Exercise May Cut 10 Million Annual Dementia Risks by Boosting Brain Waste Clearance
Updated
Updated · ScienceDaily · Aug 15
Exercise May Cut 10 Million Annual Dementia Risks by Boosting Brain Waste Clearance
1 articles · Updated · ScienceDaily · Aug 15
Summary
Victoria University researchers found regular exercise may help aging brains clear harmful waste by supporting the glymphatic system, a cleanup pathway tied to protection against cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
The review linked physical activity to better sleep, lower brain inflammation, healthier blood vessels, reduced blood pressure and vascular stiffness, and lower resting norepinephrine — all processes involved in glymphatic function.
Deep sleep appears central because the glymphatic system is especially active during sleep, and exercise may improve deep-sleep quality and slow-wave activity associated with brain waste clearance.
More than 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia worldwide each year, yet researchers said key questions remain on the most effective dose and type of exercise, especially for people already showing cognitive decline.