If I Only Had a Brain...

I am a big proponent of exercise to keep your body fit, but researchers now report that regualr exercise is also great for your brain.  I have a special interest in this as my dad suffered from Parkinson's with Lewy Bodys which is a form a dementia.  While it is not proven to be an inherited disease, I want to make sure I am doing everything I can to slow aging and degeneration.  Researchers also are proving that even though there is an inherited diesease in your family, it does not mean that it has to affect you.  Diet and exercise are key components in remaining healthy and preventing disease. 

So, what does regualr exercise do for your brain?
 >Exercise increases oxygen flow into the brain, which reduces brain-bound free radicals. One of the most interesting findings of the past few decades is that an increase in oxygen is always accompanied by an uptick in mental sharpness. 

In a study using people from 50-80 years old, it was  shown that those who walked 40 minutes at a time at least 3 times per week showed an increase in spatial memory, reaction time, and problem solving skills  versus a control group of sedentary people.  Memory was also greatly increased in the group who had regular aerobic exercise.  If you are not currently active, why are you waiting?  Get out there and walk, bike, swim- anything that gets your heart rate up!  Your brain will reward you for your efforts.  You might even  remember where you left your keys!