Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Exercise can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation, increasing blood flow to the brain, and promoting the growth of new brain cells1. Aerobic exercises such as walking quickly, running, bicycling, and swimming are the best exercises to prevent or improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes memory loss, confusion, and cognitive decline. It affects more than 6 million Americans and is the most common cause of dementia. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are ways to slow down its progression and improve the quality of life for people living with the condition.
One of the most effective ways to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s is to exercise regularly. Exercise has many benefits for the brain, such as:
- Increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain cells, which helps them function better and prevents damage from oxidative stress1.
- Stimulating the growth of new brain cells and connections, especially in the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory formation and is affected early in Alzheimer’s2.
- Enhancing the production and release of irisin, a hormone that improves cognitive function and reduces neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s3.
- Boosting mood, self-esteem, and confidence, which can reduce depression and anxiety that often accompany Alzheimer’s4.
Exercise can also help people with Alzheimer’s maintain a normal day-and-night routine, sleep better, and feel more alert during the day1. Exercise can also be a fun and social activity that can strengthen the bond between caregivers and patients.
How much exercise do you need to prevent or delay Alzheimer’s? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, you should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming. You should also include some strength training, balance exercises, and flexibility exercises to keep your muscles, joints, and bones healthy1.
If you have Alzheimer’s or are at risk of developing it, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. Your doctor can help you choose the best type of exercise for your condition and abilities. You may also want to join a group exercise class or find a buddy to exercise with for motivation and support.
Exercise is not only good for your body, but also for your mind. By staying physically active, you can protect your brain from Alzheimer’s disease and enjoy a better quality of life
I hope this blog post has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading! 😊
Learn more:
1. nia.nih.gov 2. hms.harvard.edu 3. webmd.com 4. alzheimersorganization.org
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