Short, Light Exercises Boost Blood Flow to Children's Brains, Study Finds

A recent study by Waseda University reveals that short, light-intensity exercises can significantly improve blood flow to the prefrontal cortex in children's brains. The research highlights the potential to design easy exercise programs to enhance children's cognitive functions and reduce sedentary behavior.

Short, light-intensity exercises have been found to enhance blood flow to children's brains, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, improving cognitive functions, according to a study by Japan's Waseda University. The study focused on 41 healthy children from fifth-grade elementary to third-year junior high school.

Researchers concentrated on simple exercises, such as stretching, performed while seated for 10 to 20 seconds. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy, they observed a significant rise in oxyhaemoglobin levels in the prefrontal cortex compared to resting states.

Key findings, published in the Scientific Reports journal, suggest these exercises could be integrated into programs to improve cognitive functions and reduce sedentary behavior among children. The researchers believe such programs could also help prevent cognitive decline in adults and the elderly.

(With inputs from agencies.)