Can a Brisk Walk Really Boost Your Memory? New Research Suggests It Just Might
For many, memory lapses can feel like an inevitable part of aging. But what if a simple change in lifestyle could help sharpen your recall? A new study suggests that moderate exercise, like a brisk walk or a few flights of stairs, could have a positive and lasting effect on memory.
The Power of Movement
While previous research has shown a link between exercise and improved cognitive performance in the hours following a workout, this new study suggests the benefits may extend even longer.
Led by researchers at University College London, the study analyzed data from 76 men and women aged 50 to 83. Participants wore activity trackers for eight days and underwent daily cognitive tests. The findings, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, revealed a positive correlation between the amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity and memory performance the following day.
“The benefits may extend ‘to the next day instead of just a few hours after exercise,'” said lead author Dr. Mikaela Bloomberg, from the Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care at UCL.
The researchers believe that exercise bolsters short-term memory not only by increasing blood flow to the brain, but also by stimulating the release of key neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a crucial role in various cognitive functions.
The Role of Sleep and Sedentary Behavior
Beyond exercise, the study also found that other lifestyle factors play a significant role in memory.
“Getting more sleep, particularly deep sleep, seems to add to this memory improvement,” Dr. Bloomberg added.
Participants who logged less sitting time and obtained at least six hours of sleep per night consistently performed better on memory tests.
Conversely, those who spent more time than usual in sedentary activities showed a decline in working memory performance the next day. These findings suggest that taking breaks from prolonged sitting and prioritizing restful sleep can be just as important for memory consolidation as physical activity.
More Research Needed
While the study offers compelling evidence for the connection between healthy habits and improved memory, Dr. Bloomberg cautions that the research was relatively small and needs to be replicated with a larger and more diverse group of participants before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
What other lifestyle changes, besides brisk walking, might benefit cognitive health?
Dr. Bloomberg, this research is engaging, suggesting that something as simple as a brisk walk could have lasting benefits for our memory. Do you think this could revolutionize how we approach aging and cognitive health, or are there other factors at play?
