BRAIN EXERCISE

Brain Exercise



Brain Exercise

Introduction

Scientists used to think that the adult brain was hard-wired and unchangeable, making learning and responding to new experiences more difficult. We now know that the brain has a lifelong capacity to change in both structure and function, a capability called neuroplasticity (Cicerone, et al, 2005). The brain can adapt and heal itself after injury, restructure neuronal networks in response to new knowledge and new demands, and even generate new cells. And evidence suggests it's possible to promote this adaptability through healthy lifestyle choices.

Brain Exercise- A Specific Physiological Exercise

"In essence, the brain can change its capacities throughout life, making new cells, or neurons, through a process called neurogenesis--and making existing neurons do new tricks by growing additional branches and connections, a process called synaptic plasticity " explains John Denninger, MD, PhD, Director of Clinical Research at the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). "The brain's ability to change means that even if we lose areas of the brain through strokes, disease or other damaging events, other parts of the brain can often take over the functions of the affected areas. The brain is adaptable, and people can use strategies to promote this adaptability and reduce or avoid many age-related brain changes."

One strategy that promotes neuroplasticity is exercise. A study published in the Jan. 1 issue of the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that age-related declines in cognitive performance, brain volume, and brain function might be prevented and even reversed by increasing neuroplasticity through regular aerobic exercise (Cicerone, et al, 2005). In an extensive review of recent studies on the effects of exercise on brain health, scientists found strong evidence that just six months of aerobic exercise can reverse common symptoms of age-related decline and cause older brains to change and grow, and concluded that "an active lifestyle with moderate amounts of aerobic activity will likely improve cognitive and brain function, and reverse the neural decay frequently observed in older adults" (Muldoon, et al, 2002).

Boosting Plasticity

"The beneficial effects of exercise may be linked to an increase in the brain's production of a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)," says Dr. Denninger. "Research suggests that BDNF acts like a neuron fertilizer, greatly increasing brain plasticity" (Muldoon, et al, 2002). A number of other positive lifestyle factors are associated with boosting neuroplasticity, researchers have found. These factors include:

* Regular intellectual stimulation: Animal studies suggest that keeping the brain occupied and challenged helps promote neurogenesis and increase the number of synapses (communication points between neurons) in the brain. By presenting the brain with new information and experiences, activities such as reading, doing volunteer work, or learning to play a musical instrument can help keep the brain stimulated and growing. Evidence also suggests that intellectual activities may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD).

* Social engagement. Social interaction is richly complex, and offers many challenges that require the brain to work to make sense of ever-changing ...