And in patients who suffer depression, scientists can see a difference in the cells in the brain due to exercise. Depression affects certain cells in a part of the middle brain called the corpus callosum that are associated with mood. The cells release serotonin and other neurotransmitters that send signals to the body for an enhanced mood. While normal cells die and then regrow, these mood cells in a depressed person's brain fail to regenerate. But studies show that exercise causes these cells to regenerate, as does anti-depressant medication.
Obesity is more problematic.
In one study, scientists looked at people's resting metabolic rate, which when slower than normal prevents the body from burning fuel as efficiently. Exercise can speed up a person's metabolic rate, and coupled with a low-calorie diet and good nutrition, can help obese people lose weight. Researchers also discovered that metabolic rates vary widely among different races. That's how research can be used to target certain types of programs to different populations. Copyright 2000, The Salt Lake Tribune All material found on Utah OnLine is copyrighted The Salt Lake Tribune and associated news services.