A HEALTHY body means a healthy brain. Numerous studies have proven that what is good for the body is also good for the brain. This being said, physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep are among several factors which contribute to a healthier body and brain.
According to brainhq.com, your brain is no different than rest of the muscles in your body — you either use it or you lose it. Just as you utilise the gym to stimulate the growth of muscle cells, the brain too needs a fitness program to increase connection. Physical exercise can actually give your brain the additional boost.
So how much physical activity and what kind of physical activity is necessary for a healthier brain? Experts believe 30 minutes or more, at least three times a week is necessary. This can be brisk walking or any type of aerobic activity that increases cardiovascular fitness, as well as leisure activities which involve a lot of movement such as golf and gardening.
A study done by the Department of Exercise Science at the University of Georgia in the US revealed that even briefly exercising for 20 minutes facilitates information processing and memory functions.
Other studies have shown that an even better way of taking control of brain health is taking on physical activities that challenges the mind, like learning a new dance or taking up a new sport. They say this promotes a healthier brain as learning a new skill activates new patterns of brain activity and may “literally build new synaptic connections in areas of the brain that corresponds to the skill learned”.
Experts recommend social activities such as dancing or group exercise class as more beneficial as they combine social interaction with physical activity.
But regardless of what type of exercise or social activity one chooses to help boost brain health, the important thing is to do something — any amount or type of activity is better than being inactive.
How does exercise affect the brain? Brainhq.com states that exercise stimulates the brain plasticity by stimulating growth of new connections between cells in a wide array of important cortical areas of the brain. Recent research from a top university in America demonstrated that exercise increased growth factors in the brain, making it easier for the brain to grow new neuronal connections.
Exercise affects the brain on multiple fronts. From increasing heart rate, which pumps more oxygen to the brain to aiding the bodily release of a plethora of hormones, all of which participate in aiding and providing a nourishing environment for the growth of brain cells.
As well as keeping with an exercise program, a healthy diet is also important. These two work together for a stronger and healthier brain function.
Mothers’ wisdom of “eat your vegetables!” is true. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has always been promoted for a healthy heart, and what is good for the heart is also good for the brain. Vegetables and fruits are packed with antioxidants and other essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for the healthier function of the brain.
* In general, anything that is good for your heart is great for your brain.
* Aerobic exercise is great for body and brain. Not only does it improve brain function, but it also acts as a “first aid kit” on damaged brain cells.
* Exercising in the morning before going to work not only spikes brain activity and prepares you for mental stresses for the rest of the day but also produces an increase in the retention of new information and better reaction to complex situations.
* When looking to change your work out, look for an activity that incorporates co-ordination along with cardiovascular exercise such as a dance class.
* If you like crunching time at the gym alone, opt for circuit work outs, which both quickly spike your heart rate but also constantly redirect your attention.
* Hitting a wall or mentally exhausted? Try rebooting with a few jumping jacks for your brain improvement exercises.