A recent study in Health Data Science highlights the significant impact of high cumulative body mass index (BMI) on brain health. Researchers found that that a high BMI correlates with reduced brain volume, increased white matter lesions, and compromised microstructural integrity.

Using data from a 16-year population cohort of adults between the ages of 25 to 83, researchers found that high BMI linked to smaller brain volume, more white matter hyperintensity (WMH), especially in those under 45 and over 60.

The study employed a generalized linear model to assess the association between cumulative BMI and neuroimaging features, along with Mendelian randomization analysis for causal relationships using genetic data.

The findings indicate high BMI is causally linked to smaller gray matter volume and increased fractional anisotropy in certain brain regions, underscoring the need for maintaining a healthy BMI to protect brain health.

“High cumulative BMI is detrimental to brain health, especially for younger adults under 45 years, where it corresponds to approximately 12 years of brain aging,” in a statement by study author, Han Lv. “Maintaining a BMI below 26.2 kg/m² is suggested for better brain health.”

H Lv et al. Association between body mass index and brain health in adults: A 16-year population-based cohort and mendelian randomization study. Health Data Science (2024). DOI: 10.34133/hds.0087