Researchers have found that eating a diet with excessive sugar slows brain function, affects memory and harms learning. Overall, too much sugar causes you to stop thinking clearly.
Researchers believe that as we eat sugar, our body transmits messages to the brain, slowing down neural responses.
“It’s becoming very clear that gut bacteria has a connection with the brain,” says Kathy Magnusson, PhD, at Oregon State University and lead researcher. “Bacteria discharges components that act like neurotransmitters, and spark the sensory nerves, prompting various biological functions.
WSJ said the study also found that sugar can cause both short-term and long-term memory impairments. That’s just one reason processed foods are so bad.
But researchers are also working on how to counter the effect of sugar on the brain.
According to a study published in the Journal of Physiology, the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can compensate for the damage caused by excessive sugar found in processed foods.
These findings about food aren’t surprising, however, it can change how we feel about what we eat.