Research has shown that exercise improves memory. A recent study at Columbia University Medical Center sheds light on how this happens. Exercise affects an area of the brain called the dentate gyrus, which is the site of neuron generation. This area lies within the hippocampus, long recognized as important in memory formation.
Subjects in the study exercised for an hour four times a week for three months. Researchers found changes in blood volume in the dentate gyrus, which they believe corresponds to increases in the volume of neurons.
The study is significant because it is the first to demonstrate the growth of neurons in living humans. Previous studies had to rely on post mortem examinations of animal brains.
Commentary:
Some important next steps will be to determine the types and duration of exercise that are most beneficial. In the meantime, kSero recommends cardio or aerobic activity at least 4 times per week, in addition to strength training.
Also, this study complements others which demonstrate that folic acid, needed by the hippocampus, can improve memory or lessen its decline with age.
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