Scientists who recently conducted a study revealed that exercise detoxifies the body of depressive chemicals that help reduce and cure depression. In the study published in Cell Journal, the UK researchers found out how physical activity can stimulate changes in muscles that aid in combatting toxins that can pose harmful effects on the brain. Stress can impose due damage to the brain and with exercise, this can be prevented saving the brain from harm.
The Swedish scientist, Mia Lindskog, from Department of Neuroscience at Karolinska Institute said, "Our study provides an explanation on biochemical changes happening in the body during exercise and how these helps protect the brain from damage."
A protein called PGC-1a1 which is excreted by the skeletal muscles during physical activities is thought to be a protective component for the brain. It protects the brain from harmful components caused by stress such as depressive chemicals.
The scientists conducted the study in two groups of mice. One group was genetically modified to have high amounts of PGC1a1 in their system while another group of mice was not. They were both exposed to a stressful environment in the laboratory like loud noise, flashing lights and reversed circadian rhythms. After 5 weeks of trial, the group with high amounts of PGC1a1 developed no depressive symptoms while the normal group developed depressive behaviors.
After exercise, the muscles become an excretory component wherein it purges depressive chemicals out of the body. Dr. Jorge Ruas, principal investigator at the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, said that well trained muscles become like the liver and kidneys that excretes substances that help eradicate harmful chemicals in the body.
Staying fit has many benefits for the body physically, emotionally and mentally. Aside from keeping the body at normal weight, it also helps many systems of the body. The cardiovascular system is well maintained reducing heart illness risk while the neurological function of the body is benefited too. This study produces innovative information on the advantages of exercise though they recommend further studies on this topic.