Doctor explains how stronger legs can mean better brian health and cognitive strength in old age
How is it all connected?
Nicola pointed to one of the most fascinating
studies
on the subject, an investigation that tracked 300 female twins, all around the age of 55. The scientists wanted to know if muscle fitness, measured through leg power, could predict cognitive changes over a 10-year period.
This twin design was clever: by comparing twins, researchers could isolate the effects of leg power from genetics and early-life environment. Results were compelling—higher leg power at baseline significantly predicted better cognitive outcomes a decade later, even when adjusting for heart health, diabetes, smoking, diet, socioeconomic status, and other known dementia risk factors.
But that is not all. A small subset of the twin pairs underwent MRI scans approximately 12 years into the study. These images revealed that participants with greater leg power at baseline also had larger total gray matter volume and healthier brain structures, such as smaller ventricles, years later.
Lead researcher Dr Claire Steves explained in 2015: "When it came to cognitive ageing, leg strength was the strongest factor that had an impact in our study.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
SRM Online MBA – Empowering Future Leaders
SRM Online
Enquire Now
Undo
Other factors such as heart health were also important, but the link with leg strength remained even after we accounted for these. We think leg strength is a marker of the kind of physical activity that is good for your brain."
What experts believe?
Nicola explained it in clear terms: 'If we cut it down, it means that the bigger the leg muscle, the bigger the brain.'
Further, the broader scientific community has echoed these findings. Dr. Doug Brown of the Alzheimer's Society said the results add to growing evidence that physical activity benefits the brain as much as the body, though more research is still needed to fully understand the relationship.
Dr. Simon Ridley of Alzheimer's Research UK also emphasized that both strength training and aerobic activity should be part of a balanced lifestyle to reduce dementia risk.
So what does this mean in practical terms? Building strong legs isn't just about aesthetics or mobility; it could be a protective factor for your brain.
Nicola suggests that simple but powerful exercises like squats and deadlifts can be the key to building leg strength. These compound movements engage multiple muscle groups, improve balance, boost circulation, and challenge your nervous system, all of which contribute to healthier aging.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
19 minutes ago
- Time of India
LASIK isn't as safe as you think: Columbia doctor warns it can cause long-term vision loss
LASIK, one of the most popular vision-correction procedures, has long been marketed as a quick, safe way to achieve 20/20 vision. However, Dr. Cynthia MacKay, an ophthalmologist at Columbia University, has raised serious concerns about its long-term safety. She describes LASIK as 'taking a healthy eye and making it sick,' warning that it can permanently alter the cornea and leave patients with worse vision than before. Complications may appear decades later, including loss of distance vision, reduced contrast sensitivity, chronic dry eyes, and corneal bulging. Her critique emphasizes the need for full patient awareness and careful screening before undergoing the procedure. What happens during LASIK surgery LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular procedure designed to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During the surgery, an ophthalmologist uses an excimer laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front layer of the eye, in order to improve how light is focused on the retina. The procedure begins with creating a thin corneal flap, which is carefully lifted to allow the laser to reshape the underlying tissue. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo Once the reshaping is complete, the flap is repositioned, naturally adhering without stitches. While many patients experience rapid improvement in vision and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses, Dr. MacKay warns that LASIK permanently alters the corneal structure. These structural changes can lead to long-term complications such as corneal thinning, ectasia (bulging of the cornea), dry eyes, and loss of contrast sensitivity. Patients may also experience visual disturbances like glare, halos, or difficulties seeing at night. Because of these potential risks, it is critical for anyone considering LASIK to have a thorough preoperative evaluation, understand the limitations of the procedure, and discuss possible short- and long-term complications with their ophthalmologist before undergoing surgery. Documented risks and complications of LASIK surgery Several studies and reports outline the possible LASIK side effects: Dry eye syndrome : Up to 95% experience dry eyes immediately post-surgery, with 20% having persistent issues. Visual disturbances: Glare, halos, and difficulty seeing at night affect roughly 20% of patients. Loss of contrast sensitivity: Many patients notice reduced ability to perceive subtle shades. Flap-related complications: Improper healing or trauma can cause long-term issues. Long-term complications: Corneal ectasia, scarring, and other late-onset problems may appear years after surgery. Disagreement and scientific perspective While Dr. MacKay emphasizes the long-term risks of LASIK, many ophthalmologists maintain that the procedure is generally safe for the majority of patients when thorough preoperative screening and proper surgical protocols are followed. The success of LASIK often depends on factors such as corneal thickness, overall eye anatomy, pre-existing eye conditions, and the patient's healing capacity. Some doctors argue that most complications are mild and temporary, like dry eyes or night vision issues, and that serious long-term effects are relatively rare. Experts agree, however, that patient education, informed consent, and realistic expectations are essential to minimize risks and ensure satisfaction. Individual variability makes it clear that LASIK is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and ongoing monitoring post-surgery is recommended to catch potential issues early. Ethical concerns and FDA scrutiny LASIK marketing campaigns often promise outcomes like '20/20 vision or your money back,' which can give patients unrealistic expectations while downplaying potential risks. Dr. MacKay has criticized the FDA for not issuing stronger public warnings or requiring more transparent reporting of complications. Ethical discussions in ophthalmology focus on ensuring patients are fully informed about both short- and long-term risks, including chronic dry eyes, visual disturbances, and structural changes to the cornea. The underreporting of adverse effects and the aggressive promotion of LASIK raise questions about industry accountability. With millions of procedures performed worldwide, it's increasingly important that prospective patients receive balanced information, including the potential for late-onset complications and the necessity of ongoing eye health monitoring. Lessons for prospective patients LASIK can dramatically improve vision for many people, offering freedom from glasses or contact lenses. However, it is not without risk, and patients must approach the procedure with a thorough understanding of possible outcomes. Comprehensive preoperative screening, including corneal thickness measurements and an evaluation of eye health, is crucial. Patients should also discuss long-term risks with their ophthalmologist, including chronic dry eyes, loss of contrast sensitivity, night vision issues, and the rare possibility of corneal bulging or scarring. By understanding both the benefits and potential complications, individuals can make informed decisions, set realistic expectations, and plan for proper post-operative care to ensure their vision remains healthy over time.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
