Core tip: U.S. researchers have found that junk food such as cola and french fries not only corrodes teeth and increases waistlines, but also damages the brain and accelerates brain aging. In contrast, foods rich in vitamins and fish can help delay brain shrinkage and prevent Alzheimer's disease.
U.S. researchers analyzed blood samples from 104 healthy elderly people with an average age of 87.
They found that elderly people with higher levels of B vitamins, C, D, and E in their blood performed better on memory and thinking tests. Volunteers with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood also scored higher. The elderly with the lowest scores had more trans fatty acids in their blood.
Trans fatty acids, also known as trans fats, are generally produced when vegetable oils are processed through hydrogenation. Oils containing trans fats can extend the shelf life of food and improve its taste, so they are commonly found in processed foods such as cakes, biscuits, and fried foods.
Researchers then scanned the brains of 42 of the elderly. The results showed that people with high levels of vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids in their blood had larger brain volumes, while those with high levels of trans fat in their blood had smaller brain volumes.
Healthy foods delay shrinkage
> One of the researchers, Gene Bowman, said: "It is clear that trans fats are not only harmful to the heart, but also damaging to the brain." Previous research has shown that trans fats can increase levels of 'bad' cholesterol in the body, block arteries, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.Bowman said that it is "very exciting" that people may be able to adjust their diet to delay brain shrinkage and maintain mental sharpness. However, these results need further confirmation. Another researcher, Tropp, said: "I firmly believe that eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fish and getting nutrients like vitamins can likely protect your brain and help it work better."