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Picture of the human brain deteriorating
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UCLA professor of Neurology Paul Thompson, recently studied the affects of obesity and the brain concluding that it can lead to Alzheimer's.
Thompson, who is also the senior author of the study called, "Obese People Have 'Severe Brain Degeneration,'" based his study on the findings from 94 test subjects, all of whom are over the age of 70.
In this study he says, "[Obese] People have 8% less brain tissue than normal weight individuals. Their brains look 16 years older than that of a lean individual." This is called severe brain degeneration.
"This is a big loss of tissue and it depletes your cognitive reserves," he goes on to state, "this puts [plus sized] individuals at much greater risk of Alzheimer's and other diseases that attacks the brain."
So what is Thompson's suggestion for prevention? "You can greatly reduce your risk for Alzheimer's, if you can eat healthily and keep your weight under control." These findings are detailed in the online journal, Human Brain Mapping.
This study is based on the finds of but a meek amount of test subjects, all ranging over the age of 70. There is no concrete evidence to show that this holds weight, nor that every obese person has a "bad diet", rich in highly processed foods, and yet this study is to hold merit?
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), more than 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's. The disease begins around the age of 60, and begins to increase every 5 years or so. Nowhere does is state, "Obesity is/can be the cause." However it does state that, "Age is the most important known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease." The CDC also notes that genetics/family history plays a key role in the determination of whether a person will show sighs of Alzheimer's or not. (Diabetes can also affect the brain's health.)
Scientists are still researching the disease and are looking at every factor possible; age, environment as well as diet and exercise. Scientists and Researchers are no more closer to finding hard evidence indicating if weight is a factotum, however, a person should always maintain a healthy diet and exercise regime (A person should always check their BMI regularly,) to avoid health risks that may later arise with age.
Furthermore, if a person uses brain exercise activities such as crossword puzzles, brain teasers, and regular readings, this may help to keep the brain active and healthy, and can possibly help to aid in defense of Alzheimer's disease.
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Comments
Wow!
That is a very interesting report.
Thank you for writing this! I think Paul Thompson has his own agenda as far as his manipulation of the facts, and non-facts for that matter. Maybe next he'll come out with a report that heavy people (in their 70's) are more likely to get age-spots.
Knowledge is always power. Since his report was based on a low number of patients I think more studies should be done. However, healthy living is always more favorable in keeping down your risks to any disease. Keep healthy. Thanks for the info.
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