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A 20-minute workout improves memory like a cup of coffee

The results of a study conducted by scientists from Western University (Canada), published in the journal Scientific reports.

Researchers compared how a short moderate-intensity aerobic workout and a cup of coffee affect working memory, that is, the ability to temporarily store and use information while completing a task. We actively use working memory in our everyday life, how we succeed during study or at work depends on it.

The experiment involved 59 volunteers. All of them were tested for the amount of working memory, and then 29 of them walked vigorously on the treadmill for 20 minutes, and the rest drank a cup of coffee, some of these people were lovers of this drink and drank it regularly, and some did not drink never. Then the memory test was repeated. It turned out that training helped improve memory performance to the same extent as coffee. This effect was observed both among coffee lovers and those who did not drink it before.

The researchers also tested whether physical activity helps to cope with the symptoms that occur when you stop drinking a lot of coffee – a feeling of tiredness, problems with concentration, poor mood, lack of motivation, and headaches. To do this, 25 coffee lovers were asked to give up their favorite drink for 12 hours. But a 20-minute vigorous walking helped them get rid of discomfort, especially from a breakdown and depressed mood.

Scientists have suggested that these positive effects of physical activity are associated with improved blood supply to the brain and the release of the hormones dopamine and epinephrine, which raise mood and give energy. Therefore, instead of drinking coffee in the afternoon, it is better to go for a walk, and then you will not suffer from lethargy and drowsiness in the afternoon, the authors of the study say. And for those who for various reasons can not drink coffee, short workouts may well replace it.

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