Which foods increase risk of developing dementia, Alzheimer's?

There is a link between consuming foods that contain refined carbohydrates and the long-term risk of developing dementia. This is stated in a new study published in the Alzheimer's & Dementia monthly.

The researchers analyzed data from 9,200 people aged 65 and over in France. The group was then reduced the selection to 2,700. These participants were asked to complete nutrition questionnaires that included all their daily food intakes and snacks. Activity levels, total calories, presence of diabetes, and their diet were reported.

At the end of the 12-year monitoring period, the results showed no link between the total daily glycemic load at breakfast, lunch or dinner, or the glycemic load and cognitive decline or long-term high risk of Alzheimer's disease. However, they found a high risk of dementia associated with eating refined carbohydrate-rich foods as a snack.

These results suggest that foods consumed between meals may lead to high levels of oxidative stress in the body. Regular intake of carbohydrate-rich foods and sugars—such as sodas, baked goods, and bars—over time can lead to insulin resistance. And this condition can lead to impaired glucose uptake and chronic inflammation, which are linked to a higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer's.

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