the study This suggests that obesity is associated with decreased brain function. Although the detailed mechanism is unknown, inflammation — this is known Effects of obesity — May affect cognitive function.

“Adipose tissue in obese individuals secretes a variety of bioactive molecules, including pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can circulate and affect distant organs, including the brain,” Dr. Negri explained.

“These inflammatory signals may contribute to the aging of vascular cells, accelerate the aging process in the brain, and thus impair the ability of blood vessels to regulate blood flow and respond to neural activity,” she said. added.

some research Indicates someone is obese or has high blood sugar Body mass index (BMI) Cerebral blood flow may be reduced. related Cognitive function declines, especially in the elderly.

In this latest study, researchers investigated how obesity and a high-fat diet affect brain blood vessels in mice, and how this affects cognitive function.

They fed a novel transgenic mouse, a p16-3MR mouse that can visualize and selectively eliminate senescent cells, a 60% fat diet or a 10% fat diet.

In mice fed a high-fat diet, the researchers found that aging (where cells stop dividing However, compared to mice fed a normal diet, they do not release chemicals that can cause inflammation of vascular endothelial cells and die.

“The results of this animal study show that obesity and unhealthy eating habits can contribute to the accumulation of damage to blood vessels, reducing oxygen supply to certain brain regions and leading to a decline in cognitive function. ,” said Kelsey Costa, registered dietitian and founder. said a researcher at Deetitian Insights who was not involved in the study. MNT.

A high-fat diet increased the number of senescent endothelial cells in mice and also showed impaired cognitive function as measured by the radial arm water maze test (RAWM).

To investigate the importance of these senescent cells, researchers treated obese old mice on a high-fat diet with Navitoclax/ABT263, which selectively kills these cells. After treatment, the mice showed improved cognitive function.

“Obesity-related inflammation contributes to vascular dysfunction and may affect cognitive processes,” said genetic engineer Schebnem Junruischler of the London Institute for Regeneration, who was not involved in the study. said. MNT.

“Although the study was conducted in mice, it gives us a useful hint at what might happen in humans.”

“It is interesting that removing senescent cells improved the brains of obese mice, suggesting a way to solve obesity-related brain problems. Eliminating senescent cells appears to improve brain vasculature, which could be a good way to address obesity-related cognitive decline.”

— Shebnem Unruischler, Genetic Engineer

“Our study, along with that of other groups, demonstrated that strategies designed to eliminate senescent cells can significantly reverse or prevent age-related cognitive decline,” said Negri. the professor said.

“However, this promising finding does not mean we support the use of Navitoclax in healthy older adults as a direct therapeutic measure,” she cautioned.

Mr. Unruischler agreed that more evidence was needed.

“Further investigation of the molecular mechanisms involved and evaluation of the safety and efficacy of navitoclax in human cognitive function will be informative,” she said.

Negri advised that maintaining a healthy weight, or losing weight if you are obese, can help prevent changes in cerebrovascular and cognitive function as you get older.

“Our main objective is to delve into the specific role that senescent cells play in relation to the natural aging process and obesity. By focusing on these areas, we can understand how aging affects our bodies and minds. Ultimately, our research aims to uncover targeted mechanisms that not only improve the aging process but also significantly improve overall quality of life in later life. We aim to pave the way for the development of targeted and effective strategies.”

— Sharon Negri, lead study author

“By losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight, […] Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. Both of these are associated with cerebrovascular damage and cognitive decline. Additionally, a healthy weight supports good physical health, which is closely related to brain health,” Negri said.

Costa echoed this advice:

“Further clinical research is needed, but this is far from the first study to suggest that weight and nutrition directly influence brain health,” she noted. “Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise may be essential to maintaining vascular health and cognitive function as we age.”

“While regular physical activity and an overall healthy eating pattern are important, some specific foods and nutrients are being studied to see if they positively impact blood vessel health. Some of these include: Contains omega-3 fatty acids found in blueberries, plums, beets, pomegranate juice, fish, nuts, and seeds. These foods can improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress. It’s been proven.”

— Kelsey Costa, RD