Story perspectives
Processed Meats and Sugary Drinks Harm Cognitive Health
10/8/2025
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Story summary
- A seven-year Virginia Tech study of nearly 10,000 participants aged 55 and older links daily processed meat intake to a 17% increase in cognitive impairment and each sugary drink to a 6% rise.
- Cognitive performance was assessed every two years.
- Researchers say additives and preservatives drive the harm and recommend cooking at home and choosing minimally processed foods.
