Ultra-processed food intake, cognitive function, and dementia risk: A cross-sectional study of middle-aged and older Australian adults

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption is linked to over 30 adverse health outcomes, including several risk factors for dementia such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. We aimed to examine the association of UPF consumption with cognitive performance and dementia risk scores, and whether these associations are independent of overall diet quality. METHODS: This cross-sectional analysis assessed 2,192 Australian dementia-free adults aged 40–70 years. Diet was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire and classified according to the Nova system. Cognitive function was measured using the Cogstate Brief Battery, and dementia risk was estimated with the CAIDE tool. RESULTS: Each 10% increase in UPF intake was associated with lower attention scores (−0.05 points) and higher dementia risk (+0.24 points), independent of Mediterranean diet adherence. DISCUSSION: Higher UPF consumption is associated with poorer attention and increased modifiable dementia risk, independent of overall diet quality.