How does exercise improve brain health?

           The human brain is often referred to as a muscle memory organ. New research is showing that the interaction between brain activity and exercise is even more crucial that originally reported.
           A paper published in 2012 in the Journal of Physiology investigated how exercise can increase energy levels in the brain. The study was based on measuring Glycogen levels before and after exercise. Glycogen is the way the body stores energy for use during physical activity. It is a critical energy source for neurons and muscles, and it decreases initially as you use energy during exhaustive exercise. However, there is a phenomenon called super compensation that elevates glycogen levels higher than the preexisting levels within 24 hours after exercise is completed.

          The question… Does super compensation work on the brain as it does on muscles?

 

          According to the study done in Japan in 2012, glycogen decreased by 50-63 % during exercise. However 6 hours later, glycogen levels raised 29-63% higher than per-exercise levels. The boost in energy available to the brain may account for the mental alertness that many people report after exercise. Exercise showed to have even longer term effects on the brain. The study showed that doing exercise 5 x a week for only 3 weeks raised glycogen levels in the cortex of the brain by more than 10% in the control group. This study provided valuable insight into ways that exercise improves brain energy and function. Increased glycogen levels are the way the brain reacts to environmental stressors. Exercise reduces the stress or “fight or flight” response that affects the brain and ultimately our entire health.
         More than ever before studies like the ones stated above are proving how staying healthy means taking care of both our brain and our body. Mental, physical, and nutritional wellness habits are the way to live a longer and more VITALIZED life.