Latest news with #BDNF
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Could walking be the key to lowering Alzheimer's risk?
If you've been debating whether to get up and stretch your legs today, new research may give you the nudge you need. A fresh study, planned to be presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference this week, suggests that simply walking more could slow cognitive decline, especially in people genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's disease. Researchers followed nearly 3,000 adults between the ages of 70 and 79 for a decade and tracked their walking habits and how those habits correlated with brain function over time. Participants who either maintained or increased their walking levels showed notable improvements in executive function and processing speed, according to the study, which is currently available as a preprint and hasn't yet undergone peer review. The findings appeared especially promising among individuals with the APOE4 genotype, a known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's. According to Dr. Cindy Barha, senior study author and assistant professor of kinesiology at the University of Calgary, the results highlight the danger of inactivity as we age. The genetic link Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, is believed to result from a buildup of toxic plaques in the brain that interfere with how nerve cells communicate. Over time, those neurons die, leading to memory loss, confusion, behavioral changes, and eventually, physical deterioration. There is no cure. The genetic story behind Alzheimer's is complex, but APOE genes play a central role. One particular variant, APOE4, is linked to a reduced ability to clear those brain plaques. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, between 15% and 25% of people carry this gene, though it can only be identified through genetic testing. What's compelling is that those at higher risk may benefit the most. 'Before the study started, we thought APOE4 carriers had more room to grow in terms of cognition, since they may already have been experiencing some cognitive decline,' Barha explained. 'They also have more room to show improvement.' She also speculated that participants who knew they carried APOE4 may have been more motivated to change their behavior during the study. Either way, the cognitive benefits were clear. But how does movement in the body affect what's happening in the brain? Experts believe exercise may increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein often compared to fertilizer for brain cells. 'We're thinking there are proteins released from the muscle that travel to the brain and, either across the blood-brain barrier or at the blood-brain barrier, start a reaction that eventually leads to increases in BDNF within the brain,' Barha explained.
The Independent
a day ago
- Health
- The Independent
New research highlights how to potentially slowdown Alzheimer's progression
New research suggests that lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can potentially delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. One study found that walking helps produce brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein vital for brain cell survival, growth, and stronger connections, supporting memory and learning. These lifestyle modifications appear to be particularly beneficial for individuals carrying the APOE4 gene variant, which is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's. Research indicates that APOE4 carriers could experience up to four times greater benefit from interventions such as exercise and dietary counselling. Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle and the consumption of refined sugars may negatively impact brain health, especially for those with the APOE4 gene. Alzheimer's progression could be slowed by these changes to lifestyle
NBC News
2 days ago
- Health
- NBC News
Alzheimer's may be delayed through lifestyle changes, new studies show
Although her grandfather had dementia when he died, Kristin Richardson hadn't worried much about her brain until a lab test revealed that she was positive for APOE4, a gene that has been linked to a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. That was seven and a half years ago. Richardson, now 51, remembers crying when she got the news. 'I was terrified,' she said. 'It's a horrible, horrible disease with no cure.' So Richardson, a business owner in Richmond, Virginia, decided to make whatever changes she could to reduce her risk of the disease. 'I do what I can to get enough sleep. I keep active. I try to eat well and maintain a healthy weight, and I'm always working my brain to learn new things,' she said. Two new studies being presented at the Alzheimer's Association meeting Monday in Toronto may give some hope to Richardson and others who carry a genetic risk for the disease. Both new studies build on previous evidence that diet, certain brain training exercises and physical activity can delay the loss of memory and slow the decline of other cognitive abilities. One study looked at the impact of walking on 2,985 Black and white older adults who were tested for APOE status and were followed for 10 years. Each year, the participants were questioned about the amount of walking they did, and at multiple points during the follow-up period, their cognitive status was evaluated with standardized exams. Overall, participants with the APOE4 gene mutation showed steeper declines in cognition compared with those with other forms of the gene that don't raise the risk of Alzheimer's. While walking appeared to have a protective effect on all the participants, it was strongest among those with APOE4. The risk of developing Alzheimer's among those with two copies of APOE4 is 12 times that of women with none and four times that of men with none, said the study's senior author, Cindy