Being overweight ages your brain by 12 years: what BMI should you not exceed?

The effects of being overweight on brain health have just been highlighted in a revealing study. This research shows that a high Body Mass Index (BMI) significantly affects brain volume and the health of brain tissues, particularly in young adults and seniors.


Published in Health Data Science, this study led by Associate Professor Han Lv from Beijing Friendship Hospital reveals that a high BMI is associated with a decrease in brain volume and an increase in white matter lesions. The data comes from a cohort followed for 16 years, involving adults aged 25 to 83.

The results indicate that adults under 45 and those over 60 are particularly vulnerable. A high BMI is correlated with reduced brain volumes and more significant white matter hyperintensities (WMH), which indicate brain damage. Specifically, this corresponds to about 12 years of brain aging compared to those with a normal BMI.

Professor Han Lv emphasizes that maintaining a BMI below 26.2 is crucial for preserving brain health, especially for young adults. The generalized linear model and Mendelian randomization analysis used in the study confirm the causal relationship between high BMI and brain damage.

This research underscores the importance of public health strategies aimed at controlling BMI to improve neurological outcomes. Future studies should focus on acquiring longitudinal neuroimaging data to deepen these associations.