Exercise and brain power
This material is from a medical study reviewed by Dr. Carol DerSarkissian, a clinical researcher in learning and memory as well as pulmonary neovascularization. She has a medical advising company helping patients understand their health and allow them to make informed decisions in relation to their medical needs.
The individual alpha peak frequency (iAPF) measures our ability to focus and pay attention. This is a part of the electroencephalogram (EEG) test that let doctors find out if we have brain issues like Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. Our iAPF shoots up after doing some intense exercise.
Our brain has a part called the hippocampus which is linked to memory and learning. It was revealed thru scientific studies that aerobic exercises might slow shrinking of the hippocampus that can lead to memory loss as we age. It was also revealed in some studies that doing activities that we enjoy helps the regrowth of this brain part.
Thru aerobic exercises, symptoms of depression and anxiety are lessened. Likewise, it slows the breakdown and damage of brain cells. It would be best to have an active lifestyle because it could take several months to get the full benefit. Aerobics plus weight training makes our brain flexible. Scientists call it neuroplasticity, our brain’s ability to change when we experience and learn new things.
Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and depression are linked to dementia and people who are inactive are prone to brain related issues. According to scientists, more gray and white brain matter and less infected brain tissues are a sign of good brain health, the direct effect of regular exercise.
It is a known fact that the more we exercise, the more our heart and blood vessels get stronger. Strong blood vessels create better blood flow, from the larger blood vessels carrying blood to our heads to the micro-vessels in our brain. Strong blood flow nourishes our brains which slows mental decline. As per research, exercise improves our ability to organize and interpret information.
Our circadian rhythm, that sleep-wake cycle, becomes better thru regular exercise. We tend to get that ‘slow wave’ sleep, a kind of deep sleep that re-energizes our brains and bodies.
So how much time is really needed to exercise for that brain boost? Standard recommendation is about 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five days a week. But depending on our fitness levels, we can extend exercise sessions to get optimum benefits.
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