Accordingly, physical activity, such as walking 4,000 steps a day, also increases the size of brain regions important for memory and learning, according to the science news site EurekAlert (USA).
Physical activity, even walking fewer than 4,000 steps a day, increases the size of brain regions crucial for memory and learning.
The international study, involving a team of clinical researchers from the Center for Brain Health of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John's Medical Center (USA), examined MRI scans of the brains of 10,125 participants.
The results showed that people who regularly engage in physical activities such as walking, running, or playing sports have greater brain volume in key areas. These areas include gray matter—which helps process information—and white matter—which connects different brain regions—as well as the hippocampus—important for memory.
Lead researcher, Dr. Cyrus A. Raji, explained: "Our research supports previous studies showing that physical activity is good for the brain. Exercise not only reduces the risk of dementia but also helps maintain brain size, which is crucial as we age."
The study highlights that the easiest way to keep your brain healthy is to stay active.
Co-author of the study, Dr. David Merrill, Associate Professor and Director of the Pacific Center for Brain Health, noted: "We found that even moderate levels of physical activity, such as walking 4,000 steps or less per day, can have a positive impact on brain health."
This study highlights how an easy way to keep your brain healthy is to stay active. Whether it's a daily walk or playing a favorite sport, regular physical activity can provide long-term benefits for brain health.
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