Those who combined several of these factors had a brain age up to eight years younger than expected. Furthermore, the progression of brain aging was slower over time.
The message is consistent across all of our studies: health-promoting behaviors are not only associated with less pain and better physical functioning, but they also appear to strengthen brain health additively and at a significant level. Kimberly Sibille, senior author of the study
Young brain, less disease
The difference between brain age and real age reflects global neural health. A brain that appears much older than its chronological age may be more vulnerable to problems such as cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Healthy lifestyle habits are essential and can be as important as biological factors. These choices not only improve physical health, they also slow brain aging, including in people with chronic conditions.
Literally for every additional health-promoting factor, there is some evidence of neurobiological benefit. Our results reinforce the growing body of evidence that lifestyle works like medicine. Kimberly Sibylssenior author of the study
