A new study published in the journal Brain Research suggests that regular aerobic exercise may significantly reduce certain disease markers associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
The study used a rodent model to assess how an aerobic exercise program changed levels of certain Alzheimer’s disease markers in the brain, including amyloid plaques, tau tangles, myelin degeneration, and iron accumulation. Each of these markers is considered central to Alzheimer’s pathology. One group of rats participated in a structured exercise program while a control group of rats remained sedentary. Then, levels of disease biomarkers in the brains of each group were assessed. Physical activity has been recommended as a tool to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, and this study sought to determine how a structured exercise program might affect Alzheimer’s markers.
The results showed that the rats who participated in the structured exercise program experienced significant decreases in Alzheimer’s markers, along with other brain benefits. The exercising rats had their tau tangles reduced by about 63%, amyloid plaques reduced by about 76%, and iron accumulation reduced by about 58%. They also showed better brain cell health, reduced brain inflammation, and improved communication between brain cells compared to the sedentary rats.
The authors noted that this study shows the potential cellular mechanisms that determine how exercise helps to reduce cognitive decline. One key takeaway from the study is that participating in daily aerobic exercise could be very effective in slowing or halting the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Physical activity has long been known to have many health benefits, including improved cognition, improved heart health, and reduced risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. This study further confirms that regular physical activity throughout one’s lifetime, and especially with aging, is likely to improve health and extend lifespan.
Sources: Brian Research, Science Daily
