SPORT AGAINST DEPRESSION
Physical activity releases endorphins - the hormone of happiness, especially in endurance sports. It lifts the mood.
Exercise also increases serotonin production. This neurotransmitter is a sort of messenger of happiness in the human body. A high level of serotonin signals that all is well and we are happy and balanced. Depressed patients often have very low levels of serotonin, which is why they are often treated with drugs that elevate them.
Physical activity increases the production of norepinephrine. This important substance is often found in depressed people in low concentrations.
Movement stimulates the growth of cells in the hippocampus. Normally, cells in the hippocampus tend to die in depression. This is countered through sports.
Finally, physical exercise breaks down the stress hormone cortisol, which also has a positive effect on general mood.
The more we move, the less depressed we are, an American study shows. The study included nearly 50,000 women. Experts calculate the time spent watching TV as well as playing sports.
Regular physical activity increases self-esteem and self-confidence in women, as well as the levels of endorphins in the blood, explains the author of the study - Michelle Lucas from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.
Within 10 years, 6,500 new cases of depression are diagnosed.
It found that women who spent the longest amount of time on physical activity – over an hour each day – had a 20% lower risk of depression than those who exercised 10 minutes or less daily.
Female participants who watched television for more than 3 hours a day were 13% more at risk of depression, compared to ladies who rarely turned on the television.
The more we move, the less depressed we are, an American study shows. The study included nearly 50,000 women. Experts calculate the time spent watching TV as well as playing sports.
Regular physical activity increases self-esteem and self-confidence in women, as well as the levels of endorphins in the blood, explains the author of the study - Michelle Lucas from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.
Within 10 years, 6,500 new cases of depression are diagnosed.
It found that women who spent the longest amount of time on physical activity – over an hour each day – had a 20% lower risk of depression than those who exercised 10 minutes or less daily.
Female participants who watched television for more than 3 hours a day were 13% more at risk of depression, compared to ladies who rarely turned on the television.