Old age in men can appear prematurely in the absence of sporting activity. Researchers from Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) in Germany therefore conducted studies to confirm this fact. At the end of the experiments, the scientists managed to prove the veracity of the previous assertion. Therefore, they encourage the practice of physical activities in the elderly.
A daily walk of about 15 minutes active and strengthens certain key regions of the brain, but not only. Depending on the intensity of the physical activities carried out, the surface covered at the level of the brain widens and becomes more resistant to brain tissue degeneration.
The results of the study have been published in the journal New Atlas. Fabienne Fox, a doctoral student in the faculties of population health sciences at DZNE, was the main author of this research.
An excellent way to prevent neurodegeneration
The results of the analyzes revealed that the surface area of the brain regions targeted by sports activities changes significantly according to their intensity. In fact, the observation was mainly noted in theseahorse, considered the control center of memory. Following additional examinations, the researchers concluded that larger brain volumes offer a better shield against neurodegeneration.
The most significant changes in surface area were observed in inactive subjects over the age of 70. Other parallel research suggests that older adults may benefit from a modest increase in low-intensity physical activity. Better still, an analysis of the regions of the brain affected by the practice of physical activity revealed that they harbor large amounts of mitochondria.
These organelles promote cellular respiration, but require a certain supply of oxygen provided by physical activity.
Are the risks of brain diseases limited?
Scientists have also noted a considerable decrease in the number of patients who engage in sports activities, even at low intensity. Extensive analyzes have therefore taken place and they reveal a great overlap of the genes affected by physical activity and those affected by diseases such as Prindon and Alzheimer’s.
On the strength of this discovery, the scientists wish to initiate a new impetus in order to encourage the elderly to become more physically active. This should promote theprevention of brain diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases.
SOURCE: SCIENCETIMES