Article: Source of Exercise Buzz

Study Identifies Brain Chemical Involved in Exercise "High"

Yale University scientists have identified a brain chemical associated with the natural "high" of exercise and suggest that a drug based on that chemical could provide an effective treatment for depression, BBC News reported.

The researchers found that a gene called VGF -- located in the brain's hippocampus -- is more active during exercise. The gene is linked to a growth factor chemical involved in the development of nerve cells.

The Yale team then made a version of this chemical and tested it in mice. It seemed to affect the rodents' behavior in a way somewhat similar to the way antidepressants affect humans, BBC News reported.

The research appears in the journal Nature Medicine.

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Maybe the scientists should encourage depressed people to exercise.  As a bi-polar patient, I can attest that there are many meds that treat depression.  The form I have is genetic in nature, so I wouldn't expect a cure unless they could come up with some sort of gene therapy.

sjbob, Your idea is on target: Scientists do encourage depressed people to exercise and have for some time. They also encourage very old folks to be active, not just for the physical gains, but for mental and emotional gains too. There are  a couple of psychologists in in my community who go for brisk walks with their clients during sessions instead just sitting and talking. I've even heard of doc's "prescribing" gym memberships and trainers for depressed folks. A good friend of mind used to describe depression as an overactive mind combined with an inactive body. Not always true, of course (some exercise addicts remain depressed), but a good thing to keep in mind.

Hey Dave,   Interesting stuff. Do you remember a book from the late 70s or early 80s (or are you too young?) called "Positive Addiction" about the runner's high? The brain chemical change is pretty potent—and free & legal!

Hi Doug and SJ,

I've always heard that moderate exercise is an anti-depressant. Then, there's the relaxation effect on top.

Doug, haven't heard of that one, but I often hear people refer to trading a negative addiction for a positive one and so forth.

I've definitely had that buzz a lot!

Dave

I've found that technique work adds an interesting twist to exercise. Before it was learning all four swimming strokes.

This weight loss (Post RNY) has been weight lifting technique/ theory + running technique.

Not only do you get the buzz, relaxation and antidepressant effect, there's the distraction of trying little subtle techniques to manipulate your motion (running and swimming technique) and manipulate your body (weight training technique).

You can spend years just perfecting a running stride or the nuances of swimming hand entry and kick synchronization.

That is, if you really need yet another distraction...