How BMI Can Affect Brain Function

It may come as a surprise that your BMI could have a serious impact on your brain function as you age. The main reason for this is that having a higher BMI means that your overall inflammation levels are much higher than average. This has been shown to have a negative effect on brain activity. Right now, there has only been a correlation demonstrated between higher levels of body mass and lower cognitive function, and a causal link has yet to be fully established. 

In order to test for the true link between a higher BMI and impaired cognitive function, a study would also need to be conducted on whether reducing overall levels of inflammation in the body can also improve cognition. This remains to be seen in human trials. If this proves true, then more anti-inflammatory drugs would be prescribed to adults to manage systemic inflammation and to improve brain function at the same time. 

While the field of research on the effect of BMI on brain function is still in a state of flux, there is no denying that maintaining a healthy weight is a very positive thing to do for your health. We have known for years that a healthy BMI can reduce your risk of developing many life-threatening diseases, such as cancer, type-2 diabetes and stroke, but we now have even more reason to be mindful of overall BMI. 

In general, cognitive function is expected to decline as you age. However, this does not mean that you should simply succumb to allowing your brain to slow down at a faster rate than absolutely necessary. There is plenty of research that shows you can slow this process down by consuming a diet that is high in antioxidants, such as berries, in order to increase brain activity. Also, diets that are full of whole foods are better suited for helping you maintain a healthy weight and BMI. By getting physical exercise on a daily basis, you can also encourage your brain to function at a higher level. Studies have shown that your brain responds positively to intense exercise, which can be incorporated into your daily routine to make sure that you are slowing down cognitive decline as much as possible. At the same time, you will be helping yourself maintain a healthy weight.