A new study of more than 135,000 people aged 45+ compared three groups: those who didn’t exercise at all, those who exercised in a traditional way, and those who spent time gardening.
The results were clear:
28% lower risk of cognitive decline
43% lower risk of cognitive difficulties in daily life
The researchers controlled for age, income, education, health status, and lifestyle factors, so the effect appeared to come from the gardening itself.
Why does it work?
Movement and energy metabolism explained 39% of the protective effect
Reduced depression/stress accounted for 22%
Eating more fruits and vegetables also contributed
Conclusion: 20 minutes in the garden can deliver tangible benefits for brain health. And then a sauna on top of that…!
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