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Exercising can ward off dementia, according to research.
Results of a study conducted by the University of Texas Southwestern suggest a link between poor fitness levels and deterioration of white matter, which is composed of nerve fibers that link different parts of the brain together. A decline in white matter is an indication of dementia—an umbrella term that refers to disorders related to weakened mental abilities.
The researchers gathered a group of older people displaying indications of memory problems, or mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and another group of older people who did not demonstrate MCI.
The participants’ cardiorespiratory fitness levels were determined by measuring their VO2 max, or oxygen intake during intense exercises. Tests were also conducted to examine the participants’ executive function, which controls mental abilities like decision-making, critical thinking, and planning.
Findings showed that participants with higher VO2 max scores, which translate to better cardiorespiratory fitness, had lower white matter decline. This finding applied to both groups of participants. In addition, those with healthier white matter fibers scored higher on tests for executive function, particularly critical thinking and planning skills.
According to experts, doing aerobic exercises like brisk walking and resistance training like weightlifting can boost brain performance. Aerobic exercise has been found to improve thinking and reasoning, while strength training boosts memory and the brain’s planning and organizing abilities.
Experts say that engaging in moderate exercise once or twice a week can already improve cognitive performance. However, doing around 150 minutes of exercise a week is recommended to reduce the risk of dementia.