A study has suggested a mechanism by which performing a physical behaviour can trigger a movement of the cerebrospinal fluid — a clear liquid that circulates in the brain — which may then carry away waste that can interfere with normal brain function.
Functions of the cerebrospinal fluid include removing waste, cushioning the central nervous system from shocks, and delivering nutrients. The colourless fluid is part of the glymphatic system.
“Our research explains how just moving around might serve as an important physiological mechanism promoting brain health," said author Patrick Drew, a professor of engineering science and mechanics, neurosurgery, biology, and biomedical engineering at The Pennsylvania State University in the US, said.
Drew added, “In this study (in mice), we found that when the abdominal muscles contract, they push blood from the abdomen into the spinal cord, just like in a hydraulic system, applying pressure to the brain and making it move."
