Most of us would be willing to try various tricks and tips to enhance our memory.
After all, our brains are vital, so it’s beneficial to boost their health whenever possible. Neuroscientist Robert Love suggests that our diet can significantly influence this, as certain foods can actually impair our memory.
He identifies three common foods that people should avoid to maintain their memory. In a recent TikTok video, he was joined by Dr Heather Sandison to discuss the subject.
When asked about the foods that harm our memories, she listed “conventional beef” as the first culprit. She went onto explain just why it might not be the best choice for you.
In the video, she explained: “When we eat red meat that’s been fed grain, cows are not meant to eat grains like highly processed corn, they’re meant to eat grass.
“Number two is breakfast cereals. Breakfast cereals tend to be highly processed and very high in sugar – a terrible way to start your day off. What you want is good quality fats and proteins, like what’s found in eggs, which is great for brain health.
“Number three, and I’m going to apologise in advance, but I’m going to tell you the truth – ice cream. I know you love your ice cream, and it’s very high in fat, very high in sugar, and when you combine those things together this actually directly creates inflammation in the cardiovascular system.”
The footage has racked up over 1,000 views since it was posted, with many people weighing in with their opinions. One viewer joked: “I literally just ate a bowl of ice cream, and now I’m seeing this. Ugh!”
Another commented: “Always such great information. Thanks.” A third person also replied: “Thanks so much for the information.”
Is there any truth behind the claims?
While a balanced diet is crucial, nothing can completely prevent memory loss. That being said, research suggests that consuming processed red meat may have an impact on memory.
A 2024 study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference found that eating processed red meat could be a “significant risk factor” for dementia.
Dr Richard Oakley, Associate Director of Research and Innovation at Alzheimer’s Society, previously stated: “Research into diet and the risk of dementia is a major focus of research. In particular, the effect of eating processed red meat on our health has been a hot topic.
“In this study more people who ate processed red meat went on to develop dementia and had worse memory and thinking skills. It’s important to remember that this doesn’t mean that eating processed red meat is directly related to developing dementia.
“It may be that people who avoid processed red meat are generally more health conscious and avoid other unhealthy habits that increase dementia risk.”
In the past, it’s been suggested that even a single daily bowl of cereal could heighten dementia risk. This is due to researchers discovering a connection between elevated thiamine levels – a vitamin frequently found in breakfast cereals – and cognitive deterioration.
On the other hand, other processed foods like ice cream are reportedly not beneficial for brain health either. One investigation revealed that if ultra-processed foods like ice cream make up more than 20% of your daily calorie intake, it could result in memory loss.