Do you like hot dogs, sausages, bacon, salami and all the meaty things in your sandwich? Or are you that healthy eater who would make a nice salad, but add a few pieces of salami. Well, then, this may not be the best thing to do. As per a new study published in the journal Neurology, found that these cured meats may be linked to developing dementia and cognitive decline as you age.

Since the study came out, health authorities have urged people to reduce their intake of processed red meat because of its links with cardiovascular disease, cancer and Type 2 diabetes. As per the researchers it is because of the high levels of sodium and saturated fats, and chemical additives like nitrated and nitrites found in processed red meat that causes cognitive issues.

What did the study find?

The study found that if one person replaces just one daily serving of processed red meat with plant proteins like nuts and legumes, it could lower the risk of dementia by 19%. This means, the person would spend 1.37 fever years of cognitive aging. There are other non-vegetarian alternatives too, like replacing the processed red meat with chicken and fish, which could lower the risk of dementia and reduced cognitive aging.

Senior author of the study Daniel Wang, and an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health noted that by replacing processed red meats with other sources of protein, you decrease your intake of harmful ingredients. This in a way also increases the intake of beneficial nutrients.

Also Read: Should You Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods?

How was the study conducted?

The researchers studied the data on more than 133,000 men and women in the United States. These participants were tracked for more than 40 years. The participants were part of two different groups of nurses, doctors, dentists, and other health professionals who on a regular basis answered questions about their diets, weight, physical activity and other lifestyle habits.

The tests evaluated the memory of the participants and tested their cognitive functions at various points throughout the study. They were also asked to fill questionnaires that explored any self-reported issues with memories and mental abilities, this measure is also known as "subjective cognitive decline", which is used to detect early stages of worsening cognitive function.

The researchers also found that those who ate a quarter of serving of processed red meat or more per day, had 13% higher risk of developing dementia, compared with people who ate little of no processed red meat. The same also had 14% higher risk of subjective cognitive decline.

Unprocessed red meats were also looked at and it was found that they were not associated with higher risk of developing dementia or worse cognitive function.

Are there any limitations?

As per experts, while they appreciate the new findings and have said that it is very important to focus on dietary habits, many have also pointed out on the limitations. In fact, the authors themselves have cautioned that their study was observation, which means it does not prove a causation. The study also did not account for other lifestyle habits, other than dietary practices.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been dominating nutrition debates in recent months, but experts say not all UPFs deserve equal concern. Some may be far more disruptive to metabolic and heart health than others, depending on ingredients and frequency of consumption.

UPFs are industrially manufactured products that typically contain refined flours, industrial seed oils, added sugars, preservatives, emulsifiers and stabilizers. Several studies have linked high UPF consumption to obesity, metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease. One recent study even suggested that eliminating UPFs could significantly accelerate weight loss, while others have connected them to a higher risk of chronic illness.

Speaking to Fox News Digital, Eric Berg, a Florida chiropractor and health educator known online as "the Knowledge Doc," highlighted five commonly consumed ultra-processed foods that may warrant extra caution.

Ketchup: Small Amounts, Hidden Sugars

Ketchup may seem harmless, but many commercial varieties contain significant amounts of added sugar, often in the form of corn syrup. Even when consumed in small quantities, frequent use can steadily increase daily sugar intake.

Over time, this added sugar may contribute to excess calories and disrupt metabolic health. Checking ingredient labels and opting for low-sugar or sugar-free alternatives can help reduce this hidden source of sweetness.

Flavored Yogurt: A Health Halo Problem

Yogurt is widely perceived as a health food, but flavored versions can be misleading. Many contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners and stabilizers that outweigh their nutritional benefits.

While yogurt itself can support gut health—especially when fermented with beneficial bacteria—experts stress that the health impact depends heavily on sugar content, ingredients and portion size. Choosing plain yogurt and adding fresh fruit or natural sweeteners at home is often a better option.

