New research suggests that increasing physical activity may lower the risk of developing neuropsychiatric conditions such as anxiety, depression, and dementia.
The study, which analyzed data from over 73,000 adults, will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s annual meeting in April.
The study found that people who engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity were 14% to 40% less likely to develop brain-related conditions. Even light physical activities, such as walking or gardening, appeared to offer protective benefits. Conversely, prolonged sedentary behavior was associated with a 5% to 54% increase in risk.
“Engaging in daily activities that burn calories, like walking or even gardening, plays a significant role in protecting your brain health,” said lead study author Dr. Jia-Yi Wu of Fudan University in Shanghai.
Scientists believe that exercise may help regulate metabolism and reduce inflammation, which are thought to contribute to some forms of depression and neurodegenerative diseases. Some studies have even suggested that exercise can be as effective as medication for treating depression.
Dr. Scott Russo, a researcher at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York who was not involved in the study, noted that the results align with a growing body of research linking exercise to improved brain health.
“There’s so much data, both correlative and causative, that I’m pretty confident in these findings,” Russo said.
The study highlights that all levels of activity can be beneficial.
“You don’t need to commit to intense workouts,” Wu said. “Even light-to-moderate activities can have a meaningful impact on your well-being.”
Tracking daily activity with a wearable device may help encourage movement and provide motivation. The US Physical Activity Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, along with two days of muscle-strengthening activities.
With input from CNN and US News & World Report.
