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Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon
Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon

Economic Times

time3 days ago

  • Health
  • Economic Times

Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon

Synopsis Hyderabad-based neurosurgeon Dr. Raveesh Sunkara has identified three everyday foods he strictly avoids due to their harmful effects on brain health. These include foods high in trans fats, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed items. According to Dr. Sunkara, these foods can lead to inflammation, brain fatigue, and even long-term cognitive decline. He urges people to opt for whole, unprocessed foods and be mindful of how diet influences brain function over time. Doctor Flags Three Popular Foods That May Shrink Your Brain Over Time Your daily food choices impact more than just your waistline — they also influence brain health in powerful ways. According to Hyderabad-based neurosurgeon Dr. Raveesh Sunkara, many common items found in kitchens and supermarket shelves can quietly impair cognitive function over time. In a recent Instagram video, Dr. Sunkara explained that three specific food types should be avoided altogether to support long-term brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive Sunkara emphasized that foods high in trans fats — often found in deep-fried snacks and processed baked goods — contribute significantly to brain inflammation. He pointed out that these fats, which may appear on labels as 'partially hydrogenated oils,' are commonly present in items like chips, pastries, and ready-to-eat fast food. Over time, this inflammation can impair brain function and increase the risk of neurological conditions. Scientific research supports this concern. Studies published in medical journals have associated excessive trans fat consumption with a higher likelihood of dementia and long-term cognitive deterioration. To reduce exposure, the neurosurgeon recommends cooking with healthier oils, such as olive or avocado oil, and choosing whole, unprocessed foods. Sugary drinks are another major concern. Often viewed as sources of 'empty calories,' these beverages not only add little nutritional value but can also spike blood sugar levels rapidly. Dr. Sunkara noted that repeated glucose spikes — especially from liquid sugar — can lead to brain fatigue and may even shrink brain volume over claim is backed by studies that show a connection between frequent consumption of high-sugar drinks and reduced brain volume, particularly in regions tied to memory and decision-making. These beverages have also been linked to inflammation and higher risks of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Sunkara suggests replacing sugary drinks with water, herbal teas, or other unsweetened options. The third category Dr. Sunkara advises avoiding is ultra-processed food. Items such as packaged snacks, sugary cereals, ready-made meals, and processed meats are common in modern diets but come with significant downsides. He explained that these foods disturb the gut microbiome, which in turn disrupts the gut-brain axis — a critical communication system between the digestive tract and the brain. Research indicates that this imbalance can trigger inflammation, hinder neurotransmitter production, and contribute to mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Instead, Dr. Sunkara encourages a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain a healthy gut and support brain link between food and brain health is clearer than ever. Dr. Sunkara's insights serve as a reminder that what we eat today can shape how well our brain functions tomorrow. By staying mindful of dietary choices and avoiding these three commonly consumed food types — trans fat-laden items, sugary beverages, and ultra-processed products — individuals can take meaningful steps toward preserving cognitive health as they age.

Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon
Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon

Time of India

time3 days ago

  • Health
  • Time of India

Beware if you eat these 3 types of food that could be harming your brain, says neurosurgeon

Your daily food choices impact more than just your waistline — they also influence brain health in powerful ways. According to Hyderabad-based neurosurgeon Dr. Raveesh Sunkara, many common items found in kitchens and supermarket shelves can quietly impair cognitive function over time. In a recent Instagram video, Dr. Sunkara explained that three specific food types should be avoided altogether to support long-term brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Trans Fat-Rich Foods: A Silent Brain Saboteur Dr. Sunkara emphasized that foods high in trans fats — often found in deep-fried snacks and processed baked goods — contribute significantly to brain inflammation. He pointed out that these fats, which may appear on labels as 'partially hydrogenated oils,' are commonly present in items like chips, pastries, and ready-to-eat fast food. Over time, this inflammation can impair brain function and increase the risk of neurological conditions. Scientific research supports this concern. Studies published in medical journals have associated excessive trans fat consumption with a higher likelihood of dementia and long-term cognitive deterioration. To reduce exposure, the neurosurgeon recommends cooking with healthier oils, such as olive or avocado oil, and choosing whole, unprocessed foods. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cardiólogo: El mejor método para un vientre plano después de los 50 (¡Es genial!) Té mágico desintoxicante Undo View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sunkara | Neurosurgeon (@dr_raveesh) Sugary Drinks and Brain Fatigue Sugary drinks are another major concern. Often viewed as sources of 'empty calories,' these beverages not only add little nutritional value but can also spike blood sugar levels rapidly. Dr. Sunkara noted that repeated glucose spikes — especially from liquid sugar — can lead to brain fatigue and may even shrink brain volume over time. This claim is backed by studies that show a connection between frequent consumption of high-sugar drinks and reduced brain volume, particularly in regions tied to memory and decision-making. These beverages have also been linked to inflammation and higher risks of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Sunkara suggests replacing sugary drinks with water, herbal teas, or other unsweetened options. Ultra-Processed Foods and the Gut-Brain Connection The third category Dr. Sunkara advises avoiding is ultra-processed food. Items such as packaged snacks, sugary cereals, ready-made meals, and processed meats are common in modern diets but come with significant downsides. He explained that these foods disturb the gut microbiome, which in turn disrupts the gut-brain axis — a critical communication system between the digestive tract and the brain. Research indicates that this imbalance can trigger inflammation, hinder neurotransmitter production, and contribute to mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Instead, Dr. Sunkara encourages a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to maintain a healthy gut and support brain function. The link between food and brain health is clearer than ever. Dr. Sunkara's insights serve as a reminder that what we eat today can shape how well our brain functions tomorrow. By staying mindful of dietary choices and avoiding these three commonly consumed food types — trans fat-laden items, sugary beverages, and ultra-processed products — individuals can take meaningful steps toward preserving cognitive health as they age.

