AsianScientist (May 9, 2011) – Deakin University researchers have found that being physically active in childhood could protect against depression later in life.
In a study of self-reported levels of physical activity and depression in 2,152 women and men from southeastern Australia, the researchers found that those reporting low physical activity levels as a child were 35 percent more likely to report depression in adulthood compared to those reporting higher levels of physical activity in childhood. This association was apparent even after taking adult physical activity levels into account.
According to Dr. Felice Jacka, a researcher with Deakin’s School of Medicine based at Barwon Health in Geelong, Victoria, the results of the study suggest that physical activity may protect against the development of depression, and supports the encouragement of regular physical activity in children.
“Childhood is a period of rapid brain development and physical activity in early life may have beneficial effects on the developing brain through its impact on important brain proteins and oxidative stress,” said Jacka.
“Involvement in sport is also known to influence the development of important coping and stress management skills in children and adolescents and has been shown to be associated with greater emotional well-being in adolescents. Conversely, low levels of physical activity are linked with lower levels of social support in young adults which may influence risk factors for depression over one’s life,” she said.
The results of the study are published in the May issue of The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.
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Source: Deakin University.
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