Chandigarh February 20 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): We all know that regular exercise is great for the body as it strengthens the heart, helps manage weight and improves overall fitness but what if hitting the gym could also boost your brainpower? A groundbreaking new research suggested that physical activity may directly enhance brain function by improving how brain cells respond to insulin, a hormone essential for blood sugar control. This exciting discovery could be a game-changer for maintaining cognitive health as we age.
The science behind the brain-boosting benefits
A recent study published in the journal Aging Cell has revealed a potential mechanism behind the cognitive benefits of exercise. Researchers found that physical activity activates specific cellular processes in the brain linked to insulin function.
Insulin is primarily known for regulating blood sugar but it also plays a crucial role in brain health, influencing regions involved in thinking and memory. When brain cells become less responsive to insulin, cognitive function can decline—a problem that researchers are eager to address.
“We believe this work is important because it suggests exercise may work to improve cognition and memory by improving the abilities of insulin to act on the brain,” said Steven Malin, lead author of the study and an Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health at Rutgers University.
Summary: Experts suggest that adopting a simple habit for just two weeks can significantly improve insulin sensitivity in diabetics while also enhancing brain health.