## Dementia May Start in Your Legs,Not Your brain,Says Neurosurgeon
dementia is the leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults globally. In 2021,57 million people had dementia worldwide,and every year,nearly 10 million new cases arise. While most of us believe keeping the brain sharp is key to preventing or reducing the risk of dementia, a leading neurosurgeon reveals that keeping the legs strong is crucial.
Dr. Arun L. Naik, a neurosurgeon trained at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), India, explains that dementia starts in the leg! “Dementia may start in your legs, not your brain,” he said. Let’s take a look.
What is dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for several diseases that effect memory, thinking, and the ability to perform daily activities. It is indeed a progressive neurological condition, wich means it worsens with age and severely affects the quality of life.
Dementia starts in the leg
“Did you know dementia starts in your legs? Physical inactivity weakens your leg muscles, leading to sarcopenia, a loss of muscle mass. But here is the shocking part. Studies show that weak legs can speed up cognitive decline and increase dementia risk. Because active muscles pump out powerful chemicals that boost brain health. These chemicals are called brain-derived neurotrophic factors, BDNF, which increase connections in your memory area called the hippocampus. Strong legs mean strong balance and zero falls as you age. Falls are dangerous after the age of 65,” Dr. Naik said.
Strong Legs, Sharp Brain: How Movement Can Protect Your Cognitive Health
Maintaining cognitive health as we age is a growing concern, but a neurosurgeon is offering a surprisingly simple solution: prioritize leg strength. According to recent insights, the health of our legs is directly linked to brain health, and proactive steps to maintain leg strength can substantially reduce the risk of dementia.
“If your legs slow down, your brain may follow. protect your gait-protect your gray matter,” the doctor emphasized. This connection stems from the fact that leg strength requires robust neural pathways and efficient blood flow – both vital for optimal brain function.
So, how can you protect your gait and, in turn, your brain? The doctor recommends incorporating these habits into your daily routine:
* Daily walk: walk 30 minutes daily at a brisk pace.
* Balance exercises: Add exercises like tandem walking and single-leg stands.
* Dual-task walking: Practice walking while simultaneously engaging in a mental task, such as talking or solving a simple problem.
* Strength training: Include strength training specifically for your lower limbs, as muscle mass is “cognitive insurance.”
* Minimize sitting: Avoid prolonged periods of sitting; aim to move every hour to keep your memory sharp.
Alongside movement, maintaining muscle mass through a protein-rich diet is crucial. The neurosurgeon also highlighted the importance of starting early, stating, “Studies have shown that it’s never too late to start. Starting even in your 60s has shown to reduce dementia by a mile.”
Though, the message is clear: don’t wait.”Remember, strong legs, sharp brain. Don’t wait till sarcopenia hits your brain. Start in your 40s.” by prioritizing leg health now, you can proactively invest in a healthier, sharper future for your brain.