2023-05-28 09:30:24
For optimal health and well-being, regular physical activity is generally recommended. According to a new study, it would be even more recommended for those who are predisposed to Parkinson’s disease, since exercise is associated with a considerable reduction in developing this disease.
25% less risk by practicing more physical activity
In our modern society where lifestyles tend to be more and more sedentary, health professionals and health authorities keep repeating the importance of regular exercise. Indeed, lack of physical activity affects many aspects of physical and mental health, ranging from overweight to diabetes and depression. In a new study, INSERM researchers have even shown that there is a link between the practice of physical exercise and Parkinson’s disease.
According to the results of the study published in the journal Neurology, in women, regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. This discovery was made as part of the EN3 study, an ongoing research that is following more than 95,000 participants over three decades to learn more regarding how lifestyle factors affect women’s health.
Using the data from this study, the researchers wanted to see if there was an association between exercise and Parkinson’s disease. In particular, the researchers grouped the women according to the amount of physical activity they reported doing regularly. Note that the study took into account both sports and exercise such as cycling and walking, as well as daily physical activities such as gardening and cleaning.
In any case, it is important to exercise regularly
By cross-analyzing with the cases of Parkinson’s disease among the participants, the researchers found that those who spent more time exercising or other physical activities had a higher prevalence rate of Parkinson’s disease. 25% lower than those who practiced less. Even when taking into account other factors such as diet and general health conditions of the participants, the results remained similar.
However, it is important to note that the results of this study only showed an association – and not a causal link – between regular exercise and Parkinson’s disease. Anyway, it is an association to take into consideration in the prevention of this disease. By the way, the researchers also noted that there is evidence that exercise has effects on the brain. ” Physical activity may improve nerve conduction in circuits that are involved in motor control “, explained Alexis Elbaz, lead author of the study.
« We know that people who have more physical activity have certain areas of the brain that are more functional. And that’s how we imagine that physical activity might have a role in Parkinson’s disease “, he added. Moreover, even if this association did not exist, the researchers pointed out that exercise and physical activities are inexpensive and effective ways to improve overall health.
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