It is well known that mental stimulation such as learning a language or musical instrument improves brain function and protects against cognitive decline. In fact, most age-related loss of memory is the result of mental inactivity or stimulation. The “use it, or lose it” adage certainly applies here. In essence, exercising the brain keeps it functioning optimally, but what about physical exercise and brain function? Can physical activity play a role in brain function and development?
Recent studies have shown that even light to moderate levels of exercise can increase some brain power. Therefore, exercise isn’t just for those attempting to look terminally pretty anymore. Not bad for all you Einstein’s out there. Researchers at Columbia University Medical School looked at brain development in mice that were put through an exercise regimen compared to mice that didn’t exercise. Upon pre- and post Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies and dissection of the fuzzy rodents, they discovered that the exercising mice had greater cerebral hippocampal blood flow, and developed new brain cells or neurons in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. This is a part of the brain associated with memory and memory loss seen in diseases such as Alzheimer’s. It is also the area of the brain that is known to be affected by age-related memory decline, which begins around the age of 30 in humans.
Further research from the Salk Institute in California and Columbia University set out to determine if the same were true in humans. If so, doctors could then recommend or prescribe specific exercise regimens to stimulate cognition in patients prone to or suffering from memory loss. MRIs were used to determine cerebral blood flow to the hippocampus, suggestive of new brain cell growth in the human test subjects similar. Results of the study found that test subjects with greater fitness levels showed greater blood flow to the hippocampus similar to the mice, were good at mazes, and craved more cheese.
Another study was developed to measure how exercise may benefit cognition and memory. In the study, the thinking ability of 20 men and women was tested after 30 minutes of moderate to heavy running on a treadmill. Participants were wired to measure brain waves on an electroencephalogram (EEG) before and after exercising. Several computer tests were administered and the results showed a significant increase in response time and decision making after exercising as compared to pre-exercise testing. Test subjects also responded more accurately after exercising when compared to no exercise.
Schools might rethink their physical education requirements as research is showing these benefits of exercise, learning and brain development. As of June 2001, Illinois was the only state that required daily physical education for children grade 1 through 12. This is a far cry from the 1960’s when President Kennedy and the President’s Council on Physical Fitness made physical activity a priority. Exercising that 3 lb. gray Universe located inside the skullcap can have a wonderful impact on our quality of life at any age.
