Lifestyle and neurodegeneration in midlife as expressed on functional magnetic resonance imaging: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION: Lifestyle factors may influence brain health in midlife. Functional magnetic resonance imaging is a widely used tool to investigate early changes in brain health, including neurodegeneration. In this systematic review, we evaluate the relationship between lifestyle factors and neurodegeneration in midlife, as expressed using functional magnetic resonance imaging. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO combining subject headings and free text terms adapted for each database. Articles were screened, and their quality was assessed independently by two reviewers before final inclusion in the review. RESULTS: We screened 4116 studies and included 29 in the review. Seven lifestyle factors, such as alcohol, cognitive training, excessive internet use, fasting, physical training, smoking, and substance misuse, were identified in this review. DISCUSSION: Cognitive and physical trainings appear to be associated with a neuroprotective effect, whereas alcohol misuse, smoking, and substance misuse appear to be associated with neurodegeneration. Further research is required into the effects of excessive internet use and fasting.