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As a person ages, the brain gradually shrinks, losing about 5% of its volume per decade after age 40, impacting its functionality. In a pioneering study, neuroscientists investigated how regular aerobic exercise affects the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory.
Previous research confirms that consistent aerobic exercise, including activities like walking, jogging, biking, swimming, or using an elliptical trainer, can boost the hippocampus's neuron reserve through neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons.
The study involved 737 participants from 14 clinical studies, with an average age of 66. They included healthy individuals, those with mild cognitive impairments like early-stage Alzheimer’s, and people diagnosed with mental health conditions such as depression and schizophrenia. The researchers analyzed their brain scans before and after an aerobic workout.
The studies spanned 3 to 24 months, with participants engaging in 2 to 5 weekly sessions of aerobic exercises, including treadmill running, stationary cycling, and walking. While overall hippocampus volume remained unchanged, the left side of the hippocampus showed significant growth.
The results indicate that aerobic exercise primarily slows the reduction in brain size rather than increasing the hippocampus's size directly. Additionally, exercise triggers the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a chemical that may help prevent age-related brain decline by slowing deterioration. Physical activity can be viewed as a maintenance regimen for the brain.
The study's findings may open the door to further research exploring the connection between physical activity and the protection against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Effect of aerobic exercise on hippocampal volume in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis
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