Exercise is medicine for the brain from "summary" of Spark by John J. Ratey
Exercise has been found to have a profound impact on our brain health. When we exercise, our brain releases chemicals that act like fertilizer for the brain, promoting the growth of new brain cells and strengthening connections between existing ones. This process, known as neurogenesis, is crucial for maintaining brain health and function. In addition to promoting neurogenesis, exercise also increases levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a key role in regulating mood and cognition. These chemicals help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while improving focus, memory, and overall cognitive function. In fact, exercise has been shown to be just as effective as medication in treating these conditions. Furthermore, exercise has been found to improve our ability to learn and retain information. When we exercise, blood flow to the brain increases, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. This enhanced blood flow helps to create an optimal environment for learning, making it easier to focus, process information, and make connections between different pieces of information. The benefits of exercise go beyond just the immediate effects on the brain. Regular exercise has been shown to protect against cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. By promoting the growth of new brain cells and strengthening existing connections, exercise helps to build a reserve of brain power that can help to offset the effects of aging and disease.- Exercise is not just good for our physical health, but also for our brain health. By promoting neurogenesis, increasing levels of neurotransmitters, improving blood flow to the brain, and protecting against cognitive decline, exercise acts as a powerful medicine for the brain. So, next time you lace up your sneakers, remember that you're not just doing your body a favor – you're also giving your brain a workout.
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