Physical exercise is good for the brain

The benefits of exercise have been known to all people in the world for many years. In this article, we will tell you another worthy reason for a daily walk or jog in the neighborhood. Three independent studies presented at the International Conference of the Alzheimer’s Association in Colombia suggested that regular exercise can prevent the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, aka dementia. More specifically, studies have examined the effects of aerobic exercise on Alzheimer’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment – impaired thinking ability due to damaged blood vessels in the brain – mild cognitive impairment, a stage between normal aging and dementia. In Denmark, a study was conducted on 200 people aged 50 to 90 years with Alzheimer’s disease, who were randomly divided into those who exercise 3 times a week for 60 minutes, and those who do not exercise. As a result, the exercisers had fewer symptoms of anxiety, irritability and depression – typical symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to improving physical fitness, this group showed significant improvements in the development of mindfulness and speed of thought. Another study conducted on 65 adult wheelchair users aged 55 to 89 with cognitive impairment, during which they were randomly divided into two groups: aerobic training with moderate-to-high intensity and stretching exercises for 45-60 minutes 4 times a week for 6 months. Participants in the aerobic group had lower levels of tau proteins, hallmark markers of Alzheimer’s disease, compared to the stretch group. The group also showed improved memory blood flow, in addition to improved focus and organizational skills. And finally, the third study on 71 people aged 56 to 96 with the problem of vascular cognitive impairment. Half of the group completed a full course of 60 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week with detailed instruction, while the other half did no exercise but a nutrition education workshop once a week. In the exercise group, there were significant improvements in memory and attention. “Based on the results presented by the International Conference of the Alzheimer’s Association, regular physical activity and exercise prevent the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other mental disorders, and improve the condition if the disease is already present,” said Maria Carrillo, chairman of the Alzheimer’s Association.

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