A December 2023 article published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease titled “Diet has a major impact on risk of Alzheimer’s Disease” states that in the U.S. “Alzheimer’s disease rates are projected to increase 50% from 2018 levels by 2038.” The authors attribute this significant rate increase to consumption of meats and ultra processed foods.

The article states that “meat raised risk of dementia the most.” Meat consumption increased dementia risk factors such as saturated fat, inflammation, insulin resistance and oxidative stress.

Ultra processed foods consumption is associated with increased risk of both obesity and diabetes, which are risk factors for Alzheimer’s. Ultra processed foods tend to be less filling, nutritionally inferior, high in calories, and low in fiber. They include artificial colors and preservatives, trans fats, sugar, refined grains, and partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

Ultra processed foods include ice cream, breakfast cereals, processed meats, energy drinks, many ready-to-heat products, margarine, soda, fruit drinks, and mass-produced breads, buns, cakes and pastries, etc.

Foods “such as green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits and vegetables, legumes (like beans), nuts, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains” were protective against Alzheimer’s. These foods are “all important sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which are essential for optimal health.”

Alzheimer’s articles within the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine website state: “The Chicago Health and Aging Study reported that individuals with the most saturated fat in their diets had more than three times the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease when compared to those who generally avoided these fats.”

Alzheimer’s risk “is greater in people who consume high amounts of cholesterol, saturated fat, and excess calories and low amounts of fiber, vegetables and fruits. Sources of saturated fat and cholesterol include red meat, chicken, fish, dairy products, and eggs. Saturated fats are associated with the production of plaques within the brain.”

Michael Greger, M.D., FACLM stated that Alzheimer’s is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and that up to half of these cases may have been preventable through lifestyle changes.

Peer reviewed literature suggests that consumption of animal products and ultra processed foods are associated with various cancers and increases in all-cause mortality.

Our local grocery stores are oversupplied with unhealthy animal products and ultra processed foods, and undersupplied with a variety of nutrient rich whole plant foods. Our local communities deserve healthy food choices at competitive prices.

Randy Johnston

Potsdam