Latest studies have proven that regular physical activity may reduce the chances of Neurodegenerative diseases later in life. It further tells us that exercise not only preserves our cognitive function but it also reduces the chances of neurodegenerative diseases like Dementia and Parkinson’s s
However, the question is, how does this work? According to a study done by Medical News Today in which they asked asked experts about the role of exercise in keeping the brain young, it was revealed that we may be living longer, but we may not be living healthier.
Data by European Union indicates that average healthy life years (HLYs) of women is 64.5, while for men, it is 63.5.
Considering this, on average, a person spends 10-15 years of their life with some ailment. Most of these diseases are associated with old age and many people are likely to suffer from a neurodegenerative disease.
Experts suggest that physical activity can increase the HLYs by making your brain and body healthy for longer.
The Centers for Disease Control and PreventionTrusted Source (CDC) says that regular physical activity is “one of the most important things you can do for your health.”
Dr. Emer MacSweeney, CEO and consultant neuroradiologist at Re:Cognition Health, emphasized said while talking to the Medical News Today, :“Being physically active is one of the best things you can do for your body. Exercise helps protect against many diseases and keeps the heart, muscles, bones, and brain in optimum condition. Exercise promotes [the] oxygenation of the brain and stimulation of multiple neurochemicals.”
“Exercise is very important for mental health due to the chemical changes it triggers in the human body including the ‘feel-good’ chemicals, endorphins and serotonin,” added Dr. MacSweeney explained.
Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and more than 5 million adults in the United States are suffering from it. Around 1 million have developed Parkinson’s and 90,000 cases are diagnosed every year.
The number of patients suffering from these diseases is expected to rise as the population age.
According to WHO, by 2040, there will 17 million Alzheimer’s cases by 2040. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, both the disease are progressive and can be fatal. Sy
According to Dr. Jamie Adams, Associate Pofessor in the Department Neurology and the Center for Health and Technology at the University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, :“Unfortunately, we do not have any disease-modifying therapies or treatments to prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. However, there is growing evidence that shows that regular exercise can help slow [the] progression of [the] disease.Regular exercise also has therapeutic and other health benefits. My patients that exercise, feel better and do better.”
