HIIT Helps the Brain Use Energy Better: Study
As we age, our brains undergo a natural decline in function, which can affect our ability to think, learn, and remember. While there are many factors that contribute to this decline, a recent study suggests that incorporating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into our exercise routine may help maintain or even improve brain function with age.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, the study found that 12 weeks of HIIT improved brain glucose metabolism in both young and older adults. Glucose is the brain’s primary source of energy, so this finding has significant implications for our brain health.
What is HIIT?
Before we dive into the study’s findings, let’s take a quick look at what HIIT is. HIIT involves short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by brief periods of rest. This type of training has gained popularity in recent years due to its time-efficient nature and potential for significant health benefits.
HIIT workouts typically involve exercises such as sprints, burpees, jump squats, and mountain climbers. These exercises are designed to push your body to its limits, causing a significant increase in your heart rate and energy expenditure.
The Study
The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois, involved 36 healthy adults aged 18-30 and 34 adults aged 55-75. The participants were divided into three groups: a control group that did not engage in HIIT, a group that did HIIT for 12 weeks, and a group that did HIIT for 24 weeks.
The HIIT group performed exercises such as sprints and burpees for 30 seconds, followed by 30 seconds of rest. This cycle was repeated for a total of 20-30 minutes, three times per week. The participants’ brain glucose metabolism was measured using a technique called positron emission tomography (PET) scans.
The Results
The results of the study were impressive. Compared to the control group, the HIIT group showed significant improvements in brain glucose metabolism in both young and older adults. In fact, the HIIT group had a 10-15% increase in brain glucose metabolism, which is a significant improvement.
But what’s more impressive is that the HIIT group showed similar improvements in brain glucose metabolism regardless of age. This is significant because it suggests that HIIT may be a effective way to maintain or improve brain function with age.
How Does HIIT Improve Brain Function?
So, how does HIIT improve brain function? The researchers believe that HIIT may improve brain glucose metabolism by increasing the production of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF is important for the growth and development of blood vessels, which are responsible for delivering glucose to the brain.
When we exercise, our bodies produce VEGF, which can help improve blood flow to the brain. This increased blood flow can help deliver more glucose to the brain, which can improve brain function.
Real-World Implications
The study’s findings have significant real-world implications. As we age, our brains undergo a natural decline in function, which can affect our ability to think, learn, and remember. However, with regular HIIT exercise, we may be able to maintain or even improve brain function.
This is especially important for older adults who may be at risk for cognitive decline. By incorporating HIIT into their exercise routine, they may be able to reduce their risk of cognitive decline and maintain their independence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study’s findings suggest that HIIT may be an effective way to improve brain glucose metabolism in both young and older adults. By incorporating HIIT into our exercise routine, we may be able to maintain or even improve brain function with age.
While more research is needed to confirm these findings, the study’s results are promising. So, if you’re looking for a way to boost your brain health, consider adding HIIT to your exercise routine.
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/how-high-intensity-interval-training-hiit-can-boost-brain-health
