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Exercise Linked to Brain Health: New Insights from the University of Missouri
While the physical benefits of exercise are widely acknowledged, a new study from the University of Missouri highlights its significant impact on brain health as well. This research suggests that engaging in regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cognitive sharpness, even when a primary energy source for the brain is diminished.
The investigation, spearheaded by researchers Taylor Kelty and R. Scott Rector, provides fresh perspectives on the relationship between exercise and cognitive function, suggesting that physical activity may play a more critical role in staving off cognitive decline than previously understood.
As projections indicate that the number of individuals in the U.S. diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is set to more than double by 2060, the study raises an important question: Can consistent exercise be a vital strategy for preserving memory and cognitive capabilities as we age?
Normally, when glucose levels drop, the liver produces ketones to serve as an alternative energy source for the brain. These ketones are integral for sustaining cognitive functions such as memory and learning. However, what are the implications when the liver is unable to produce sufficient ketones? Could physical exercise provide a compensatory effect for this deficit?
Determined to explore this question, Kelty and Rector focused their research on the effects of limited ketone production on brain function. The initial findings aligned with expectations, showing a clear decline in cognitive performance and memory when liver-produced ketones were scarce. However, the study presented an unexpected outcome: exercise was able to counteract some of the cognitive impairments, even when ketone levels were low.
“We initially hypothesized that reduced ketone availability would limit the benefits of exercise,” Kelty, a postdoctoral fellow, explained. “Contrary to our expectations, the results indicated that exercise is so influential that it activates other mechanisms within the brain to mitigate these impairments and enable individuals to still reap the benefits.”
Rector, who holds a professorship in the School of Medicine, underscored the intricate nature of exercise’s impact on brain health.
“This research illustrates the multifaceted benefits of exercise on the body, even when we have yet to fully unravel all the underlying molecular processes involved,” Rector noted. “The ability of exercise to counteract deficiencies may stem from various biological pathways, reinforcing its significance in brain health.”
The implications of these findings are particularly encouraging for individuals with liver diseases that hinder ketone production.
Kelty highlighted a growing area of research linking liver function to brain health, stating, “Patients with severe liver dysfunction may have an elevated risk of developing dementia, suggesting a potential connection between compromised ketone production and cognitive decline.”
This research aims to elevate awareness regarding the necessity of ketone production for brain health and the crucial role that exercise can play in maintaining mental acuity.
“As we continue to explore this field, it’s thrilling to consider the possibilities for future research, especially with the exceptional resources and collaborative efforts at Mizzou,” Kelty remarked. “Exercise might indeed serve as a pivotal factor in preserving our cognitive health as we grow older.”
Having dedicated over twenty years to Mizzou, Rector expressed pride in the collaborative research efforts that facilitate such important studies.
“The backing we’ve received from Mizzou, along with the Division of Research, Innovation and Impact, and the NextGen Precision Health initiative, has been remarkable,” he said. “We are hopeful that our findings will contribute to improving lives in the long run.”
Source
www.sciencedaily.com