We’ve been told for a long time that we must be active every day for a minimum of thirty minutes a day. What is the importance of getting our bodies moving every day?
Effects of Exercise on the Brain
There are many benefits for the body and mind when exercising; however, how does it impact the brain? Studies have shown that Exercise may:
Increase the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain.
Create new growth and improve neural connections in the brain.
Release positive hormones.
Enhance our capacity to deal with stress.
Enhance our ability to concentrate.
Increases brain volume.
Why is all of this so important? A brain that is oxygenated is a brain with greater potential for growth and resiliency. This means that your brain is more able to evolve or learn, not only as you age and recover from injury. Research has also demonstrated an increase in the hippocampus due to regular Exercise. It is the part of the brain that is home to the majority of our memory and learning functions. Therefore, Exercise can enhance cognitive performance and aid in helping to retain and recall information.
Although it may seem counter-intuitive however, Exercise can provide relief from pain. It may initially be difficult to get up and get to the gym, but once we’ve found an exercise routine of choice, the endorphins begin to kick in.
Hormones and Chemicals Produced During Exercise
Why is it important that exercising helps the brain produce hormones? Aren’t our brains doing this anyway? It’s true; however, exercising can trigger an increase in cortisol levels as a stress reliever hormone, as well as natural opioids that are commonly called endorphins. Endorphins and cortisol can cause the short-lasting, physical euphoria, also known as the”runner’s high. Every single, regular aerobic exercise could trigger the feeling of a runner’s joy. This includes cardio-based dancing, rowing, and anything else that can increase your heart rate for approximately 20 minutes.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factors – This chemical (also called BDNF) is involved in promoting the long-term health of your brain. It helps to strengthen connections between neurons and may assist in healing damaged cells. Exercise can increase the amount of BDNF in the hippocampus.
Cortisol – This steroid is made by the adrenal gland whenever we feel stressed, are suffering from low blood sugar levels, or are doing prolonged exercising. Cortisol is a key ingredient for metabolism; therefore, having the right levels is crucial. If you have too much cortisol, the body could use protein as a fuel source instead of carbs or fats in excess, and too little might not be able to handle anxiety as well. It is sometimes difficult to strike the right balance between doing too much or too little with regard to cortisol production. The sweet spot you hit during your workout routine could lower the levels of cortisol in your body.
Adrenaline – Much like cortisol, adrenaline plays a role in our body’s reaction to stress. Exercise may reduce the amount of adrenaline that is present in the body, providing your fight or flight energy a place to go. In addition, Exercise can create the appropriate amount of stress on your body to create adrenaline and also get your heart rate to increase and increase the efficiency of your Exercise.
Epinephrine and norepinephrine are the two main ingredients in intense Exercise. The brain and kidneys release norepinephrine. It is an endogenous hormonal hormone as well as the brain’s chemical. It’s responsible for enhancing the concentration of people and for improving memory retention.
Dopamine – A lot of people are familiar with this chemical since it’s famous for providing benefits to our brains. Dopamine production can be increased after a workout, which means you feel refreshed and ready for the remainder of the day.
Serotonin – Another positive brain chemical released by aerobic Exercise. It is possible to get a boost of serotonin and dopamine by performing other tasks like eating an excellent meal or embracing someone special.
The effects of Exercise on the brain may be sufficient that it’s employed to manage depression and Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It has been proven to be an effective alternative in addition to the other treatment options for such conditions, which include therapy and medications. The results are worth slipping on your running shoes on every day or getting your yoga mat out.
It can be a bit overwhelming to learn the ways to manage hormone regulation. This is why consulting with an expert can be beneficial. With the help of a qualified nutritionist or trainer, you will be able to create an exercise and meal plan that meets the requirements of your body. Through a thorough analysis of body composition, it is possible to gain an understanding of the way your body functions and how to help it through your lifestyle modifications best.