The surprising effects of cycling on the brain.

Cycling is not only good for the environment, but it can also help prevent dementia.

Numerous previous studies have demonstrated that physical activity—including cycling—is associated with a reduced risk of dementia.

According to new research published in the journal JAMA Network Open , people who commute by bicycle have a 19% lower risk of developing dementia from all causes compared to those who use passive modes of transportation such as cars, buses, or trains. This figure rises to 22% when considering the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Cycling can increase the volume of the hippocampus – the brain region responsible for memory and learning.

Photo: AI

480,000 people in the UK participated in the study, recruited between 2006 and 2010, in a project tracking the health of over 500,000 people aged 40 to 69. Participants answered questionnaires about their most frequent mode of transportation over a four-week period. During the median follow-up period of 13.1 years, 8,845 people developed dementia and 3,956 developed Alzheimer's disease.

"Cycling may reduce the risk of dementia by improving cardiovascular health, increasing cerebral blood flow, and supporting neuroadaptation," said Dr. Joe Verghese, chair of the Department of Neurology at Stony Brook University (New York).

Cycling can also increase the volume of the hippocampus—the brain region responsible for memory and learning. The study authors suggest that cycling requires more brain effort, which may contribute to protecting the brain against dementia.

Dr. Verghese advises that if you are sedentary and want to start cycling, you should talk to your doctor to see if you are healthy enough to start immediately or if you need to gradually increase your intake. “Start with short, safe routes and always wear a helmet. If possible, cycle with a partner. Alternatively, you can use a stationary bike to exercise at home if you are concerned about heavy traffic.”

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tac-dung-bat-ngo-cua-dap-xe-voi-nao-bo-185250924150427125.htm