Weight gain ‘boosts risk of dementia’
BEING overweight increases the risk of developing dementia in later life, according to research. A study found patients with insulin resistance, caused partly by obesity and lack of exercise, had more rapid mental decline. Resistance to the hormone means the body fails to burn sugar and stores it as fat, and is linked to Type 2 diabetes. Tel Aviv University in Israel tested 500 people for insulin levels, memory and other cognitive functions. Follow-up tests 15 and 20 years later showed those in the top 25% for insulin inefficiency were more likely to have accelerated cognitive decline. TAU’S Prof David Tanne said: “Watching your weight will help... protect your brain as you get older.”