After 'Frankenstein' rabbits, 'zombie squirrels' are haunting Americans
Source: X Squirrels with grotesque, wart-like tumors have been spotted across the United States and Canada, particularly in states like Maine. The condition, marked by pus-filled tumors and hairless patches, has alarmed residents and fueled viral discussions on Reddit, X, and other platforms. According to reports, sightings of these afflicted animals have surfaced since mid-2023, with numbers rising this summer. Some residents have dubbed them 'zombie squirrels' due to their disturbing appearance. One Reddit user recalled seeing a gray squirrel with a tumor on its mouth on July 31, initially thinking it was eating something in a flowerbed before realizing the growth was attached to its face. The cause: Squirrel Fibromatosis Wildlife experts identify the phenomenon as squirrel fibromatosis—a naturally occurring viral skin disease that looks frightening but poses no risk to humans, pets, or birds. The condition is caused by the leporipoxvirus and spreads through direct contact, often when healthy squirrels encounter the saliva or lesions of infected ones. The transmission mechanism is similar to how herpes spreads in humans. Unlike squirrelpox—common in the UK and often fatal to red squirrels—this virus usually resolves within four to eight weeks. However, in rare cases, internal organ involvement can be fatal. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo Wildlife biologist Shevenell Webb of Maine's Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife told the Bangor Daily News that the clustering of squirrels—often around bird feeders—may be driving the spread. 'It's like when you get a large concentration of people. If someone is sick and it spreads easily, others are going to catch it,' she said. Uneaten seeds contaminated with saliva or fluid from an infected squirrel can pass the virus on to others. Webb urged residents not to interfere. 'It is naturally occurring and will run its course in time,' she noted. Rabbits with antler-like growths Source: X At the same time, unusual wildlife sightings have been reported in Colorado, where cottontail rabbits infected with Shope papilloma virus—also called cottontail papilloma virus—develop black, antler-like growths protruding from their heads. The disease is spread by parasites like ticks and fleas, which pass on the ailment through their bites, according to Pet MD. While the recent sightings occurred in Colorado, the disease most frequently appears in the Midwest. 'Typically rabbits become infected in the warmer months of summer when transmitted by being bitten by insects like fleas and ticks,' said Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson Kara Van Hoose, per the Coloradoan. Fortunately, Colorado Parks and Wildlife notes that while the virus can spread between rabbits, it is not known to infect humans or pets and is not considered a public health threat.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Is 3I/ATLAS an alien probe? Harvard scientists spark debate on extraterrestrial life
Scientists all over the world are interested in a strange object that is moving quickly through space. The thing, called 3I/ATLAS , is huge, about the size of Manhattan, and is moving toward Earth at an incredible speed. Some Harvard researchers think it might even be technology from another planet. This has led to discussions about the possibility of an alien encounter this November. Researchers say that even though the study is just a thought experiment, the possible effects of such an encounter could be terrible for people. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Undo ALSO READ: Orca attack mystery: What really happened to marine trainer Jessica Radcliffe This interstellar traveler is moving faster than 60 kilometers per second and is between 10 and 20 kilometers wide. This makes people wonder if it could be more than just a rock in space. Live Events Could this thing really be technology from space? The fact that Harvard astrophysicist Avi Loeb is involved with 3I/ATLAS is a big part of what makes it so interesting. Loeb has long said that we shouldn't rule out the possibility of alien technology . Loeb, Adam Hibberd, and Adam Crowl from the Initiative for Interstellar Studies in London wrote a paper together that said the object might not be natural, as per a report by WION News. The scientists think that if 3I/ATLAS is a smart ship, its strange orbit might let it get close to Earth without being seen. The study also shows that the object's location near the Sun later this year could give it the chance to move quickly without being seen. What makes November 2025 so important? Scientists think that 3I/ATLAS will be closest to the Sun in late November 2025. It might be hard to find at that time because it could be out of sight of telescopes on Earth. This window has led to speculation that the object could try to sneak up on Earth if it is being controlled by intelligent beings The Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) telescope in Chile was the first to see the object, which added to the suspense, as per a report by WION News. ALSO READ: Apple iPhone 17 Air and Pro get surprise release date change — here's the new timeline What are scientists saying about the risks? Even though the headlines are scary, the study's authors stress that their work is only a theory. They make it clear that they are not claiming that aliens are a direct threat, but that they are testing a theory. The study says that even though the idea may sound strange, it is worth looking into scientifically. The team also says, though, that if the hypothesis were ever proven true, things could get very bad. People may have to think about ways to protect themselves, even though the researchers say that these efforts may not work against advanced technology in the end. A scary but possible idea Avi Loeb has caused a lot of talk about possible alien probes before. He famously said in 2017 that the interstellar object ʻOumuamua might have been an artificial spacecraft. Many astronomers disagreed with him, but his arguments got people talking about how people understand strange cosmic events. The nature of 3I/ATLAS remains a mystery at this time. Scientists will keep a close eye on it as it speeds toward the inner solar system, whether it's just another cosmic rock or something much more advanced, as per a report by WION News. FAQs What is 3I/ATLAS? ATLAS telescopes found it, and it could be alien technology. It's a huge object in space. When might it be dangerous to Earth? The object will come closest to Earth in late November 2025, according to scientists.
