Health psychologists have found beneficial effects of exercise on cognitive functioning.

A. Cognitive functioning is positively impacted by exercise, as observed by _________.
B. Exercise has demonstrated beneficial effects on _.
C. The positive impact of exercise on cognitive functioning is acknowledged by _.
D. Health psychologists have identified exercise as beneficial for _________.

Regular physical activity is associated with reduced dementia risk, enhanced cognitive function in the elderly, and improvements in various cognitive functions for all ages, highlighting the close relationship between exercise and the brain.

Explanation:

Health psychologists have identified multiple benefits of physical exercise on cognitive functioning. A 30-year study involving almost 2,400 men showed that those who engaged in regular physical activity had a 59 percent reduction in dementia risk compared to those who did not exercise. Further, a review of cognitive enrichment therapies for the elderly indicated that aerobic exercise can significantly enhance cognitive function in older adults. Additionally, aerobic exercise has been linked to persistent improvements in various cognitive functions, including attentional control, cognitive flexibility, working memory, and information processing speed.

In summary, the relationship between exercise and the brain is profound, with consistent physical activity promoting protective and reparative processes within the brain. Regular exercise not only contributes to reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases but also improves mental functioning and may even help reverse cognitive deficits due to alcohol-induced brain damage.