… the women who ate the most saturated fat scored lower on tests of brain function and memory. On the other hand, women who ate the most monounsaturated fats (found in foods like olive oil and avocado) had higher scores.
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You don’t need to shun saturated fat sources entirely, but choose low or non-fat versions of animal products, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk. Avoid processed meat, like bacon, and stick to lean cuts. Get more protein from vegetable sources, like soy and legumes.
Junk Food
Will junk food rot kids’ brains? A 2011 British study of nearly 4,000 children found that those who ate primarily processed and fast foods at age three had a small drop in IQ five years later compared with children who ate healthier diets. Early diet choices especially seemed to affect kids’ verbal abilities, according to Time.com. The study suggests that smart diet choices may be particularly crucial during early years of rapid brain development.
It can be challenging, but remember that kids need repeated exposure to “like” a new food. So don’t give up so easily! And many classic kid favorites, like string cheese and yogurt, make for healthy snacks instead of processed cookies and chips.
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Low-Carb Diets
Ditching carbs can sap brainpower. A small Tufts University study of 19 women between the ages of 22 and 55 found that when dieters eliminated carbohydrates, they showed a gradual dip in cognitive skills – particularly on memory-related tests – compared to a group who stayed on a low-calorie diet that included carbs.
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Carbs aren’t evil-your body needs them for many important functions, including fueling your brain. So avoid diets that eliminate or severely restrict them, and choose healthy options, like whole grain pastas and breads, brown rice, and quinoa.
