A new study by researchers from Florida Atlantic University and CINVESTAV, Mexico, has found that running throughout middle age can keep your brain healthy and prevent memory loss.
Running Boosts Your Brain Power
The study focused on the effects of long-term running on a network of new neurons that were generated in young adult mice, at middle age. These new neurons are thought to contribute to memory function and are usually only active for a short period of time.
However, the researchers found that running not only increased the number of new neurons, but also enhanced their connectivity and plasticity, making them more responsive and adaptable.
Running Prevents Memory Decline
The researchers also found that running improved the memory performance of the mice, especially in tasks that required them to distinguish between similar events and stimuli. This ability, known as pattern separation, is among the first to decline with aging. Running also increased the input from brain areas that are essential for spatial and contextual memory, such as the hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex.
Running Is Good for Your Body and Mind
The study provides novel insight into how chronic exercise, starting in young adulthood and continuing throughout middle age, can benefit the aging brain and prevent memory loss. The researchers suggest that running may enhance cognitive processes by increasing the survival and integration of new neurons into neural networks that are relevant for memory encoding.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers and hit the road. Running is not only good for your body, but also for your mind. You’ll be doing yourself a favor by keeping your brain young and sharp. And who knows, maybe you’ll even remember where you left your keys.
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