Scientists at Stony Brook University in the United States have determined that neurobiological changes associated with aging occur as early as people approaching 50 years of age. However, this can be avoided by reducing the amount of carbohydrates consumed. An easy way to keep your mind alive in old age is reported in a press release on MedicalXpress.
The study involved about a thousand people aged 18 to 88 years. They underwent a brain scan using functional magnetic resonance imaging. It turned out that with age, the functional connection between brain regions deteriorates, which is associated with a decrease in cognitive functions and an increase in insulin resistance. Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes block the ability of neurons to efficiently metabolize glucose.
Scientists evaluated the stability of the brain on two diets: regular and low-carb, which includes meat or fish with salad, but excluding sugar, grains, rice and starchy vegetables. In a standard diet, glucose is the main "fuel", while in a low-carb diet, ketones replace it.
The results showed that signs of brain aging appeared as early as 47 years old, with the most rapid deterioration occurring at age 60. Even in young people under the age of 50, the ketone diet increased overall brain activity and stabilized functional networks.
