Even when the brain is running low on its regular energy supply, a new study from the University of Missouri reveals that exercise continues to deliver significant benefits—underscoring just how powerful physical activity can be for mental sharpness and cognitive health (https://showme.missouri.edu/2025/exercise-boosts-brain-health-even-when-energy-is-low/). For Thai readers concerned about aging, memory loss, or the daily stresses that sap our mental energy, these findings provide a timely nudge to make movement a routine part of life. The research, recently published in The Journal of Physiology, demonstrates that even when the liver is unable to generate ketones, an essential alternative brain fuel, exercise can still protect and restore cognitive function.
This is particularly significant as ketones, which the body produces when glucose reserves run low, play a vital role in supporting memory, learning, and overall brain performance. In situations such as liver disease or metabolic dysfunction, ketone production can be disrupted, leading to cognitive decline and heightened risk of conditions like dementia. Dr. Taylor Kelty, who led the research alongside Dr. R. Scott Rector at Mizzou, explained the team’s initial expectation: “Going into the study, we thought that with fewer ketones and the cognitive impairments that causes, exercise may not be able to overcome that impairment. But it seems like exercise is so powerful that there are other mechanisms going on in the brain that allow it to circumvent those impairments and still receive the benefits from exercise.” This suggests that routine exercise activates a variety of pathways in the brain independent of just energy supply, protecting cognitive abilities even in less-than-optimal physiological states.
The study is especially relevant as the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia continues to rise globally, including in Thailand where the elderly population grows year by year. According to the World Health Organization, dementia rates are set to climb dramatically in Asia, making preventative strategies like regular physical activity ever more valuable (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia). Dr. Rector, one of the senior researchers, emphasized, “This study highlights how exercise benefits the body in a multitude of ways, even when we don’t fully understand all the molecular mechanisms involved. Even when we remove a single pathway, exercise is doing so many other things that it can help mitigate those deficiencies.”
Digging deeper, the Wikipedia entry on exercise and brain health highlights that consistent aerobic activity—like brisk walking, running, cycling, or even Thai cultural practices such as traditional dance—can lead to improvements in cognitive functions, enhanced neuroplasticity, and better memory at all ages (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exercise_and_brain_health). Notably, regular exercise supports the growth of new neurons, helps regulate stress and emotions, improves sleep quality, and is even suggested as therapy for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. For working-age Thais and the elderly alike, this offers hope: movement is not just about fitness but sharpness of the mind.
Other recent studies back up the Mizzou findings, showing that exercise—even at moderate levels—can boost brainpower and reduce the risk of dementia. For example, a 2025 study highlighted in MedicalXpress shows that small lifestyle changes, such as daily walks or cycling, can have a meaningful impact on cognitive health in aging populations (https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-sharper-physical-boosts-brain-health.html). Similarly, research published in ScienceDaily confirms that exercise can trigger improvements in proteins related to insulin signaling in the brain, which may reduce dementia risk (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250123224039.htm).
Thailand has its own unique considerations in this landscape. For many Thais, the high prevalence of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and underlying fatty liver disease increases the risk of impaired ketone production and associated cognitive problems. As the number of older adults rises, integrating practical ways to promote regular physical activity across all ages becomes increasingly urgent. Cultural activities like Ram Wong dance, cycling around Lumpini Park, or even group aerobics in community centers can be effective and enjoyable strategies that bridge tradition and modern health science.
Understanding the connection between the liver, brain, and exercise is crucial for Thais who face barriers to regular movement, whether due to city congestion, long work hours, or the effects of chronic illness. Dr. Kelty noted: “The emerging field of liver-brain research is beginning to show that individuals with severe liver dysfunction have a higher risk of developing dementia. If ketone production in the liver is disrupted, it could be a potential cause of cognitive decline, ultimately leading to conditions like dementia.” This insight is particularly relevant in the Thai context, where rates of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease have soared in recent decades (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2800565).
The latest research ultimately reinforces an age-old wisdom found in both Thai and global traditions: the body and mind are deeply connected, and even gentle movements can yield profound benefits for long-term brain health. “Exercise could be a key piece of the puzzle in preserving brain health as we age,” said Dr. Kelty, reflecting both optimism and the urgent need for further study.
Looking ahead, experts expect more research will clarify the precise molecular mechanisms by which exercise counters cognitive decline, especially in populations vulnerable due to metabolic or liver dysfunction. For Thai society, this might pave the way for targeted community interventions, nationwide physical activity campaigns, or personalized exercise prescriptions for those at risk of dementia.
For readers in Thailand, the takeaway is clear and practical: incorporate movement into your daily routine, regardless of your energy levels. Whether you are young or old, healthy or managing a chronic illness, even modest amounts of physical activity—like 30 minutes of walking a day—can help maintain your memory, sharpen your thinking, and support your overall brain health. Encourage family members to join you, participate in group activities at the local temple or community center, and remember: physical activity is not just about extending years to your life, but adding life to your years. For Thais navigating a rapidly aging society, this is an empowering, พร้อมสู้ (ready to fight) reminder to keep moving for a sharper, brighter future.
Sources:
- https://showme.missouri.edu/2025/exercise-boosts-brain-health-even-when-energy-is-low/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exercise_and_brain_health
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia
- https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-sharper-physical-boosts-brain-health.html
- https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/01/250123224039.htm
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2800565