A single workout session for human beings consisting of three 20-minute treadmill runs could activate neurons that are very important regulators of blood glucose levels and energy balance as well as influence metabolism for up to two days, says a study over mice.
The findings, published in the journal Molecular Metabolism, showed that a single bout of exercise for mice could boost the activity of energy-burning neurons and inhibit the counterpart one for up to several days and those changes can last longer with more training.
It doesn’t take much exercise to alter the activity of these neurons,” said Kevin Williams, a neuroscientist at the University of Texas Southwestern.
“The study predicts that getting out and exercising even once in a semi-intense manner can reap benefits that can last for days, in particular with respect to glucose metabolism,” he added.
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, 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.
One of the neuron types is associated with reduced appetite, lower blood glucose levels, and higher energy burning when activated while the other type increases appetite and diminishes metabolism when activated.
“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.
Eat These Foods To Boost Metabolism Naturally
Some of us are blessed with a fast metabolism, but some of us aren’t that lucky. According to experts, you may not be able to alter your metabolic activity drastically – but through your diet, you can prevent your metabolism from getting slower and prevent weight gain. Here are some metabolism-boosting spices and herbs you should include in your diet.
1. Black pepper: Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that enhances metabolism. It also naturally ups the thermogenic effect of food, which revs up metabolism naturally.
2. Turmeric: Curcumin present in turmeric helps in burning fat effectively and boosting your metabolism. One of the best ways to consume turmeric and extract all its weight loss benefits is by having a tall glass of turmeric milk.
3. Cinnamon: Cinnamon could do wonders for your metabolism. Additionally, it also contains a compound referred to as mineral chromium, which keeps one’s appetite under control, thereby supporting weight loss.
4. Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds, or methi seeds, are used as traditional remedies to manage diabetes and hair problems. Turns out, they can do wonders for weight loss too. They are packed with weight loss-friendly fiber, which helps you keep full for long and promote weight loss.
