Leading brain expert brands soft drink a ‘bullet to your brain’ in stark dementia warning

Soft drinks have been branded a “bullet to your brain” by a leading dementia expert, who says cutting it out could help lower the risk of cognitive decline. The warning comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) this week released new evidence-based guidelines, estimating that about 45 per cent of dementia cases are linked to modifiable risk factors and may be preventable. WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Crucial dementia prevention tips Brain and dementia expert Dr Helena Popovic told Sunrise on Sunday sugary soft drinks were among the worst things people could consume for brain health. “They deliver a massive amount of sugar in a short amount of time. It impairs communication between brain cells and negatively affects gene expression in our brain,” she said. Popovic said protecting brain health extends far beyond what people eat and drink, with stress and social connection also playing a major role. “Toxic relationships drive inflammation, cortisol production which damages our brain,” she said. She also warned against social isolation. “Loneliness is as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day,” she said. She also highlighted alcohol - warning just 4 drinks a week can start “shrinking” the brain, artificial sweeteners, and even smoke from open wood fires as other everyday factors that can increase dementia risk. She also recommended cutting back on junk food, ultra-processed foods and packaged foods. “All those chemicals, artificial colourings, flavourings, emulsifiers, industrial oils and added sugars are toxic to our brain,” she said. She encouraged people to continue challenging their brains throughout life, saying avoiding monotony was just as important as avoiding unhealthy habits. “When you retire from work, don’t retire from life. Give your brain a reason to stay sharp, and it will,” she said, recommending activities such as volunteering to help keep seniors mentally active. While there are plenty of things to avoid, Popovic said the focus should be on nourishing the brain with whole foods rather than processed alternatives. “Every meal is an oppurtunity to heal,” she said. “Berries, leafy greens, raw nuts, olive oil, oily fish. Think sardines on a bed of spinach drizzled with olive oil, your brain will love it,” she said. Strength training was another recommendation, with Popovic saying it helps strengthen the connection between the muscles and the brain.