October 20, 2014

Ask the Doctors

The physical benefits of exercise have been discussed in your columns a number of times. Mental benefits also have been mentioned. Are these real, or just “mind over matter”?

Whenever we address the topic of exercise, we emphasize both the physical and mental benefits. Wholeness is the nuclear and key component of the Adventist health message; there is a wholistic approach to physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being.

Robust scientific evidence indicates that regular exercise has powerful physical health benefits. It’s been shown that regular exercise is the single most important intervention that influences health and longevity. It’s not the only factor, though. Rest, balanced nutrition, adequate intake of pure water, breathing fresh air, a measured exposure to sunshine, temperance (balance), trust in God, and strong social support and relationships all work in concert to nurture the “more abundant life.”

Empowered by God’s Holy Spirit, our choices can be strengthened as we embrace these wonderful and available resources in caring for our health. This inspired information can help us to enjoy a wholeness and wellness, even in our brokenness. What does this mean? We are all broken, as it were—physically, emotionally, and perhaps even mentally. But despite these challenges we can enjoy wholeness in Christ. As the apostle Paul experienced and reported, “[God’s] grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).

How does exercise impact the mind? One mechanism that has been known for decades is the relationship between the production of chemicals called endorphins and exercise. These hormones have a powerful effect on our mood and well-being. They are also physiological painkillers and function in a way similar to some of the analgesics used in pain management. They elevate the mood and are thought to be responsible for the “high,” or mood elevation, related to exercise (e.g., the “runner’s high” experienced by marathon running or cycling sports).

But endorphins are not the only mechanism whereby exercise impacts our brains. New research suggests that if one does not exercise, the brain cells may undergo changes or, simply stated, get out of shape, just as the physical body does. A recent study on rats showed the impact of exercise or inactivity on the brain—specifically the cells that may influence the development of high blood pressure, which is related to an increased risk for stroke and brain damage. The rats were divided into two groups: one had no access to exercise wheels, and the other group used the exercise wheels regularly.

After three months microscopic studies of the brains of the inactive rats showed marked changes in the portion of the brain that helps to control blood pressure.

The shape and branches of the neurons (brain cells) in the brains of the less-active rats became altered and changed the delicate mechanisms controlling blood pressure levels. These structural changes in the neurons may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease, which, in turn, influences brain health and function. We accept that this study was done in an animal model, but we’re excited that it may offer some additional understanding on the important link between exercise and brain health.

Numerous studies demonstrate the benefits of exercise and improved brain health and cognitive function. These benefits include healthier brain structure, blood and nutrient supply to the brain, improved mood, and repair of the negative effects of stress. These processes may also help us understand how exercise slows the progression of diseases such as Alzheimer’s (dementia) and Parkinson’s (movement disorder). When one adds the physical benefits of exercise, which include decreased heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, as well as improved mood and self-esteem, exercise is a “wholeness winner”!

Regular exercise keeps us in shape physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally—so let’s “just do it!”


Send your questions to Ask the Doctors, Adventist Review, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904. Or e-mail them to [email protected]. While this column is provided as a service to our readers, Drs. Landless and Handysides unfortunately cannot enter into personal and private communication with our readers. We recommend you consult with your personal physician on all matters of your health.


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