key factors such as obesity and high blood pressure.
It turned out that a high intake of ultra-processed foods had the most significant impact on attention. This negative effect persisted even among those who attempted to follow a Mediterranean-style diet.
The scientists believe that the strong adverse impact of these foods stems from changes in food structure during processing and the effects of additives, which negatively influence gut microbiota. It has long been established that disruptions in gut flora can lead to a decline in mental function.
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