It is well known that exercise is beneficial to the body and perhaps slightly less known that it is also great for the mind. Exercise increases blood flow and circulation, can improve memory and brain function. It helps the body feel good, fight illness and provides an overall feeling of well-being. Most athletes are aware of the high they receive when working out; this is due to the increased endorphins but also the increased serotonin in the brain.
Identification
Serotonin is an abundant neurotransmitter that originates in the brainstem but is found throughout the brain. It has influence over cardiovascular, renal, immune and gastrointestinal systems. Serotonin regulates mood and can also affect anxiety mechanisms, thoughts, aggression, appetite, sex drive and sleep. Serotonin communicates with other neurotransmitters to keep the brain healthy. An imbalance in serotonin can contribute to depression, schizophrenia, compulsive disorders and learning problems, according to the Your Life website.
Significance
There is some debate over whether exercise has an antidepressant effect, but a guide published by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in the United Kingdom recommends exercise over antidepressants for mild depression, according to a 2007 review published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience." Exercise can improve mood by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, with the most consistent effect seen with regular aerobic exercise.
Effects
The mechanics involved in the effect of exercise on serotonin may be as a result of motor activity increasing the firing rates of serotonin neurons, causing an increased release and synthesis of serotonin, according to the 2007 review published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience." There is also an increase of tryptophan, the serotonin precursor, in the brain after exercise, which indicates an increase in serotonin synthesis. This would conclude that an increase of serotonin during and after exercise improves mood.
Expert Insight
A 2006 study published in the "Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience," hypothesized that exercise alleviates major depressive disorder. Exercise increases serotonin and the synthesis of new neurons in the brain. Evidence has pointed to exercise having a significant beneficial effect on depressive symptoms. It was also found that greater aerobic exercise is associated with greater benefits and the antidepressant effect can last long beyond the exercise period.
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