Link Between Obesity & Alzheimer’s

Researchers who followed more than 10,000 Californians over 30 years have shown that being overweight, especially during middle age, raises the risk of developing dementia later in life. In a study released in the British Medical Journal they showed that roughly seven out of 100 people of normal weight developed dementia, while for those who were significantly overweight it was nine out of 100. For women, being obese doubled the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, while for men it increased the risk by 30 percent.

The study did not explain what might cause this link, although it did eliminate potential influences such as diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol, which are also more likely to occur in people who are overweight. The study did propose several theories, including one that fat cells are known to produce harmful, inflammatory chemicals which may cross over into the brain. Another idea in the study is that a lack of dietary fats such as those found in fish might also be a factor. It should be noted that Personalized Nutrition Programs from Empowered Nutrition Systems not only help people lose weight, but also recommend a balanced diet that includes all essential nutrients including dietary fats such as omega-3.

As the list of health issues associated with being overweight and obese grows, we at Empowered Nutrition Systems are reminded of the importance of helping those courageous people who have decided to do something about their health and wellbeing. We look forward to helping more and more individuals make a difference in their lives so they can grow old with their friends and family feeling healthy and clear-headed.

Click here for a full article on the study.

One Response to 'Link Between Obesity & Alzheimer’s'

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  1. c unger said, on August 15th, 2005 at 7:54 pm

    The link expired, so I did not see the article, however sometimes these studies fail to distinguish between prodromal states which actually leave people sitting in chairs watching tv , becoming obese, because they are already on the very early road to Alzheimers, rather than causing the AD.
    Furthermore, the links between inactivity and obesity, and inactivity and dementia are fairly well established……..


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