Dementia risk rises with common food type millions eat every day, study suggests
A study published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia suggests that higher consumption of ultraprocessed foods is linked to increased dementia risk and lower attention scores. Researchers analyzed over 2,000 adults aged 40 to 70 and found that even a 10% increase in ultraprocessed food intake correlated with worse cognitive outcomes. The findings support refining dietary guidelines to emphasize less processed foods for brain health.
- ▪Ultraprocessed foods are associated with over 30 adverse health outcomes, including dementia risk factors like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
- ▪Each 10% increase in ultraprocessed food consumption was linked to lower attention scores and higher dementia risk, regardless of overall diet quality.
- ▪Participants following the MIND diet, rich in vegetables, berries, and healthy fats, showed better cognitive performance.
- ▪No significant link was found between ultraprocessed food intake and memory decline.
- ▪The study relied on self-reported dietary data, which may limit the strength of its conclusions.
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Health Dementia risk rises with common food type millions eat every day, study suggests Even a 10% increase in ultraprocessed food intake tied to cognitive effects By Angelica Stabile Fox News Published April 28, 2026 5:08pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video How to lower your Alzheimer’s risk, according to Dr. Daniel Amen The acclaimed psychiatrist and brain disorder specialist explains how everyday choices — from diet and exercise to blood flow — can either protect or accelerate cognitive decline. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! It’s well-known that ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) are not good for overall health — but new research has uncovered further evidence that this diet could negatively impact the brain.
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