The Role of Exercise in Cognitive Health

Exercise significantly contributes to cognitive health, particularly in preventing dementia. A meta-analysis of various studies has shown that physical activity correlates with a reduced risk of cognitive decline, with those who exercise having a notably lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The data suggests that even moderate physical activities, such as walking or yoga, can lead to cognitive improvements, highlighting that inactivity may be responsible for a large proportion of Alzheimer's cases. Furthermore, studies indicate that regular physical activity can increase brain volume, particularly in the hippocampus, which is critical for memory formation.