It is not even necessary to list all the benefits that exercise brings to the lives of millions of people around the world. There is no area where training does not bring improvement. However, there are other benefits that often go unnoticed by many. For example, eye and brain health are 2 of those forgotten cases.
Few know what the impact of exercise on eye health is, and it is more than convenient to know the benefits it can bring, in an age where more and more people suffer from vision problems.
Impact of exercise on eye health
1. Slows the effects of brain aging
From the age of 4, the brain begins a process of deterioration produced by aging, shrinking by 5% every decade. In this sense, exercising considerably counteracts the effects of aging in the body and can even make the hippocampus grow , the region of the brain specialized in memory.
Physical activity encourages the production of a chemical known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor or FNDC, which is specifically responsible for reducing deterioration in the brain. Of course, preserving brain health will directly impact the preservation of eye health and allow you to live comfortably into old age.
2. Reduces the risk of glaucoma appearance
Glaucoma is a serious disease that makes it difficult for countless people around the world to see. This condition can even lead to permanent blindness, if not treated in time.
People who exercise consistently reduce their risk of glaucoma by 73%. The effect can even be more beneficial as you exercise more and with greater intensity.
3. Maintain your health without having to exercise daily
Your body will benefit the most as you stay more active and train as much as possible each day. But the reality is different, and not everyone has the time to dedicate hours to exercise. indeed, you don’t need to train daily to preserve brain and eye health.
Studies from different branches of science and medicine state that people between the ages of 18 and 64 should get at least 150 minutes of exercise three or 5 days a week. You don’t need to be a cross-fit expert or master all the HIIT routines you find: moderate intensity aerobic exercises will suffice.
Conclution
You don’t need any more reasons to start exercising more often or with greater intensity, and there will be no better reward than being healthy and strong at an older age.
Aging will come for all of us eventually, it is your decision to face it and start living the effects that exercise has on your eye and brain health. In addition, your quality of life will be immensely improved with just 30 minutes of physical activity for only 5 days a week.
References
- Groth, L. The Surprising Impact Exercise Has on Your Eye Sight. For Livestrong [Revised January 2018].
