A single workout session consisting of three 20-minute treadmill runs could activate neurons that are important regulators of blood glucose levels and energy balance as well as influence metabolism for up to two days, says a study over mice.
"It doesn't take much exercise to alter the activity of these neurons," said Kevin Williams, a neuroscientist at University of Texas Southwestern.
Further, a single workout consisting of three 20-minute treadmill runs caused a decrease in appetite that lasted up to six hours. "This result may explain at the neural circuit level why many people don't feel hungry immediately after exercise," Williams said.
For the study, published in the journal Molecular Metabolism, the team measured the effects of short- and long-term exercise on two types of neurons that comprise the melanocortin brain circuit. Both humans and mice have this circuit.
The study also provides avenue to research potential treatments to improve glucose metabolism in patients with conditions such as diabetes.
"It is possible that activating melanocortin neurons may hold therapeutic benefits for patients one day, especially for diabetics who need improved blood-glucose regulation," Williams said. "This research is not just for improving fitness. A better understanding of neural links to exercise can potentially help a number of conditions affected by glucose regulation," he noted.
15 simple tips to boost metabolism:–
- Stay active
- Focus on a protein-rich diet
- Include green tea in your diet
- Try drinking lots of cold water throughout the day
- Manage stress levels
- Do not miss out on dairy products
- Adequate sleep is essential to boost your metabolism
- Make sure that you do not skip your breakfast
- Avoid snacking late at night
- Eat high-fiber foods
- Include iron-rich foods in your diet
- Try doing some intense workout like lifting weights
- Do not indulge yourself in junk food
- Limit the intake of alcohol
- Avoid oily and fried foods
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