A University of Georgia study suggests that people with the highest body mass index may experience a faster decline in memory and cognitive skills over the years.
The research followed more than 8,200 adults over 50 years of age for a 24-year period, from 1996 to 2020.
Researchers analyzed changes in the body mass index and their impact on cognitive functions.
According to the results, a higher body mass index was linked to faster loss of memory and executive functions.
These include concentration, organization, planning, emotional control, and decision making.
The connection between body weight and cognitive decline was most evident in people over 65 years of age. Researchers also noted that the changes in this regard were especially pronounced about the eighth year of the chase.
However, the authors point out that the study does not prove that excessive weight directly causes brain damage.
They suspect that such processes as inflammation, poor circulation of blood, and insulin resistance can play a role in the relationship.
According to the lead author, Suhang Song, weight management can help slow down cognitive skills.
Researchers point out that identifying the risk factors that can be controlled is important in preventing the problem. /Telegraphy/