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Ultra-processed foods harm brain health, but access and affordability are issues. (www.theguardian.com)

submitted 1 year ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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Felice Jacka, a leading researcher of nutritional psychiatry, has found links between ultra-processed foods and the health of our brains. She explains that our gut microbiome affects various aspects of health, including metabolism, blood glucose, body weight, gene expression, serotonin levels, stress response, mitochondrial function, and immune system. Jacka's research has shown that a western junk food diet can impair cognitive functions and shrink the hippocampus, a brain region important for mental health, learning, and memory. The industrialized food system, which produces ultra-processed foods, is the leading cause of illness, early death, and biodiversity loss globally, costing around $20tn per year. Jacka suggests that reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods is crucial, but acknowledges that many people don't have the option due to their affordability and the lack of healthy choices available. She has also found a connection between ultra-processed foods, poor diet quality in mothers and children, and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD. Jacka acknowledges that the term "ultra-processed food" may have some fuzzy borders and misclassifications, but warns against industry tactics to confuse people and muddy the waters, similar to what the tobacco industry did with smoking and lung cancer.

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[–] [email protected] 6 points 1 year ago (2 children)

Can appreciate the study but I wonder if lifestyle, activity/stimulation and portioning don’t play larger measurable roles.

[–] [email protected] 7 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I've been a nutritional fiend for ever and hyperfocused on self improvement to the point I abandoned my sociatal responsibilities. Shhhh...

Before covid happened, I was working out and eating well. Custom diet plan that ensured I'd reach my daily caloric goal. Generally wanted fats and protein earlier in the day with a nice sugar boost to wake me up, then dinner was ensured a new variety because I wanted to maintain a healthy gut biome. Felt fucking great - I was studying hardcore everyday, working out... Felt so incredible compared to my currently recovering self.

Then covid happened and following it, financial devistation. Had to start working again so I began eating fast food. Had no time and didn't think too much beyond this point in time.

Energy levels rapidly reached points similar to depression and studying became a chore even after I quit and tried returning to my studies. I could never restore my energy levels because I couldn't afford healthy food; Bottom barrel garbage. Nutrigrain bars give ~200 cals @ 24/$15. STEAL. My gut biome was non-existent due to 0 variety and grease obliterating any new life.

Cut to today, my family takes me in and feeds me. I'm able to finally return to my varied homecooked diet. Nearing the end of week 2 and my productivity has already skyrocketed despite the constant verbal abuse :') even just noticed my journal entries have become less shakey.

The main point is, my actions beyond my food did not influence my energy outcomes. Kind of. Gaining more muscle did not make me feel any better. Losing muscle, it was infinitely harder to regain it and I'd end up using more enegy, making me even more apathetic.

Basically, life's a balance. Maintain that tummy balance! Don't buy those cheap burgers from Wendies even if it's a steal of quik protien!!!

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Lots of different needs for different people, I guess. I’m older, eat almost exclusively junk food, exercise a lot and generally feel really great. Definitely understand it’s not the same for others tho.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago

So true! Not just food - drugs, ideas, we all take differently. It's important to self observe so we can plan our best lives. :)

[–] [email protected] 7 points 1 year ago

if you live in a food desert where the only options for food are the gas station or the dollar store. There’s often no choice.

Lifestyle can play a role in being healthy but choice of good food is the catalyst for changing your lifestyle. The “ultra processed” garbage is cheap energy at best and has you continually reaching for that cheap energy and promoting a generally unhealthy/inactive lifestyle.