Effects of Exercise and Cognitive Tasks on Biomarkers in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Croucher Madison, McCall Jennifer R, Sausman Kathryn, de Albuquerque Lidio L, Arms Tamatha, Peterson Matthew
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina Wilmington
Hypothesis
Does aerobic exercise with a cognitive task affect circulating levels of beta hydroxybutyric acid and glucose in older adults?
Conclusion
The study found that cognitive tasks during exercise affect energy substrate utilization differently in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants had an average of 3.2 comorbidities and normal cognitive functioning.
- There was a positive association between b-HBA levels and cognitive scores during the dual task.
- Glucose utilization was higher in the exercise-only condition compared to the dual task.
Takeaway
When older adults exercise while thinking, their bodies use energy differently than when they just exercise.
Methodology
Participants performed two bouts of stationary bicycling, one with and one without a cognitive task, while measuring blood samples and cognitive performance.
Limitations
The sample size was small and limited to female participants.
Participant Demographics
10 female participants, 90% Caucasian, average age 71.6 years with normal cognition.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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