Working up a sweat may slow progressive memory loss

Exercise may do more than keep a healthy brain fit.

New research suggests that doing exercise may also offer some help once memory starts to slide - and even improve life for people with Alzheimer's disease.

The effects were modest, but a series of studies found that vigorous workouts by people with mild memory impairment decreased levels of a warped protein linked to risk of Alzheimer's in later life. They also found an improved quality of life for people already in the early stages of the disease.