Intense exercise: an elixir against hypertension and dementia
Vigorous exercise reduces risk of cognitive impairment, study shows
A recent study by Wake Forest University has revealed a promising finding: intense physical exercise could be a valuable ally in the fight against dementia, especially in hypertensive people.
SPRINT: a groundbreaking study
The study is based on data collected in the context of the famous SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial), a wide-ranging research that has revolutionized guidelines for the treatment of hypertension. SPRINT has shown unequivocally that strict control of systolic pressure, the highest value of blood pressure, significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular events and death.
Exercise and brain health
The researchers at Wake Forest University wanted to further deepen the SPRINT data, focusing on the impact of physical activity on cognitive health. The results were surprising: participants who regularly performed vigorous exercise had a significantly lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment or dementia, compared to those who were less active.
But how does exercise protect the brain?
The mechanisms by which physical activity exerts its beneficial effects on the brain are manifold and complex. The most important of these are:
- Increased cerebral blood flow: Exercise stimulates the formation of new blood vessels in the brain, improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells
- Neurogenesis: Physical activity promotes the birth of new neurons, especially in the hippocampus, a region of the brain crucial for memory and learning
- Synaptic plasticity: Physical exercise strengthens connections between neurons, improving the brain’s ability to adapt and learn new information
- Anti-inflammatory effect: Chronic inflammation is one of the main risk factors for dementia. Exercise has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, protecting brain cells from damage
- Neurotrophic factors: Physical activity stimulates the production of neurotrophic factors, substances that promote survival and growth of neurons
The limits of the study and future prospects
Although the results of the study are very promising, it is important to highlight some limitations. First, it is an observational study, which means that a cause-and-effect relationship between exercise and reduced risk of dementia cannot be established. In addition, the study focused on vigorous exercise but did not investigate the effects of other types of physical activity such as moderate exercise or stretching.
Despite these limitations, the study provides a solid basis for further research. Randomised controlled clinical trials will be needed to confirm the results and identify the most effective type of exercise for preventing dementia in hypertensive people.
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