14 october 2024 : The way we exercise and sleep can have lingering effects on our health, even days later. Contrary to the common belief that the impact of exercise or a restless night of sleep is short-term, a recent study by researchers from Aalto University and the University of Oulu in Finland reveals that these effects can persist. The research followed a neuroscientist’s brain and behavioral activity over five months.
The study found that attention, cognition, and memory could be negatively affected by nights of inadequate sleep and inconsistent workout routines, with these effects lasting for several days.
Effects of Poor Sleep:
Ana Triana, the lead author of the study, explained how environmental, physiological, and behavioral changes can influence brain functional connectivity over different timescales. The researchers analyzed the brain scans of the lead author and identified two distinct responses: one that lasts under seven days and another that can persist for up to 15 days.
The short-wave response indicates the temporary impact of sleep deprivation, while the long-wave response highlights the gradual, long-term effects of insufficient sleep on attention and memory.
Effects of Workouts:
The study also found that regular exercise can significantly benefit the brain, enhancing memory and cognitive flexibility. It established a strong connection between heart rate variability and brain connectivity, particularly when the body is at rest.
Overall, this study serves as a reminder of the long-term effects of poor sleep on our well-being and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy exercise routine to support brain function. It suggests that stress management techniques can positively influence brain wiring, even when we aren’t fully focused on a task.