Healthy habits linked to 8-year reduction in brain age
Healthy habits like sleep and social support linked to brains appearing up to 8 years younger.
Why it matters
- Healthy habits can reduce brain age by up to 8 years.
- Stressful factors linked to older-looking brains.
- Suggests significant control over brain aging process.
By the numbers
- 128 participants studied over 2 years.
- Protective factors linked to brains appearing 8 years younger.
- MRI scans and machine learning used for analysis.
The big picture
- Protective behaviors had stronger effects over time than stressful factors.
- Lifestyle factors measurably influence brain aging.
- Findings support broader applicability beyond chronic pain patients.
What they're saying
- Researchers emphasize additive benefits of healthy behaviors.
- Commenters suggest other activities may also help reduce brain aging.
Caveats
- Study focused on individuals with chronic pain.
- Broader applicability needs further research.
What’s next
- Further studies to confirm findings in other populations.
- Potential for lifestyle interventions to promote brain health.