Barha, an assistant professor of neuroscience at the University of Calgary and Canada Research chair in neuroscience, brain health and exercise. That changed significantly if people walked. Overall, women benefited more. A 10% higher amount of self-reported walking was associated with a 4.7% increase in complex thinking performance over time in women and a 2.6% increase in men. Among APOE4 carriers, men appeared to benefit more. A 10% higher amount of self-reported walking was associated with an 8.5% increase in global cognitive performance over time in women and a 12% increase in men. That was a surprise to the researchers, who expected that women would continue to benefit more. Walking seems to keep brains healthier by pumping up levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that's known to support the health of brain cells, Barha said. Other proteins in the brain may be involved, as well. 'BDNF is like fertilizer for your brain that is naturally produced, especially when you are being physically active, such as when you are walking,' Barha said. 'It helps brain cells survive, grow and form stronger connections; this supports memory, learning and mood, especially in the hippocampus, which is the brain's memory center.' A limitation of the study is that it didn't track how fast or how frequently the participants walked. Dementia risk modified through lifestyle The second international study, led by researchers in Finland, found that a combination of lifestyle modifications could also benefit people with the APOE4 variation more than those with other mutations. The study included 2,469 participants from France, Japan and Finland who were randomly assigned to receive multi-focus lifestyle interventions or not. Among the participants were 709 APOE4 carriers. Included in the lifestyle modifications were: Cognitive training, either computer-based or with paper and pencil. Physical activity, including group-based physical group exercise sessions lasting 90 minutes and an exercise program supervised by physiotherapists at the gym. Dietary counseling. A preliminary analysis revealed that the benefit of the intervention was greater among the APOE4 carriers. Study co-author Jenni Lehtisalo, a research fellow at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, said the main takeaway is that the risk for dementia, even in people with genetic predisposition, can be modified through lifestyle. There was about a fourfold greater benefit in those who were positive for APOE4, said Lehtisalo, who is also a visiting researcher at the University of Eastern Finland. The hope is that future research will reveal whether there is a specific window of time during which the modifications are more effective, she said. Dr. Cynthia Boyd, a professor of medicine and director of the division of geriatric medicine and gerontology at Johns Hopkins Medicine, said the studies show 'there is something concrete we can all do to decrease the risk of cognitive decline.' 'Walking and other lifestyle modifications can be protective for the brain,' said Boyd, who wasn't involved in the new research. Adam Brickman, a professor of neuropsychology at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, said that to optimize brain and cognitive health, it's a good idea for everyone, regardless of genetic risk, to engage in physical activity, maintain a good diet and monitor other risk factors linked to dementia. 'Sometimes initiating new healthy behaviors is difficult for people," Brickman said. "Knowledge of being at increased risk for Alzheimer's disease by virtue of having an APOE4 allele may help inspire or motivate lifestyle changes to mitigate that risk.'
News18
21-07-2025
- Health
- News18
Is Your Desk Job Harming Your Brain? Link Between a Sedentary Lifestyle and Neurodegeneration
On World Brain Day, neurologists explain why movement is crucial for your mind. Observed annually on July 22, World Brain Day brings global attention to brain health and the growing burden of neurological disorders. In 2025, the spotlight is on a silent but pervasive lifestyle risk: sedentary behaviour. With work-from-home setups, long office hours, and digital over-dependence, physical inactivity has become a modern epidemic—one that's not just bad for your body, but potentially damaging to your brain. 'Prolonged sitting is now considered as harmful as smoking," says Dr. Jyoti Bala Sharma, Director & HOD, Neurology, Fortis Noida. 'A sedentary lifestyle marked by minimal movement and excessive sitting can negatively impact both brain structure and function." Research shows that people who are inactive for extended periods are more likely to experience memory problems and slower thinking, especially in middle age and beyond. 'Too much sitting leads to changes in brain structure such as shrinkage of memory-linked regions like the medial temporal lobe, and damage to white matter," explains Dr. Sharma. One key player in this story is BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a protein that supports the survival and growth of neurons. Physical inactivity lowers BDNF levels, especially in the hippocampus, which is essential for memory and learning. 'Exercise increases BDNF and keeps the brain more plastic and adaptive," she adds. Lack of movement also triggers a chain reaction of health issues that further harm the brain. 'Weight gain, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and cholesterol imbalances are all common outcomes of a sedentary lifestyle," says Dr. Ratish Juyal, Director, Neurology Unit, Medanta Hospital, Lucknow. 