Gabe Mirkin, M.D.
Full fat cells produce proteins called cytokines that turn
on your immunity to cause inflammation that damages tissue
throughout your body, including your brain. Researchers at
Toulouse University Hospital in France tested people first in 1996
and again five years later. During that period, overweight people
lost far more of their ability to recall words than their thinner
counterparts. (Neurology, October 2006).
Your immunity is supposed to protect you from
infections. When a germ gets into your body, your immunity
produces white blood cells and proteins called antibodies that
attach to and kill germs. As soon as the germ is gone, your
immunity is supposed to stop making antibodies and white blood
cells. In some people the immunity remains active and attacks a
person’s own body to cause heart attacks, strokes, certain
cancers, and even diabetes. This recent study shows that it may
even attack your nerves and brain. Being overweight can cost
you IQ points, and the most effective way to prevent obesity is to
exercise regularly.
January 15, 2007