Faking It Could Lead to Alzheimer’s

The title of this article no doubt is likely conjuring up a few different thoughts. But the truth is that certain chemicals and food additives can cause disease and a range of health problems. There are many examples of this fact in action, and the list is growing every day.

A good example of this fact comes in the form of using diacetyl (DA) in food products. Diacetyl is found in a very large array of food products including microwave popcorn, margarine and any other food products. In fact, avoiding diacetyl might not be quite as easy as shelving your microwave popcorn and margarine either. Unfortunately, this highly problematic chemical is found in other foods as well including some baked goods and candy. Diacetyl, thus, may be hiding in a range of processed foods that you consume and you might not even know it.

The Risks of Diacetyl
So what is it about diacetyl that has so many people very concerned? Studies have now shown that there is a link between diacetyl and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. The reason is that the chemical is linked to a build up of the kind of brain plaque that is associated with Alzheimer's disease. This does not, of course, mean that simply because you consumed products with DA in them that you are destined to develop Alzheimer's disease. However, it does underscore the importance of removing this chemical from your diet with speed.

A Dangerous Form of Butter
This chemical has gained popularity in the food industry as it is used to mimic the flavor of real butter. So, yes, this is in part a cost cutting exercise. Additionally, this points to why it is a far better option to select non-processed, whole foods whenever possible and avoid processed foods that are high in chemicals, pesticides and preservatives. If you see DA on the label, simply leave that product on the shelf and move on to another option. Your body will most certainly thank you!

There are steps that you can take to protect your brain health in addition to removing chemicals and additives from your diet. One major step is to avoid unhealthy fats, such as trans fat. Replacing your unhealthy fats with olive oil, for example, is a great step in the right direction. Olive oil is excellent for both brain and heart health and has been shown to fight inflammation throughout the body. Fighting inflammation is of exceptional importance due to the fact that so many diseases depend on inflammation to spread.

Switching your diet for one that is high in chemicals and trans fat to a diet that is rich in healthy fat like olive oil will make a major impact on your overall health. Since olive oil lowers inflammation, it may also help reduce chronic pain issues that you are facing. Taking steps to reducing inflammation in your body will help you stay healthy, and removing diacetyl from your diet is a major step towards protecting your brain.