Cardio Exercise Helps Your Brain
Cardio Exercise Helps Your Brain – Exercising your body and heart can benefit your brain health too. Watch this video to learn more about how cardio exercise helps your brain.
Expert: Jeffrey Gardere, PhD
Transcript
Researchers believe vigorous cardiovascular exercise, like running or biking, produces the most dramatic improvements, but say virtually any type of regular exercise offers the potential to improve your mood.
People who suffer from depression, typically have reduced levels of specific brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, which is important for mood regulation. Research suggests that exercise increases levels of serotonin, which may improve state of mind.
During extended periods of exercise, the body also releases chemicals called endorphins, which have long been known to reduce perception of pain and improve mood by triggering an energizing, euphoric feeling throughout the body often referred to as the “runner’s high.”
Last Modified: 2014-02-24
