Excessive belly fat or arm fat may increase risk

The researchers analyzed data from 412,691 people who were followed for an average of nine years. During the study period, 8,224 people developed a neurodegenerative disease. The most common diagnosis was Alzheimer's disease, but some also developed other dementias and Parkinson's disease.

The average age of participants at the start of the study was 56. Researchers assessed body composition by measuring waist and hip size, grip strength, bone mineral density, and fat and lean mass.

People with excess abdominal fat (central obesity) and upper arm fat (fat concentrated in the arms) were found to be at higher risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.

High bone density and fat concentration in the legs seem to lower the risk, and high muscle strength appears to protect against neurodegeneration.

These results are Previous researchThe study suggests that people with central and abdominal obesity are at higher risk of developing dementia.

another Analysis of several studies Weight gain, central obesity, and triceps skinfold thickness (a measurement of body fat in the upper arm) were all found to be associated with an increased risk of dementia.

“When you gain fat around your upper arms and abdomen, [neurodegenerative disorders such as] “Parkinson's disease is caused by inflammation, insulin resistance and cardiovascular health issues. However, these findings are associational and cannot definitively prove causation. There may be confounding factors that have not been adequately taken into account,” Glatt explained. Today's Medical News.

He also explained that while cardiovascular disease may mediate the link between body composition and neurodegenerative disease, the relationship is complex.

“Managing cardiovascular health is likely beneficial, but further investigation is needed to determine how changes in body composition specifically affect risk of neurodegenerative disease,” he added.

This study Previous research It has been found that increasing lean muscle mass may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and experts suggest that improving mitochondrial function in lean muscle may have a beneficial effect.

Study author Huan Song, M.D., Ph.D. Sichuan University Chengdu, China press release:

“This study highlights the possibility that improving body composition may reduce the risk of developing these diseases. Targeted interventions to reduce trunk and arm fat and promote healthy muscle development may be more effective in preventing these diseases than general weight management.”

But Glatt cautions that while increased muscle mass appears to be associated with a reduced risk of neurodegenerative disease:

“This may be due to improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation and improved vascular function, but it is unclear whether muscle mass directly reduces risk or whether it is simply an indicator of improved overall health and physical activity levels,” he said. MNT.

Although these findings are observational, they support previous research that maintaining a healthy weight and body composition is beneficial for brain health.

“Improving body composition through exercise, diet, and weight management […] “Neurodegenerative diseases. However, the direct impact of these interventions on neurodegenerative risk has not been fully established and such recommendations need to be considered as part of a broader health strategy,” Glatt advised.

and Growing Evidence We know that sedentary behaviour increases the risk of dementia, but the important point is that any kind of activity may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

This study is probably Exercises to build muscle mass It may be more effective than other forms of exercise in preventing such disorders.

by National Institute on Aging According to the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science (NIA), strength training once or twice a week can help you stay physically and mentally active as you age. This can include lifting weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight resistance exercises like squats, push-ups, and yoga.

However, the NIA advises that as we age, incorporating any form of exercise into our lifestyle can:

“Any exercise is better than no exercise. Even a few minutes a day makes a difference, and small changes can add up to big improvements.”