Six minutes of high-intensity exercise is enough to produce a key protein in the brain, one that's important in brain formation, function, and memory, and which has been implicated in the progress of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
The specialized protein in question is called brain-derived neurotrophic factor , and it promotes both the growth and survival of neuron cells in the brain, as well as facilitating the development of new links and signaling pathways.
In this study, 12 physically active volunteers were put through three tests to see which was best at generating BDNF in the brain: 20 hours of fasting, 90 minutes of cycling, or 6 minutes of vigorous cycling. The next question is why this is happening – and that's something for a subsequent study. Ultimately, high-intensity exercise could be used as a convenient, inexpensive way of keeping the brain healthy and protecting against the development of disease.
Alternatively, the increase might be caused by the brain switching between fuel sources following intense exercise, the researchers say, forcing the body to draw on lactate rather than glucose reserves.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
HIIT Workouts Turbocharge Exercise's Neuroprotective PowerMere minutes of high-intensity exercise can help keep the brain healthy. Here's how it works, explains ckbergland
Read more »
Muay Thai trainer shocked as Apple Watch calls cops during intense workoutA Sydney, Australia personal trainer was left in utter shock after around 15 armed police officers turned up to his gym while he was teaching a client.
Read more »
This Type Of 'Cycling' Does Wonders For Your Body, But It's Not ExerciseCan the viral TikTok trend work on the body? Dermatologists weigh in.
Read more »