Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (629)348-3199

Perspective - Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine (2023) Volume 7, Issue 3

The chemical connection: How physical activity improves brain health.

Min Chulee*

School of Exercise & Sport Science, College of Natural Sciences, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea

*Corresponding Author:
Min Chulee
School of Exercise & Sport Science
College of Natural Sciences
University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Korea
E-mail: mini.chule@ulsan.ac.kr

Received: 02-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AAJPTSM-23-97158; Editor assigned: 05-Mar-2023, PreQC No. AAJPTSM-23-97158;(PQ); Reviewed: 19-Mar-2023, QC No AAJPTSM-23-97158; Revised: 22-Mar-2023, QC No AAJPTSM-23-97158; Published: 27-Mar-2023, DOI:10.35841/aajptsm-7.3.143

Citation: Chulee M. The chemical connection: How physical activity improves brain health. J Phys Ther Sports Med. 2023;7(3):143

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine

Introduction

Physical activity is not just beneficial for physical health; it can also have a profound impact on brain health. Research has shown that engaging in regular physical activity can improve brain function, enhance cognitive performance, and reduce the risk of developing a range of neurological conditions. One of the primary ways that physical activity improves brain health is by promoting the growth of new brain cells, a process called neurogenesis. Studies have shown that physical activity can increase the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the survival and growth of neurons in the brain [1]. BDNF is particularly important for the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, a brain region critical for learning and memory.

Physical activity has also been shown to improve brain function by increasing blood flow to the brain. When you engage in physical activity, your heart rate increases, and blood vessels dilate, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the brain. This increased blood flow can improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and improve overall brain health. In addition, physical activity can also reduce inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to a range of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis [2]. Exercise has been shown to reduce levels of inflammatory markers in the brain and can help to protect against age-related cognitive decline.

Furthermore, physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and mental health. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, which are natural painkillers that also promote a feeling of well-being. Endorphins have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.

There is a clear chemical connection between physical activity and brain health. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases chemicals called endorphins, which are natural painkillers that also promote a feeling of well-being. Endorphins have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. In addition, physical activity has been shown to increase the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of neurons in the brain. BDNF plays a crucial role in the development of new neurons, which is essential for learning and memory [3].

Physical activity also increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. This, in turn, can help to protect against age-related cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, physical activity can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which has been linked to a range of neurological disorders. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can reduce levels of inflammatory markers in the brain and improve overall brain health [4].

The chemical connection between physical activity and brain health is complex and multifaceted, but it is clear that engaging in regular physical activity is an effective way to promote brain health and cognitive function. Overall, the evidence suggests that engaging in regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to promote brain health and reduce the risk of developing neurological conditions. Whether it's going for a brisk walk, taking a yoga class, or participating in team sports, finding ways to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine can have a significant impact on your brain health and overall well-being [5].

References

  1. Stroth S, Kubesch S, Dieterle K, et al. Physical fitness, but not acute exercise modulates event-related potential indices for executive control in healthy adolescents. Brain Res. 2009;1269:114-24.

    2. Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Kramer AF, Erickson KI. Capitalizing on cortical plasticity: Influence of physical activity on cognition and brain function. Trends Cogn Sci. 2007;11(8):342-8.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Ellemberg D, St-Louis-Deschênes M. The effect of acute physical exercise on cognitive function during development. Psychol Sport Exerc. 2010;11(2):122-6.

    4. Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Churchill JD, Galvez R, Colcombe S, et al. Exercise, experience and the aging brain. Neurobiol Aging. 2002;23(5):941-55.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Caspersen CJ, Powell KE, Christenson GM. Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness: definitions and distinctions for health-related research. Pub Health Rep. 1985;100(2):126.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar

Get the App