Ultra-Processed Foods May Harm Focus and Increase Dementia Risk: Study

Islamabad (Khyber Report) A new medical study has suggested that a common dietary habit involving ultra-processed foods may significantly affect attention span and increase the risk of cognitive decline linked to dementia.

The research, conducted by scientists from São Paulo University in Brazil along with Monash and Deakin Universities in Australia, found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with reduced concentration and impaired brain function.

Ultra-processed foods are those that undergo multiple industrial processing stages and contain high levels of salt, sugar, and artificial additives, while lacking essential nutrients such as fiber. These include items like packaged bread, fast food, sweets, candies, cakes, savory snacks, breakfast cereals, chicken and fish nuggets, instant noodles, sugary drinks, and sodas.

The study analyzed dietary and cognitive data of more than 2,100 middle-aged individuals who were free from dementia at the start of the research.

Findings showed that even a small increase in ultra-processed food intake led to noticeable declines in attention and analytical thinking abilities. Researchers noted that a 10 percent rise in consumption was enough to trigger measurable cognitive impact.

Participants in the study reportedly obtained around 41 percent of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods.

Researchers further warned that these foods contain harmful components that may contribute to long-term brain health issues. Excessive consumption is also linked to conditions such as obesity and high blood pressure, which are known risk factors for dementia.

The study was published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.