Dementia warning as neurologist advises cutting out two foods that raise risk 13%

A neurologist has issued a warning over two popular foods, claiming they could raise your risk of developing dementia by as much as 13 per cent. The expert revealed how he limits his intake of these foods in order to keep his brain as healthy as possible.

Dementia is a syndrome, or a group of associated symptoms, linked to the ongoing decline of the brain. Most common in people over the age of 65, it can lead to memory loss, behavioural changes, and even mobility issues.

While some cases of dementia can be linked to genetics, has shown that around 45 per cent of dementia cases could actually be prevented by making certain lifestyle changes. With this in mind, one expert urged people to reconsider their diet in order to lower their risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

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US-based neurologist , who is better known online as Dr Bing, took to social media platform TikTok to explain more. The expert shared things he doesn’t do to keep his brain healthy.

This included eating two foods that are popular in the UK - sausages and bacon. He explained: “I don't over-consume red meat.

“Moderation is key and eating too much red meat, especially processed types like bacon and sausage, has been linked to a higher risk of dementia.” To emphasise his point he referenced a scientific study published at the start of this year.

He continued: “This is according to a recent research that's just published in , which found that people who eat more than a quarter serving of processed red meat daily have a 13 per cent higher risk of developing dementia compared to those who eat less.”

In the study, the authors concluded: “Higher intake of red meat, particularly processed red meat, was associated with a higher risk of developing dementia and worse cognition. Reducing red meat consumption could be included in dietary guidelines to promote cognitive health.”

He added that replacing red meat with other sources of protein could further reduce the risk for dementia. Dr Bing said: “The study also found that replacing processed red meat with alternatives like fish, nuts, or legumes can lower dementia risk by up to 19 per cent.

“So to protect my brain, I limit my red meat intake and also avoid excessive sugar as well as ultra-processed foods.”

To lower your dementia risk, the recommends you:

• Eat a balanced diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Keep alcohol within recommended limits
• Stop smoking
• Keep your blood pressure at a healthy level
• Stay socially active
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

If you or someone you know displays any symptoms of dementia, you should speak to a GP.