Working out but not sleeping enough is dangerous for your cognitive skills
The new study discovered that people who were more physically active and got between six to eight hours of sleep per night had better brain function as they grew older. GIF: dailyO
Exercising has numerous benefits for our bodies, it is a fact well-established through countless studies. However, a recent study has discovered that if you focus solely on working out without obtaining sufficient sleep, your cognitive abilities may be at risk.
What
According to a recent study by the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, individuals who engaged in frequent and high-intensity physical activity but slept less than six hours per night, on average, experienced a faster decline in cognitive function compared to those who exercised less frequently and had shorter sleep durations.
She further adds that both sleep and good physical activity are important for your brain health.
The details
- The new study discovered that people who were more physically active and got between six to eight hours of sleep per night had better brain function as they grew older.
- Additionally, individuals who consistently slept less than six hours each night and worked out experienced a faster decline in their cognitive abilities as they aged.
- And you know what is the worst of it? Those who were less physically active and had poor sleep showed worse cognitive performance over time.
So clearly, just working out is not enough. Get proper sleep for your brain health.
How was the study conducted
- The study was done over a span of more than 10 years.
- A group of approximately 9,000 adults was tracked by researchers as part of the study by the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing.
- This study, funded by the UK government and the US National Institute on Ageing, focused on individuals aged 50 and above.
- Alongside an initial assessment, the participants underwent follow-up interviews and cognitive tests every two years to gather longitudinal data.
Experts agree
The importance of sleep is widely acknowledged, leaving no room for doubt. Numerous studies and medical professionals consistently highlight the essential role that adequate sleep plays in promoting physical, mental, and cognitive well-being.
Dr Shyam Sharma, a physician from Assam, tells DailyO, "Sleep is always closely linked to cognitive function, learning, and memory consolidation".
He says that these days, people tend to neglect their sleep, "and spend most of their time online instead".
Manoj Goshwami, a trainer from Noida, also agrees that getting sleep is a part of 'keeping your body healthy'.