In this short episode, Dr. Patrick discusses some of the compelling science including observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and human mechanistic studies that suggests exercise is a powerful tool for preventing or managing the symptoms of depression and mental illness. Moreover, she talks about the specific types of exercise and exercise parameters that evidence suggests might be the most helpful for depression.

This podcast started its life as a video, so make sure to check out the full video or the references and episode notes on the episode page.

In this episode, you'll discover:

(00:00) Introduction
(01:51) Multiple types of research support the anti-depressant effects of exercise
(04:45) Exercise boosts serotonin and blocks harmful kynurenine
(10:00) Exercise causes beneficial inflammation that boosts BDNF
(13:18) Depression lowers BDNF and neuroplasticity
(15:08) Exercise increases endocannabinoids and endorphins
(16:09) Concluding thoughts

If you’re interested in learning more, you can read the full show notes here.

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