You’ve probably heard countless times that exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy, sharp brain. But what if you have physical limitations preventing you from engaging in vigorous activities? Well, recent research suggests that even mild or minimal movement every day can offer protective benefits for maintaining brain health and acuity.
Walk Your Way to a Younger Brain
One study examined the reports of 2,809 women over the age of 65 who had a history of cardiovascular problems or other noteworthy risk factors. Many studies on memory and exercise involve healthy individuals. However, minimal exercise is particularly essential for people with cardiovascular risk factors. Unhealthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels are related to poor memory and mental decline.
This study found that women who participated in daily exercise performed better on memory tests. Those who walked briskly for 30 minutes or more each day experienced much slower cognitive decline than those who got little or no exercise. According to the researchers, this difference is equal to having a brain that is five to seven years younger.
Lower Cognitive Decline by 90 Percent
Another study used laboratory tests to gauge the physical activity of participants. Laura E. Middleton, Ph.D., an assistant professor of Kinesiology at the University of Waterloo, Ontario, was the lead researcher involved in the study. She observed a group of men and women over the age of 70 to see how well their bodies broke down particular compounds added to their water gauging their energy expenditure. Participants who were active managed the task much better than those who were sedentary and were 90 percent less likely to develop cognitive issues.
Simple Movement for a Healthier Brain
Middleton concluded that simple, everyday activity, and not just exercise, may help maintain brain health. She states, “It’s not only the type of purposeful physical activity that’s important; it’s also the less intense work … stuff like just standing up more often and walking more often.”
“It’s bad news for those of us, including myself, who sit at a desk all day,” she adds. “It means that we really need to find some way to get up and move.”
Supporting Your Cardiovascular Health
Healthy blood flow and blood pressure are cornerstones of vibrant cardiovascular health. While diet and exercise are critical for cultivating good heart health, specific natural herbs and nutrients are also recognized for their ability to support the heart and circulatory systems.
Heart-healthy herbs such as Hawthorn berry and Chinese salvia, and ingredients such as the powerful enzyme Nattokinase, can effectively support lasting heart health. A comprehensive circulation formula may also contain medicinal mushrooms and the amino acid L-Carnitine for its antioxidant properties as well as its potential to enhance physical function. Research shows that L-Carnitine supplementation can increase exercise capacity in some individuals.
By supporting a healthy cardiovascular system, you also support healthy blood flow to the brain. Boosting blood flow with effective, gentle herbs and mild exercise are necessary strategies for supporting and protecting cognitive health throughout your life.
