A new study reveals that just 45 minutes of walking three times a week can boost brain health and reduce dementia risk
London: Dementia is a big deal in the UK, affecting nearly a million people. That’s about one in every 11 folks over 65. But guess what? An expert says you might be able to keep it at bay just by walking more.
We often hear about hitting that magic 10,000 steps a day, right? But Professor Claire Steves from King’s College London has a different take. She suggests that if you can manage a brisk 45-minute walk three times a week, it could really help your brain stay sharp.
On the ZOE Podcast, she mentioned that to boost your brain health, you need to exercise more than you currently do—unless you’re already an Olympic athlete. The cool part? Even small increases in activity can make a difference. If you step it up by a third, you’re on the right track.
Dementia messes with your memory and thinking skills, making daily life tough. It can lead to confusion and emotional stress, which nobody wants. Regular exercise might help build your ‘cognitive reserve,’ which is basically your brain’s ability to handle challenges.
And it’s not just about exercise. What you eat matters too. Research shows that a Mediterranean diet, full of greens, seafood, and whole grains, can cut your dementia risk by 23% over nine years. That’s pretty impressive, especially if you have a family history of the condition.
Recently, the University of Oxford highlighted the links between dementia, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Turns out, a high-sugar diet can make you age faster, which is definitely something to think about.
Professor Steves wrapped it up nicely, saying the brain needs a lot of nutrients because it’s super active. A variety of plant-based foods is key for keeping your brain healthy.