Aging can cause significant changes in the brain, leading to cognitive decline and memory problems as people grow older.

This deterioration in cognitive abilities is more pronounced in women, who are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and other neurological conditions. Scientists have been trying to understand the factors that impact brain health in aging women, and recent research has uncovered an unexpected predictor of brain health: muscle strength.

What the research says

A study published in the journal JAMA Network Open in October 2020 found that women who have lower muscle strength are more likely to experience cognitive decline as they age.

The study looked at data from more than 1,600 women aged 65 to 88 who participated in the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study. Each woman underwent a battery of cognitive tests, and their muscle strength was measured using a handgrip strength test.

The researchers found that women with weaker handgrip strength performed worse on cognitive tests, even after adjusting for age, education, and other factors that can affect brain health.

They also found that women with weaker muscle strength had smaller brain volumes and more white matter hyperintensities, which are markers of brain damage that can contribute to cognitive decline and dementia.

Why muscle strength matters

The link between muscle strength and brain health is not fully understood, but scientists have several hypotheses. One theory is that stronger muscles result in increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can improve cognitive function.

Another theory suggests that muscle strength is a marker of overall health, and people with better overall health are less likely to experience cognitive decline.

Additionally, muscle strength may be an indicator of physical activity levels, another factor that has been linked to better brain health.

Exercise has been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and depression. Women who engage in regular physical activity are more likely to have stronger muscles, better cardiovascular health, and improved cognitive function.

The implications for women’s health

The findings of this study have important implications for women’s health. Women are more likely than men to experience age-related cognitive decline and develop neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

While there is no cure for these conditions, there are things that women can do to improve their brain health and reduce their risk of developing these conditions.

One of the key takeaways from this research is the importance of staying physically active and maintaining muscle strength as women age.

Regular exercise can help to improve muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and brain function, all of which can contribute to better overall health in aging women. Women may also want to consider including strength training exercises in their fitness routines, as these can help to build and maintain muscle mass.

It is also important for women to pay attention to their diet and lifestyle habits. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide essential nutrients that are important for brain health.

Avoiding tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and drugs can also help to protect the brain from damage that can contribute to cognitive decline and other neurological conditions.

Conclusion

The link between muscle strength and brain health is a surprising discovery that has significant implications for women’s health.

Women who maintain muscle strength and engage in regular physical activity may be able to reduce their risk of developing age-related cognitive decline and other neurological conditions. More research is needed to fully understand the link between muscle strength and brain health, but these findings provide a compelling reason for women to prioritize their physical fitness as they age.