Dementia does not appear out of the blue. In fact, your body gives you signs well before a health concern flares up, and this includes dementia. Yes, the signs could be subtle, but your body will alert you. About 57 million people worldwide were living with dementia in 2021, according to the World Health Organization. Every year, nearly 10 million new cases arise. Some early signs may point towards dementia; however, one of the earliest symptoms is not what you might expect. In a video shared on Instagram, Dr Arun L. Naik, a neurosurgeon trained at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in India, revealed that dementia may start in your legs. Yes, that’s right. What is that sign? Let’s find out.

What is dementia?

Dementia is a general term for the loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is a progressive neurological condition, which means it worsens with age and severely affects quality of life.

Dementia starts in the legs

While most of us assume that keeping the brain sharp is key to preventing or reducing the risk of dementia, Dr Naik emphasised focusing on the legs. “Dementia may start in your legs, not your brain.” Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia. “Physical inactivity weakens your leg muscles, leading to sarcopenia, a loss of muscle mass. But here is the shocking part: studies show that weak legs can speed up cognitive decline and increase dementia risk,” the doctor said. But how do weak legs increase your risk of dementia? “Because active muscles pump out powerful chemicals that boost brain health. These chemicals are called brain-derived neurotrophic factors, BDNF, which increase connections in your memory area called the hippocampus. Strong legs mean strong balance and zero falls as you age. Falls are dangerous after the age of 65,” Dr Naik explained. He also shared findings from a 2020 study published in Neurology, where researchers found that slower walking speed in older adults was linked to smaller brain volume and a higher risk of cognitive decline. “Why? Because walking is not just a physical task; it’s a full-brain workout,” he added.

How walking protects the brain

Walking is one of the simplest and most effective forms of exercise and is also linked to better brain function. “Every step involves coordination between the frontal lobe, cerebellum, spinal cord, and proprioceptive feedback loops,” the doctor detailed about the leg–brain connection. He emphasised that walking also boosts circulation. “Leg movement improves blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and glucose and clearing out toxins. Gait changes equal brain warning. Changes in walking style, balance, or pace often precede memory symptoms by years,” he said. Walking is neuroplasticity in motion, he added. The neurosurgeon explained, “Walking stimulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which strengthens neuron connections.”

Simple ways to reduce your risk of dementia

The neurosurgeon shared some effective tips that could help significantly slash the risk of dementia and protect the brain. Take a look:

“If your legs slow down, your brain may follow. Protect your gait—protect your grey matter,” the doctor said. He also stressed that it is never too late to start protecting your brain. “Studies have shown that it’s never too late to start. Beginning even in your 60s has been shown to reduce dementia risk significantly. Remember, strong legs, sharp brain. Don’t wait till sarcopenia hits your brain. Start in your 40s.” Forget supplements and fancy foods; simple daily movement could keep dementia at bay and protect your brain.Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.