Stress might lead to memory loss and brain shrinkage, study states

High-stress living is prominent in today’s world, more so than ever before. And while we know that stress leads to diabetes and high blood pressure, we have now got to know that it also results in brain shrinkage and memory loss. The research backing this has been published in the journal, Neurology.

"Higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, seem to predict brain function, brain size and performance on cognitive tests," said study author Dr Sudha Seshadri, professor of neurology at UT Health San Antonio. "We found memory loss and brain shrinkage in relatively young people long before any symptoms could be seen," Seshadri said. "It's never too early to be mindful of reducing stress," Seshadri added.

Cortisol is one of the body's key stress hormones, best known for its role in our "flight or fight" instincts. When we are stressed and on high alert, the adrenal glands produce more cortisol. The hormone then goes to work shutting down various bodily functions that might get in the way of survival. Now, if the cortisol levels drop eventually, you can assume that the body is safe from danger, however not letting your stress levels drop means the body experiences continued high levels of cortisol, which then does not allow normal functions to return. This would lead to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, headaches and trouble sleeping.

"The brain is a very hungry organ," said Keith Fargo, who directs scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer's Association. "It requires an outsized amount of nutrients and oxygen to keep it healthy and functioning properly. So, when the body needs those resources to deal with stress, there's less to go around to the brain," Keith concluded.