How to Remain a Sharp-Minded Defender of Democracy: New Findings Reveal Something Exciting in the Fight to Delay Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease

The Jack Hopkins Now Newsletter #312

Exercise: Is it the Key to Unlocking a Sharper Mind and Fending Off Dementia and Alzheimer's?

In a world where the fight against Alzheimer's disease and dementia is growing more critical, new groundbreaking research has emerged to show that one simple, yet powerful tool…exercise…could be the secret weapon to preserving our cognitive health.

Imagine having the ability to protect your brain…slow cognitive decline…and even delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease, all through something as accessible as physical activity.

It's not just wishful thinking; it's the result of a study published just this week that reveals how exercise can be a game-changer in our fight against these devastating conditions.

The Latest Research: Exercise’s Cognitive Power

Today, April 24, 2025, the results of the EXERT study (Exercise in Adults with Mild Memory Problems) stunned the medical and scientific communities.

This extensive trial, led by top researchers from the University of California San Diego and Wake Forest University…aimed to explore whether exercise could slow cognitive decline in older adults diagnosed with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI)…a condition that often serves as a precursor to Alzheimer’s.

For the first time in a major clinical trial…the researchers showed that exercise does more than just improve physical health: it preserves the brain.

Participants who engaged in regular exercise…even at low-intensity levels…were able to maintain cognitive function over the course of the study.

In stark contrast, those who did not participate in the exercise program experienced a noticeable decline in their cognitive abilities. This was not just a small finding; it was a game-changing revelation in the fight against dementia. IT. SHOULD. BE. VIEWED. AS. A. GAME. CHANGER…..because it is.

The Power of Exercise for the Brain

Why does this study matter? Because it shows us that exercise is a potent ally in maintaining brain health and potentially delaying the progression to Alzheimer's.

Participants who engaged in moderate to high-intensity exercise experienced the preservation of brain volume, especially in areas crucial for memory and executive function.

In particular, the prefrontal cortex, which plays a significant role in higher cognitive functions like memory…decision-making…and planning…showed remarkable resilience in those who exercised.

Think about it: exercise doesn't just build muscle or enhance endurance; it protects your brain from the ravages of aging.

Brain volume loss is one of the hallmark signs of cognitive decline, and by engaging in consistent physical activity, we can reduce the damage and maintain our brain's vitality.

Exercise: A Simple, Accessible Solution

One of the most exciting aspects of this study is that it highlights how low-intensity exercise…even something as simple as walking…can have significant benefits for cognitive health.

This means you don’t need to run marathons or become a gym enthusiast to protect your brain. Short, regular bouts of activity can work wonders, and you don’t need to be a fitness expert to experience the benefits.

The research also suggests that starting these habits early, especially if you are diagnosed with aMCI, can help slow the inevitable progression toward Alzheimer’s.

It’s never too late to start, and the earlier you begin, the more you can gain. Think about it: small lifestyle changes like taking regular walks…participating in light yoga… or cycling could reap enormous rewards for your brain’s health as you age.

More Than Just Physical Health: The Emotional Benefits

While the study’s focus was on cognitive preservation, there’s another key factor to consider: how exercise impacts mental well-being.

Anyone who’s ever gone for a jog or hit the gym knows the mental clarity and mood boost that comes with physical activity.

This emotional lift can have profound implications for those struggling with cognitive decline…providing not just physical health benefits but also a greater sense of mental resilience

.Exercise releases endorphins…which are natural mood boosters that can help improve overall emotional health. It helps fight feelings of depression and anxiety…conditions often linked with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Engaging in regular physical activity not only strengthens your body but uplifts your spirit…creating a holistic approach to combating the effects of cognitive decline.

The Science Behind the Study: How Exercise Fights Alzheimer's

It’s not just anecdotal; there’s real science behind how exercise benefits your brain. Regular physical activity increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, stimulating the production of chemicals that enhance brain plasticity and strengthen neural connections.

Exercise also boosts the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)…a protein that encourages the growth of new neurons and supports brain function.

What’s more, exercise helps reduce inflammation in the brain…which has been linked to cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise…we can reduce the risk of developing these debilitating conditions.

A Call to Action: Make Exercise a Priority

The time to act is now.

The evidence is in: exercise is one of the most effective, accessible, and natural ways to protect your brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Whether it’s walking, swimming, dancing, or engaging in any activity that gets your body moving, the goal is simple…move regularly to keep your brain sharp.

But the benefits aren’t just for those at risk of dementia. Everyone can benefit from exercise…no matter their age or current health status. Yes, you.

Studies consistently show that exercise enhances cognitive function, improves memory…and even boosts learning ability. If you want to stay mentally sharp and improve your brain's ability to fend off cognitive decline…then start building exercise into your daily routine today.

Final Thoughts: A Future of Cognitive Health

This new study on the importance of exercise couldn’t come at a better time. As we face an aging population and a rise in Alzheimer's and dementia diagnoses…it’s critical that we begin taking proactive steps to protect our minds.

Throughout my decades of working one-on-one with men, women, and children, a central tenet of my approach was that the more meaningful reasons you have for engaging in a new behavior, the more likely you’ll do so.

This new research provides a very compelling reason to start…or continue exercising.

Exercise isn’t just a physical activity; it’s a mental investment that pays dividends for years to come.

The science is clear: exercise is one of the best tools we have to fight cognitive decline, preserve brain function, and improve quality of life.

So, whether you're 30 or 70, start moving today…your brain will thank you tomorrow.

Here’s one thing I know: If I lose a leg, my arms, or become paralyzed…as long as I have my mind, I can engage with life, other people…and still generate an income. Once my mind is gone, however…it’s show over, lights out…and the fat lady sings.

If that happens…despite my best efforts, then it does. If it happens, though…because I didn’t do the things I could to delay…or prevent it…that’s not acceptable. The stress it puts on family members is immense. I’ll do everything I can to keep that away from them.

We are in a fight for freedom and democracy. That takes millions of sharp minds…working together.

Take charge of your health, and make exercise a key part of your life.

Talk with you again soon!

Best,

Jack