Restoring cervical lymphatic vessel function in ageing improves brain drainage, reduces inflammation, and enhances cognitive function. This approach could counter age-related cognitive decline, supporting healthier ageing and potentially extending healthspan.
August 2024 – Nature Aging
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced brain drainage through cervical lymphatic restoration: Improving lymphatic vessel function in the neck area significantly enhances the brain’s ability to clear waste and excess fluids. This process helps maintain a cleaner brain environment, essential for reducing the build-up of inflammatory agents that contribute to cognitive decline as we age
- Better cognitive function through improved drainage: Optimised lymphatic drainage from the brain supports neural health by preventing toxic build-up, which can harm neurons over time. This process is vital for maintaining clear thinking, memory, and overall cognitive performance, especially in older adults, thereby counteracting natural declines in mental faculties
- Lymphatic health as a promising intervention for brain preservation: Focusing on cervical lymphatic function presents a novel approach to slowing or even reversing aspects of brain ageing. By prioritising lymphatic health, this approach may protect against neurodegeneration, offering an innovative pathway for those interested in maintaining mental clarity and cognitive resilience
Keeping the brain’s lymphatic pathways in good condition could be a crucial factor in promoting healthy ageing. Reduced brain inflammation, due to improved waste clearance, supports not only cognitive longevity but also contributes to overall healthspan, allowing people to enjoy more active, independent, and mentally agile lives as they age.
Read the article at: Lim, Wan-Yee, et al. “Restoring Cervical Lymphatic Function Rejuvenates the Aged Brain and Improves Cognitive Function.” Nature Aging, vol. 4, 2024, doi:10.1038/s43587-024-00691-3.