Just like how different workouts target different muscle groups, different physical activities can have varying effects on brain health. In this systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis, researchers evaluated the impact of five types of exercises on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. They included aerobic training, high-intensity interval training, combined training, resistance training, and a combination of aerobic and resistance training. After analyzing 39 randomized controlled trials with over 2000 participants, the results showed that resistance training had the most significant effect on increasing BDNF levels. This suggests that moderate-intensity resistance training is beneficial for both children and older adults in maintaining or enhancing brain health. By promoting the release of BDNF, the brain’s natural fertilizer, exercise becomes a powerful tool in preserving cognitive function. If you’re curious about how different types of exercise affect your brain health, dive into the full study!
BackgroundEmerging evidence suggests that exercise is a simple and effective method for maintaining brain function.AimsThis review evaluates the effects of five physical exercises, including aerobic training (AT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT), combined training (CT), resistance training (RT), and AT+RT, on the serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in healthy and non-healthy populations.MethodsWe searched CNKI, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases to review randomized controlled studies on exercise interventions for BDNF. Quantitative merging analysis of the resulting data using Bayesian network meta-analysis.ResultsThe screening and exclusion of the searched literature resulted in the inclusion of 39 randomized controlled trials containing 5 exercise interventions with a total of 2031 subjects. The AT, RT, AT+RT, HIIT, and CT groups (intervention groups) and the CG group (conventional control group) were assigned to 451, 236, 102, 84, 293, and 865 subjects, respectively. The Bayesian network meta-analysis ranked the effect of exercise on BDNF level improvement in healthy and non-healthy subjects as follows: RT > HIIT > CT > AT+RT > AT > CG. Better outcomes were observed in all five intervention groups than in the CG group, with RT having the most significant effect [MD = 3.11 (0.33, 5.76), p < 0.05].ConclusionsRT at moderate intensity is recommended for children and older adults in the case of exercise tolerance and is effective in maintaining or modulating BDNF levels for promoting brain health.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://inplasy.com, INPLASY202250164.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.