A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has revealed that physical activity may play a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart disease by influencing stress responses in the brain. Led by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital, the study found that individuals who met the recommended levels of physical activity had a 23% lower risk of developing heart disease.
Interestingly, the study also showed that individuals with depression experienced even greater benefits from physical activity in terms of reducing their risk of heart disease. This is particularly significant as depression is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to associated behaviors such as unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. The relationship between depression and heart disease is complex and can work in both directions.
The study followed participants for a median of 10 years, during which 12.9% of them developed cardiovascular disease. The researchers found that higher levels of physical exercise were associated with lower levels of stress-related brain activity, which in turn is a risk factor for heart disease. This suggests that the stress-related brain activity can lead to physiological stress that may contribute to the development of heart disease.
It is well-known that exercise is anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective, making it beneficial for both physical and mental health. This study highlights the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines, especially for those with depression. By reducing stress-related brain activity and inflammation, exercise can help lower the risk of heart disease and improve overall well-being.
