Scientists have discovered the negative effect of junk food on brain function
Eating high-fat foods can almost instantly disrupt the neural circuits of memory in the brain. This effect is evident even after several days of dieting and may increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction. This was reported in a study published in the journal Medical Xpress.
It is noted that CCK interneurons are particularly vulnerable — cells responsible for cognitive functions that become hyperactive after just a few days of a high-saturated fat diet. In this case, the PKM2 protein plays a key role, controlling the use of energy by brain cells. Disruption of these neurons occurs long before weight gain or diabetes develops and can increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
"We knew that diet and metabolism can affect brain health, but we did not expect to find such a specific and vulnerable group of brain cells — CCK interneurons in the hippocampus — that would be directly disrupted by short—term exposure to a high-fat diet," said Huang Song, a member of the Neuroscience Center at the University of North Carolina.
The study showed that restoring glucose levels in the brain calms hyperactive neurons and normalizes memory function. This highlights the importance of early intervention: dietary changes or pharmacological methods can effectively protect cognitive functions.
"This work shows how what we eat can quickly affect brain health and how early intervention, whether by fasting or taking medications, can protect memory and reduce the risk of long—term cognitive problems related to obesity and metabolic disorders," Song added.
Experts recommend reducing your intake of high-fat foods, controlling the balance of fats and carbohydrates, using dietary strategies such as intermittent fasting after high-fat meals, and closely monitoring your memory status. Timely measures can help maintain brain health and reduce long-term risks associated with obesity and metabolic disorders.
On August 26, Akulina Bakhturina, head of the teacher training department and senior coach of the LEVITA international network of ballet and stretching studios, told Izvestia that it is important not only to "burn fat" for weight loss, but also to stop overloading. You can eat generally healthy food, but ignore the hidden calories in snacks, drinks, and nuts. Or overeat after exercise, consuming carbohydrates, not getting enough protein and fiber. Even worse is to limit yourself too much, provoking regular breakdowns.
All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»