Junk food may reduce brain size

A research has found that the brain size is smaller in people who regularly consume unhealthy foods like processed meats, salty snacks, sweet drinks and fried foods. And the part of the brain that shrinks is believed to be involved in learning, memory and mental health.

MRI was used to measure the size of hippocampus in the brain. It is the hippocampus that is involved in learning, memory and mental health.

Although the research was conducted in people aged 60 and 64 years, it was concluded by a researcher thus, ‘As the hippocampus is critical to learning and memory as well as being a part of brain involved in mental health, this study underscores the importance of good nutrition for children, adolescents and adults of all ages’.

Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.