Obesity gene linked to Alzheimer’s
Swedish researchers have linked an obesity gene to Alzheimer’s disease. Of the 1,000 elderly people investigated, those with the exessive weight gain gene were at an increased risk of Alzheimer’s (58%).
The research was conducted by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden over a nine year period and presented to the the International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease in Honolulu, Hawaii.
“It has been argued for some time that too many chips and chocolate bars could not only lead to a big belly but could also increase your risk of dementia,” said Professor Clive Ballard, director of research at the Alzheimer’s Society.
“However, this latest study suggests the link between obesity and dementia could in some cases be partly genetic. More research is needed to determine to what extent this is the case.
“We need a greater understanding of the link between genetic and lifestyle factors, but until then, there are things we can all do to lower the odds of dementia. Eating healthily and exercising regularly will protect your head as well as your heart,” said Professor Ballard.
