The Latest Research On Depression And Exercise

Posted on May 12, 2019


Feeling depressed? A lot of people are depressed these days. When someone feels depressed, what do they do? For some, they choose to ignore it and hope it goes away. They try and “work through it on their own.” Others go to doctors and ask for pills. Many Americans are on antidepressants. Some of the key names you might recognize include Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. While these pills may help people, they also include a number of side effects– including some negative ones. Plus, do most people want to be “on pills” for a long time/the rest of their lives? No.

What about exercise? Could exercise be a decent alternative to taking pills to treat depression? Recent research shows that exercise is definitely a natural, healthy way to combat depression… Not only does regular exercise help protect against heart disease and diabetes, but it also improves sleep and lowers blood pressure. Furthermore, it’s a great idea to do high-intensity exercise to battle depression– that’s when the body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, giving people a “natural high.” Meanwhile, even low-intensity exercise can help make a person feel better over time. Proteins get released during and after exercise causing nerve cells to grow and make new connections. In turn, the brain functions better. Specifically, neuroscientists found that the hippocampus in the brain (the region that helps regulate mood) is smaller in people who are depressed. That said, when those people make exercise part of their daily regimen, exercise supports nerve cell growth in the hippocampus. Nerve cell connections are improved, and depression is relieved. So, in conclusion, exercise is great not just for your body and health, but brain and mood as well.

If you’re someone who hasn’t exercised before, it can be hard to start. “Where do I begin?” is a question most people ask themselves. Furthermore, they need someone or something to motivate them to actually do exercise. Did you know chiropractor Dr. Jason Gerard can help coach you in this regard? He’s the kind of guide who you can be accountable to, and he’s there for you to talk with, ask questions, and to push you out of your sedentary comfort zone. If you’ve been feeling depressed and suspect that exercise is a better choice than taking pills in order to feel better, then you should definitely schedule an appointment at Lakewoods Chiropractic in Forest Lake, MN. Dr. Gerard can help you develop an action plan and stick to it, such that exercise becomes a new habit that helps you!

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Lakewoods Chiropractic
Lakewoods Chiropractic
385 Google reviews
SALLY DETLEFSEN
SALLY DETLEFSEN
September 26, 2022.
I am amazed at how much better I feel since coming to Lakewoods. The doctors and staff are amazing.
Lukas Drayna
Lukas Drayna
September 21, 2022.
Great friendly staff. They focus on the target area’s to ensure your body is happy and healthy !
Michael F.
Michael F.
September 13, 2022.
Lakewoods Chiropractic is awesome. Friendly, welcoming, and professional Environment. They make you feel comfortable. Definitely recommend Lakewoods. I'm well on the road to recovery. Keep up the good work.
tone2403
tone2403
August 30, 2022.
Definitely recommend Lakewoods. When I went in I was in very rough shape. After a few weeks of adjustments I'm feeling better then ever. Great staff and very knowledgeable. They take the time to really make you understand the process.
Eric Russell
Eric Russell
August 25, 2022.
Jason and his staff are the best. Since my 1st visit, they always informed on your progress and had your health as #1 priority.
Angel L Colon Jr
Angel L Colon Jr
August 11, 2022.
Excellent service, friendly accommodating staff. Awesome family friendly services. Highly recommend!!!
Carrie Davis
Carrie Davis
August 3, 2022.
By far the best chiropractor I’ve ever used. They customize a plan just for you and don’t use a one size fits all approach. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!! Thank you!!!
Justin W
Justin W
July 28, 2022.
Great place!
Jennifer Thelen
Jennifer Thelen
July 21, 2022.
I have been experiencing low back pain for at least 10 rememberable years and decided on a whim to try chiropractic care at Lakewoods. I had never been to a chiropractor before so I had no expectations that it would work or not but after just my first adjustment I had instant relief for the first time in 10 years. I have since been super impressed with how everything has been explained to me and how my care plan has been formed. The staff are all very kind and have been very helpful as well!