Exercise, Brain Health, and Alzheimer’s Risk

Abstract

Alzheimer's is the most common kind of dementia, a disorder that typically happens in older people. Many factors play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s, such as getting older, diet, the amount of physical activity we get, how healthy our heart and blood vessels are, and much more. Moving our bodies is a key way to keep our brain healthy. Researchers have actually confirmed that moving our bodies isn't just good for us physically but also for our brains to grow healthier, as Alzheimer's revolves around reducing our brains’ capabilities associated with memory and learning. Exercise might cause neurogenesis in the hippocampus, elevate blood flow to the brain, stimulate the production of BDNF, and possibly lower inflammation, all of which contribute to keeping our brain healthier. Daily routines, other than exercise, might involve a healthy diet, daily mentally stimulating tasks, and controlling existing cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease or diabetes, which could increase the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease. There is a strong understanding among Alzheimer's researchers, as seen in trials such as the FINGER trial, that we may not be able to completely prevent the disease, but instead switching to healthier habits can still play a part in preventing and slowing Alzheimer’s.