Study links better memory and reduced calorie diet

William Atkins
Tuesday, 27 January 2009 20:09

Science - Health

The authors contend that this effect (reduced insulin and inflammation) might be due to the reduced number of calories eaten by the one group. This group also lost four to seven pounds during the three-month period.

They added, “No significant memory changes were observed in the other 2 groups.” [Abstract]

Dr. Agnes Flöel stated that the lower levels of insulin might “increase the sensitivity of receptors” in the brain, which might allow memories to be retained for a longer period. [New York Times: “Another Potential Benefit of Cutting Calories: Better Memory”]

Flöel also stated that reduced inflammation might help the brain to work better and, thus, “promote aggregation of toxic proteins and promote insulin resistance.” [New York Times]

In other words, the brain works better with fewer calories.

They concluded that, “This interventional trial demonstrates beneficial effects of caloric restriction on memory performance in healthy elderly subjects.” [Abstract]

The researchers contend that the reason why a restricted calorie diet might help the improve memory in otherwise healthy elderly people is that: “Mechanisms underlying this improvement might include higher synaptic plasticity and stimulation of neurofacilitatory pathways in the brain because of improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammatory activity.” [Abstract]

They add, “Our study may help to generate novel prevention strategies to maintain cognitive functions into old age.” [Abstract]

Obesity and type 2 diabetes has been linked with reduced mental performance in animals in past studies, and with a greater risk of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, within humans.

A YouTube video on “Obesity Memory Loss and Dementia” is provided by the Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging (SIRA).