Obesity is a major health concern and is linked to a variety of diseases. Now a new study suggests that obesity may cause changes in the brain that mirror some of those seen in Alzheimer’s.
The McGill University study looked at brain scans of 1,300 people and found that those who were obese showed a similar pattern of brain thinning in regions involved in learning, memory, and judgment as those who had Alzheimer’s. This thinning could be a sign of decreasing brain cells, and experts suggest that losing weight may be able to reverse some of the damage.
This study adds to the growing evidence linking obesity and Alzheimer’s risk. Previous studies have found that obesity can lead to damage to the brain’s blood vessels and the accumulation of abnormal proteins, which can raise the risk of Alzheimer’s.
“We do know that obesity is associated with other diseases that can affect the blood vessels in the brain, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation, all of which could lead to the breakdown of blood vessels in the brain and thus contribute to brain cell death,” said Dr. Joseph Malone, an assistant professor of neurology in the cognitive disorders division at the University of Pittsburgh.
The hope is that weight loss could prevent or reduce this brain degeneration. However, it’s important to note that other factors associated with obesity, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes, can also have a negative effect on the brain.
It’s also important to note that the study did not identify a target weight for those seeking to reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s or slow cognitive decline.
For those looking to reduce their risk of obesity-related brain damage, experts recommend a healthy diet and regular exercise. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and limiting added sugar and processed foods can help keep your weight in check. Regular exercise can also help improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing age-related conditions, such as Alzheimer’s.
