Worried about dementia? Research suggests improved heart and lung health; that’s why

The way our body copes with training can not only contribute to physical strength, but also act as mental insurance. A recent study led by Shuqi Wang and Liyao Xu of Tianjin Medical University claims that the condition of our heart and lungs can save us from cognitive decline. Read also | Dementia risk factors you can control: Lifestyle changes are essential for a healthy brain

A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine claims that people with higher cardiorespiratory fitness perform better on cognitive tests. They are also at a lower risk of developing dementia, even if they carry the disease’s genes.

What is cardiorespiratory fitness:

Cardiorespiratory fitness indicates how well the body can supply oxygen to the muscles during physical activity. Therefore, the better the cardiorespiratory fitness, the more efficiently the heart and lungs can control the body for physical training. Cardiorespiratory fitness declines with age. By age 70, people begin to lose 20% of their cardiorespiratory fitness each decade. Read also | Prevent dementia 40 years ahead: Simple lifestyle changes to protect your brain

Research results:

The long-term study was conducted with more than 61,000 participants from the UK Biobank over 12 years. Participants aged between 39 and 70 completed a six-minute test on an exercise bike to record their cardiorespiratory fitness. It was observed that people with higher cardiorespiratory fitness showed better performance in their cognitive tests. They demonstrated stronger prospective memory, verbal and numerical memory, and processing speed. During the study period, 533 participants developed dementia. However, people with higher cardiorespiratory fitness had a 40% lower risk of developing any type of dementia. Read also | Reduce your risk of dementia by 12% with this brain superfood

The study also found that stronger cardiorespiratory fitness could delay the onset of dementia by 1.5 years. Even with genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s, people with higher cardiorespiratory fitness fared better.

The research is a wake-up call

Research confirms that maintaining good cardiorespiratory fitness goes beyond a strong body. It helps in many other ways and can actually save us from cognitive decline in later years. Read also | Deciphering Dementia: Coping with Memory Loss and Supportive Strategies for the Older Population

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.