Processed foods raise dementia risk; alcohol spikes cravings for salty snacks

A large cohort study of more than 133,000 people followed for several decades found that frequent consumption of ultra‑processed foods and processed meats such as bacon, sausages, hot‑dogs, chips, and sugary drinks was associated with roughly a 13% higher risk of developing dementia and with greater signs of cognitive decline. Researchers stress that the link is associative, not causal, and point to saturated fats, salt, preservatives and additives that may trigger chronic inflammation and vascular damage in the brain. They recommend replacing these items with fresh fruits and vegetables, fish rich in omega‑3, nuts, seeds, legumes, olive oil and whole‑grain products, diets such as the Mediterranean or MIND pattern that have been linked to better brain health.

Separate research from the University of Sydney examined how alcohol influences appetite. The study showed that drinking raises levels of the hormone FGF21, which heightens cravings for salty, protein‑mimicking ultra‑processed foods like chips, pizza and other snack items. This leads to higher overall calorie intake, while sugar consumption tends to fall. The authors advise that people who choose to drink keep protein‑rich whole‑food snacks—such as roasted chickpeas, smoked salmon, lean meats or shellfish—on hand to curb these cravings.