Dr Amir Khan has highlighted the brain health and healthy ageing benefits of reading for just 30 minutes a day, emphasising that this activity is not exercise or puzzles. The medical expert shared his "love of reading," noting that it provides both entertainment and a wealth of health benefits.
Reading as a Mental Workout
Dr Khan explained that reading acts as a mental brain workout, exercising different parts of the brain. "It activates areas involved in memory, attention, language and imagination, helping to build what's known as cognitive reserve, which may help protect against cognitive decline as we age," he said.
Stress Management and Empathy
Reading is also effective for managing stress levels, as it allows individuals to get lost in a book. Dr Khan described this feeling as "really nice" and noted that it can improve long-term health. Additionally, he pointed out that reading boosts empathy because "you see the world through other people's eyes when you read a book and you get lost in a character."
Lower Risk of Death
Among his favourite reasons to read, Dr Khan cited a major study that "found that people who read books for more than 3½ hours a week had around a 20% lower risk of death during the study period compared with non-readers." This amounts to just 30 minutes a day to make a meaningful difference. He added, "It doesn't prove reading makes you live longer, but it's another reminder that looking after your mind matters just as much as looking after your body."
Personal Reading Habits
Dr Khan aims to finish a book every fortnight, reading mostly "in bed mainly." He concluded his video with the words: "So if you ever find me with my nose in a book... this is my kind of self-care." Currently, he is reading Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, one of the most talked-about books of the summer.
Public Response
In the comments section, one follower suggested a "Dr Amir book club" should be launched without delay. Others shared their own reading habits, with one commenting: "I love it too! Especially at this time of year, sitting in the garden listening to birds and bees while delving into a good book!" Another wrote: "Avid reader here. Yesteryear was my favourite book this year so far. People need to know how good reading is for your health and wellbeing, so thanks for sharing."
