September 9, 2025 | 07:04 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - What enters the body not only affects body weight or heart health, but also has a direct impact on the brain. Recent research reveals that high-fat drinks like milkshakes can accelerate the decline of brain function.
A study published in The Journal of Nutritional Physiology shows that by consuming just one portion of high-fat milkshake, blood vessels in the brain can experience impaired function within hours.
In this study, 41 men from two age groups-18-35 years and 60-80 years-were asked to drink a high-calorie milkshake consisting of whipped cream, chocolate syrup, sugar, and powdered milk. The total calorie content reached 1,362 with a significant amount of fat.
Four hours after the drink was consumed, ultrasound tests found that blood vessel responses weakened. As a result, blood pressure became more difficult to regulate and blood flow to the brain became unstable. In older participants, the impact was even 10 percent more severe, which if continuous, could increase the risk of stroke and dementia.
The researchers Chris Marley and Damian Bailey from the University of South Wales dubbed the drink as a "brain bomb," in their article about the study in The Conversation.
"Our findings confirm previous research showing that high-fat foods disrupt the ability of blood vessels related to heart health to open, both in young and older participants," said the researchers, as reported by People.
This disruption reduces the brain's ability to buffer changes in blood pressure. This is more evident at around 10 percent in the elderly, indicating that the brains of the elderly may be more vulnerable to the effects of such food.
Although consuming high-fat foods occasionally is not harmful, it still has measurable effects. As shown in the study, just consuming high-fat food once has an immediate effect on the body.
The NHS, the UK's healthcare system, recommends that men consume no more than 30 grams of saturated fat per day, while women should not consume more than 20 grams. However, many of us routinely exceed these limits, especially when buying fast food.
The researchers added that their study serves as a reminder that eating patterns not only shape long-term health, but also directly affect the body and brain.
Kinar Laimaura contributed to the writing of this article.
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