The study noted that those in middle age who exercised at least twice a week were 50 per cent less likely to develop dementia, and 60 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer's than those who did not exercise. These numbers show an astonishing distinction between physically active and sedentary individuals when it comes to brain health.
Although more studies need to be conducted before this evidence becomes conclusive, there does seem to be a serious correlation between exercise and long-term brain health.
How exercise can boost your brain health
Other studies have proven the link between exercise and increased intellectual capacity, and the mounting evidence suggests that an active lifestyle may be the only way to properly enjoy the latter years of our lives.
So what are we to do?
The evidence suggests that as little as 30 minutes of activity, three times a week may be enough to stave off a host of health issues, not least of which is dementia and Alzheimer's. As busy as our lives may be, we need to ensure that physical activity becomes an intrinsic part of our weekly routines.
Several studies have linked heart health with vascular dementia – and diabetes and stroke are also factors causing cognitive difficulties. Again, these can often be prevented by lifestyle choices – healthy food, not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption and, of course, exercise.
There's no avoiding it – exercise benefits every muscle in the body, including the one between our ears.
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