How Running Helps the Brain

We all know that exercise is a good thing. There are multiple benefits to the body and the mind when someone exercises on a regular basis. Endurance sports in particular are beneficial because of the positive impact that they have on cardiovascular health. However, new research points to the mental health benefits that running brings along with it.

 

In mice models that had Alzheimer’s disease, the mice that regularly used a running wheel had better memory and cognition compared to the mice that had a sedentary lifestyle. 

 

Upon analysis of why this was, the team found that exercise made changes to the brain. The study indicated that running had protective factors against Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers believe that running has the potential to prevent or slow down the spread of the disease thanks to these factors. When looking at Alzheimer’s patients and running, the researchers were able to pinpoint the exact cells that were positively impacted within the brain. There were changes that occurred at the cellular level within the brain,  including within microglia and a unique type of astrocyte. Running doesn’t just help to protect the brain as previously believed, it creates changes at the cellular level and helps to rewire it.

 

 

The team used an RNA sequencing model and mice to help conduct this research. Based out of Mass General Brigham, the team published their findings in the medical journal, Nature Neuroscience. Hopefully, this research helps researchers to better understand protective factors concerning dementia and help those who are impacted by it to live better lives. Hopefully, this research is just a starting point for future projects.

 

Running isn’t a realistic activity for everyone, let alone all senior citizens. But the benefits that this study has uncovered aren’t necessarily unique to running. This study points to the idea that exercise in general helps to protect the brain from Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Almost everyone can find a type of exercise that works for them. If you’re unsure of where to start, be sure to speak with a doctor to get started safely.

 

The benefits that exercise provides to people can help them to live a higher quality of life as they age. The good news is that exercise isn’t the only thing that can help to improve things for you and your family. Having the right senior care on your side can also be helpful. 

 

We’re here to help you. If you have questions about senior care, we’re here to help get them answered. In-home senior care is what we do, and we’re always happy to help. That’s why we offer a free consultation session for anyone who might need one. We want to make sure that people have the information that they need to make educated decisions about the care of a loved one. 

 

Please feel free to reach out. One of our professional caregivers would be happy to help by answering questions, giving customized guidance, and helping you to get steered in the right direction. Give us a call today to talk more.