CINCINNATI (WKRC) – A recent study highlighted the significant impact of lifestyle choices on brain health, suggesting that regular exercise may benefit the brain as much as the body.
The Health and Retirement Study, which analyzed two decades of data, indicated that a healthy lifestyle and genetic factors can predict brain health at age 80.
Adam Ortman, Chief Science Officer at Ohio’s Activate Brain and Body Fitness, explained the role of “Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor” (BDNF) in this process.
“The idea is when you get the heart rate up, BDNF and other hormones are released particularly in the brain,” said Ortman. “So when you challenge your brain and your body in a novel way, you can actually promote neuroplasticity, which can have amazing benefits with brain fog, clarity, focus and even short-term memory.”
The research also emphasized the importance of education and mentally stimulating activities. Those with at least a high school diploma and engaging hobbies were less likely to develop memory problems and dementia by age 80. Conversely, sedentary lifestyles, lack of mental stimulation and higher alcohol consumption increased the risk of memory issues.
Physical activity was crucial as it helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces stroke risk and lowers diabetes risk, all of which were linked to a higher chance of dementia later in life. This research was increasingly important as the National Institutes of Health projects that memory-related illnesses will double by 2060.
