Physical activity has been linked to brain health

The result was telling, as people who, on average, walked fewer than 5,000 steps per day were 80 % more likely to develop dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke than those who walked more than 12,000 steps. In the least active group, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression were also more commonly observed, and, according to scientists, these conditions may partially explain the difference.

“The point is that how much you move throughout the year can serve as a window into the overall health of your brain and body,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Mit Popatbhai Kachadia, a neurology resident at the University of Florida Atlantic.

There’s also good news: even those who averaged about 8,000 steps per day had a significantly lower risk of neurological diseases than the least active individuals.

The authors say that this is still an association, and new studies are needed to confirm the link. A consistently low number of steps is not a reason to worry about your brain, but a reason to conduct a general health check.

“Everyone should develop a habit of regular physical activity by setting realistic and sustainable goals,” says co‑author Dr. Mark Sverdlov. “People who take about 8,000 steps a day have significantly lower rates of neurological diseases. This is a realistic goal; it aligns with global recommendations of approximately 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.”