Boston, MA – New research conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital indicates that engaging in physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by decreasing stress-related brain signaling. The study, which examined data from over 50,000 participants, found that individuals who followed physical activity guidelines had a 23% lower likelihood of developing heart disease.
Particularly, individuals with conditions like depression experienced even more substantial improvements in cardiovascular health. This connection is attributed to the impact of physical activity on enhancing the prefrontal cortex’s function, which helps regulate stress responses within the brain.
The research involved a comprehensive analysis of medical records, physical activity surveys, and brain imaging from the participants, illustrating a clear correlation between physical activity and decreased cardiovascular risk. Those who adhered to recommended levels of physical activity showed reduced brain activity in stress-associated regions, contributing to their lowered risk of heart disease.
Moreover, individuals with stress-related conditions like depression benefitted more from physical activity, suggesting that exercise could be especially advantageous for this group. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, highlights how physical activity can have significant effects on both psychological and cardiovascular health.
Lead investigator Ahmed Tawakol, MD, and his team analyzed data from the Mass General Brigham Biobank, including physical activity surveys and brain imaging tests, to understand how physical activity impacts stress-related brain activity. Over a 10-year follow-up period, 12.9% of participants developed cardiovascular disease, with those meeting physical activity recommendations exhibiting a 23% lower risk of developing the condition.
Notably, participants with higher levels of physical activity demonstrated lower stress-related brain activity, primarily driven by improved function in the prefrontal cortex. These findings suggest that reductions in stress-related brain signaling can play a role in the cardiovascular benefits of physical activity.
The researchers also observed that the cardiovascular benefits of exercise were more pronounced in individuals with higher stress-related brain activity, such as those with depression. Tawakol emphasized the importance of further studies to explore potential mediators and establish causality, suggesting that clinicians should communicate the significant brain effects of physical activity to patients with stress-related syndromes like depression.
This study sheds light on the multifaceted benefits of physical activity on both mental and cardiovascular health, underscoring the importance of incorporating exercise into daily routines for overall well-being.