The Surprising Benefits of Exercise on Brain Function

go_auto

Exercise is not just good for your body—it's also great for your brain. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve cognitive function, boost memory, and reduce the risk of developing dementia.

How Exercise Benefits the Brain

There are several ways that exercise benefits the brain. First, exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This increased blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the brain cells, which helps to improve their function.

Second, exercise helps to produce new brain cells. In a study published in the journal Cell, researchers found that mice that exercised regularly had more new brain cells than mice that did not exercise. These new brain cells were located in the hippocampus, a brain region that is involved in learning and memory.

Third, exercise helps to reduce inflammation in the brain. Inflammation is a major risk factor for dementia, and exercise has been shown to reduce inflammation in the brains of both animals and humans.

The Cognitive Benefits of Exercise

Regular exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function in people of all ages. In a study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers found that adults who exercised regularly had better cognitive function than adults who did not exercise. The benefits of exercise were particularly pronounced in older adults, who are at greater risk for cognitive decline.

In another study, published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that people who exercised regularly had a lower risk of developing dementia. The study found that people who exercised regularly were 40% less likely to develop dementia than people who did not exercise.

The Brain Benefits of Exercise for Children

Exercise is not just beneficial for the brains of adults—it also benefits the brains of children. In a study published in the journal Pediatrics, researchers found that children who exercised regularly had better cognitive function than children who did not exercise. The benefits of exercise were particularly pronounced in children who were overweight or obese.

In another study, published in the journal Developmental Psychology, researchers found that children who exercised regularly had better academic performance than children who did not exercise. The study found that children who exercised regularly had higher grades in math and reading than children who did not exercise.

How Much Exercise Do You Need?

The amount of exercise you need to get the brain benefits depends on your age and fitness level. However, most experts recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day.

What Types of Exercise Are Best for the Brain?

Any type of exercise that gets your heart rate up and makes you sweat is beneficial for the brain. However, some types of exercise may be better for the brain than others. For example, aerobic exercise, such as running, swimming, and biking, has been shown to be particularly beneficial for the brain. Resistance exercise, such as weightlifting, can also improve brain function.

Conclusion

Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your brain. Regular exercise can improve cognitive function, boost memory, and reduce the risk of developing dementia. Exercise is also beneficial for the brains of children, improving cognitive function and academic performance. So if you want to keep your brain sharp, make sure to get regular exercise.