(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to Chelzea of Montevista regarding on her query on foods that are bad for the brain.)

DEAR Chelzea of Montevista,

Alright, we are on the final list.

5. Alcohol

Well, if you take this once in a while, there would probably be no permanent damage. But, if you have alcoholism and been binge drinking, then, you have a problem -- as chronic consumption of alcohol can shrink the brain and alters the neurotransmitters -- disrupting the brain communications. And sometimes, this can lead to severe vitamin B1 deficiency leading to Korsakoff's syndrome which can lead to brain damage causing memory loss, confusion, unsteadiness and loss of eyesight.

6. Fish high in mercury

There are some fishes which is high in mercury, which is a neurological poison. So, watch out for tuna, swordfish, orange roughy, king mackerel, shark, and tilefish.

7. Aspartame

Several studies have shown that this is associated with behavioral and cognitive problems. Though, its producers claimed that it is safe. But, as a chemical stressor, this can lead to damaging effects on one's ability to learn and regulate their emotions.

As a matter of fact, one study showed that in just 8 days of high-aspartame diet, it caused its participants to score lower on mental tests and feel more irritable. And another study revealed that people who drink a lot of diet soft drinks have greater chances of dementia or stroke.

Diet, indeed plays a big role in one's health. So, eat healthy and protect your brain. Having good memory is happiness enough.

Good luck!

Dr. Fritz

(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, "Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz." She is the program host of Secrets with Dr. Fritz over Hugyaw.com. For your questions, you may e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don't wish your letter to be published, we regret that we can't answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)