That’s because physical activity induces structural changes in the brains, thickening the prefrontal and hippocampal grey matter that’s key for executive function, decision making, and memory, Dr. Nields says. Exercise can also maintain mitochondrial function, which is important to your brain’s neurons, since mitochondria make about a third of the energy your brain uses, and it can improve neuroplasticity, the ability of your neurons to grow and reconnect. “Neuroplasticity is important for learning new things, adapting to new situations, and overall cognitive performance,” he says. Exercise also helps decrease inflammation in your body, inflammation being linked to almost every chronic disease, Alzheimer’s included. Plus, when you’re physically active, the sweat your body produces moves toxins out of your body. “Toxins are an often-missed component of dementia,” Dr. Nields says. Increasing blood flow through the brain as a result of exercising is another way to remove waste as well as deposit nutrients. In fact, decreased blood flow to the brain is an early marker of cognitive decline, he adds. Exercise even increases brain-derived neurotropic factors (BDNF), a protein that’s crucial for maintaining and creating neurons. Some experts have described BDNF as Miracle-Gro for the brain. So what does all of this mean for you? Let these four brain-inducing benefits motivate you to move. RELATED: 8 Everyday Ways to Boost Endorphins Naturally—and Why It’s So Good for You While most of the evidence for the cognitive benefits of exercise comes from research on aerobic exercise, don’t discount resistance training or yoga. “Although research is still figuring out the cognitive benefits of strength training, “it increases IGF-1, which is important for neuronal growth, and has been shown to reduce homocysteine, an important marker associated with cognitive decline,” Dr. Nields says. Some studies have even shown strength-training-related improvements in executive function, including planning, decision making, and problem solving. Of course, you should strengthen your whole body, but if you’re tight on time, put the focus on your lower body, as leg strength is associated with higher cognitive performance, he adds. And even yoga can improve brain health, Hara says. The most important point about exercising for brain health, according to these experts? Find an activity you enjoy so you’ll want to continue it for the long haul, whether it’s dance classes, swimming, jogging, running up the stairs, or stationary bike workouts. RELATED: Feeling Sluggish? Here Are 5 Ways Being Physically Inactive Affects Our Mind and Mood
