Kim Kardashian's shocking brain scan: what low activity really reveals about intelligence

The internet has a knack for igniting conversations around the Kardashians, but this week saw a different kind of buzz altogether – one revolving around brain activity.

In a recent episode of Disney+’s "The Kardashians", Kim Kardashian underwent a brain scan with celebrity psychologist Dr Daniel Amen, whose findings raised eyebrows and prompted social media debate.

During the episode, Amen noted “low activity” in Kardashian's frontal lobe, highlighting the presence of “holes” and suggesting that the frontal part of her brain “is less active than it should be.”

The revelations quickly circulated online, with viewers inundating social media with curiosity and concern. Comments ranged from speculations about Kardashian's intellect to questions about how a woman managing a billion-dollar empire could have a “lazy” brain.

Yet, the frenzy underscores a critical misunderstanding: “low brain activity” does not equate to low intelligence. Neuroscience has established that brain imaging is incredibly intricate and does not measure IQ, ambition, or entrepreneurial spirit.

On the contrary, research published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience indicates that as individuals age and gain expertise, their brains often become more efficient, even requiring less energy to complete familiar tasks.

So the idea that “less activity = dumb” is simply false.

So, what exactly did Amen's scan reveal? The reduced activity in Kardashian's frontal lobes may relate to chronic stress, mental overload, and extreme fatigue, which she has candidly discussed, given her busy lifestyle.

“With your frontal lobes as they work now, it would be harder to manage stress, especially as you’re preparing for the bar exam,” Amen explained, acknowledging the multifaceted responsibilities the business mogul is currently managing.

The frontal lobe, commonly referred to as the “control centre” of the brain, is instrumental in decision-making and emotional regulation. When it’s fully developed and functioning at its best, the frontal lobe helps us navigate life with focus, logic, and emotional balance.

But when it hasn’t fully developed (such as in children or adolescents) or shows signs of underactivity (like "holes" seen in brain scans), it can significantly affect our behaviour, thinking and ability to cope with stress.

In brain scans, “holes” aren’t literal gaps in the brain. Instead, they indicate low activity in certain areas. Think of it like a dimmer switch; parts of the frontal lobe aren’t “lighting up” as they should.  

Causes

Research shows that prolonged stress can flood the brain with cortisol, a hormone that may damage brain cells and diminish activity in the frontal lobe. Factors such as traumatic brain injury, anxiety, and even ADHD are commonly linked to reduced frontal lobe function.

Furthermore, studies suggest that adolescents often face struggles in decision-making and impulse control due to the ongoing development of this brain region, which reaches full maturity by approximately 25 years of age.

Kardashian, a mother of four, has openly shared her health challenges, including a small brain aneurysm discovered in a prior episode and discussed in an interview on Good Morning America. While this aneurysm is stable and monitored, she has indicated that the emotional strains from her highly publicised divorce may exacerbate these issues.

Signs and symptoms

Chronic stress can lead to tangible changes in the brain. Research indicates that it may shrink portions of the prefrontal cortex, while simultaneously heightening reactivity in areas responsible for fear, leading to difficulties in concentration, emotional overwhelm, and persistent fatigue.

Many of us know this feeling intimately. So what does low brain activity feel and look like in everyday life? You may recognise it as:

• Forgetting simple things.
• Struggling to plan your day.
• Feeling mentally “slow”.
• Taking longer to complete tasks.
• Feeling emotionally flat or overstimulated.
• Being tired no matter how much you sleep.

These aren’t signs of low IQ; they're signs of a brain trying to cope.

These symptoms do not reflect a lack of intelligence; they signify a brain striving to cope amidst overwhelming burdens.

So, how can one support healthier brain activity? 

Experts suggest various lifestyle interventions aimed at bolstering frontal lobe function:

• Better sleep hygiene: Consistent sleep strengthens cognitive processing.
• Stress management: Mindfulness practices, therapy, and social support are crucial.
• Movement: Physical exercise has been shown to enhance oxygen flow to the brain.
• Mental rest: Short breaks, even 10 minutes long, can restore neural efficiency.
• Balanced nutrition: Foods rich in omega-3s, leafy greens, and antioxidants promote brain health.

As the discussions around Kardashian’s brain scan unfold, it’s essential to remember that mental health and cognitive function can be impacted by a myriad of factors, especially chronic stress and overwhelming responsibilities.

It’s not a reflection of one’s intellect, but rather a sign of being human.