Obesity is a significant public health concern globally, with the World Health Organization reporting that in 2022, 16% of people worldwide had obesity. In the United States, the prevalence is even higher, with 41.9% of people living with obesity in 2020. The condition is also increasing among younger populations, with 160 million children and adolescents globally living with obesity. Being overweight increases the risk of various health problems, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and certain cancers.
New research suggests that obesity may accelerate brain aging and lead to cognitive decline. Studies have shown that obesity is associated with reduced brain function due to inflammation, a known effect of obesity. Adipose tissue in obese individuals releases bioactive molecules, including pro-inflammatory cytokines, that can affect the brain and contribute to vascular cell aging. This can impair the vessels’ ability to regulate blood flow and respond to neural activity, ultimately affecting cognitive function. People with obesity or high body mass index have been found to have reduced cerebral blood flow, which may be linked to cognitive impairment, especially in older individuals.
A recent study on mice found that obesity and a high-fat diet could damage blood vessels in the brain, reducing oxygen supply to brain cells and leading to cognitive decline. Mice on a high-fat diet showed an increase in senescence of endothelial cells in the blood vessels compared to those on a regular diet. Treating obese mice with a high-fat diet with a drug that selectively kills these senescent cells improved cognitive function. While the results are promising, more research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms involved and the safety and efficacy of such treatments in human cognitive function. Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight for individuals with obesity can help prevent cerebrovascular and cognitive changes in older age.
The study’s lead author emphasized the importance of delving into the specific role of senescent cells in the natural aging process and in relation to obesity. Understanding these mechanisms can help develop targeted strategies to improve the aging process and enhance the overall quality of life in later years. While more evidence is required, maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is crucial in preserving vascular health and cognitive function as individuals age. Specific foods and nutrients, such as blueberries, plums, beetroot, pomegranate juice, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds, have been shown to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress, supporting brain and vascular health. Further research and clinical studies are needed to better understand the impact of weight and nutrition on brain health and cognitive function.
