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Tai Chi improves brain metabolism and muscle energetics in older adults, study finds

Date:
April 19, 2018
Source:
Wiley
Summary:
A new study provides insights into the biochemical mechanisms by which Tai Chi -- a mind-body exercise -- may provide both physical and psychological benefits.
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A new Journal of Neuroimaging study provides insights into the biochemical mechanisms by which Tai Chi -- a mind-body exercise -- may provide both physical and psychological benefits.

Using magnetic resonance spectroscopy, a non-invasive method of measuring brain and muscle chemistry using MRI machines, tests conducted in 6 older adults enrolled in a 12-week Tai Chi program revealed significant increases in a marker of neuronal health in the brain and significantly improved recovery rates of a metabolite involved in energy production in leg muscles.

"The benefits of Tai Chi have been well known anecdotally; however recent research such as our study can quantify these improvements using objective measures," said senior author Dr. Alexander Lin, of Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School.


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Journal Reference:

  1. Min Zhou, Huijun Liao, Lasya P. Sreepada, Joshua R. Ladner, James A. Balschi, Alexander P. Lin. Tai Chi Improves Brain Metabolism and Muscle Energetics in Older Adults. Journal of Neuroimaging, 2018; DOI: 10.1111/jon.12515

Cite This Page:

Wiley. "Tai Chi improves brain metabolism and muscle energetics in older adults, study finds." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 19 April 2018. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180419100204.htm>.
Wiley. (2018, April 19). Tai Chi improves brain metabolism and muscle energetics in older adults, study finds. ScienceDaily. Retrieved December 22, 2024 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180419100204.htm
Wiley. "Tai Chi improves brain metabolism and muscle energetics in older adults, study finds." ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180419100204.htm (accessed December 22, 2024).

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