(21-10-12) Regular exercise synergistically improves physical and mental health

by John Phillip

(NaturalNews) There is little doubt that we have evolved from a past carved
from consumption of nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables and free-range animal
meats, all necessary components in shaping our present genome, muscular
strength and intelligence. Similarly, we are products of regular exercise, as
our ancestors required short bursts of intense physical energy to secure food
and avoid predators. Remove either of these critical elements and we would look
and feel much different today, or would cease to exist altogether.

Researchers reporting in the journal of the Association for Psychological
Science, Clinical Psychological Science have determined that certain
psychosocial factors may help to explain the benefits of daily physical
activity for adolescents' mental health. The study was designed to determine
what actually accounts for the association between exercise and mental health.

Two existing hypothesis for the link between physical activity and mental
health include the self-image hypothesis suggesting that physical activity has
positive effects on body weight and body structure, leading to positive
feedback from peers and improved self-image, ultimately improving mental
health. The social interaction hypothesis posits that it's the social aspects
of physical activity, including social relationships and mutual support among
team members that contribute to the positive effects of exercise on mental
health.

Physical activity promotes self-perception and mental health in adolescents
and adults
To conduct the study, researchers examined over 7,000 Dutch students, aged 11
to 16. The participants completed validated surveys designed to assess their
physical activity, mental health problems, body weight perception, and
participation in organized sports. The researchers also gathered data on age,
gender, and socioeconomic status, as well as if they lived at home with their
parents or were from an urban area.

The study team found that those individuals who were physically inactive or
perceived themselves as being overly fat or thin were at the greatest risk for
internalizing self-image problems, and displayed a higher degree of depression
and anxiety. These individuals were also much more likely to be aggressive and
prone to substance abuse. Participants who were involved in organized sports
and exercised regularly were at much lower risk for mental health problems.

The study leaders conclude "These results suggest that certain psychosocial
factors, body image and social interaction, may help to explain at least part
of the connection between physical activity and mental health... our findings
indicate that physical activity may be one effective tool for the prevention of
mental health problems in adolescence." Regular physical activity is just as
important as consuming a natural, predominately plant-based diet to prevent
chronic disease and ensure lifelong mental health.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.psychologicalscience.org
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2012-09/afps-eda092512.php
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120925171454.htm

News

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