Simple Steps to Improve Brain and Body Function

  Lets look at three recent studies and see how easy it can be to improve ourselves both mentally and physically.

  The first two studies were done at the University of Illinois. One study followed 65 previously sedentary people aged 59-80 yrs old, these subjects walked for 40 minutes 3 times per week. Scientists "found enhancements in brain function and better performance in cognitive activities." A second study at the University of Illinois in the psychology and neuroscience department found that higher levels of exercise can reduce dementia risk by 30-40% when compared to lower levels of exercise. "Physical activity can also trigger the growth of new nerve cells and promote nerve growth."

  Another study done at the University of British Columbia at Vancouver involving older women found that those who did weight training performed 13% better on cognitive function tests than a group that did balance and toning exercises only.

  These studies demonstrate that any exercise is beneficial for the mind and body with most experts recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week with resistance training offering the most improvement in brain function possibly due to an increase in growth factor levels which nourish and protect nerve cells.

  Now that we see it can be as easy as a short walk and some push-ups and squats (repetitive sit-down and stand-up) to improve our mind and our body lets get started.