While we might not think about the health of our brain and mind when we are exercising, recent research reveals that regular physical activity plays a significant role in preventing dementia and other central nervous system disorders.
Working Out Pumps Oxygen to the Brain
In one study from the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, researchers found that individuals with Parkinson’s disease experience drastic improvement in their symptoms with regular exercise. Researchers found that when study participants exercised at least three times a week, they increased the oxygenation of blood and brain cells.
As a result of increased oxygenation, study participants were better able to perform primary motor tasks. Researchers also found that with exercise involving stationary bicycle riding, pedaling faster was the key aspect to seeing symptom improvements. They also saw that improvements were sustained over time.
Physical Activity Increases Brain Volume
In another study conducted at UCLA, researchers found that individuals who regularly participate in physical activity had higher amounts of gray matter when compared to individuals who were largely sedentary.
High amounts of gray matter are associated with higher cognitive functioning. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease show shrinking amounts of gray matter as the disease progresses. According to Dr. Cyrus Raji, lead researcher, “gray matter volume is a key marker of brain health. Larger gray matter volume means a healthier brain.”
In this study, researchers found that having an active lifestyle with a wide variety of healthy lifestyle activities provided the highest amount of gray matter volume. Individuals who participated in activities such as gardening, bicycle riding, walking, house work, recreational sports and dancing showed the largest benefit in terms of brain volume.
Leading a healthy lifestyle is important in fighting against many of the effects of aging and disease. In addition to eating a healthy diet, it is important to integrate physical activity that provides a wide variety of lifestyle choices.
What types of physical activity do you engage in regularly? Do you have a family history of dementia-related illnesses? What do you do to fight against them in your life?
– The Alternative Daily