3 warning signs of brain stroke and how to act ‘FAST', according to a top neurosurgeon
3 warning signs of brain stroke and how to act ‘FAST', according to a top neurosurgeon

Time of India

time3 days ago

  • Health
  • Time of India

3 warning signs of brain stroke and how to act ‘FAST', according to a top neurosurgeon

Dr. Raveesh Sunkara highlights the critical importance of recognizing stroke symptoms promptly to save lives. He emphasizes the 'FAST' acronym: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call for emergency services. Acting quickly within the first few hours is crucial to minimize brain damage and prevent long-term disability or death. A brain stroke is a medical emergency where every second counts. Recognizing the signs and taking immediate action is crucial. It could mean the difference between life and death. Dr. Raveesh Sunkara, a board-certified neurosurgeon based in Hyderabad, has listed the 3 most common and crucial signs of a brain stroke, and why it is important to act 'FAST'. 'Recognizing these stroke symptoms quickly can save a brain and a life,' he said. Face drooping The first sign of a stroke is visible changes in facial asymmetry. Dr. Sunkara said that a stroke leads to the drooping of one side of the face. The individual will find it difficult to smile evenly. If you see someone having a droopy face all of a sudden, ask the person to smile. If one side doesn't move or appears drooped, it's a red flag. This symptom occurs because the stroke disrupts the brain's control over facial muscles, typically on one side. Recognizing this early sign and taking swift action can potentially prevent severe brain damage. Weakness of arms or legs Another critical sign is weakness or numbness in one arm or leg. You can do a quick test in such circumstances. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downward or can't be lifted, it's a strong indicator of a stroke. This happens due to the impaired brain signals to the limbs, often affecting one side of the body. When the weakness affects the legs, it may cause difficulty walking or balancing. Difficulty speaking One of the most common signs of a stroke is disturbances in speech. Their words may be slurred, struggle to speak, or produce confused speech. One simple way to recognize this is to ask them to repeat a simple sentence. If they can't, or it sounds unclear, act immediately. Disturbances in speech happen when a stroke affects the brain's language centers and impairs communication. When combined with other signs, speech difficulty is a clear call to seek emergency help. Stroke signs you MUST not miss and ways to avoid stroke risk How to remember these crucial signs? Just think of acting 'FAST'. Dr. Sunkara urges everyone to memorize the F.A.S.T. acronym to recognize stroke symptoms quickly. 'F for face, A for weakness of arms, S for speech, and T is time.' Yes, that's right. Time is the most important step. Brain cells die rapidly during a stroke. How immediately you act and get the person to a hospital within the first few hours can make all the difference. Delaying treatment risks permanent disability or even death. 'If you see any of these signs, it's TIME TO CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES IMMEDIATELY,' he said.

Neurosurgeon shares 3 foods he avoids as they harm the brain and 'can even shrink your brain in the long term'
Neurosurgeon shares 3 foods he avoids as they harm the brain and 'can even shrink your brain in the long term'

Hindustan Times

time4 days ago

  • Health
  • Hindustan Times

Neurosurgeon shares 3 foods he avoids as they harm the brain and 'can even shrink your brain in the long term'

Dr Raveesh Sunkara, a neurosurgeon, took to Instagram on July 10 to share a post titled: 'These 3 foods are harming your brain'. He shared , 'As a neurosurgeon, these are the top 3 foods I avoid for optimal brain health.' In the video he posted, the neurosurgeon explained which common foods can be detrimental to your brain. Also read | Neurosurgeon explains how 'brain health is pretty easy to achieve', reveals foods to eat: Dark chocolate, fish, broccoli Want to know foods to limit or avoid for optimal brain health? Read on. (Unsplash) According to Dr Sunkara, by being mindful of your diet and limiting these foods, you can help support your brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline: 1. Food containing a lot of trans fat Dr Sunkara said, 'Here are the top three foods I will completely avoid as a neurosurgeon. Number one is food containing a lot of trans fat, such as deep-fried food or packaged snacks. They cause a lot of inflammation in the brain and lead to a lot of problems long term.' The neurosurgeon's advice on avoiding certain foods to protect brain health aligns with various studies. According to a 2014 study published in consuming high amounts of trans fats has been linked to an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. 2. Sugary drinks He added, 'Number 2 is high sugary drinks. High sugar causes blood glucose spikes, especially in the form of liquid. It causes a lot of spikes leading up to brain fatigue over time. This, in the long term, can even shrink your brain.' As per a 2023 study published in sugary beverages can cause inflammation in the brain, leading to memory problems and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Regular consumption of these drinks has also been linked to cognitive decline and impaired brain function. 3. Ultra-processed food Dr Sunkara concluded: 'Finally, the third is ultra-processed food, which causes a lot of gut issues. This leads to disruption of the gut-brain axis. Remember, your brain runs on what you eat.' Ultra-processed foods, often high in unhealthy fats, added sugars, and artificial additives, and can negatively impact brain health. As per a study, published in in 2018, they have been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and an increased risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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