Obesity Can Increase The Risk Of Dementia

By Author: Tom Howarth
Total Articles: 6
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According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a gene linked to obesity may be associated to dementia. Obese people in their 40s have 74% more risk of developing dementia as compared to those at a healthy weight.


Scientists have already established a link between midlife obesity and development of Alzheimer's disease. But in a 3-D brain mapping of a number of elderly people, a pattern of diminished brain volume is found in people with fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) gene. It has been found that people with healthy body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference can have decreased risk for dementia as compared to others with an elevated BMI and waist circumference.


FTO gene has been shown to alter the function of a hormone known as leptin, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and appetite. This gene also affects BMI and increases the risk of diabetes. These factors can be collectively associated with the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia. There is a loss of 4% of tissues in the frontal lobes of the brain in overweight people as compared to ...
... healthy weight people. But in obese people, the brain tissue loss was found to be 8%, twice as compared to overweight people. This makes an obese person’s brain look 16 years older than the brain of a healthy individual. Also, type II diabetes, one of the closely linked condition to obesity, can contribute to brain tissue loss due to increased insulin level in the bloodstream which affects blood vessels and neurons.


A holistic approach towards weight loss


Holistic approach to weight loss is based on understanding the root cause of obesity and the underlying issues that are contributing to it. There are multiple other approaches that can help in weight management and help you reach the goal of having a healthy body and mind. It is necessary that we take responsibility for our lives and make healthy choices.



Genetically, it has been established that some people are at an advantage when it comes to weight loss. Each individual is biochemically unique and requires a proportionate amount of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in their daily food intake. Some people can achieve weight loss by making dietary changes, while for others dieting alone may not benefit much. Processed foods, caffeinated drinks, high-sugar foods, red meat, and saturated fats must be avoided for an effective weight management.


Xenical is more than just a weight loss treatment


Studies show that people can get effective weight loss results with obesity treatment by using weight loss pills. Xenical is one of the most effective prescription slimming pills available on the market today. It is found out to be a safe medicine to lose weight. It has been found that Xenical pill can help lose 5% to 10% of their total body weight in six to ten months' time. Studies show that even 5% weight loss is significant for an overweight individual as it not only protects from a number of obesity-related health conditions, but also improves health. Xenical Orlistat shows good results only if used in conjunction with balanced diet and regular exercise.