Exercise Has More Than Physical Benefits
For many years I’ve felt “off” if somehow my exercise drops off: general feeling of wellness, mood, etc—and the more intense the exercise the more long lasting the effects.
So I was intrigued to see new science emerging that backs up this idea. Science News in Mighty muscles may stave off depression reports:
A powerful body can protect the brain, a new study suggests. Toned muscles filter a toxin from the brain and keep depression at bay, researchers report in the Sept. 25 Cell.
“This paper really emphasizes ‘strong body, strong mind.’” ... Researchers have known that in response to a good workout, muscles produce a compound called PGC-1 alpha 1, which is a general do-gooder around the body. The compound prompts the body to make more blood vessels and mitochondria, for instance. The new study, which includes tests involving a small number of people, shows that PGC-1 alpha 1’s rejuvenating effects extend to the brain.