These Foods May Increase Alzheimer’s Risk

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. While a single direct cause is still not entirely known, there are some things scientists are learning that may aid in the prevention. Sugary snacks, starchy foods and processed meats aren’t the healthiest options. But could these foods also increase your Alzheimer's risk?

The Apparent Sugar and Alzheimer's Link

Consuming too much sugar has been linked to many negative effects on the body. One important thing to know in relation to Alzheimer's is that high amounts of sugar may accelerate cognitive decline. In fact, diets high in sugar have been shown to impair memory and increase the risk of dementia.

Starch and Alzeimer's

There are different forms of starch. Some starches stay in the body longer to aid in important bodily functions, such as digestion. But simple starches, like white rice, white flour and white potatoes, convert quickly into sugar and go through the system rapidly. Because these starches essentially act like sugar in the body, it’s best to consume them less frequently. Negative effects may even increase when simple starches are consumed along with sugars.

Processed Meats and Alzhemier's

All meat undergoes specific processes to be safe for consumption. For classification purposes, processed meat refers to meat that is canned, cured, salted, smoked, or dried. This includes meat like sausages, beef jerky, cured bacon, ham, smoked meat and canned meats. Studies show more diseases and conditions are likely to happen for those who eat processed meats.

Alzheimer's and Starch, Sugar and Processed Meats in Combination

Combining sugary foods, starchy foods and processed meats on a regular basis appears to even further increase Alzheimer’s risk. Eating a well-balanced, diverse diet may reduce or mitigate one's odds of contracting Alzheimer's or some other forms of dementia. Given these very specific effects, the sooner we begin to avoid a diet high in sugary snacks, starchy foods and processed meats, the better. Knowing these foods can increase Alzheimer’s risk might be a good motivator to curb bad habits and start eating a more varied and healthy diet today — especially apples (see the link, above).

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