Exercise has emerged as an effective treatment for depression, rivaling medication and psychotherapy in its ability to reduce symptoms. Both aerobic and resistance training provide mental health benefits, with a combination of the two being optimal. However, exercise is vastly underutilized and more research is needed to uncover the mechanisms behind its antidepressant effects. Highlights: …
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is derived from the amino acid tryptophan. Most people know that serotonin is associated with mood. It has long been marketed that high serotonin results in happiness, and low serotonin results in major depression. Despite the incessant marketing of serotonin to the mainstream by pharmaceutical companies, serotonin does more than …
BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) is considered an important protein that influences brain function as well as the peripheral nervous system. BDNF influences a variety of functions including: preventing death of existing brain cells, inducing the growth of new neurons (neurogenesis) and synapses, and supporting cognitive function. Low levels of BDNF are often problematic and have …
The number of people battling major depression in the United States is estimated to be roughly 15 million. A highly depressed population results in an underproductive economy and less prosperity throughout the world. People that are depressed generally have a difficult time finding jobs, surviving a work (or school) day, and may find their depression …
Nearly everyone experiences fatigue on occasion, whether it be from working long hours, high stress, or not getting enough sleep. Although fatigue can be a temporary problem for many, most people are able to overcome it by making some lifestyle changes such as: eating better food, improving sleep, or reducing stress. Unfortunately approximately 1 million …
Most people who are severely depressed have a difficult time getting out of bed, let alone getting some exercise. Based on findings from a new meta-analysis, Chinese researchers discovered that sedentary behavior is associated with a 25% increase in developing depression. In other words, if you don’t get much exercise, it could be a significant …
Should you blame your brain if you don’t have the motivation to go to the gym and exercise? A recent discovery published in The Journal of Neuroscience will support those putting blame on their brains. Researchers in this particular study discovered that a tiny region of the brain called the “dorsal medial habenula” may be …