New hypothesis about the relationship between exercise and mood

Depression is associated with brain and psychiatric disorders, including learning and memory impairment. Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, but the mechanism behind this remains somewhat unclear.

In this regard, the researchers proposed a new hypothesis to understand the antidepressant effects of exercise. The research team believes that the process may depend on motivation, which is very important for alleviating symptoms of depression, such as anhedonia, low energy, and “brain fog.”

The team studied research papers that “explored the mechanisms of depression in both humans and animals,” and concluded that depression is associated with increased inflammation (resulting from the body’s immune response) and disrupted dopamine transmission (the happiness hormone). These biological changes may represent key processes that lead to changes in motivation, particularly a decreased desire to exert physical or mental effort.

At the same time, exercise reduces inflammation, enhances dopamine function, and thus stimulates motivation.

Researchers believe this may be an important reason for the antidepressant effect of exercise.

“The antidepressant effect of aerobic exercise has been convincingly demonstrated in randomised controlled trials, but its mechanism is poorly understood,” said lead author Emily Hird, from the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London. “This is partly because it involves a variety of biological and psychological processes. For example, in addition to its positive effects on inflammation and dopamine, exercise also reduces oxidative stress and improves self-esteem and self-efficacy.”

“However, we suggest that exercise reduces inflammation and enhances dopamine transmission, which in turn increases the desire to exert effort, thus enhancing motivation in general,” she added.

The team hopes the findings will help develop new treatment strategies for depression, such as personalized exercise programs.

“Addressing barriers to exercise, especially in people with depression, is crucial, as regular physical activity may be able to alleviate symptoms and improve mood,” Heard concluded.

The study was published in the journal Translational Psychiatry.

Source: Medical Express