Study reveals how to give your brain a 24-hour cognitive boost... and it's not caffeine
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For millions of people, every day starts with a cup of coffee or two. But if you’re counting on that cup to fuel your day and keep on your toes at work, you might be disappointed. British researchers have identified one long-acting way to give your brain a boost.
![[Engaging in 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is a downside-free way to boost your brain]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/24/21/93466461-14225119-image-m-42_1735077168118.jpg)
A recent study showed that exercise improves cognition and brain power, particularly long- and short-term memories. Taking a walk after morning drop-off or a quick workout on your lunch break has been shown to work better than coffee at getting you moving in the morning and beating the afternoon doldrums.
![[Whether it is tea, coffee or an energy drink, caffeine has the ability to give a boost in mood, energy and performance, but it can cause anxiety, increased heart rate and higher blood pressure]](https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2024/12/24/21/76512615-14225119-Whether_it_is_tea_coffee_or_an_energy_drink_caffeine_has_the_abi-a-29_1735075815840.jpg)
Researchers found that about 30 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity improved episodic and working memory, while an extra 30 minutes of sitting was linked to a small decline in working memory. ‘Memory benefits of [moderate-to-vigorous physical activity] may persist for 24 [hours],’ they said.
Taking a walk after morning drop-off or a quick workout on your lunch break has been shown to work better than coffee at getting you moving in the morning and beating the afternoon doldrums. Exercise signals your body to produce more energy while releasing endorphins and norepinephrine, which boost alertness and make you feel more awake.
Researchers from the UK studied 76 adults ranging in age from 50 to 83. They outfitted each person with a sleep and physical activity tracker for eight days. They also administered cognitive tests to each subject daily, measuring attention, memory, reaction time, and problem-solving skills.
