Beware of these Foods – They Can Lead to Memory Loss

The aging process is not always the only one responsible for a person’s memory loss. Problems like short-term memory loss can be caused by many other factors. Our diet is no exception. Knowing what to eat and drink and what to avoid can play an essential role in our brain’s health. Consuming rich quantities of nutrients helps with the maintenance of nerve cells, slows down the progression of dementia and enhances memory.

• Soy

According to a recent study, too many soy products introduced in your diet can increase the risk of memory loss. Even though this ingredient is an important source of protein for people all round the world, when consumed in high quantities, the phytoestrogens in soy increase the risk of dementia, especially in the case of older persons.

• Alcohol

A high intake of alcohol is never recommended for a good health. It acts like a depressant by interfering with the thought process and by slowing down the reaction time of nerves. A study has shown that women are at a higher risk than men. Drinking too much alcohol can be devastating for a woman’s health. Because women have less body water than men, their capacity to dilute alcohol is reduced. Also, a woman’s body metabolizes alcohol more slowly, resulting in higher blood alcohol levels that lead to mental confusion. For both genders, alcohol can affect short-term memory.

• Sugary Foods

A recent study has revealed that individuals with high sugar intakes are prone to develop memory loss. High glucose levels can damage the brain cells, the first symptom being short-term memory loss. A healthier alternative for sugar and sweeteners are vegetables and fruits, which contain high-fiber carbohydrates. The body absorbs all of these carbs in a better way and raises blood glucose levels progressively.

• Food Preservatives

The chemical substances found in flavors, food preservatives, artificial colors and other additives can cause memory loss and brain damage. These substances are usually used to increase the product’s shelf life and make it look better. Usually, the term “enriched” on a label is never a good sign for your health. For sure, those products do not have a superior nutritional value.

• Nutrient Deficiency

The brain requires a few types of nutrients to function properly. The cognitive skills can decrease because of the lack of minerals, vitamins and other essential nutrients. In some people’s case, this can contribute to the earlier onset of Alzheimer’s disease. A diet low in zinc and iron can cause memory problems due to the iron’s property to help concentration and zinc’s capacity of helping memory recall. Higher levels of Vitamin B reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Adequate levels of vitamin E and selenium in the body can also reduce the risk of developing dementia.

Memory loss is not a thing to neglect, especially when it develops at an early age. Nowadays, diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s don’t target only older people. It is essential for you to eat healthier, in order to keep your mind and body safe from diseases.