Ep. 168: Can Exercise Make You Smarter?
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For years, scientific evidence has suggested that there could possibly be a link between exercise and cognitive function. A new study in Scientific Reports analyzed the genetic data of over 350,000 people to determine whether or not regular physical activity can really improve our brain health. So can working out really make us smarter? What type of exercise is best for our brains?
Here, University of Geneva senior researcher and study lead author, Dr. Boris Cheval, joins Move host Dr. Andrew Miners to explore the connection between movement and cognition, and to suggest how you can train your brain to love working out— whether or not you have that genetic predisposition to exercise.
LINKS
To book a consultation with a Medcan personal trainer, email fitness@medcan.com.
Read the recent study in Scientific Reports, lead authored by Dr. Boris Cheval and Dr. Liza Darrous.
Read this Washington Post article about the new science on exercise and cognition.
Read more research on physical activity and the maintenance of cognitive function.
Read this article in Nature Human Behavior that suggests most human studies on exercise and cognition have been too small or limited to prove the connection.
Check out some of the research mentioned by Dr. Cheval in this episode:
“Adding physical activity to the school day may enhance children’s mathematics performance” in a 2019 study in International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity
“Exercise restores spatial learning and neurogenesis in aged mice” in a 2005 study in The Journal of Neuroscience
“Exercising is good for the brain but exercising outside is potentially better” in Scientific Reports
INSIGHTS
Does higher cognitive function imply increased physical activity, or does increased physical activity imply improved cognitive function? [4:20]
Dr. Boris Chevel talks about the first study that observed mice and how their cognitive function was linked to more physical activity. A close study of their brain tissue found an increase in Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). [7:41]
Dr. Andrew Miners shares the benefits of BDNF in brain functioning. [9:44]
Depending on our genetic makeup, some of us are born with a higher drive for physical activity, and some of us are born with naturally higher cognitive functioning. Some of us are born with both of these predispositions. [11:26]
The study that examined 350,000 participants found that increased vigorous exercise does improve cognitive functioning, but cognitive functioning does not improve likelihood to exercise. [14:09]
How exactly does physical activity improve cognitive function? [17:26]
Why does it get more important to work out regularly as we age? [21:22]
Someone who has lived a sedentary lifestyle can always start to incorporate regular movement into their life. It’s never too late to start to reap the cognitive benefits of movement. [25:53]
If you don’t enjoy exercising, it can be very difficult to stick to a regular fitness routine. Listening to music, working out with a friend and switching up your movement of choice are all ways to train your brain to want to exercise. [31:01]
The human brain is built to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary physical exertion—no wonder so many of us intend on exercising but lack the drive to actually get up and go. [33:39]
*LEGAL
This podcast episode is intended to provide general information about health and wellness only and is not designed, or intended to constitute, or be used as a substitute for, medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. You should always talk to your Medcan health care provider for individual medical advice, diagnosis and treatment, including your specific health and wellness needs.
The podcast is based on the information available at the time of preparation and is only accurate and current as of that date. Source information and recommendations are subject to change based on scientific evidence as it evolves over time. Medcan is not responsible for future changes or updates to the information and recommendations, and assumes no obligation to update based on future developments.
Reference to, or mention of, specific treatments or therapies, does not constitute or imply a recommendation or endorsement. The links provided within the associated document are to assist the reader with the specific information highlighted. Any third-party links are not endorsed by Medcan.