Everyone knows that exercise is good for the body. It strengthens our muscles, increases metabolism and keeps the heart healthy. But did you know that training significantly conditions the brain? Interesting new research shows that physical activity may actually reduce stress-related brain signals and protect the heart in the process. I am.

Effects of stress on the body

It is a well-known fact that stress has a negative effect on the body. When stress becomes chronic, our bodies spike the stress hormone cortisol. This hormone is intended for short-term survival responses, but its continued elevation creates a series of problems.

Cortisol can contribute to high blood pressure, weight gain, and increased risk of heart disease. But what role does the brain play in this dangerous cycle?

Scientists are becoming increasingly interested in how our brains cope with the pressures of stress. Imagine your brain has a tiny alarm system called the amygdala. When you feel stressed, this alarm goes into overdrive and sends danger signals throughout your body.

Fortunately, your brain also has an area called the prefrontal cortex. This area governs logic, reasoning, and self-control. Think of it as a part of the brain that can calm alarms. Under normal circumstances, the prefrontal cortex can manage stress signals in the amygdala.

However, under chronic stress, the amygdala can become overactive and overwhelm the brain’s ability to manage responses.

Exercise benefits the brain and heart

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have found that physical activity calms stress-related brain activity, particularly activating the hard-working prefrontal cortex.

“Physical activity was approximately twice as effective in reducing cardiovascular disease risk in patients with depression,” explains Dr. Ahmed Tawakol, a cardiologist at MGH and lead author of the study. “Effects on stress-related activity in the brain may explain this new observation.”

Prescription for exercise and power

Researchers in this study carefully analyzed vast amounts of health data collected from more than 50,000 individuals. These types of large-scale studies give scientists a clearer picture of the real-world effects of physical activity.

Those who consistently met recommended physical activity guidelines (at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week) had significant benefits. They had a 23% lower risk of developing heart disease compared to people who didn’t get enough exercise.

People who were physically active also showed an interesting change in stress-related activity levels in the brain. This suggests that exercise has a direct calming effect on areas of the brain that manage stress responses.

Importantly, this calming effect on the brain appears to play a major role in protecting the heart. Researchers believe that the reduced stress response caused by exercise is a key reason why physically active people have a lower risk of heart disease.

Exercise for depression and heart health

This study revealed some particularly encouraging findings. In fact, people who suffer from depression get even more heart health benefits from exercise than people who don’t have depression. This means that regular physical activity can be an especially powerful tool to protect the heart for people facing challenges of chronic stress and depression.

The idea that those who feel most overwhelmed by stress may benefit most from exercise is remarkable and inspirational.

exercise in daily life

This study adds more strength to the simple recommendation to “get moving.” Please note the following points:

• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (such as a brisk walk) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise (such as running) each week, plus strength-strengthening exercise twice per week.
• Even short periods of activity throughout the day can reduce stress and improve health.
• Exercise can be a lot of fun. Whether it’s dance class, swimming, or hiking, if it’s fun, you’re more likely to continue doing it.

Although more research is needed, it is becoming clear that exercise can cause surprising changes in the brain.I want to keep my heart healthy and A calm heart? Your sneakers are your new secret weapon.

Note: If you are new to exercise, have health concerns, or suffer from depression, always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

The study was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

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