Apparently, for women in later years, above average belly fat can lead to a 39% increased risk of dementia within 15 years compared with those who have a normal waist circumference, this according to a study published Tuesday in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

For men and women over 50, the dementia risk is 28% when considering body mass index and waist circumference together, the study said."

As belly size gets larger, the memory center in the brain gets smaller, based on prior studies," said Dr. Richard Isaacson, who heads the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell.

The new study is important because it supports these findings and relates a larger waist size to increased dementia risk, especially in women! One reason could be that dementia is directly linked to hormones derived from fat cells. Alternatively, body fat could be implicated in metabolic and vascular pathways associated with the buildup of amyloid proteins or brain lesions, known to be associated with dementia.

Take away, people who want to protect their brain health over time should pay attention to their waist size. Basically, studies have shown that Individual lifestyle behaviors could help keep away cognitive decline. 

Simply, the study results showed that interventions related to nutrition and physical activity came in as the two most important items that made a difference. Need help with staying Ageless? See how I can help you.

Again, awareness of the facts and science is one of the goals of Diva Over Fifty.  Because your choices now can impact the quality of life later in life. 

Don’t YOU want a better chance of aging gracefully and healthfully, with less physical and mental impairment? 

YOU deserve to have a healthy, happy and balanced life through wellness that is specific to your needs and goals.

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