Myth: There is no link between obesity and Alzheimer’s.
Truth: This is false.
Studies have shown that obesity leads to prolonged inflammation, which can negatively impact the nervous system. Obesity has been found to double the risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s Disease. In the central nervous system, researchers discovered that obese animals had an accumulation of fat tissues in their hippocampus and hypothalamus brain areas, resulting in reduced appetite control. In the autonomic nervous system, researchers found obesity associations with sensory loss and dysfunction.
With this knowledge, there are steps an individual can take to make minimize their risks of obesity and Alzheimer’s Disease. Exercise and adequate nutritional intake have been proven to be effective at reducing the likelihood of either obesity or Alzheimer’s Disease.
For more information on this study, click here.
Reference
Reference
- O’Brien PD, Hinder LM, Callaghan BC, Feldman EL. Neurological consequences of obesity. Lancet Neurol. 2017;16(6):465-477. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30084-4