'These factors increase the risk of stroke, vascular dementia, and even Alzheimer's disease." Dr. Juyal also points to the psychological toll of inactivity: 'It can lower mood, self-esteem, and attention, due to decreased blood flow to the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—regions involved in emotion regulation and memory." Moreover, sedentary habits are now considered risk factors for sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, and even the build-up of amyloid and tau proteins in the brain, which are biomarkers of Alzheimer's. Exercise: The Brain's Best Ally 'Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to brain cells, and enhances neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize," says Dr. Abhishek Srivastava, Director, Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow. 'In medical terms, it promotes the release of BDNF, supports the survival of neurons, and guards against neurodegeneration." Dr. Srivastava warns that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk for a host of serious conditions: Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Multiple Sclerosis and ALS Depression and anxiety Chronic pain and brain stroke How to Move Toward Better Brain Health Experts agree that even simple lifestyle changes can have profound effects. Dr. Juyal recommends at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity, five days a week—walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. 'Using stairs instead of elevators, opting for a standing desk, or even walking during calls can make a big difference," he says. Beyond the physical benefits, exercise boosts dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters that elevate mood and sharpen memory. It also improves sleep quality, which is when the brain performs essential cleaning and memory consolidation. As Dr. Sharma summarizes: 'A sedentary lifestyle puts your brain at direct and indirect risk. Movement isn't just good for the body, it's essential for a sharp, resilient mind." World Brain Day In an age where mental health is increasingly prioritized, taking care of brain health must begin with one small, powerful act: moving your body. Whether you're behind a desk or stuck in traffic, building physical activity into your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to protect your brain for the long run. view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 21, 2025, 09:06 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness Is Your Desk Job Harming Your Brain? Link Between a Sedentary Lifestyle and Neurodegeneration Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
14-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Here's How Strength Training Helps Us Age In Reverse
Strength training is exceptionally good for us, especially as we age. While we can't literally reverse aging, strength training can slow down many of its effects, making us feel and function like our younger selves. It stimulates muscle growth, boosts metabolism, improves bone density, and enhances brain health. Regular strength training helps maintain independence, vitality, and resilience by combating age-related muscle loss and chronic inflammation. In this way, it creates a powerful illusion of aging in reverse, making our bodies stronger, our movements more youthful, and our minds sharper. Keep reading as we share how strength training helps you age in reverse. 10 Ways strength training helps us age in reverse 1. Preserves and builds lean muscle mass As we age, we naturally lose muscle mass, especially after 30. Strength training counteracts this decline by stimulating muscle protein synthesis, preserving lean tissue, and enhancing muscular strength and tone, making us look and feel younger. 2. Boosts metabolism and fights fat gain Muscle is metabolically active, meaning it burns more calories at rest than fat. Strength training increases resting metabolic rate, helping to prevent the slow weight gain often associated with aging, and supports healthier body composition. 3. Improves bone density and prevents osteoporosis Lifting weights puts stress on bones in a good way, prompting them to become denser and stronger. This significantly reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, which become more common with age. 4. Enhances balance, coordination, and stability Strengthening muscles especially in the core and lower body, improves posture, coordination, and balance, lowering the risk of falls and improving agility, which are key factors in maintaining independence as we grow older. 5. Reduces risk of chronic diseases Regular resistance training helps manage blood sugar, lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol profiles, and reduces systemic inflammation. This lowers the risk of conditions like Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even some cancers. 6. Boosts mental health and cognitive function Strength training has been linked to better mood, reduced anxiety, and improved brain function. It promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports cognitive health and may reduce the risk of dementia. 7. Supports joint health and reduces pain Strengthening the muscles around joints improves joint stability and function, often reducing the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis or general wear and tear. 8. Improves hormonal balance Resistance training stimulates the release of growth hormone and testosterone (in both men and women), which are crucial for muscle repair, fat loss, and overall vitality, many of which decline with age. 9. Enhances sleep quality People who strength train regularly tend to fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and wake up less often. Better sleep contributes to improved energy, memory, immune function, and even skin repair, hallmarks of youthful vitality. 10. Builds confidence and improves body image Strength training transforms more than the body, it uplifts mindset. As physical strength increases, so does self-esteem and confidence. Feeling strong and capable reinforces a youthful mindset and keeps us motivated to stay active and engaged in life. Add strength training to your routine today to age in reverse. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
