Bulk Up Your Brain with Aerobic Exercise - by Brent Dodge

Most folks are familiar with the benefits that come from daily exercise. Aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease as well as type 2 diabetes.

Yet new studies out of the University of Illinois are  showing that regular aerobic exercise can help improve cognitive brain function. That’s right. Walking and other exercises can make you smarter!

During exercise, the body produces brain-derived neurotropic factor or BDNF. This substance strengthens neurons and axons, fortifying connections among neurons while sparking neurogenesis.

What does this mean? Simply put, BDNF can help regenerate brain cells, something that up until recently was thought to be impossible. Studies are also showing that BDNF can also help slow the normal deterioration of the hippocampus (the area of the brain aiding in consolidation of information from short-term to long term-memory).

Bottom line? You’re encouraged to get out there and walk, run, swim, bike or play, all of which will improve your overall health . . . both body and mind.
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