Weight loss slows brain aging by up to 9 months

Adopting a diet rich in fresh vegetables and low in processed foods may have significant positive effects on the biological age of the brain, according to recent research. A study published in April suggests that following a Mediterranean diet, characterized by the consumption of vegetables, seafood, and whole grains, or simply adhering to dietary guidelines, can slow the signs of accelerated brain aging often associated with obesity, with as little as a 1 percent loss in body weight.

The study involved 102 participants who underwent brain scans before and after an 18-month period, along with assessments of liver function, cholesterol levels, and body weight. The participants followed one of three diets: a Mediterranean diet with an emphasis on nuts, fish, and chicken; a Mediterranean diet with additional items like green tea for polyphenols; or a diet based on general healthy eating guidelines.

The analysis of brain scans revealed that, on average, participants lost around 2.3 kilograms, and for every 1 percent of body weight lost following a prescribed diet or health guidelines, their brains appeared almost nine months younger than their chronological age.

Weight loss slows brain aging by up to 9 months

While the study suggests a link between improved diet and slowed brain aging, it’s important to note some limitations. The majority of participants were men who self-reported their diet and lifestyle habits through online surveys, potentially introducing biases. Additionally, participants’ activity levels at work and the inclusion of a free gym membership as part of the trial make it challenging to isolate the effects of diet alone.

Previous research has also highlighted disparities in health benefits based on socioeconomic factors, revealing that individuals with higher incomes and education levels experienced greater cardiovascular improvements from a Mediterranean diet, even with similar adherence.

In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing reduced consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages in promoting brain health. While the findings are promising, further research is needed to explore whether changes in brain connectivity translate to improvements in overall brain function.

References: 
Article source: Watson C. Weight Loss Slows Brain Aging by Up to 9 Months, Study Finds. ScienceAlert. 2023. https://www.sciencealert.com/weight-loss-slows-aging-in-the-brain-by-up-to-9-months-study-finds
Research source: Impact of weight loss following an 18-month lifestyle intervention on brain age assessed by resting-state functional connectivity. eLife. 2023. https://elifesciences.org/articles/83604