Now, for the equally important half of the equation: exercise. Any movement is beneficial for neurological health; however, Nicola does praise aerobic exercise and resistance training for optimal brain aging.
Aerobic exercise has also been shown to generate new neurons in the hippocampus3, or the region of the brain associated with memory, learning, and emotions.
On the other hand, resistance training offers new and exciting brain benefits, too. She explains that contracting your muscles releases certain myokines4, or muscle-based proteins, into the bloodstream.
At the end of the day, the best type of exercise is the one you enjoy and will stick with. Nicola recommends getting at least 20 minutes of aerobic exercise per day and resistance training three times a week, but whatever you can fit into your schedule is helpful.
