Do You Have This Shocking Alzheimer’s Risk Factor?!

Last week I told you about the top 19 risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.

Most of them are connected to lifestyle—which means you have a big say in whether or not you develop this disease.

Unfortunately, 72 percent of Americans have one particular risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

But it gets worse.

Because it turns out this risk factor also increases your risk for depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues.

If you have this risk factor, you’ll know it by looking in the mirror… or at the scale. Or if you look down and can’t see your feet.

Of course, I’m talking about obesity.

Fat isn’t just unsightly, it’s toxic. And there’s not much in your body that escapes its destruction.

Numerous studies have already tied obesity to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This recent study is different because it helps explain WHY that connection exists.

In a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, the brain scans of over 17,000 people showed that people with a higher body mass index had a decreased blood flow to the brain.

And as people went from overweight to obese to morbidly obese, the reduced blood flow got progressively worse.

This is a BIG problem since reduced blood flow to the brain is the TOP brain imaging predictor for Alzheimer’s disease.

What’s worse, the main areas impacted by the reduced blood flow were the ones that are especially vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease.

This is one of the largest studies ever done tying obesity to brain dysfunction.

And as if an increased risk of Alzheimer’s isn’t enough, reduced blood flow in the brain has also been tied to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more.

Trust me… no donut is worth the risk.

The good news here is what the lead researcher, Dr. Daniel Amen, pointed out:

“One of the most important lessons we have learned through 30 years of performing functional brain imaging studies is that brain scans can be improved when you put them in a healing environment by adopting brain-healthy habits, such as a healthy calorie-smart diet and regular exercise.”

In other words, it’s never too late to get yourself back on the right track.