Yes, moderate and vigorous physical activity helps the brain to stay sharp.
A large study looked at people born across England, Scotland and Wales in 1970 and followed-up throughout childhood and adulthood
A report of the study with 4481participants (52% female) found that moderate and vigorous physical activity helps cognition compared to light intensity physical activity.
But a word of caution though !
People with sedentary behaviour in this study had better brain sharpness than doing light intensity physical activity !
It seems bizarre to suggest Sedentary activities are good for brain !
We don’t know why this study showed this particularly unexpected finding. It could be that the study missed to collect some important information that influences brain.
This fact about sedentary behaviour is counterintuitive but science does sometimes show unexpected results. Sometimes unexpected findings are true and Sometimes they are false due to data collection issues or convoluted statistical tests.
That’s why it is important that information from multiple studies is taken together rather than relying on one study to make any scientific conclusion on any topic !
References
Minerva. BMJ. Physical activity and cognition in middle age.
Disclaimer: Please note – This blog is NOT medical advice. This blog is NOT a expert medical opinion on various topics. This blog is purely for information only and do check the sources where cited. Please DO consult your own doctor to discuss concerns and options relevant to you. The views expressed in this blog are NOT, in any way whatsoever, intended to be a substitute for professional advice. The blog is NOT previewed, commissioned or otherwise endorsed, in any way, by any organisation that the author is associated with. The views expressed in this blog likely represents some of the author’s personal views held at the time of drafting the blog and MAY CHANGE overtime, particularly when new evidence comes to light.
Dr S Sundar 