Eating burgers and fries can damage not only the waist but also the brain , a new study shows.
Researchers have found that excessive consumption of foods such as french fries , red meat, and carbonated beverages by 14-year-olds lowers their cognitive skills at 17 years of age. On the other hand, participants whose diet included larger amounts of fruits and leafy vegetables showed better cognitive function .
According to researchers, this may be due to micronutrients in leafy vegetables, which are associated with improved cognitive development . Experts also explain that several factors may play a role in lowering cognitive abilities, including the levels of omega-6 fatty acids in fried foods and red meat.
Metabolism works best with a balanced 1: 1 ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. However, the consumption of these foods can upset this balance, with the ratio being 1:20 and 1:25.
Scientists explain that high intake of fats and simple carbohydrates is associated with impaired hippocampal function. This is the area in the brain that is involved in learning and memory . The hippocampus increases in size during adolescence.
This period is critical for brain development . It is possible that a poor diet is a significant risk factor just then.
Researchers from the University of Western Australia observed 602 participants. At the age of 14, each of them must keep notes on their diet. When they turn 17, their cognitive skills are "measured" through various tests that include a total of six tasks.
The survey data is published online on the Science Network .