If you look after your brain health, you can even grow new brain cells that aid memory formation, learning, and emotional regulation. (Picture Credit: Pexels)
Many believe that cognitive decline is natural and bound to happen with age, but recent studies point out that this is not always the case. If you look after your brain health, you can even grow new brain cells that aid memory formation, learning, and emotional regulation.
Neuroscientist Robert W. B. Love took to his Instagram account and cited the work of Dr. Elizabeth Gould, a neuroscientist at Princeton. He said, “She has published in some of the top journals about how we can grow new brain cells as adults, specifically in the hippocampus, the memory centre of your brain.” Here are three great exercises that can help you grow new brain cells:
Resistance training
The neuroscientist credited this learning to Dr. Austin Perlmutter. Resistance training, which includes weight lifting, push-ups, and more, helps grow stronger muscles, and when you do that, your muscles release BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This is a growth factor that facilitates the production of new brain cells and also helps repair your brain.
Take a look at the post:
Dual-task exercise
Robert W. B. Love next mentioned Dr. Heather Sanderson’s study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, which identified dual-task exercise as effective for reversing memory loss. It could be as simple as walking while having an engaging conversation with a friend. So you’re physically moving your body while your brain is also thinking. The neuroscientist cited more examples, such as listening to a podcast or a documentary while exercising, where you are using your mind at the same time as moving your body.
Also read: Long walk Vs short walks: Apollo Neurologist says latter are better; Here’s why
Leg exercises
He next mentioned a study on twins, where they brought them into the laboratory, measured their brains, and then brought them back 10 years later. The twin with stronger legs was found to be less likely to have Alzheimer’s disease. The neuroscientist thus recommended exercising your legs. He suggested doing squats—even chair squats—10 times a day, as strong legs equal a strong brain.
FAQs on how exercise helps grow new brain cells:1. Can exercise really help the brain grow new cells?
Yes. Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, stimulates neurogenesis—the formation of new neurons—in the hippocampus, the brain’s memory and learning center.
2. How does exercise promote neurogenesis?
Exercise increases blood flow, boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and reduces inflammation, all of which support the growth and survival of new brain cells.
3. What types of exercise are best for brain cell growth?
Aerobic activities like brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, and dancing are most effective for stimulating neurogenesis.
4. How often should one exercise to support brain cell growth?
Research suggests that 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week can meaningfully support brain health and neurogenesis.
5. Does exercise improve brain function along with cell growth?
Yes. Neurogenesis linked to exercise leads to better memory, sharper focus, faster learning, and improved mood.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.