How Physical Exercise Can Boost Neuroplasticity– and Enhance Ketamine’s Neuroplastic Benefits

exercise ketamine neuroplasticity

It’s well-established that both physical exercise and ketamine therapy can have profound effects on brain health and function. When combined in an overarching, holistic health plan, these two approaches may offer a synergistic boost to neuroplasticity, potentially leading to significant improvements in cognitive function and mood. 

The Neuroplastic Benefits of Exercise

Physical exercise is good for both body and brain; research has consistently shown that regular physical activity can lead to numerous positive changes in the brain. One of the most significant effects is the increased production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein crucial for neuroplasticity. A study published in the Journal of Physiology found that aerobic exercise increased BDNF levels, leading to improved cognitive function and memory (Sleiman et al., 2016).

Further, physical activity promotes the growth of new neurons, particularly in the hippocampus, a region vital for memory and learning. Research in Frontiers in Neuroscience demonstrated that exercise-induced neurogenesis contributes to improved cognitive performance and mood regulation (Liu & Nusslock, 2018). This neurogenic effect is particularly important as it suggests that exercise can enhance our learning capacity and can support emotional regulation.

 

The Neuroplastic Benefits of Ketamine

Ketamine’s efficacy as a treatment for various mental health conditions is partially due to its ability to rapidly induce neuroplastic changes. A study published in Science found that ketamine promotes the growth of new synapses in the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in mood regulation and executive function (Li et al., 2010). This rapid synaptic growth is thought to be one of the key mechanisms behind ketamine’s fast-acting antidepressant effects.

Similar to exercise, ketamine has been shown to increase BDNF levels. Research published in Translational Psychiatry demonstrated that ketamine’s antidepressant effects are closely linked to its ability to upregulate BDNF (Autry et al., 2011). This upregulation of BDNF is particularly interesting because it suggests that ketamine and exercise may be working through similar pathways to enhance neuroplasticity.


A “Cognitive Diet” & Physical Exercise

In the same way you’d pair proper nutrition and physical exercise together for impactful physical benefits, we believe you can pair physical exercise with ketamine therapy (a “cognitive diet,” if you will) for impactful cognitive benefits. 

When combined in a health regime (not done at the same time), exercise and ketamine therapy may offer a powerful approach to enhancing neuroplasticity and improving mental health.  Both independently increase BDNF levels, and when used together, they may have an additive or even synergistic effect on BDNF production, potentially leading to more robust neuroplastic changes.

Ketamine creates a “critical period” of enhanced plasticity, typically lasting 24-48 hours after administration. Regular exercise may help extend this window, allowing for more sustained neuroplastic changes. This extended period of enhanced plasticity could be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy or other forms of psychological treatment.

While ketamine can provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms, exercise offers long-term mood-stabilizing effects. Combining the two may lead to more sustained improvements in mood and emotional regulation. The immediate relief from ketamine could be reinforced and extended by the consistent mood-boosting effects of regular exercise.

Because both ketamine and exercise have been shown to improve various aspects of cognitive function, their combined effects may lead to more significant improvements in areas such as memory, attention, and executive function. This cognitive enhancement could have far-reaching effects on an individual’s daily life, from improved work performance to better personal relationships and generally better overall mood.

Your healthcare provider can help you develop a health plan that supports your overall health goals, including determining the right intensity and exercise frequency based on your health status and treatment plan.

As you combine exercise with ketamine therapy, keep track of changes in mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. This can help you and your healthcare provider assess the effectiveness of the combined approach and make any necessary adjustments. 

Curious about including ketamine therapy in your health regimen? Book an appointment today.
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