Are you looking for ways to keep your mind sharp as you age?
What if the secret to a healthier brain lies not in puzzles and games, but in your muscles?
In a recent video, brain expert Jim Kwik and Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, a leading expert on muscle-centric medicine, discuss the surprising link between muscle health and cognitive function.
They explore how building a stronger body can directly lead to a stronger, more resilient brain.
The Unbreakable Link Between Muscle and Mind
For years, we have separated physical strength from mental acuity. Dr. Lyon’s work shatters this myth. She explains that our muscles are not just for movement; they are a vital part of our metabolic and cognitive health.
When we build and maintain muscle mass, we are also building a better brain. Research supports this, showing that resistance exercise can lead to neuroplastic changes in the brain and improve cognitive functioning .
Resistance Training: Your Brain’s Best Friend
Resistance training is not just about building bigger muscles. It is a powerful tool for enhancing your brain’s capabilities. Studies have shown that regular resistance exercise can improve memory, attention, and executive functions. One study even found that these cognitive benefits can last for up to a year after the training period ends .
| Cognitive Benefit | Description |
| Improved Memory | Resistance training helps protect the hippocampus, a part of the brain crucial for memory. |
| Enhanced Attention | Regular workouts can improve your ability to focus and concentrate. |
| Better Executive Function | This includes skills like planning, problem-solving, and decision-making. |
The “Type 3 Diabetes” Connection to Alzheimer’s
Dr. Lyon introduces a startling concept in the video: Alzheimer’s disease is now being referred to as “Type 3 Diabetes” by some scientists. This is because of the strong link between the disease and insulin resistance in the brain .
When brain cells become resistant to insulin, it can lead to a cascade of problems, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and the accumulation of harmful proteins associated with Alzheimer’s.
Building muscle helps improve insulin sensitivity, which in turn can help protect your brain from this devastating disease.
Your Action Plan for a Healthier Brain
Inspired by Dr. Lyon’s “The Forever Strong Playbook,” here are some simple steps you can take to start building a stronger brain by building a stronger body:
•Start with Resistance Training: You don’t need to become a bodybuilder. Simple exercises like squats, push-ups, and lifting weights can make a big difference.
•Focus on Protein: Dr. Lyon emphasizes the importance of dietary protein for building and maintaining muscle. Aim to include a source of protein in every meal.
•Be Consistent: The key to seeing results, both in your body and your brain, is consistency. Aim for at least two resistance training sessions per week.
It is never too late to start investing in your brain health. By taking steps to build a stronger body, you are also taking a powerful step towards a sharper, more resilient mind.
