Research has found a connection between physical activity levels in middle age and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Previous studies have shown that physical activity is linked to a lower risk of various health conditions, including Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. A recent study revealed that higher levels of physical activity during middle age are associated with lower levels of the Alzheimer’s disease biomarker beta-amyloid in the brain. Additionally, researchers found that lack of physical activity during this period was linked to brain atrophy in regions associated with Alzheimer’s. Regular exercise is known to be crucial for a healthy lifestyle and has been associated with a reduced risk of health issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, and various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. A new study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, further contributes to our understanding of the impact of physical activity on brain health. The study, conducted at the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center in Spain, focused on middle-aged individuals aged 45 to 65 and found that increasing physical activity levels during this stage of life was linked to lower beta-amyloid concentrations in the brain. This critical period in midlife is when Alzheimer’s disease pathologies begin to accumulate, often silently, for up to two decades before symptoms appear. This research emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies targeted at midlife to promote long-term brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Participants in the study were categorized into different groups based on their adherence to recommended activity levels, with those maintaining or exceeding the World Health Organization’s guidelines showing lower beta-amyloid levels in their brains.
Initially not following, then adhering to WHO guidelines, researchers discovered that individuals who raised their physical activity to WHO-recommended levels had lower beta-amyloid protein levels in the brain compared to those who remained inactive or decreased their physical activity. Beta-amyloid accumulation is an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease development, leading to cognitive decline and dementia. The results suggest that adopting a more active lifestyle, particularly for previously inactive individuals in midlife, may help delay or prevent Alzheimer’s pathology buildup.
Moreover, the study revealed that non-sedentary participants had greater brain cortical thickness in regions linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Cortical thinning indicates atrophy and neurodegeneration, with inactive participants showing more significant cortical thickness loss. The researchers are also exploring the impact of urban design on physical activity in older adults, including those with cognitive decline and dementia, to promote brain and cognitive health in later years.
Discussing the study, Dr. Daniel H. Daneshvar emphasized the role of physical activity in reducing Alzheimer’s risk, suggesting that exercise not only decreases underlying pathology but also delays or prevents clinical symptoms. He highlighted the importance of integrating exercise and brain-healthy habits into preventive care strategies from middle age. When asked about the best types of exercise for lowering Alzheimer’s risk, he emphasized consistency in aerobic exercises like brisk walking, cycling, and swimming, as well as resistance training with weights or bands.
Research has demonstrated the advantages of exercise for brain health. According to Daneshvar, a mix of aerobic and strength training is most effective. Aerobic exercise benefits cardiovascular health, whereas strength training aids in maintaining muscle mass and metabolic function, both of which are crucial for brain health. Even minimal regular physical activity can have a positive impact, so the focus should be on increasing movement throughout the week with activities that are practical and enjoyable. You can read the full article on Medical News Today.
