The Effect of walking and consuming Boswellia serrata on the levels of BDNF and TNFα in older men

With increased age, the process of destruction and weakening of the functioning of the organs, including the brain, is predictable. Physical activity and proper nutrition are factors that play an important role in the health of the nervous system. Boswellia serrata is one of the most important herbs in traditional medicine to enhance memory and prevent Alzheimer's disease. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of aerobic exercise course combined with the use of B. serrata on the amounts of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and alpha-tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) in elderly men. In this quasi-experimental study, 40 elderly men aged 60-70 yr old who were in complete physical and mental health were randomly divided into four groups (exercise, supplement, exercise + supplement, and control). Participants in the training groups participated in the aerobic walking training program for 8  and 3 wk each week. Moreover, the daily supplementary groups received B. serrata 300 mg in chewing and packaged form. The control group did not participate in any intervention during this period. Fasting blood samples were collected before and 24 h after the last intervention. Data were analyzed using t-test, analysis of variance and Tukey at a significance level of 0. 05. In the exercise, supplementation, and exercise + supplementation groups after 8 wk, the levels of BDNF and TNFα increased and decreased significantly, respectively (P≤0. 05). In addition, there was a significant difference in BDNF and TNFα levels in the exercise + supplement group compared to other groups (P≤0. 01). Doing walking and consuming B. serrata independently and combined significantly increase the expression of BDNF and significantly reduce the inflammatory factors in elderly men. Therefore, it is recommended that the combination of walking and consumption B. serrata as a more effective way to maintain health and extend the cognitive and functional benefits of the brain and the nervous system to the elderly.