A new study involving researchers from the University of Warwick reveals that our preferences for certain foods not only have a significant impact on physical health, but also influence our mental capacity, as they found that a healthy and balanced diet It is associated with good brain health and higher cognitive function and mental well-being, and even with greater amounts of gray matter in the brain (linked to intelligence) compared to eating a less varied diet.
Researchers studied the dietary choices of 181,990 people whose data was registered in the UK Biobank, which included a variety of physical assessments, including cognitive function, blood metabolic biomarkers, brain imaging and genetics, revealing new insights into the relationship. between nutrition and general well-being.
Each participant’s food preferences were obtained through an online questionnaire, which the team classified into 10 groups (such as alcohol, fruits and meats). A type of AI called machine learning helped the researchers analyze the large data set. The results have been published in Nature Mental Health and show that a balanced diet was associated with better mental health, higher cognitive functions and even greater amounts of gray matter in the brain (linked to intelligence) compared to those with a less diet. varied.
The study also highlighted the need for gradual dietary modifications, especially indicated in people accustomed to very tasty but nutritionally deficient foods. By progressively reducing sugar and fat intake over time, people can naturally gravitate toward healthier food choices. Genetic factors may also contribute to the association between diet and brain health, scientists believe, showing how a combination of genetic predispositions and lifestyle choices shape well-being.
Promote accessible and affordable healthy eating options
Lead author Professor Jianfeng Feng, from the University of Warwick, stressed the importance of establishing healthy food preferences early in life. “Developing a healthy, balanced diet from an early age is crucial for healthy growth. To encourage the development of a healthy, balanced diet, both families and schools should offer a wide range of nutritious foods and cultivate an environment that supports their physical development and mental health,” he noted.
Addressing the broader implications of the research, Professor Feng highlighted the role of public policy in promoting accessible and affordable healthy food options. “As dietary choices can be influenced by socioeconomic status, it is key to ensure that this does not prevent people from adopting a healthy and balanced dietary profile,” he said. “Implementing affordable nutritious food policies is essential for governments to empower the general public to make informed and healthier dietary choices, thereby promoting overall public health,” he adds.
“Developing a healthy and balanced diet from an early age is crucial for healthy growth”
“This exciting research further demonstrates that poor diet negatively affects not only our physical health but also our mental and brain health. This study supports the need for urgent government action to optimize the health of our children, protecting future generations We also hope that this will provide more evidence that will motivate us all to make better lifestyle choices, improve our health and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases,” says Dr. Richard Pemberton, a certified lifestyle and lifestyle physician. Hexagon Health GP, who was not involved in the study.
“Our findings underscore the associations between dietary patterns and brain health, urging concerted efforts to promote nutritional awareness and encourage healthier eating habits in diverse populations,” concludes co-author Wei Cheng of Fudan University.
