While most people know that running is good for certain parts of the body, such as the heart, lungs, and waistline, many do not realize that running also does great things for the human brain. In order to appreciate how running helps the brain, it is important to understand the role of neurons.
Neurons are cells that are designed to transmit information through electrical impulses. In order to communicate with each other, neurons form complex networks. Neurons play an essential role in brain function, including storing long term and short memories and transmitting sensory data.
While there are over 100 billion neurons in the brain, the loss or degeneration of a portion of neurons can result in serious medical conditions such as alzheimers and parkinsons diseases. Because of the importance of neurons, it is obviously a good idea to participate in activities to promote neuron growth, such as running.
A number of animal studies have found that running increases the production of a chemical called Brian Derived Neurotrophic Factor. This chemical plays an important role in the growth and protection of brain neurons. Many of these studies have focused on neurons in the hippocampus region of the brain, which play a key role for long term memory and spatial navigation.
The theory is that running can stress the hippocampus, which causes the release of protective chemicals to ensure neuron survival and growth. In other words, just as muscles grow and adapt to the stresses of training, neurons also benefit from regular running.
Therefore, after your next run take a moment to consider how you not only contributed to your physical fitness, but also improved your brain function.
