This Type Of Body Composition May Raise Cognitive Decline Risk, Study Finds
Key takeaways
- Author: Zhané Slambee June 21, 2026mindbodygreen editor By Zhané Slambee Image by Fizkes / i Stock June 21, 2026Most people think of muscle as something that supports strength, mobility, and healthy aging.
- Scientists have been increasingly exploring how body composition influences cognitive function, with evidence suggesting that both low muscle mass and excess body fat may be linked to poorer cognitive outcomes.
- In adults with type 2 diabetes, this combination of low muscle mass and excess body fat was associated with a significantly higher likelihood of cognitive impairment compared to either condition alone.
Why this matters: practical guidance grounded in recent research or expert insight.
Author: Zhané Slambee June 21, 2026mindbodygreen editor By Zhané Slambee Image by Fizkes / i Stock June 21, 2026Most people think of muscle as something that supports strength, mobility, and healthy aging. But emerging research suggests muscle health may also play a meaningful role in brain health.
Scientists have been increasingly exploring how body composition influences cognitive function, with evidence suggesting that both low muscle mass and excess body fat may be linked to poorer cognitive outcomes. Now, new research1 points to a particularly concerning combination: having both at the same time.
In adults with type 2 diabetes, this combination of low muscle mass and excess body fat was associated with a significantly higher likelihood of cognitive impairment compared to either condition alone. Here's what you need to know.