This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the link between body weight and Alzheimer's disease risk. Researchers analyzed data from thirty-eight studies involving individuals with Alzheimer's disease risk assessed by anthropometric measures. The analysis looked at body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-hip ratio as indicators of weight status.
The findings show that being overweight or obese appears protective against Alzheimer's disease in people aged sixty years and older. However, for individuals under sixty, higher weight was associated with an increased risk of developing the condition. Underweight status also showed a borderline increased risk in the overall analysis.
The study authors note that weight loss was linked to higher Alzheimer's risk. They emphasize the importance of age-specific considerations when managing obesity for Alzheimer's prevention. Further research is needed to explain the underlying mechanisms behind these associations. This evidence highlights that the relationship between weight and dementia risk changes significantly with age.