Individuals possessing greater muscle mass and a lower proportion of visceral fat relative to their muscle mass exhibit indicators of a biologically younger brain. This finding was reported on November 25th by the journal Science Daily.
“Fitter bodies, characterized by more muscle tissue and reduced hidden abdominal fat, are likely to correspond with a healthier, more youthful brain. In turn, superior brain health serves to lessen the probability of developing future neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease,” stated Cyrus Raji, the senior author of the study and a Professor of Radiology and Neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
The biological age of the brain is determined by analyzing its structure via MRI scans. Concurrently, a full-body MRI permits the measurement of both muscle volume and visceral fat, which serve as indicators of overall physical well-being. According to Raji, the research reveals a correlation between diminishing muscle mass and an increase in hidden fat as people age.
The study involved 1,164 healthy adults, with females constituting 52% of the cohort. Their average chronological age was 55.17 years. Using MRI technology combined with artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, researchers assessed muscle volume, the quantity of visceral and subcutaneous fat, and the predicted age of the brain.
It was discovered that a high ratio of visceral fat to muscle mass correlated with a brain that appeared biologically “older.” Subcutaneous fat, on the other hand, did not play a significant role. The scientists further emphasized that building muscle and decreasing visceral fat are achievable goals, and MRI metrics could prove to be a valuable instrument for gauging the success of interventions.
“This research validates long-held assumptions connecting body composition biomarkers with brain health and establishes a groundwork for incorporating these biomarkers into upcoming trials of various metabolic treatments and therapies,” Professor Raji commented.
The media outlet Sohu reported on November 9th regarding methods to reverse brain aging. According to their publication, consistent physical activity aids in ‘rejuvenating’ the brain. The study indicated that individuals who engage in regular exercise experience a deceleration in neuron atrophy and undergo regeneration in regions governing memory.
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