wera Rodsawang / Getty Images
Your morning run might be pulling double duty for your health.
Of course, its good for your heart, but it also might protect you fromdementia.
If you dont exercise, your muscles become rigid, making it harder for insulin to do its job.
wera Rodsawang / Getty Images
So, finding ways to reduceinsulin resistancein the body may be a way to prevent dementia.
Why Is Exercise Linked To a Lower Risk of Dementia?
The study found that exercise helps the brain regulate insulin, directly improving cognitive function.
Researchers followed 21 older adults with prediabetes who completed 12 supervised moderate to high-intensity exercise sessions over two weeks.
The first-of-its-kind finding pointed to a significant increase in brain-derived extracellular vesicles that carry insulin-related proteins.
These tiny messengers help neurons communicate and play a crucial role in maintaining the brain.
Why Are Insulin and Exercise Important for Brain Health?
Insulin is a hormone produced by thepancreasand is best known for regulating blood sugar.
But its role in brain health is just as vital.
Previous studies have found that exercise can improve or maintain memory and thinking ability in adults.
Along with exercise, healthy eating habits and stress-relief tactics can help maintain your brain health.
The sooner you start, the greater the benefit for your brain.
2025;24(1):e14369.
2020;7(1):29-36. doi:10.14283/jpad.2019.41
