The Impact of Body Fat and Inflammation on Memory

The relationship between excess body weight and memory is one that researchers are just beginning to unravel. Body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio have both been shown to correlate with cognitive function and memory.

The mechanisms by which excess body fat relates to memory were explored by researchers in a study investigating BMI and working memory--a type of short-term memory that holds small amounts of information that may be used in the immediate future to reason, make decisions, and guide behavior. Working memory is also an important component of sticking with a weight-loss program.

Researchers specifically looked at inflammation as a possible mediator between obesity and memory by looking at a common marker of inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP). Working memory was assessed by measuring how many numbers a participant could remember and then repeat backwards, while obesity was measured through BMI.

The study looked at about 11,000 participants, aged between 25 and 34. Researchers found a strong correlation between BMI, CRP, and lower working memory, with CRP, an indicator of inflammation, seeming to mediate the relationship between obesity and memory decline.

These findings indicate that focusing on treating inflammation, rather than just excess body fat, may be more effective in preserving cognitive function. Since inflammation causes higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that negatively impacts the hippocampus, the memory center of the brain, lowering inflammation through dietary changes and supplements may improve memory.

Reducing consumption of inflammatory foods, such as sugar, while increasing intake of substances like magnesium, probiotics, fish oil, turmeric, and fiber, could help lower inflammation and produce better memory retention. Weight loss itself can also benefit individuals who want to limit inflammation; however, since improving working memory may improve weight-loss-program results, starting with controlling inflammation through diet could produce the best outcomes overall.