New Years Resolution - Do More Exercise.....

Exercise keeps the brain from ageing

Research from the University of Florence and other institutions in Italy carried out a study which found that low to moderate exercise can prevent the milder forms of cognitive decline in older age.  The research was published in the Journal of Internal Medicine.

The research pooled the results of fifth teen studies and included the analysis of 33,816 people without dementia, who were followed between one and twelve years.  It revealed that exercise consisting of playing a round of golf once a week or tennis twice a week, was linked to a 35 percent reduction in the risk of cognitive decline.  The researchers believed that physical activity which raises your heartbeat, increases the blood flow to the brain and helps to reduce the mind deteriorating in later years.

The researchers explained that it has been widely acknowledged that physical activity has positive effects on a wide range of health measures, including reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, diabetes, obesity, hypertension and some cancers.  However, the study demonstrated that attention, memory and concentration (known as cognitive functions) which typically deteriorate with age, can also reap the benefits by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and partaking in regular exercise. 

The analysis of the studies showed that subjects who performed a high level of physical activity were significantly more protected (by 38%) against cognitive decline during the follow up, compared to people who reported being sedentary. 

We all have a responsibility to look after our health and well-being and what a better time than now to include exercise and healthy eating as part of your new years resolutions. 

The Royal Society for Public health through Training Solutions run a Foundation Programme in Health Improvement.  The course offers candidates the opportunity of developing a firm foundation in Health improvement while also making aware the health and lifestyle choices that affect personal and public health.  For more information click here or contact Nicolette Smith.