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Neurologists warn about foods that threaten brain health

Experts identify botulism risk in home canned foods, ciguatera from large reef fish, and pork tapeworm related neurocysticercosis, with guidance to refrigerate leftovers and discard damaged cans.

August 9, 2025 at 11:47 PM
blur Neurologists reveal the top 3 foods to avoid to protect your brain and nervous system

Neurologists identify foods that can carry toxins or parasites and share safety tips.

Neurologists warn about foods that threaten brain health

Neurologists warn that everyday foods can affect the brain. Improperly canned or preserved foods can host botulinum toxin and heating may not fully neutralize it. Large reef fish such as barracuda, grouper and amberjack can carry ciguatoxins that travel up the food chain. Pork tapeworm eggs can cause neurocysticercosis, a parasite infection linked to epilepsy. The experts say readers should avoid certain parts of fish, limit large predatory species, and practice good hygiene and safe food handling.

Public health guidance from the CDC and USDA suggests refrigerating leftovers promptly, discarding damaged cans, and choosing safe water and produce. The article notes that ciguatera affects tens of thousands of people worldwide each year, and about 1,000 U.S. hospitalizations are linked to neurocysticercosis annually, with cases concentrated in several states. It also reminds readers that the brain health benefits of berries, nuts, fatty fish and dark chocolate remain part of balanced diets when paired with proper safety practices.

Key Takeaways

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Some home canning practices can create botulinum toxin risk
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Bulging or damaged cans should be discarded
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Ciguatoxin from large reef fish can cause lasting neurological symptoms
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Cooking does not always destroy certain toxins like ciguatoxin
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Pork tapeworm eggs can lead to neurocysticercosis and epilepsy
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Follow CDC and USDA guidelines for safe food handling and storage
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Geography and food sourcing affect risk levels

"When in doubt, throw it out"

Dr. Bing Chen on canned foods safety

"Botulinum toxin is odorless and tasteless"

Chen notes the toxin is hard to detect

"Avoid large predatory fish to limit ciguatera risk"

Chen warns about toxins in certain fish

"Neurocysticercosis is one of the leading causes of acquired epilepsy worldwide"

Dr. Chen explains the condition’s impact

The piece shows how health reporting must balance benefits and hazards. It emphasizes that brain health can be influenced by everyday choices, not just rare incidents, and it relies on credible sources like the CDC and medical experts to guide readers. It also highlights the role of social media in spreading safety messages and the need for careful framing to avoid alarm.

It is a reminder that risk is context dependent. Geography, food sourcing, and storage practices shape the likelihood of exposure. The article suggests readers follow established guidelines and seek reliable sources rather than sensational headlines, underscoring the ongoing collaboration between scientists, public health agencies and the public in reducing preventable brain injuries.

Highlights

  • When in doubt, throw it out
  • Botulinum toxin is odorless and tasteless
  • Avoid large predatory fish to limit ciguatera risk
  • Neurocysticercosis is one of the leading causes of acquired epilepsy worldwide

Food safety and brain health risk

The article highlights several serious brain health hazards from foods and home preparation, including botulism from improperly canned foods, ciguatera from reef fish, and neurocysticercosis from pork tapeworm. It emphasizes following CDC and USDA guidelines to prevent illness and notes how readers may misinterpret rare risks as common.

Food safety is a daily habit, not a headline.

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