Research conducted by scientists at Arizona State University has revealed that a common nutrient deficiency may be impacting the cognitive health of young adults, particularly those with obesity. The study, published on November 27, 2025, highlights the connection between low levels of choline, a vital nutrient, and early indicators of brain stress that resemble patterns associated with cognitive impairment.
The investigation focused on young adults with obesity, who exhibited higher levels of inflammation, signs of liver strain, and elevated neurofilament light chain (NfL) — a marker indicating neuronal injury. These findings suggest that metabolic disruptions could affect brain health well before any noticeable symptoms appear.
Link Between Obesity and Brain Health
Previous research has established that conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance can adversely affect brain function. The current study indicates that these effects may manifest significantly earlier than previously thought. The researchers identified biological markers among participants, which included elevated levels of proteins promoting inflammation and enzymes indicating liver stress. Notably, the elevated NfL levels corresponded with low blood choline levels, despite the expectation that behavioral changes would not typically occur at this age.
Ramon Velazquez, who leads the study at the ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center, emphasized the role of choline as a critical marker for both metabolic and brain dysfunction. He stated, “This research adds to the growing evidence that choline is a valuable marker of metabolic and brain dysfunction — and reinforces the importance of sufficient daily intake, as it is essential for human health.”
Understanding Choline’s Role
Choline is essential for various bodily functions, including cell-membrane structure, inflammation regulation, and the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter vital for memory. The study found that participants with obesity had significantly lower levels of circulating choline, which correlated with increased signs of inflammation, insulin resistance, and liver enzyme elevation.
Despite the liver’s ability to produce some choline, dietary intake is crucial. Rich sources of choline include eggs, poultry, fish, beans, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower. Alarmingly, the research revealed that women in the study had lower choline levels compared to men, a concerning factor given that women experience higher rates of cognitive aging and Alzheimer’s disease.
The findings are particularly troubling in light of national nutrition surveys indicating that many individuals, especially teenagers and young adults, do not meet the recommended choline intake.
Wendy Winslow, a co-author of the study, noted, “Most people don’t realize they aren’t getting enough choline. Adding choline-rich foods to your routine can help reduce inflammation and support both your body and brain as you age.”
Future Implications for Weight-Loss Treatments
The emergence of modern weight-loss medications has transformed obesity treatment. However, these drugs, which suppress appetite, may inadvertently lead to insufficient intake of choline and other essential nutrients. The authors of the study advocate for additional research to investigate whether combining GLP-1 therapies with adequate dietary choline could maintain metabolic health and overall well-being.
The study involved 30 adults aged in their 20s and 30s, evenly divided between those with obesity and those with healthy weight. Each participant provided a fasting blood sample, analyzed for circulating choline, inflammatory markers, insulin, glucose, liver enzymes, and NfL. The results demonstrated consistent patterns: lower choline levels, increased inflammation, and signs of neuronal damage in the young adults with obesity.
By comparing these results with data from older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease, researchers found similar pairings of low choline and high NfL. This suggests that biological changes linked to Alzheimer’s may begin many years prior to the onset of symptoms, especially in individuals experiencing metabolic stress or obesity.
Overall, the research underscores the significant link between obesity, inflammation, choline levels, and early neuronal stress. While the study does not establish causation, it highlights a set of biomarkers that mirror those found in older adults with cognitive impairment, pointing towards a potential early warning system for cognitive decline associated with metabolic disorders.
Jessica Judd, another co-author of the study, remarked, “Our results suggest that, in young adults, good metabolic health and adequate choline contribute to neuronal health, laying the groundwork for healthy aging.” Ongoing research will aim to further explore how early metabolic stress may influence long-term risks for neurodegenerative diseases, with the hope of developing strategies to protect brain health throughout life.
