The key to growing new brain cells is exercise. Growing new brain cells is called neurogenesis and is important for learning and memory. Recent findings suggest it might play a role in helping diseases like Alzheimer’s and cognitive issues like depression and anxiety.
Related research has even prompted those in the medical community to prescribe exercise as ‘medicine’ to help treat depression and anxiety. Neurogenesis research is on track to discovering how and why, and using it effectively.
Until recently, it was thought, and taught, that brain cells could not regenerate. A landmark study in 1998, using human subjects, was the first widely reported study with findings of neurogenesis in humans and was corroborated by a 2013 study. That study found that we are consistently creating new neurons in the brain.
More research came, and at least one study contradicted these findings. After reading about it, I noticed variables that were noted which could have led them to not differentiate between old and new brain material.
Many other studies done using animal subjects proved without a doubt, neurogenesis occurs in brain cells.
More recent research in 2022 found that not only can brains regenerate, the new neurons can also restore memory and perhaps function. This is a fantastic find. It is especially important for research on diseases like Alzheimer’s. Repairing and restoring lost memory and function would be life-changing.
And just last month, I read about research relating neurogenesis to helping Parkinson’s patients, a disease close to my heart.
More research is needed. More proof for human brains. But the takeaway is this: If there is such sound evidence that neurogenesis happens in animals, including our closest species, primates, the probability is high that our brains are capable of regeneration.
How can we foster neurogenesis?
Overwhelming evidence shows exercise is by far the best way to stimulate neurogenesis. Yes, exercise. Nothing else comes close. As an exercise specialist, this thrills me!
However, what kind of exercise is the best for neurogenesis? The first neurogenesis study I read years ago that mentioned exercise was a memory study done with mice. What jumped out of the study to me was one group was made to exercise on a wheel for so many minutes each day to “stimulate neurogenesis.” This was done to see if neurogenesis affected their memories. That’s it. No drugs to stimulate it, just exercise. Wow!
We know cardio exercise causes neurogenesis. But what about strength training? Well, early studies have shown that anaerobic exercise (think strength training or sprints) also increases neurogenesis. Researchers are now studying what type of exercise is the most effective.
In the meantime, do your cardio and strength training. Both are good for your brain, and many other things! If you need help with your health and fitness program, check out Active Life Fitness by Karen.
Karen