A new study has linked higher consumption of ultraprocessed foods to an increased likelihood of hidden blood-vessel-related brain damage in middle-aged adults, raising concerns about the long-term effects of dietary habits on brain health.
The research, published in JAMA Network Open, examined 8,783 adults aged 35 to 69 in Canada. Researchers assessed participants’ dietary habits, body fat, brain MRI scans and cognitive performance to investigate possible connections between ultraprocessed food consumption and brain health.
Higher Intake Linked to Increased Odds of Brain Injury
The findings showed that participants with the highest intake of ultraprocessed foods had 40% higher odds of MRI-detected vascular brain injury than those who consumed the lowest amounts. Such injury can include damage to small blood vessels and changes in the brain’s white matter.
These changes may develop without obvious symptoms and can be detected through brain imaging before noticeable problems emerge. However, the findings do not mean that everyone who consumes ultraprocessed foods will develop brain damage or memory problems.
Researchers Also Found Higher Body Fat Levels
Participants with the highest ultraprocessed food intake had higher average body fat levels and more visceral fat than those with the lowest intake.
Visceral fat is stored deep inside the abdomen around internal organs. Excessive amounts are associated with metabolic and cardiovascular health problems that may also affect the blood vessels supplying the brain.
No Significant Link With Cognitive Test Performance
Despite the MRI findings, researchers did not find a significant association between ultraprocessed food consumption and overall performance on cognitive tests. This suggests that signs of vascular brain injury on imaging do not necessarily coincide with measurable difficulties in memory or thinking.
The study showed an association rather than proving that ultraprocessed foods directly cause brain injury. Further research is needed to understand whether these dietary habits contribute to long-term cognitive decline.
How to Protect Brain Health
Health experts generally recommend eating a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts. Limiting packaged snacks, sugary drinks, processed meats and other foods high in added sugar, salt and unhealthy fats may also support cardiovascular and overall health.
Researchers say additional long-term studies are needed to determine whether reducing ultraprocessed food consumption can prevent vascular brain injury.
