Exercise shown to reduce stress

Researchers at Princeton University found evidence that reinforces the notion that regular exercise can help a person cope better in stressful situations. For years nutritionists and health gurus have recommended physical activity to alleviate anxiety, and the new scientific research supports their suggestion.

In the Princeton University experiment, scientists forced one group of rats to run, while the other group had no physical activity. Afterward, all the rats were forced to swim in cold water, which is considered stressful for the rodents. After examining the rats, scientists found that the running rodents developed new brain cells (neurons) during the exercise that “specifically buffered from exposure to a stressful experience.” In other words, the exercised rodents were able to cope better with when they were in a tough spot. Through running, the rats were able to develop a brain that seemed biochemically, molecularly, calm.

According to the New York Times, a similar study was done by researchers at the University of Houston. The scientists focused on the antioxidant powers of moderate exercise, and their findings coincided with what the Princeton study found.

Anxiety in rodents and people has been linked with something known as excessive oxidative stress. This form of stress is known to kill brain cells and also lead to genetic mutations. However, moderate exercise helps prevent the effects of oxidative stress. In the University of Houston Study, researchers injected rodents with chemicals that increase oxidative stress. The rodents that had exercised were relatively nonchalant under stress, while the other rats were extremely anxious.

Although both studies revealed that physical activity stimulates the creation of new brain cells, researchers still do not know how the neurons are functionally different from other brain cells. Also, the rats experienced the positive benefits of exercise under the condition that they ran on a regular basis for at least six weeks. The rodents that ran for three weeks did not experience any noticeable changes.

There are obviously many benefits to exercising regularly. Not only does it keep stress levels down, is also helps a person feel better about his or her self image. Exercise can also prevent diseases that take a toll on vital organs, such as the heart.