Increased Exercise That Lowers Insulin and Body Mass Index May Protect Brain Volume

Research published in Neurology  suggests a correlation of exercise and brain health may co-correlate with maintenance of insulin levels and body mass index (BMI) protecting against brain volume losses. 

In this study, 134 participants, mean age 69 without memory problems completed surveys regarding physical activity over the past year. Participants had brain MRI to evaluate brain volume and glucose metabolism. Information regarding BMI, insulin levels, cholesterol, blood pressure, and other health metrics was also gathered. 

Individuals who reported relatively more physical activity were more likely to have larger grey matter volume, higher cerebral glucose metabolism, lower insulin levels, and lower BMI. Correlations with other cardiovascular risk factors, include cholesterol and blood pressure were not observed. Physical activity levels did not correlate with white matter volume or brain amyloid levels. 

The correlation between physical activity and grey matter volume was dependent on lower BMI and lower insulin levels, suggesting that lower insulin and BMI may protect against brain atrophy. In contrast, the correlation of physical activity and cerebral glucose metabolism was not dependent on BMI or insulin level. 

“These results may help us to understand how physical activity affects brain health, which may guide us in developing strategies to prevent or delay age-related decline in memory and thinking skills,” said study author Géraldine Poisnel, PhD, of Inserm Research Center in Caen, France. “Older adults who are physically active gain cardiovascular benefits, which may result in greater structural brain integrity.”

This study suggests that controlling insulin levels and maintaining a healthy BMI with physical activity may protect brain volume, an important prognosticator for dementia in aging.