A recent study from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden has uncovered that both type 2 diabetes and prediabetes can significantly speed up brain aging, potentially affecting long-term cognitive function. Published on August 28, 2024, in Diabetes Care, the research examined data from over 31,000 individuals aged 40 to 70 and found that these conditions could make the brain appear older than it actually is. The good news? A healthy lifestyle might mitigate these effects.
Study Details
The research analyzed participants from the UK Biobank using brain MRI scans and machine learning to assess brain age relative to chronological age. Prediabetic individuals exhibited brains that appeared about 0.5 years older than their actual age, while those with type 2 diabetes had brains averaging 2.3 years older. For individuals with poorly controlled diabetes, this difference exceeded four years.
Worryingly, the gap between brain age and actual age widened over time in people with diabetes. However, the study also found that engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, and consuming alcohol in moderation could reduce the extent of brain aging.
“An older-appearing brain compared to one’s chronological age could signal early cognitive decline or dementia,” said Abigail Dove, the study’s lead author and a PhD student at Karolinska Institutet. “The silver lining is that healthy living may help diabetics protect their brain health.”
Preventing Diabetes-Related Brain Aging
The findings emphasize the importance of lifestyle choices in slowing down brain aging linked to diabetes. Here are three essential habits to integrate into your daily routine:
Regular Physical Activity: Exercise boosts brain health by improving blood flow and encouraging the growth of new neurons. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking damages both cardiovascular and cognitive health, accelerating brain aging.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake harms cognitive function and contributes to premature brain aging.
Conclusion
While the study’s design doesn’t establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it aligns with existing evidence that healthy lifestyle choices can support cognitive health in people with diabetes. As diabetes becomes increasingly prevalent, adopting habits like regular exercise, abstaining from smoking, and moderating alcohol intake is crucial for preserving brain function and preventing cognitive decline. If you have concerns about diabetes or brain health, consult your healthcare provider for a personalized plan that incorporates these protective habits.
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