Soda Crackers: Refined and Deceptive

Soda crackers are often marketed as a light or “safe” snack, yet they frequently contain refined flours, added sugars and unhealthy oils. These refined ingredients are quickly digested, which may trigger blood sugar spikes, particularly when eaten without fiber or protein.

Healthier alternatives include whole-food-based crackers made from nuts or seeds, which offer more fibre, nutrients and longer-lasting satiety.

Candy Bars: More Than Just Sugar

Candy bars are one of the most obvious examples of ultra-processed foods. They are typically made with refined starches, seed oils and artificial additives while offering little to no nutritional value.

Frequent consumption of such products has been linked by nutrition experts to poorer metabolic health over time. The concern isn’t just sugar, but the combination of unhealthy fats, refined carbohydrates and additives that may collectively strain cardiovascular and metabolic systems.

Ice Cream Cones: The Overlooked Culprit

Interestingly, it’s not the ice cream itself but the factory-made cone that raises red flags. These cones are often ultra-processed, containing refined flours, added sugars, unhealthy oils and artificial ingredients.

When paired with commercial ice cream, the result can be a “double hit” of sugar, unhealthy fats and additives, significantly lowering the overall nutritional quality of the treat.

The Bigger Picture

Experts emphasize that moderation matters, and occasional indulgence isn’t the issue. The real concern lies in habitual consumption of ultra-processed foods that quietly dominate daily diets. Reading labels, prioritising whole foods and being mindful of ingredient lists can go a long way in protecting long-term health.

Magnesium has become one of the most talked-about nutrients in the supplement space, especially among people looking to improve sleep, reduce stress, and support brain health. While experts consistently stress that magnesium-rich foods should be the first line of defense, supplements are often recommended when dietary intake falls short, provided they are taken after consulting a doctor.

Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function and overall health. It is involved in more than 300 enzymatic processes in the body, influencing everything from nerve signalling and muscle function to bone strength and sleep regulation. But not all magnesium supplements are the same, and choosing the wrong form could mean wasting money or dealing with unwanted side effects.

In an Instagram video published on February 2, neuroscientist Robert WB Love, who focuses on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease prevention, explained the differences between commonly available forms of magnesium. He also stressed why women above 50, in particular, should take magnesium intake seriously.

Why magnesium matters, especially for women over 50

According to Love, magnesium is essential for maintaining a healthy brain and body. He warned that when the body does not get enough magnesium through food or supplements, it compensates by pulling magnesium from the bones.

“Women over 50, listen up,” he said in the video. “If you don’t eat enough magnesium-rich foods or take a magnesium supplement to get the right amount, your body will literally steal magnesium from your bones to use in vital processes throughout the body.”

This, he explained, is why consistent magnesium intake is not just important for brain health but also for protecting bone strength as women age. Ensuring adequate magnesium through diet and supplementation can help support both cognitive function and skeletal health.

Magnesium citrate: Common but not ideal

Magnesium citrate is one of the most widely available forms, largely because it is inexpensive. However, Love described it as a low-quality option for brain health.

“It’s hard to absorb and can upset your stomach,” he explained, adding that many people experience digestive discomfort after taking it. Because of its poor absorption, magnesium citrate may not deliver meaningful benefits to the brain, making it a less effective choice overall.

Magnesium glycinate: Gentle and effective

Magnesium glycinate, according to the neuroscientist, is one of the better options available. It is well absorbed, gentle on the stomach, and beneficial for the brain and the rest of the body.

He also highlighted its positive impact on sleep and stress levels. Many people report sleeping better when they take magnesium glycinate before bedtime, making it a popular choice for those struggling with restlessness or anxiety.

Magnesium threonate: Best for the brain

Magnesium threonate stands out because of its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Love explained that this allows it to directly enter the brain, making it the most potent form for cognitive health.

However, it is more expensive and harder to find than other forms. Despite this, he noted that both magnesium threonate and magnesium glycinate are excellent options for brain support.

