Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Overweight and Dementia

Slim down now to stay sharp. Being overweight or obese in midlife may increase the risk of dementia by 80 percent.
Why you should mind your weight in middle age: Packing on the pounds now could up your risk of dementia later. People who were overweight or obese at midlife had an 80 percent greater risk of later-life dementia, compared to those with a normal body mass index. That’s according to a study published in the journal Neurology.

It can be especially difficult — and dangerous — to lose weight as you get older. Seniors may lose muscle and bone mass, along with fat, when they diet, which boosts their risk of frailty.
Getting your weight in check now can help ensure that your golden years are ones to remember. Incorporate at least 30 minutes of physical activity into your weight loss plan to boost your chances of success — and to keep bone loss to a minimum.



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