Movement is key in preventing dementia

[et_pb_section admin_label="section"][et_pb_row admin_label="row"][et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" background_layout="light" text_orientation="left" use_border_color="off" border_color="#ffffff" border_style="solid"] The importance of exercise for heart health, stress reduction and weight control are well established. A recent study from the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that exercise is also beneficial at reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease like dementia. Adding to the long list of reasons to move everyday in some way!

The study looked at brain imaging of participants overtime as well as cognitive questionnaires. They found that the gray matter, the area of the brain associated with memory and executive function, was larger in those that were more active. Even more exciting, those who had greater gray matter and were more physically active had 50 percent less risk five years later of dementia or Alzheimer's.

An encouraging component of the study was that physical activity was loosely defined. It included jogging, walking, biking, gardening and dancing. Most of the active participants with the lower risk of dementia were engaging in these activities only several times a week. Dancing and gardening a couple of times of week- what wonderful ways to nourish your body and spirit!

I love that this research highlights the importance of movement on brain health and aging. It is so important to not only keep your brain active as you age, by engaging in stimulating activities like puzzles, reading and writing, but your body as well. Integrative medicine celebrates this mind body connection and this type of research reinforces the value in caring for both.

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