Engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity may reduce the likelihood of developing conditions such as dementia, stroke, anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, researchers say. According to a preliminary study, the more time people spend sitting down, the more likely they are to develop one of these diseases.

       Remaining active could be crucial in avoiding these life-limiting conditions. Study author Jia-Yi Wu, MD, of Fudan University in Shanghai, said, "This research highlights the role of physical activity and sedentary behaviour as modifiable factors that may enhance brain health and reduce the incidence of these diseases.

       "It is promising to think that encouraging people to make these lifestyle changes could potentially lessen the burden of these diseases in the future." Participants in the study, who averaged 56 years old, wore accelerometer devices continuously for seven days to track their physical activity.

       The study determined how much energy they used on their activities and how much time they spent sitting each day. People who had moderate to vigorous physical activity energy expenditure were 14% to 40% less likely to develop these five diseases than those who had lower levels.

       The more time people spend sitting, the higher their risk of developing one of the diseases. The increase ranged from 5% to 54% higher than those who spent the least time sitting.

       Don't miss...

       Study links fluctuating cholesterol levels with 'higher risk of dementia' [LATEST]

       Linda Robson shares moment she knew something 'wasn't right' with Pauline Quirke [LATEST]

       NHS warns of 'stroke-like symptoms' that could be dementia [LATEST]

       New study finds fish and nuts can 'slash dementia and MND risk' [LATEST]

       This doesn't mean you need to start hitting the gym daily or doing intense exercise. The research defined 'moderate' movement as simply walking. More vigorous physical activity included cycling (depending on your speed).

       The Alzheimer's Society says research has shown that people who exercise regularly may be up to 20% less likely to develop dementia than those who don't. Sustaining physical activity throughout midlife (between the ages of 40 and 60) also seems to have the best effect on reducing dementia risk.

       The organisation claims that combining aerobic activity with strength-building will help reduce one's risk of dementia. It lists some examples on its website, such as swimming, dancing, tennis, yoga, tai chi, or Pilates.

       It doesn't even need to be sport—just getting active is enough to trigger these benefits. In some cases, you may enjoy the process more if you don't even notice you're actively exercising with activities like gardening, painting, and decorating.

       For people with dementia, it is best to go at your own pace and work to adapt any moves to suit you. If you do decide to start walking for exercise, take a friend or family member with you if possible - or stick to familiar routes and tell someone where you are going

       Exercise isn't the only way to slash your risk of dementia in later life. Cutting back on smoking and alcohol consumption can also help your brain stay healthy longer.

       Certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, can increase the risk of getting dementia. An important way to manage this is by regularly attending a health check.

       Eating an unhealthy diet may also cause health problems, including obesity, which can be linked to an increased risk of dementia. If you are concerned about developing dementia symptoms, speak with your doctor.