Comment: a recent article on the BBC website warned that being obese may increase the risk of Alzheimer and dementia.
Quoting from a Swedish study of people (twins) with a body mass index (BMI) higher than 30, who are therefore categorised as obese, it has been found out that the sample cases were almost four times more at risk to have dementia compared to people with a normal BMI.
Looking at studies of people with a slightly lower body weight (with a BMI between 25 and 30 which is considered to be clinically overweight), they were also 71% more likely to develop dementia.
In England 24% of men and 26% of women are obese https://catalogue.ic.nhs.uk/publications/public-health/surveys/heal-surv-eng-2011/HSE2011-Ch10-Adult-obesity.pdf
A study from the UK Health Forum forecast that keeping obesity under control could save £940m in dementia care. Tim Marsh from the UK Health Forum was quoted in the article as saying that we now need to monitor obesity levels not only to prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer but now also dementia.
The key message is to embrace a healthier lifestyle introducing non-processed foods and exercise in your daily routine. Convenience foods, a sedentary lifestyle and an emotional relationship with food can all contribute to weight gain. By reassessing your relationship with food you can improve the quality of your life.
You can speak in confidence about weight-related issues with us at Weightmatters. Together we can create a realistic action plan to help you manage your relationship with food and stay healthy.
To arrange a meeting with one of our specialists please email us at info@weightmatters.co.uk
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