Does Exercise Prevent Dementia?

A growing body of research suggests exercise could slow the progression of dementia, with aerobic exercise appearing to be most effective, reports Discover . Exercise is accompanied by an increase in the protein BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which is thought to promote the production of new brain cells and minimize the death of existing ones — especially in the hippocampus, a key memory center. Furthermore, as the heart pumps faster and blood flow increases, more oxygen penetrates the brain. Meta-analyses of various trials investigating exercise's potential benefits determined that the risk of dementia decreases with midlife exercise. Some studies have concluded that as little as six to 12 months of exercise is sufficient to recover brain power for people already with dementia, or the less severe mild cognitive impairment preceding it. However, the most effective guard against dementia is combining physical activity with a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, social engagement, and hobbies that maintain mental alertness, like reading or solving crossword puzzles.