Biomedical scientists at Columbia Andes University have found that even engaging in 1-2 physical activities on weekends (known as "weekend warriors") can reduce the risk of cognitive decline, similar to frequent exercise. For busy people, this mode is both convenient and easier to implement. Researchers analyzed two sets of survey data from the Mexico City Prospective Study, the first set occurring between 1998 and 2004, and the second set occurring between 2015 and 2019. 10033 individuals with an average age of 51 completed these two surveys, and their responses were included in the analysis. In the first survey, respondents were asked whether they exercise or participate in sports. If the answer was "yes," they were asked how many times a week and how long (in minutes). According to the answers, they were divided into four groups: those who did not exercise (7945), weekend warriors (726), those who exercised three times a week (or more, 1362), and those who combined weekend warriors with regular exercise (2088). During the second survey, researchers used a simplified intelligence status assessment scale to evaluate participants' cognitive function. A score below 22 out of 30 is defined as mild cognitive impairment (MCI). During an average monitoring period of 16 years, a total of 2400 cases of MCI were confirmed, with a prevalence rate of 26% among non exercise individuals, 14% among weekend warriors, and 18.5% among regular exercise individuals. The data analysis results showed that, after considering potential influencing factors such as age, education level, smoking, nighttime sleep, diet, and alcohol consumption, the likelihood of developing MCI in weekend warriors was reduced by 25% compared to non exercise individuals, 11% for those who exercise regularly, and 16% for those who combine weekend warriors with regular exercise. In theory, if all middle-aged people exercise at least 1-2 times a week, it can reduce the incidence of diseases by 13%. The research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that there are several mechanisms that can explain the protective effect of exercise on brain health. Firstly, exercise can increase the concentration of brain-derived neurotrophic factors and the plasticity of the brain; Secondly, there is a correlation between sports and larger brain capacity, stronger executive function, and better memory.
Edit：Chen Jie Responsible editor：Li Ling
Source：Beijing Youth Daily
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