Fitness
New Study Says Regular Exercise Could Delay Dementia Onset by 18 Months
Most of us know that our training habits can positively influence not just our physical health, but also our brain health. And now, more good news has emerged as new research has found that having good fitness levels could reduce the risk of dementia and delay its onset by up to 18 months.
The study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine investigated the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and dementia risk, factoring in genetic predisposition. The researchers took into account data from 61,214 dementia free participants, aged 39-70 years old. Their cardiovascular fitness was assessed with a six-minute submaximal cycling test. This estimated the participants VO2 max (maximal oxygen consumption).
Cognitive function was evaluated using neuropsychological tests evaluating the participant’s memory, reaction time and processing speed. Dementia cases were identified through medical records and genetic predisposition was assessed. These were then analysed to explore the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and genetic predisposition.
Findings from the study included a positive association between high cardiovascular fitness levels and cognitive function. These results were consistent across all age groups. During the follow-up, high cardiovascular fitness levels were associated with a lower overall risk of dementia (40%). It also delayed dementia onset by an average of 1.48 years. Similarly, for those who had a high predisposed risk of dementia, high cardiovascular fitness was linked with a 35% reduction in dementia risk.
The researchers concluded that higher cardiovascular fitness levels are associated with better cognitive performance, reduced dementia risk and delayed dementia onset. They also noted that cardiovascular fitness can partially offset the genetic predisposition to dementia.
Dr Richard Oakley, the associate director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer’s Society shared, ‘This research emphasises that exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and could reduce the risk of developing dementia later in life. But what is particularly promising about this study is that exercise also appears to reduce dementia risk in people who have a higher genetic risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.’
The study further confirms the benefits of cardiovascular training and promoting the inclusion of regular exercise to support our brain health, especially in ageing populations. With additional research supporting lower to moderate exercise intensities and their ability to reduce the risk of other illnesses, the evidence should continue to encourage our exercise habits, for brain as well as brawn.
Kate is a fitness writer for Men’s Health UK where she contributes regular workouts, training tips and nutrition guides. She has a post graduate diploma in Sports Performance Nutrition and before joining Men’s Health she was a nutritionist, fitness writer and personal trainer with over 5k hours coaching on the gym floor. Kate has a keen interest in volunteering for animal shelters and when she isn’t lifting weights in her garden, she can be found walking her rescue dog.
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