Include Exercise to Support the Brain
By Tom Herrin
There are a lot of things that people do to reinforce their efforts to manage health. It should be a lifelong endeavor for each. It is certainly a worthwhile effort that can have big dividends. Physical health seems to be a natural target of exercise programs. Each individual may focus on something different according to what they see as their greatest needs. What many may not see as a possible target of their exercise program is maintenance and/or development of the brain. Even though it may not seem likely to many, exercise can actually help in brain function as much as some other more traditional activities.
Bigger May Be Better
Most people know that if they want to build bigger muscles, they must exercise. What most of them don't know is that exercise may also increase the size of the brain. Since exercise can produce more blood flow to the body, the brain will also receive more blood. More blood means more oxygen. This is necessary for the development of anything in the body. These parts of the brain that grow may be able to function more efficiently and faster. Who would have ever thought that exercise could make the brain actually grow?
Stress May Be Worrisome
While it may seem a little obvious, when people experience stress, it can damage their health. It seems that those who have higher levels of stress also have greater chances of developing dementia. It affects memory, ability to recognize others, etc. In the world today, there is much attention paid to dementia. It is possibly more identifiable as something other than old age. Exercise may be a key to protecting the brain from the effects of stress that may contribute to dementia. It could serve as a good but simple practice for prevention. It could be a good investment of time and money.
Join the Team for Better Brain Power
I try to do whatever I can to build a better defense against health problems. These days, I like to include mental function as well. I see so many people who lose much of that as they age. I know that it doesn't necessarily have to happen. We should all attempt to keep our health in the best shape possible. If a little exercise can help to preserve and mental function, what a great thing.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tucson, Ariz.