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The brain-body-health connection

By September 2, 2024No Comments

Want to make weight loss easier?

Get your brain on board. 

I’m not just talking about your mindset…

I’m talking about your brain health, too! 

Research shows that adults with healthy brains also tend to have:

✅ healthier bodies 

✅ and a more positive outlook on life 

…which means they’re more likely to achieve their goals AND stay active longer. 

Makes sense, right? 

How much more could you achieve if your brain operated at its full potential

Well one way you can make that happen is to exercise 2x week or more. Just simple 30 minute workouts. Nothing crazy.

Here are five examples of how exercise and healthy eating contribute to a healthy brain:

  1. Improved Cognitive Function: Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercises like walking, running, or cycling, increases blood flow to the brain. This enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, which promotes neurogenesis (the creation of new neurons) and strengthens existing neural connections. These effects improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
  2. Reduced Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: A diet rich in antioxidants (from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds), healthy fats (like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts), and anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. These factors lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
  3. Enhanced Mood and Mental Health: Regular exercise stimulates the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. Similarly, a balanced diet that includes adequate levels of vitamins (especially B vitamins), minerals (like magnesium and zinc), and amino acids can help regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and decrease the risk of depression.
  4. Better Brain Plasticity and Learning: Exercise, particularly those that require coordination or complex movements, can enhance brain plasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and change over time. A nutrient-rich diet provides the building blocks for neurotransmitters and neural connections, improving learning capacity and adaptability.
  5. Protection Against Cognitive Decline: Physical activity and a healthy diet help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system, which is crucial for brain health. Regular exercise improves blood circulation, and a diet low in saturated fats and sugars can prevent vascular issues that may lead to cognitive decline, such as stroke or vascular dementia.

Integrating regular exercise and healthy eating habits into your lifestyle can provide a strong foundation for maintaining and improving brain health throughout your life.

In your corner, 

Jack and team 360 Fitness Sherwood Park

OPTIONAL: P.S. Our September 6 Week Kickstart is now open for enrollment! This is for you if you want to lose some lbs, get back into a routine and find balance between fitness and life. Go here go.sherwoodparkpersonaltraining.ca/6weeks

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