The results of this study are quite interesting.
They studied two groups of rats. Both groups were trained for five days to navigate a maze with one exit, and both groups were fed standard rat chow.
Following five days of training sessions, both groups were given a fructose solution as drinking water for six weeks. The second group, however, was also fed omega-3 fatty acids.
After six weeks, the group that did not eat any omega-3 fatty acids were much slower in navigating the maze that they were trained to navigate. The second group that ate omega-3 fatty acids in addition to the fructose water were much faster in navigating the maze.
It appears that fructose can block insulin's ability to regulate how brain cells use and store sugar for energy that is needed for processing thoughts, memory and learning. In other words, a high fructose diet can harm your brain's ability to function properly.
On the other hand, omega-3 fatty acids appear to counteract the negative influences of fructose on the brain.
The conclusion on brain health is that fructose is bad, and omega-3 fatty acids are good.
For optimum health, it is best to stay away from highly processed foods that contain a lot of fructose. However, we all fall to the temptation of a sugary snack from time to time. If you keep your omega-3 fatty acid levels in your blood stream on the high side by eating a lot of cold water fish, walnuts and flaxseeds, your body should be able to counteract an occasional unhealthy snack.
But,
- If you want to minimize your risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- And you want to maintain a healthy body weight
- And you want to minimize your risk of developing fatty liver disease
- And you want your brain to function at its best,
Charles A. Pennison
References:
UCLA News: " This is your brain on sugar: UCLA study shows high-fructose diet sabotages learning, memory "