New research reveals that the cognitive benefits of moderate to vigorous exercise can persist for up to 24 hours, challenging previous assumptions about the transient nature of exercise-induced brain boosts.
A recent study conducted by researchers at University College London investigated how long the cognitive benefits of exercise last beyond the initial activity period. The findings indicate that moderate or vigorous physical activity enhances cognitive functions such as working memory and episodic memory the next day. Episodic memory involves recalling everyday events, while working memory pertains to retaining information while multitasking.
The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, involved 76 adults aged between 50 and 83, all devoid of dementia or cognitive impairments. Participants wore wrist accelerometers over eight days, tracking their exercise, sedentary behavior, and sleep patterns. Mikaela Bloomberg, PhD, the lead study author, emphasized the importance of maintaining cognitive function in older adults for quality of life and independence.
Further analysis revealed that periods of physical activity led to improved memory performance, while increased sedentary behavior resulted in diminished cognitive outcomes the following day. Dr. Bloomberg highlighted how exercise promotes blood flow and neurotransmitter release, contributing to sustained cognitive function. This underscores that exercise benefits may extend longer than previously understood.
The study also explored the connection between sleep duration and cognitive abilities. Participants sleeping six or more hours exhibited better episodic memory and psychomotor speed compared to those with less sleep. Additional REM and slow-wave sleep, or deep sleep, further improved memory scores and attention. Given sleep’s role in memory consolidation, Dr. Bloomberg reiterates the intertwined relationship between sleep and physical activity.
While these findings are promising, experts like Ryan Glatt and Vernon Williams, who were not part of the study, call for further research with larger and more diverse participant groups. They believe understanding how exercise and sleep influence cognition could lead to effective public health strategies for cognitive aging.
Andrew Steptoe, PhD, co-author of the study, notes that while immediate cognitive improvements from exercise are evident, the long-term impact on cognitive decline and dementia risk remains uncertain. Future studies could explore how such lifestyle factors might influence cognitive health over time.
The study supports the idea that both exercise and adequate sleep are essential for maintaining cognitive performance, particularly in older adults. While more research is needed to confirm these findings across broader populations, the potential for lifestyle modifications to enhance brain health is an exciting prospect for ongoing scientific inquiry.
Source: Medicalnewstoday
