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While the cardiovascular benefits of exercise are well-known, recent research from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston underscores the significant impact of physical activity on brain health.
The team at MGH discovered that exercise plays a crucial role in reducing stress levels within the brain, which in turn contributes to better heart health. Dr. Ahmed Tawakol, the lead author of the study and an investigator and cardiologist at MGH’s Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, highlighted that exercise was particularly effective in lowering cardiovascular disease risk for individuals with a history of depression. Their findings were published on April 15 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
The study analyzed data from over 50,000 participants enrolled in the Mass General Brigham Biobank database over a median period of 10 years. Participants recorded their physical activity levels, while a subset of 774 individuals underwent brain scans and other tests measuring stress-linked brain activity.
During the follow-up period, nearly 13% of participants developed heart disease. However, those who met standard recommendations for physical activity were 23% less likely to receive such a diagnosis. Additionally, individuals who exercised regularly exhibited lower levels of stress-related brain activity compared to those who were less active.
The researchers observed that individuals who were more physically fit demonstrated greater activity in the prefrontal cortex, the brain’s decision-making and impulse-control center, which plays a role in regulating stress responses.
The study suggests that reduced stress levels contribute significantly to improved heart health, particularly benefiting individuals with a history of depression. Dr. Tawakol emphasized the importance of healthcare professionals discussing the connection between brain health and heart health when advising patients on the benefits of exercise.
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