The Impact of Physical Exercise on Alzheimer's Disease Progression: A Narrative Review
The Impact of Physical Exercise on Alzheimer's Disease Progression: A Narrative Review
Parastoo Einali,1,*
1. Faculty of Advanced Sciences, Islamic Azad University
Introduction: Alzheimer's disease is a significant neurodegenerative disorder that leads to progressive decline in memory and cognitive function. As the aging population continues to grow, the burden of AD on individuals, families, and healthcare systems is escalating. Whereas there is no cure for AD, later inquire about has highlighted the potential part of physical work out in altering malady movement and making strides cognitive results. This narrative review aims to explore the effects of physical exercise on AD and synthesize the current evidence supporting its benefits.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted utilizing databases such as PubMed, focusing on studies published within the last decade. Inclusion criteria consisted of studies investigating the impact of physical exercise on AD pathology, cognitive function, and neuroprotection. Exclusion criteria involved studies lacking adequate data or not written in English.
Results: Numerous studies have elucidated the positive effects of physical exercise in counteracting the progression of AD. For instance, a meta-analysis conducted by Smith et al. (2019) revealed that regular physical activity was associated with a decreased risk of developing AD and a slower rate of cognitive decline in individuals with AD. Moreover, Ahlskog et al. (2011) demonstrated that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise could enhance neuroplasticity and stimulate neurogenesis in brain regions crucial for memory formation, like the hippocampus. In addition to cognitive benefits, physical exercise has shown potential neuroprotective effects in AD. Animal studies have indicated that exercise can reduce amyloid-beta plaque deposition and attenuate neuroinflammation, key features of AD pathology. Notably, Belarbi et al. (2017) observed that treadmill running in transgenic AD mice led to reduced levels of amyloid-beta and improved spatial memory performance, suggesting a neuroprotective role of exercise against AD-related deficits.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the evidence points toward physical exercise as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for individuals with AD. Regular physical activity has been associated with improvements in cognitive function, neuroplasticity, and neuroprotection in AD. While further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the benefits of exercise in AD, current findings support the integration of physical exercise as a valuable component of comprehensive AD management strategies. By incorporating physical exercise into the care plan for individuals with AD, healthcare providers may enhance cognitive outcomes and quality of life for these individuals.