Groundbreaking Study: Reducing Midlife Fat Improves Memory and Lowers Dementia Risk
A new study has revealed that maintaining a healthy diet in one’s fifties and sixties could significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Previous research indicated that a diet rich in fish, legumes, and vegetables while reducing sugar intake could delay the onset of dementia by up to 25%. Now, British scientists have discovered that following this diet between the ages of 48 and 70 enhances the activity of brain regions that begin deteriorating before the disease is diagnosed.
The study, conducted by experts from the University of Oxford, found that individuals with lower abdominal fat at this stage of life exhibited better memory and greater cognitive flexibility as they aged.
The researchers, describing the findings as “significant,” urged the public to adopt dietary strategies to protect brain health and lower dementia risk.
Writing in JAMA Network Open, the researchers stated:
“The global shift toward unhealthy dietary habits is linked to an increase in the prevalence of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity—all known risk factors for dementia.”
They added: “It is crucial to examine the impact of overall diet and central obesity on memory and brain regions such as the hippocampus.”
In this study, researchers tracked the dietary habits of 512 British participants over 11 years and measured the waist-to-hip ratio of 664 individuals over 21 years.
Cognitive performance tests and MRI scans were conducted at the beginning of the study and again when participants reached an average age of 70, to monitor progress and detect any signs of cognitive decline.
The results showed that volunteers who maintained a healthy diet in midlife experienced improved communication between the left hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory, and the occipital lobe, which processes vision. According to the researchers, improved dietary habits were also associated with better language skills.
Tips to Improve Memory and Reduce Dementia Risk
- Physical Exercise
- Aerobic exercise: Activities such as running, swimming, and cycling increase blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, enhancing memory and reducing the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s.
- Resistance training: Strength training, such as weightlifting, helps build muscle and releases hormones beneficial for brain function.
- Yoga and meditation: These practices reduce stress hormones and enhance focus and memory.
- Healthy Diet
- Eating fruits and vegetables: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is recommended.
- Omega-3-rich fish: Fish like salmon support brain function and reduce dementia risk.
- Avoiding fried foods: Excessive consumption of fried foods may accelerate cognitive decline.
- Mental Stimulation
- Reading and lifelong learning: Continuous mental engagement enhances memory and lowers dementia risk.
- Brain games: Activities such as puzzles and chess help stimulate cognitive functions.
- Healthy Lifestyle
- Getting enough sleep: Quality sleep is essential for brain health and memory consolidation.
- Reducing stress: Managing stress through meditation or yoga contributes to cognitive well-being.
