Plus the best way to get your blood pumping, according to brain health experts.
According to the World Health Organization, nearly 1 in 6 people worldwide are living with a neurological disorder.
Heres what they had to say about the powerful connection between exercise and brain health.
Photo: Getty Images / JulNichols / mikroman6
Reyzelman emphasizes why we must look at exercise as an essential element to maintaining a healthy brain.
There was also increased thickening of various parts of the brain cortexareas vital for memory and thinking functions.
These cognitive processes are neurogenesis and neuroplasticity.
Neurogenesis is the growth, development and maintenance of new brain cells.
Oxygen is vital for both, and regular exercise promotes increased oxygen supply.
This has been shown in studies to improve cognitive performance across all age groups," Reyzelman says.
“Patients who have heart disease are significantly more likely to develop stroke and dementia.
It has also been shown to slow down progression of other neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.”
According to Reyzelman, there is also a link between brain health and increased levels of inflammation andstress.
“Starting slowly and building your stamina over time will likely result in the greatest benefits.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Physical Activity Boosts Brain Health.
The University of Sydney.Strength training can help protect the brain from degeneration.
2021;60(6):757-765. doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2020.12.018
