USA – New medical research suggests that the battle for a sharper, younger-looking brain may begin not in a classroom or library, but in the gym and at the dinner table. A large study presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) finds that people with greater muscle mass and lower deep abdominal fat — rather than just lower overall weight — tend to have brains that appear biologically younger.
What Did the Study Show?
- Researchers scanned 1,164 healthy adults (average age ~ 55) using whole-body MRI, then applied an AI algorithm to measure their muscle volume, visceral fat (deep belly fat around organs), subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin), and “predicted brain age.”
- The results were clear: those with higher muscle mass and a lower visceral-fat-to-muscle ratio had brains that looked substantially younger. On the other hand, subcutaneous fat — the kind just beneath the skin — showed no meaningful link to brain aging.
- According to lead researcher Cyrus Raji, MD, PhD, “Healthier bodies with more muscle and less hidden belly fat are more likely to have healthier, youthful brains.”
What Does This Mean for Brain Health?
The findings challenge the common focus on simply reducing weight or BMI. Instead, the study underscores that body composition — where fat is stored and how much muscle you carry — matters more for long-term brain health than raw weight alone. A leaner internal profile with strong muscle mass may help reduce risks of neurodegenerative diseases, including memory loss or conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
Experts say this offers a practical strategy: by combining strength training, balanced nutrition, and fat-reducing lifestyle choices, individuals can potentially slow down brain aging.
What Should You Do If You Want a Younger Brain?
- Invest in resistance training or muscle-strengthening exercises rather than only cardio.
- Focus on reducing visceral fat through balanced diets and healthier food choices.
- Avoid slimming regimes that lead to muscle loss, as not all fat loss benefits the brain.
- Consider body composition as a major indicator of health — not just weight or BMI.
The research highlights a strong connection between physical health and long-term cognitive well-being, suggesting that lifestyle changes today could help protect the brain for years to come.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.