Engaging the Core Could Regulate Blood Flow in the Brain

Engaging the core could regulate blood flow in the brain

Engaging core muscles—through movement, exercise or even coughing—may be a key regulator of blood flow in the brain. When the body moves, the contraction of abdominal muscles increases pressure in blood vessels connected to the brain through the spinal column. A new study by researchers at Penn State shows that the increased pressure creates ultrafast constrictions of major veins in the brain, momentarily increasing blood flow.

Core Contractions Drive Brain Blood Flow

Engaging core muscles rapidly constricts cerebral veins to regulate brain blood flow, revealing a mechanical body-brain link in PNAS study.