For many out there, dieting and exercise is the key to losing weight and getting into shape. While dieting to some extent has helped many to achieve their weight loss goals, exercise has been proven to be beneficial in almost every aspect of life. From preventing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease to treating depression and stress, physical activity is a highly recommended natural medicine. But too much of everything is bad, and dieting and exercising are not an exception.
Ill-effect of exercise on the brain: Too much of strenuous exercise has a negative impact on the brain and mental health. Not only does it slow down cognitive development but can also lead to problems like memory loss and delayed response. A study that was presented at the Alzheimer's Association 2009 International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease suggested that intense exercise causes greater damage to the brain. It affects the hippocampus, a part of the brain that plays a major role in learning new skills and creating new memories.
Ill-effect of dieting on the brain: Considering the fact that 60% of the brain is made up of fat, extreme dieting can make you lose out on your cognitive skills. The brain requires omega-3 fatty acids for functioning at an optimum level, which you can only obtain through food. Scientists at the Harvard University found out that lack of omega-3 fats in the brain cells cause disruption of brain signals and may even cause poor concentration, dementia, depression and mood swings as seen bipolar disorder.
So, the moral of the story is, slow and steady is the right way to lose weight. Cutting down on essential nutrients and working out for extra hours is just going to make you dumb.
Image Source: Getty Images
References:
Bourre JM. Dietary omega-3 Fatty acids and psychiatry: mood, behaviour, stress, depression, dementia and aging.
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