Red Meat and Butter May Impair Brain Function

Proponents of plant-based diets have long argued that eating meat and dairy can be detrimental to one’s cardiovascular health, but new research suggests that these foods may cause neurological damage as well. According to a new study conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the saturated fat found in certain foods can lead to cognitive impairment and memory loss over time. Analyzing the diets and fat intake of 6,000 women, aged 65 and older, researchers found that those who frequently ate foods such as beef, butter, and processed snacks fared poorly on three cognitive-function tests administered over a span of four years. Conversely, women who consumed more foods containing monounsaturated fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, demonstrated superior brainpower.