Even brief exercise can strengthen memory, new research shows

Scientists have long sought to understand how the brain stores memories.

A key area is the hippocampus, which helps convert new experiences into long-term memory.

Previous studies have mainly relied on animal experiments and indirect measurements to investigate this.

These studies have identified specific brain patterns believed to be important for memory, but they have been difficult to measure directly in humans.

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Studying the brain

In a new study published in Brain Communications, 14 people with epilepsy participated.

They had electrodes implanted in their brains, making it possible to measure activity with great precision. The participants cycled for 20 minutes at a moderate pace.

After the exercise, researchers observed a clear increase in specific signals in the hippocampus.

These signals also spread to other parts of the brain involved in processing information.

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In addition, the results showed that higher intensity produced stronger signals, suggesting that how hard one exercises may matter.

Storing memories

According to Medical News Today, these signals can be seen as the brain’s way of strengthening memories.

They help organize and store information so it can be retrieved later.

At the same time, the findings suggest that multiple areas of the brain work more closely together after physical activity, which may improve learning.

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Limitations

The researchers note that the study is small and based on people with epilepsy. Therefore, the results cannot be directly generalized to everyone.

Nevertheless, the study points to an important conclusion: even short periods of exercise may enhance the brain’s ability to process and store information.

Sources: Medical News Today, and Brain Communications.

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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.