For decades, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been a common tool for assessing health. However, emerging research suggests that waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) might offer a more accurate reflection of cognitive health in older age, especially when paired with a healthy diet. A recent study reveals that people who manage their waist-to-hip ratio and follow a nutritious diet during midlife may have better brain health as they grow older.
Since its inception in the 1970s, BMI has been used to measure body fat and assess risks for various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, researchers have found that BMI has its limitations, which has led to increased focus on waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) as an alternative health indicator. Studies show that WHR may better reflect the risk of cognitive impairment, making it a crucial measure when considering brain health in aging.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open examined long-term data from the Whitehall II Study, which followed participants for over 30 years. The research looked at the impact of diet and waist-to-hip ratio on brain health during midlife and found that those with healthier diets and lower WHR in midlife had better cognitive function and brain connectivity in older age.
Researchers collected health data from participants at ages 48 to 70, focusing on diet and WHR at three different points during their lives. By focusing on midlife, the study aimed to identify critical windows where lifestyle changes could prevent cognitive decline and reduce dementia risk.
According to Dr. Daria E. A. Jensen, the lead researcher, “This period in life is vital for interventions to maintain cognitive health. Our study aimed to understand how diet quality and abdominal fat affect brain function over time, helping us better understand how to maintain cognitive function into later years.”
The findings revealed that participants who maintained a healthier diet and a lower WHR had stronger brain connectivity, particularly in the hippocampus—a key area for memory and learning. Additionally, these individuals showed better working memory and executive function as they aged.
“Managing abdominal fat in midlife can enhance brain function and reduce cognitive decline,” Dr. Jensen said. “Our study found that higher abdominal fat was associated with poorer cognitive performance, suggesting that lowering this fat could preserve essential cognitive functions like memory and decision-making in old age.”
Molly Rapozo, a registered dietitian and nutrition expert, explained, “This research provides critical insight into how lifestyle factors like diet and abdominal fat management can positively affect brain health. As the global population ages, it’s essential to find ways to prevent cognitive decline and reduce healthcare costs associated with dementia.”
As lifestyle-related risk factors continue to impact brain health, these findings emphasize the importance of early interventions, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight and eating well.
This study highlights the vital role of everyday health choices and underscores the significance of taking action in midlife to support long-term cognitive well-being.
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