2026-06-05 14:06:10

Eating foods such as crisps, biscuits and even ham sandwiches could significantly increase the risk of dementia.

Researchers from Harvard University found that people consuming high amounts of ultra-processed foods every day had a 58 per cent greater chance of developing dementia compared to those who ate less.

The study also linked junk food consumption to a 46 per cent higher risk of mild cognitive impairment, often considered an early warning sign of dementia.

Scientists tracked more than 5,300 Americans over a period of 10 years, analysing their diets and cognitive health.

Among the biggest contributors to dementia risk were processed meats, including bacon, hot dogs and sliced ham, a staple sandwich filling for millions.

Experts said the findings add to growing evidence that ultra-processed foods may have a harmful impact on the brain.

Professor Cindy Leung, associate professor of public health nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and a study co-author, warned there may be no completely safe level of consumption.

She said: “Just to say, ‘Well, I don’t eat all my calories from ultraprocessed foods, I’m safe.’ It really shows there may not be a safe level.”

However, she highlighted a more encouraging finding from the research.

Professor Leung said: “Those who ate the most minimally processed whole foods… were 41 per cent less likely to develop dementia.”

Published in the American Journal of Public Health, the study found people consuming more than two pounds of ultra-processed food daily faced the highest risk.

Researchers stressed they could not prove the foods directly caused dementia.

But they said the link was “biologically plausible” and consistent with mounting scientific evidence that ultra-processed products can affect brain function.

Many such foods are high in sugar, salt and saturated fat, while some scientists suspect additives may also play a role.

Dr Alex Henney, an endocrinologist at the University of Liverpool, said ultra-processed foods can contribute to obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, all recognised risk factors for dementia.

He also suggested ingredients such as emulsifiers and preservatives may trigger inflammation in the body, another process increasingly linked to cognitive decline.

The findings add to growing calls for people to swap heavily processed foods for more natural alternatives to help protect long-term brain health.

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