Obesity is a disorder involving excessive body fat that increases the risk of health problems. If the findings of a latest study are to be believed, being obese in older age may lead to poor cognitive health. According to the study published in the British Journal of Nutrition higher waist-hip ratio was associated with reduced brain function in the elderly population.
Scientists revealed that increased secretion of inflammatory markers by belly fat has been previously associated with a higher risk of impaired cognition.Previous studies showed that people who are overweight do not perform as well on tests of memory and visuospatial ability compared to those with an average weight.
"While we have known for some time that obesity is associated with negative health consequences, our study adds to emerging evidence suggesting that obesity and where we deposit our excess weight could influence our brain health. This has significant public health implications," said Conal Cunningham from Trinity College Dublin in Ireland.
For the study, the team analysed data from over 5,000 individuals.
The global prevalence of dementia is predicted to increase from 24.3 million in 2001 to 81.1 million by 2040. Scientists believe that the findings may prove to be an important intervention in dealing with the cognitive disorders.
Taking steps to reduce obesity could offer a cost-effective public health strategy for the prevention of cognitive decline, said the researchers.
Obesity is a complex condition which could trigger from a variety of reasons. Your diet plays a crucial role in managing obesity.
Here are some dietary tips recommended by our consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta, to manage the condition better.
1. Swap refined carb sources for whole grains. A whole grain is a grain of any cereal that contains the endosperm, germ, and bran, in contrast to refined grains, which retain only the endosperm. A whole grain manages to retain all the nutrients that are processed in the refining. Stock up on whole grains like bajra, ragi, maize and jowar and use them often. Try red, black and brown rice instead of white rice .You can use these whole grains for breakfast porridges.
2. Just like grains, whole dals are also a better bet than the washed dals. Rajma, and chana dals are some of the healthiest dals you can fill up your shelves with. You can cook them, have them in sprouts or in soups.
3. Avoid red meat and opt for lean meat like chicken and salmon. Adding protein with every meal could prove to be a game changer for anyone trying to lose weight.
4. Load up on seasonal vegetables. They provide both soluble and insoluble fibres in addition to vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
5. Stay away from trans fats as they are one of the biggest culprits of growing instances of obesity globally. Fast food, instant food, fried junk, cookies, pasta, burger and noodles- these trans-fats are spread all across us.
(With Inputs IANS)