Imagine a magical elixir that could not only improve your physical fitness, but also sharpen your mind. Well, it turns out that multicomponent exercise might just be the closest thing to that fountain of youth! In a groundbreaking study, researchers investigated how a specially designed exercise program impacted the fitness and cognitive function of elderlies with mild cognitive impairment. They found that this multicomponent exercise regime, which combined aerobic and strength exercises with cognitive stimulation, led to remarkable improvements in physical performance and functional capacity. But what caused this incredible transformation? It turns out that oxidative stress, a process linked to aging and neurodegenerative diseases, played a key role. The exercise program significantly reduced oxidative damage, resulting in a healthier body and brain. Additionally, the study explored the involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein important for neuronal growth and survival. The results suggest that BDNF may contribute to the positive effects observed in both fitness and cognition. This groundbreaking research opens up exciting possibilities for enhancing the well-being of older adults. So why not dive deeper into the world of multicomponent exercise and unleash your full potential? Check out the link below to discover more about this powerful intervention!
Regular exercise has been shown to be one of the most important lifestyle influences on improving functional performance, and decreasing morbidity and all-cause mortality among older people. However, although there is some evidence on the effects of aerobic training on oxidative stress, there is little information regarding the effects of multicomponent exercise (dual-task training) and combination of exercise with cognitive stimulation on oxidative stress. In this context, the aim of this study was to verify the effects of a multicomponent exercise program on physical fitness and cognitive function in the elderly with mild cognitive impairment and determine the role of oxidative stress and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). At baseline, 37 elderly nursing home residents with mild cognitive impairment were divided into two groups: the control group (CG, n = 12, 81.8 years) and the experimental group (EG, n = 25, 83.2 years). These elderlies followed multicomponent exercise training for 24 weeks, with two sessions per week and 45–50 min per session. The exercises included both aerobic and strength exercises, considering functional movements and light to moderate intensity. Cognitive stimulation comprehended exercises based on word games, puzzles, mathematical calculations, forward and backward counting, computer exercises, exergames, and games on a balanced platform. Physical assessments (weight, height, and body mass index), health and functional parameters (fitness tests: chair stand, arm curls, chair sit-and-reach, eight feet up-and-go, back scratch, 6-min walking, feet together, semi-tandem, and full tandem), lipid profile (total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides), measures of lipid peroxidation damage, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and BDNF were measured in plasma, based on which analyses were performed before and after the 24 weeks of the multicomponent exercise intervention. The results showed an overall improvement in physical and functional performance. Regarding biochemical measures, multicomponent exercises lead to a significant decrease in oxidative damage. The results indicate that multicomponent exercise training induces benefits in functional capacity and reduces damage due to oxidative stress.
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.