How does muscle mass affect brain aging according to the Washington University study?

The study suggests that participants with more muscle mass tended to have younger-looking brains.

What type of body fat is most concerning for brain health based on RSNA findings?

Hidden visceral belly fat, relative to muscle mass, is linked to older-appearing brains.

Can losing weight with GLP-1 medications impact brain health?

GLP-1 medications can shrink muscle volume, potentially affecting brain health outcomes, though they can reduce visceral fat.

Home / Health / Muscle Up for a Younger Brain

Muscle Up for a Younger Brain

25 Nov, 2025

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Summary

More muscle mass and less belly fat correlate with a younger-appearing brain.
Hidden visceral fat, not subcutaneous fat, impacts brain aging significantly.
Maintaining muscle while reducing belly fat may protect against brain diseases.

New research indicates that a healthier body composition, characterized by greater muscle mass and reduced visceral fat, is closely associated with a more youthful and healthier brain. Scientists analyzed whole-body MRI scans of nearly 1,200 adults to identify an ideal body profile linked to brain aging. The study found that individuals with more muscle mass generally exhibited younger-appearing brains.

Conversely, a higher proportion of hidden belly fat, specifically visceral fat surrounding organs, relative to muscle mass, was linked to brains appearing older. Interestingly, fat located just under the skin did not show a significant association with brain aging. This suggests that the ratio of visceral fat to muscle is a crucial indicator of cognitive health.

These insights could have significant implications for brain health, potentially lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Experts suggest that focusing on reducing visceral fat while preserving muscle volume offers the greatest benefit for brain aging. The findings may also inform the development of targeted weight-loss medications and optimal dosing strategies.