Friday, February 2, 2007

Exercise makes you smarter

Often times we think of exercise as jogging and dumbbells. OK, there are lots of aerobics and tai chi enthusiasts out there - it all works. We all know that a workout is meant to have a positive effect on the heart, muscles and skeleton. Or to put it another way; on-going fitness has a track record of contributing to over all physical health and well being. But the often over looked bonus is the effect it has on the brain.

The brain functions on a higher level when exercise is a part of daily routine. It’s amazingly simple; this boost in metabolism means that more blood flows to the brain and more positive chemicals are generated that make the brain feel good. Isn’t that cool?

Depression, a growing concern, can be treated successfully by today’s wonder drugs. But the obvious, naturally made drug is often not gine its due. Even though exercise can produce a cure, drugs only make a temporary alteration to brain chemistry. Endorphins generated the in pituitary gland are the natural feel good drug for the brain. You’ve probably heard of “runners high,” a condition attributed to this chemical that the body produces, well that‘s where it‘s coming from.

Lance Armstrong, the cycling champion, certainly seems to have a positive outlook and he’s had a hard road. This may be extreme exercise for most, but the point is that there are benefits to be had that go way beyond muscle tone. Someone should do a study of how many marathon runners are being treated for depression.