Healthy Lifestyle Didn't Change Brain Scans, But Still Helped At-Risk Seniors
This study suggests structured lifestyle programs may especially help those already showing early brain aging.
In older adults at risk for cognitive decline, a two-year program of exercise, better diet, and social engagement didn't visibly change brain biomarkers like amyloid or shrinkage. But people who started with smaller hippocampi (the brain's memory hub) got more cognitive benefit from the structured version. So the lifestyle changes may help thinking even without obviously reshaping the brain.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
Related Studies
All researchDifferent Workouts, Different Brain Wins in Mild Cognitive Impairment
In people with mild cognitive impairment (the stage between normal aging and dementia), every type of exercise beat doing nothing for…
Your Brain May Slow Down Years Before a Heart Attack or Stroke
In older adults, thinking skills started declining 3 to 8 years before they had a major cardiovascular event like a stroke or heart failure.
Two Opposing Brain Fuel Patterns May Predict Who Keeps Their Cognition With Age
Brain white matter (the wiring that connects brain regions) uses glucose differently depending on where you look.
