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Your Diet Could Be Fueling Brain Fog
22 Nov
Summary
- Processed foods high in sugar, refined grains, and unhealthy fats can cause brain inflammation.
- Sodium, nitrates, and additives may harm brain blood vessels and cognitive function.
- Lutein-rich foods like spinach and carrots can improve memory, clarity, and focus.
Difficulty concentrating or experiencing mental haziness, known as brain fog, could be directly linked to your dietary choices. Nutritionists and physicians explain that highly processed foods, rich in added sugars, refined grains, trans fats, and certain oils, promote inflammation and insulin resistance within the brain, contributing to cognitive decline.
Experts also caution against excessive intake of sodium, nitrates, and artificial additives, as these can lead to vascular damage, a significant driver of impaired cognitive function. Even moderate exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and plastics in food and water can impact brain health over time, with some researchers likening Alzheimer's disease to "type 3 diabetes" due to this connection.
Fortunately, specific foods can actively improve cognitive function and alleviate brain fog. Nutritionist Nicolette Pace highlights lutein, an antioxidant found abundantly in dark leafy greens like spinach, as well as in carrots, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes, for its proven benefits in enhancing memory, clarity, and focus. Combining these nutrient-rich foods with physical exercise is recommended for optimal brain health.
