05/18/2018 / By Jessica Dolores
We know that walking makes us feel good, especially after a stressful day. That’s why some people choose to “walk away” from problems, or from negative people. Scientists have discovered another thing going for this simple exercise: It helps boost mental health.
Researchers observed 12 healthy young adults and used ultrasound to measure internal carotid artery blood velocity waves and arterial diameters to compute cerebral blood flow (CBF). They were tested while standing up and walking at the rate of one meter per second. The researchers found that foot impact while walking is lighter compared with running. But walking still creates bigger pressure waves in the body that substantially increase blood flow to the brain. Walking led to less dramatic effects on CBF compared to running, but they were greater than those seen during cycling, which had zero foot impact.
Researchers from the New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) found that the foot’s impact while walking sends pressure waves through the arteries that substantially raise blood supply to the brain.
Before the research findings were released, blood supply to the brain was thought to be controlled by the body and unaffected by blood pressure changes from exercise or physical exertion. The NMHU research team itself and others used to believe that the foot’s impact while running created substantial impact-related, backward-flowing waves through the arteries that work in combination with the heart rate and stride rate to control CBF.
But the new study proved that brain blood flow relies on “cyclic aortic pressures” that work in coordination with retrograde pressure pulses from foot impact. The researchers added that walking may maximize the flow of blood in the brain, improve its functions, and create a sense of well-being.
The study’s first author, Ernest Greene, was surprised that he and his team finally succeeded in measuring the impact of walking on cerebral blood flow. He confirmed that movement maximizes the flow of blood to the brain. (Related: Reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s by walking FAST and OFTEN.)
Too busy to take a walk? Here are some tips from avid walkers:
You might be surprised at how good you feel and how clearly you can think. After all, some of the best things in life are free.
Walking is one of the easiest (not to mention, cheapest!) ways to be healthy. Visit Natural.news today to learn more natural ways you can achieve your best health.
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Tagged Under: active lifestyle, blood flow, blood pressure, blood supply, brain blood flow, brain function, brain health, brisk walking, cerebral blood flow, cognitive decline, cognitive health, cyclic aortic pressure, dementia, exercise, fitness, foot impact, heart health, mental health, mind body science, natural remedies, physical exercise, slender, walking, walking speed
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