We all know that regular exercise is critical for maintaining physical health, but what if getting your heart rate up could boost mental function as well? Research from the University of Calgary and Oxford University has found that increased blood flow to the brain stimulated by regular exercise is effective for improving your brain’s white matter function, which is responsible for strong memory and rapid cognitive function.
When analyzing a sample size of over 4,700 adults, researchers identified several general “dos” and “don’ts” to maximize white matter function. Unsurprisingly, the researchers’ positive habits included meditation, regular exercise, healthy eating, and cognitive exercises to keep the brain active.
On the other end of the spectrum, researchers recommended avoiding habits such as smoking, obesity, and hypertension, which all contribute to poor cardiovascular health. So get out and move your body today. Your brain will thank you for it in the long run!
