As you may recall we are now looking at the five pillars of good brain health. The first of which is the miracle of movement:
Brain Science:
We see a lot about good health for your heart. .. Not so much about brain health. And while it may be hard to believe, exercise is the only behavioral activity scientifically proven to trigger biological effects that can help the brain. According to Gupta the single most important thing people can do to enhance their brains function and resiliency to disease is exercise. A big factor is the control of blood sugar through exercise. Using sugar to fuel your muscles instead of sitting idle in your blood helps prevent dramatic glucose and insulin fluctuations that increase the risk for dementia. Exercise also helps lower inflammation and that is critical in preventing dementia.
Brain Facts:
· A 2018 study showed that the more fit an older person was, the better the chances he or she could recall words, as compared to those who were less fit.
· Gupta indicates that most all of his colleagues say that: Exercise can act as a “first aid kit” for damaged brain, speeding up recovery after injury, stroke or significant emotional stress.
· A 2015 study showed that getting up for light activity such as walking for two minutes every hour was associated with a 33% lower chance of dying over a three year period. Two minutes!
So What:
This is not brain science so why not try. Go out for a fast paced walk around the block, and when you return, note how you feel and how your mind is humming. The bet is you will have more mental energy even if your walk left you out of breath. And you will probably feel more optimistic and better able to take on the challenges of the day.
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