21 Dec Trans Fats Lead to Memory Loss

We all know to avoid trans fats, but did you know they can lead to memory loss? Whether or not we do is a different case. Studies have proven year after year that higher consumption of trans fats can increase your risk of obesity and cardiovascular disease. Still, a recent study has shown that trans fat consumption also lowers your memory recall. The study was presented just back in 2014 at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions by the University of California at San Diego and supports a clear association between higher trans fat consumption and worse memory performance in those under the age of 45 (test group). The study was done with those in their critical career-building years, so you can imagine how trans fats affect you as you age.

The manufactured form of trans fat, known as partially hydrogenated oil, can be found in a variety of food products, including:

• Commercial baked goods, such as cakes, cookies and pies
• Shortening
• Microwave popcorn
• Frozen pizza
• Refrigerated dough, such as biscuits and rolls
• Fried foods, including french fries, doughnuts and fried chicken
• Nondairy coffee creamer
• Stick margarine

Industrial fatty acids contain pro-oxidants and cell energy harms, whereas foods with antioxidants and cell energy benefits are favorably linked to better memory. And if you ever needed a better reason to remember not to eat foods with trans fat, remember how doing so saves your mind and prevents memory loss.

There have been many regulatory moves to limit our trans fat intake, but US regulations do not extend worldwide. The long-term implications of high trans fat intake for memory are currently unknown.

Read the latest from the American Heart Association 2014 Scientific Sessions here.

Talk to an expert at Charleston HealthSpan.