The connections between a healthy brain and a healthy body are literally inseparable. Many of the same nutrients that encourage physical health also promote brain health. But what about exercise? Does going for walk do as much for your brain as it does your heart and waistline?
You bet it does.
In fact, exercise is probably far better for overall brain function, memory, and thinking skills than specific brain games like those found on Lumosity or in the Sunday paper. Research has repeatedly indicated that exercise—and particularly aerobic exercise—can drastically improve brain function when performed regularly and potentially delay the onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
One study performed at the University of British Columbia found that regular bouts of moderate aerobic exercise increases the size of the hippocampus, the area of the brain associated with learning and memory. The participants, all women with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—a common precursor to dementia or Alzheimer’s—showed improved memory performance compared to those who did not perform aerobic exercise. Further, exercise may have direct benefits for brain health by encouraging better sleep, improved moods, and being a source of relief from stress and anxiety.
Including 30–60 minutes of moderate activity into your daily routine—the kind of stuff where your heart is pumping and a little sweat appears, yet you can still carry a conversation—may do wonders for your physical and mental health!