Mexico City.- Regular physical activity has great benefits not only for your heart; The brain is one of the organs that will also thank you for exercising. Here we bring you the main benefits and three tips to keep it in shape.
“Physical activity is incredibly beneficial for your brain. Studies have shown this time and time again. It can improve cognition, memory and sleep, as well as reduce anxiety and depression, all of which promote brain health.” says Dr. Tanu Garg, a neurologist at Houston Methodist Hospital.
The benefits
- Those who make physical activity a habit considerably reduce the risk of developing some type of dementia. In contrast, those who tend to be sedentary are twice as likely to experience subjective cognitive impairment (more frequent worsening or confusion or memory loss), according to scientific studies.
- Practicing regular exercise reduces the risk of a cerebrovascular accident (popularly known as a stroke), this is when blood flow to the brain is blocked. Stroke can cause brain damage in just minutes and is one of the world’s leading causes of death.
“Your heart supplies your brain with blood, so to keep it young it is important to keep your cardiovascular system healthy. Arteriosclerosis (accumulation of fats, cholesterol and other substances in the walls of the arteries, including the blood vessels that supply blood to your brain) can cause blockages that increase the risk of stroke,” Garg said.
basic three
While math challenges, word games and puzzles please the brain, when it comes to a healthy brain, other measures need to be added, advises neurologist Garg.
“When you talk about brain health, I think about whole body health: taking care of yourself both physically and mentally. Your body works together. When something isn’t working right, whether it’s your heart, your kidneys or somewhere else , it will eventually affect your brain.”
1. Make exercise a habit
The goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, such as a brisk walk, although even 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
2. Eat healthy
Cut down on processed foods with added sugars or saturated fats and prioritize healthy foods (vegetables, lean meat, whole grains, healthy fats). Don’t forget to control portions.
3. Don’t let your mental health deteriorate.
Maintain a positive and optimistic outlook, take steps to reduce unnecessary stress, and don’t ignore signs of anxiety and depression.
