Exercise, Fasting And Omega-3: The Best For Your Brain
A study indicates that this combination improves the functioning of neurons and even favors the creation of new connections and neuronal cells.
Do you want to stimulate your brain to the maximum? A study conducted in South Korea, funded by the government, proposes taking a supplement of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), doing resistance physical exercise and fasting.
Fasting and exercise are good for neurons
On the other hand, both exercise sessions aimed at increasing endurance and fasting stimulate the brain by increasing responses to ketone bodies (which serve as an energy source for neurons during fasting) and to the “derived neurotrophic factor of the brain (BDNF) “, a protein that takes part in the creation of synapses, the repair of the DNA of the neurons and the generation of new nerve cells.
When exercise is done in the morning, it is especially effective because circadian rhythms modulate synaptic plasticity.
In addition, if it is done outdoors and under sunlight, serotonin levels increase , the neurotransmitter related to the feeling of well-being.
Fasting, meanwhile, causes neurons to get their energy from ketone bodies instead of glucose. In this energetic mode, neurons are stimulated.
Omega-3 DHA is the ideal supplement
DHA is a fatty acid of the polyunsaturated omega-3 family that is part of the phospholipids of the membrane of the brain, neurons and the retina. This nutrient is necessary to maintain optimal mental function and good vision.
It also reduces muscle inflammation caused by physical exercise.
DHA is mainly found in fatty fish, but it can also be obtained from plant sources. There are vegetarian DHA supplements made from algae. It must be said that the body synthesizes DHA from the linolenic acid that some nuts and seeds provide. Flax and chia seeds and walnuts stand out.
DHA, crucial in the development of the baby
Although it is necessary to obtain DHA from food throughout life, it is crucial in the first trimester after birth for the proper development of the brain and nervous system.
The breast milk it brings to the newborn in sufficient quantities.
Researchers from Dong-Eui and Maritime and Oceanic Universities have reached their conclusions after analyzing research carried out mainly with laboratory animals. And they suggest that both exercise, fasting and DHA supplementation may be interesting in cases of degenerative neurological diseases.
In any case, both strenuous physical activity and fasting should be done in a controlled manner and under medical supervision. Studies indicate that 16-hour fasts with sugar-free fluid intake are sufficient to produce great positive effects.
