Exercise is a physical activity that can be done to maintain and improve body health. There are many types of exercise that we can do, from light exercise such as walking, yoga, gymnastics, cycling to strenuous exercise such as weightlifting. Besides being able to help burn calories and maintain ideal body weight, exercise can also increase the metabolism of our body.

According to the results of a study conducted by the University of Texas Southwestern, a single workout can help increase body metabolism for at least the next two days. In a study published in Molecular Metabolism, it was explained that a single workout could increase the activity of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) hypothalamic neurons that have a role in lowering blood sugar levels and reducing our appetite. Furthermore, the researchers explained that the results of this research were very beneficial for people with diabetes, especially those who did not like doing long periods of exercise.

In the study, the researchers observed the brain activity of transgenic mice after doing a treadmill exercise, in three consecutive sessions for 20 minutes. The transgenic mouse has POMC and NPY / AgRP neurons (Y / agouti-related peptide neuropeptide neurons). Contrary to POMC, NPY / AgRP neurons have a role in increasing appetite and reducing metabolism.

The researchers found out that a single workout can increase the activity of POMC neurons in transgenic mice and slow down the activity of NPY / AgRP neurons for the next two days. The researchers also explained that the longer the exercise, the longer the effect. Therefore, try to start implementing a healthy lifestyle by using some of our time to exercise. Based on recommendations made by the World Health Organization, adults are encouraged to exercise for at least 150 minutes a week.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• He, Z., Gao, Y., Alhadeff, A. L., et al (2018). Cellular and synaptic reorganisation of arcuate NPY/AgRP and POMC neurons after exercise. Molecular Metabolism, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molmet.2018.08.011.
• Science Daily - Single workout can boost metabolism for days (2018). https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/12/181204143854.htm, December 12, 2018.