http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201212/the-brain-drain-inactivity
This article focuses on a number of different studies that attempt to define the underlying relationship between physical activity and neural activity that influences constructs such as intelligence and the ability to recall. To better understand the studies, the researchers have clarified the guidelines of the term "fit" so that it encompasses different facets of the individuals physical abilities such as strength, flexibility, and endurance. One of the more interesting topics of the article dials in on the idea of neurogenesis. Earlier research determined the neurogenesis is engaged through a gene code that produces a protein known as Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor BDNF. One of the key factors that ignites the production of BDNF by that gene is physical activity. This finding concludes that the greater the amount of physical fitness, the more likely it is that BDNF will be produced thus contributing to the neurogenesis in an individual. In turn, this neurogenesis affects that individual in postivie ways. One of the most important effects neurogenesis has is its effect on the hippocampus. Researchers discovered that children who were more physically active had a larger hippocampus and performed better overall on a test of memory. Not only does an enlarged hippocampus facilitate the ability to recall in children, but it also aids this ability in the elderly. The improved hippocampus can allow access to more efficient cognitive functioning in the elderly which may keep Alzheimer's at bay. Research also revealed that physical activity helps to preserve the gray matter in the brain. According to the article, this effect on gray matter could also help to "ease the burden" of Alzheimer's and dementia.
In summary, research has supported the notion that physical activity directly influences the process of neurogenesis and allows for improved cognitive functioning. It is in this way that fit individuals have shown correlations to intelligence and improved performance in recall. I believe this is only the surface for research in this topic. The fact that our actions are linked to neurogenesis is important to focus on so that we may increase our chances of disease prevention as well as boost our cognitive functioning. What is your take on the subject?
The notion that one may biologically strengthen his or her cognitive abilities through physical activity is quite remarkable. Drawing upon the saying "use it, or lose it", this finding gives individuals the potentiality to somewhat restructure their genetic predispositions, and actively control, (or at least have some sense of influence in), their intellectual destination in life.
ReplyDeleteHaving a grandmother that was just recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's, I often wonder if she could have done anything differently to prevent this disease, or if there is any hope to hold onto what cognitive abilities that she has left, perhaps through “brain training”. In other words, I wonder at what point does neurogenesis stop? Also, it would be interesting to learn what other actions can be taken to instigate the production of BDNF proteins, so that one may fortify his or her mental capabilities even further. Any preemptive measure taken to better one’s overall health is a key factor in disease prevention, and I think this article demonstrates a great way to not only improve physical fitness, but cognitive dimensions as well.
After reading this I decided to research BDNF a bit more and found that it is also influenced by air pollution. I think that this is interesting because I know that risk of Alzheimer's has been shown to be higher in areas with large amounts of pollutants in the air. The relationship between BDNF and Alzheimer's disease is definitely one that should be continued to be looked into.
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