Magnesium taurate: The underrated option

Love also pointed to magnesium taurate, a form that does not get much attention. According to him, it is particularly beneficial for heart health.

“What’s good for your heart is good for your brain,” he emphasised, suggesting that magnesium taurate may offer indirect brain benefits by supporting cardiovascular function.

Have you ever had a weird craving that you were not able to justify? These are not just night-time craving that happens because you spend the time studying. These cravings happen at anytime, however, even after you ate the snack, you did not feel better. If so, then there could be an underlying reason for it, including a reason which could adversely impact your health. Dr Arush Sabharwal, Bariatric and Metabolic Surgeon at SCOD Clinic explains that these cravings often relate more to the body's energy and nutrient consumption that the food item by itself.

"The irregularity in meals, a poor diet, lack of water, and inadequate amount of proteins and fibers in food can disrupt the metabolic balance in our body and increase hunger peaks. If the nutrition in our diet is not good in terms of variety and consistency, our body might send out hunger signals even if there is an adequate calorie content," says Dr Sabharwal.

Furthermore, Dr Mustkim Khan, Khan Laparoscopic Surgeon and Proctologist at SCOD Clinic says, "Digestive health is a major factor that plays a role in nutrient assimilation and the interpretation of hunger cues. Deficient digestive activity, even with regular food intake, can result in nutrient assimilation difficulties, and the body responds by creating cravings for food."

What Does Your Craving Say About Your Health?

Chocolate

A sudden craving for sweet or creamy chocolate could be related to magnesium. As per Nebraska Medicine, chocolate bar, especially dark chocolates contain magnesium, iron and fiber. If you are anemic, or have low iron, you could be craving a chocolate, because your body is actually telling you to consume iron. While chocolate has a small amount of iron, it is easily accessible. Furthermore, craving chocolate could also indicate a magnesium deficiency, which is related to energy production and mood regulation.

Salt

When you are craving something salty, it is not only because you want something savoury, but could be because you are dehydrated.

There are several studies that show people who are on medications waste salts, known as diuretics. This is why people may crave salt. However, only some diuretic medications cause this, the main reason could be dehydration. When you sweat a lot, your body loses both water and sodium, this also leads to you craving something salty. The best thing to do would be to drink water or electrolyte solutions, approved with the World Health Organization (WHO), and your doctor.

Clay, Ice, Chalk, Paper

All of them sound weird, however a condition called pica, could actually make you crave all this. This happens when your body craves non-food items. Mayo Clinic suggests that craving ice, called pagophagia, is often related to low iron, this could be with or without anemia. Several studies, including a 2010 study by Y Khan, also revealed that pica is an unusual condition where patients develop cravings for non-nutritive substance, usually linked with iron deficiency.

Craving Carbs

Craving food high in carbohydrates like pasta, or bread could be because you do not sleep well. These food items are a quick source of energy, and when you do not get enough sleep, your body craves for energy, usually the fastest source.

Red Meat

This indicates that you may be lacking iron and zinc. Studies have shown that red meat, while recommended to not be consumed often, could make a healthy diet. Some studies have shown benefits with a small amount of red meat.

Other Factors Why Your Body Craves

While one reason your body craves certain food item is related to lack of nutrition, there could be other factors too, including:

• Hormonal changes, whether from stress, sleep deprivation, or pregnancy
• Low blood sugar could also be a reason why your body may crave for a quick energy source
• Dehydration: not drinking enough fluids could also intensify feelings of hunger and lead to cravings
• Boredom: When you do not have anything to do, this could further trigger a craving for unhealthy snacks just to have something to do

What Happens When You Give In to Your Cravings Of Processed Foods?

As per Dr Khan, sedentary lifestyle combined with irregular eating habit could lead to disturbances in gut function and bowel regularity. "This could interfere with the proper and efficient processing of food consumed. It could impact the appetite as well. Indigestion could lead to a feeling of heaviness, bloating, etc., after eating food," he explains.