Researchers from the University of Washington School of Medicine in the US found that even moderate physical activity may be associated with increased brain volume in areas associated with memory and learning. results published In the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (JAD).
10,125 people participated in the research. The research methodology was based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Participants underwent scans using equipment that can reconstruct and broadcast the brain images needed for accurate volumetric analysis. Data on physical activity were collected using self-report questionnaires completed before the survey.
Scientists have classified physical activity as moderate and vigorous. Moderate physical activity was defined as activity that increased your heart and breathing rate (brisk walking or cycling at a slow pace) but still allowed you to talk. Intense physical activity, on the contrary, was described as more tiring. While experiencing this level of load, a person cannot speak more than a few words without stopping to take a breath. Participants reported how much time they spent on both activities over the past two weeks (since the beginning of the study).
Researchers found that volunteers who regularly engaged in some form of physical activity had increased gray and white matter volumes. While gray matter is critical for information processing in the brain, white matter plays a role in communication between different areas of the brain. The study also found that even moderate physical activity, such as walking fewer than 4,000 steps a day, can have a positive effect on brain health.
Additionally, the physically active volunteer group was found to show greater volume in the hippocampus, posterior cingulate cortex, and precuneus. These brain components are essential for good memory and cognitive functions. Their increased volume in active individuals suggests a potential protective effect against age-related cognitive decline.
It was before was created A new tool to help predict the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.