Forever Young: Scientists reveal how to maintain brain youth even at 70 years old.

Year after year, on the same day, people celebrate their birthdays, marking the passage of time. However, different parts of the human body can age at varying rates, and a new study has found that certain habits can slow down the aging of our brain, according to Science Alert.

The new research was conducted by scientists from the Karolinska Institute and the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, with results published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association. During the study, an international team examined various biological signals to assess the brain age of 70-year-olds without cognitive impairments.

A total of 739 individuals were analyzed, and researchers highlighted the importance of vascular health in maintaining brain youth. Moreover, according to co-author and neurobiologist Anna Mersellia from the Karolinska Institute, they also identified habits that can slow down brain aging. These include:

• regular physical activity;
• adhering to a healthy diet;
• quitting smoking;
• monitoring glucose levels.

The researchers also discovered that factors negatively affecting blood vessels are linked to brain aging. The results suggest that physical inactivity, diabetes, and stroke are associated with brain aging, increased inflammation, and higher blood glucose levels. The study also found some differences between men and women. For instance, glucose levels have a greater impact on brain age in men.

The team utilized an AI deep learning model to assess brain age through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), previously training the model on over 18,000 scans of individuals without cognitive issues. They then correlated information from blood samples with brain age assessments, lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and cognitive test results.

According to another co-author of the study, clinical geriatrician Erik Westman from the Karolinska Institute, the algorithm used in the analysis is accurate and reliable, while remaining user-friendly. However, the researchers acknowledge that the tool still requires further evaluation.

It is noteworthy that previous studies have also linked brain aging to various factors, including:

• blood sugar levels;
• living in poverty.

As it appears that men and women have different factors associated with brain aging, the team now plans to investigate how individuals develop resilience by closely examining biological determinants, such as hormones, and sociocultural factors.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that could affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.