Better memory thanks to more intense exercise
movement and physical activity have a positive effect on the Cognition the end. So far, however, it has been unclear which factors in people’s physical activity behavior have the strongest beneficial influence on cognition and memory in particular. A new research study now sheds light on this.
In a new study involving experts from University College London the relationships between the various components of daily movement and general cognition, memory and executive functions were assessed. The results are in the “Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health” released.
What is meant by movement behavior?
That movement behavior includes a variety of different components, such as light, moderate and intense physical activity, but also sedentary activities and the Sleepexplain the researchers.
Although mental performance (cognition) has long been associated with physical activity, it remains unclear what role it plays single components of movement behavior play. So far, this connection has not been analyzed using compositional methods.
Physical activity and cognitive abilities examined
Therefore, the researchers examined a sample of 4,481 participants the so-called 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70). These had aged 46 years agreed to wear an accelerometer on their body to record their movement behavior.
In addition, the participants completed various verbal tests memory and to their executive function.
The team then analyzed associations between the 24-hour movement behavior of the participants and their standardized cognitive values. This is how the understanding of the relative importance of each component of daily movement on cognition should be assessed.
With the help of a so-called isotemporal substitution, it was modeled how it affects cognition when certain components of daily movement redistributed in time the researchers add.
Moderate and intense physical activity is particularly important
The data analysis showed that moderate and vigorous physical activity with a significantly improved cognition and improved memory compared to light physical activity and time spent sitting and sleeping.
The experts conclude that the time spent in moderate and vigorous physical activity particularly important for the Cognition is.
Never reduce intense physical activity
Because moderate and intense physical activity has such a strong impact and usually only a very small proportion of time of day spent with such activities, it is particularly harmful for cognition if this time is reduced, the team concludes.
Rather, attempts should be made to increase time spent in moderate and vigorous physical activity by reducing time spent in other behaviors, the researchers add. Significant beneficial effects on cognition can already be observed if only seven minutes of sleep or nine minutes of sedentary activity per day are replaced by moderate and intensive physical activity. (as)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the requirements of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Sources:
- John J. Mitchell, Barbara J. Jefferis, Goya Wannamethee, Mark Hamer, Joanna M. Blodgett, et al.: Exploring the associations of daily movement behaviours and mid-life cognition: a compositional analysis of the 1970 British Cohort Study; in: Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health (veröffentlicht 23.01.2023), Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.
