Study: Brain Aging Accelerates at 44; Ketone Drinks May Offer Early Intervention Benefits
March 26, 2025
The analysis revealed that certain brain regions aged faster than others, particularly those that depend heavily on insulin for sugar uptake.
Brain scans from the study indicated that disruptions in blood flow and electrical firing between brain regions, which are indicative of aging, began to intensify around this age.
The study utilized brain scans from 19,300 individuals aged 18 to 90 to analyze brain networks and their aging patterns.
In a small trial, participants aged 20 to 79 who consumed a ketone drink experienced reduced brain network disruptions compared to those who consumed a sugary drink.
Despite these promising results, the research highlights the need for further studies to assess the long-term effects of ketone supplementation on brain aging.
Lead researcher Lilianne Mujica-Parodi highlighted the unexpected early onset of accelerated brain aging starting in the 40s.
A recent study published in the journal PNAS reveals that brain aging accelerates significantly around age 44, with effects peaking at age 67.
These findings indicate that brain aging is associated with insulin resistance, where cells require more insulin to manage blood sugar levels.
The research suggests that ketone supplements might help mitigate certain aspects of brain aging by providing an alternative fuel source when sugars are insufficient.
Notably, the most significant benefits of the ketone drink were observed in participants aged 40 to 59, suggesting potential advantages for early intervention.
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Live Science • Mar 26, 2025
Brain aging accelerates dramatically around age 44 — could ketone supplements help?