Trans Fat Linked To Bad Memory, Brain Shrinkage

We all know that eating too much fast food isn't the healthiest of options, and now researchers have found that too much trans fat can actually increase brain shrinkage with aging.

A recent study published in the journal Neurology reported that elderly subjects who had high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins D, C, E, and B oftentimes scored higher on memory and thinking tests.

Subjects who had higher levels of trans fats in their diets (through margarine, fried foods, snack foods, and more) were more likely to score lower on these tests. Even scarier: Higher trans fats levels often correlated with higher brain shrinkage.

Although the researchers say that a larger sample is necessary to finalize the results, recent studies have proven that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which come from fish, does decrease the chance of Alzheimers in women.

Plus, trans fats have been proven to be detrimental to cardiovascular health. So upping the fish intake and decreasing baked goods and fast-food meals might be a good call.

The Daily Byte is a regular column dedicated to covering interesting food news and trends across the country. Click here for previous columns.