Experts explain how exercise can change the brain for the better for people with ADHD



Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which manifests as symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention, is generally treated with psychological therapy and drug therapy . John Ratey , clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, explains the effects of exercise on ADHD.

The Benefits of Exercise for the ADHD Brain
https://www.additudemag.com/the-adhd-exercise-solution/



Previous research has shown that exercise increases the amount of the neurotransmitters

dopamine and norepinephrine in your body. It has also been reported that increases in dopamine and norepinephrine can alleviate symptoms of ADHD. Regular exercise can stimulate the growth of new receptors in certain brain areas, increasing the basic amount of dopamine and noradrenaline in the body.

'Regular exercise improves activity in a region of the brain called the locus coeruleus ,' says Amelia Neustadt, a neuroscientist and psychiatrist at California State University. 'It has been reported that symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperreactivity and excessive irritability, are reduced.'

Leity also said, ``We believe that by exercising, the transmission fluid in the basal ganglia , which is responsible for responding normally to things, circulates smoothly, and as a result, ADHD symptoms will be alleviated.'' ” states.

A research team led by Rodney Dishman of the University of Georgia conducted an investigation into the effects of exercise on children with ADHD by having male and female children exercise and measuring dopamine activity during the exercise. The results showed that by engaging in intense exercise, boys improved their ability to look straight ahead, and their control of motor reflexes improved.



On the other hand, in girls, no improvement in motor reflex inhibition was observed, but the research team speculates that this may be due to the lower incidence of ADHD in girls. Regarding indicators related to dopamine receptors, it has been reported that boys are more sensitive after intense exercise and girls are more sensitive after moderate exercise, and their ADHD tendencies are improved.

Additionally, exercise has beneficial effects in other areas of the brain. Overactivity in the cerebellum contributes to fidgetiness in children with ADHD, but recent research suggests that drugs that increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels can help restore balance to the cerebellum. is shown.

It is also said that performing complex exercises is a good way to increase noradrenaline levels. In previous research, we investigated neurochemical changes in the brain after exercise in mice that performed complex exercises and mice that simply continued running. It has also been reported that a factor called ``

brain-derived neurotrophic factor '' (BDNF), which promotes the growth of nerve cells, increases.

Mr. Leity points out martial arts, ballet, and ice skating as examples of exercises that can improve balance, timing, ordering things, evaluating results, making changes, correcting mistakes, making fine motor adjustments, demonstrating strong concentration, and controlling concentration. , encouraging sports such as competitive gymnastics, rock climbing, mountain biking, and paddling.



Furthermore, according to Leity, exercise also has a positive effect on

the limbic system , as it helps regulate the amygdala . Correctly adjusting the amygdala makes it possible to even out responses to new stimulus sources, and is said to reduce problems such as sudden anger.

Leity advises his ADHD patients to take medication and encourages them to use exercise as a tool to manage their symptoms. Mr. Leity says that the way to maximize the effectiveness of treatment is to exercise in the morning and take the drug about an hour after the momentary concentration caused by exercise begins to wear off. According to Leity, by exercising daily, the amount of medication needed will gradually decrease.



'Everyone has different levels of attention deficit, so it's important that everyone finds a solution that suits their level,' Leity says. 'About 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day can be very effective. 'Just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise can help you focus enough to get the most out of the rest of your day.'

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