VO2 and Brain Function

Facts:

• The brain is about 2% of bodyweight, but burns 20% of oxygen at rest

• Neurons cannot store energy; they rely on real time oxygen and ATP production from the cardiovascular and mitochondrial systems

• When metabolic output drops, cognition drops with it

• High cardiorespiratory fitness correlates to a 39% lower risk of dementia and a 36% lower risk of depression (VO2 max is a top modifiable predictor of dementia risk)

• Brain fog is often metabolic, not neurologic

• Every MET counts: every 1MET increase cut dementia risk 19% and depression risk 5%

• The fitter you are the lower the risk… even those that are very fit can still benefit

• VO2 testing is an integral part of routine care and longevity programs

• The brain can only perform as well as metabolism allows and resting metabolic rate (RMR), VO2 max and metabolic flexibility can be measured via breath testing

• Actionable strategies:

  • Know your VO2 max

  • Build aerobic capacity with Zone 2 (improve mitochondrial efficiency) and Zone 3&4 intervals (improve mitochondrial density) to improve oxygen delivery to the brain

  • Use the Resting Metabolic Assessment (RMA) to track mitochondrial output – less cellular energy equals less brain fuel

  • Prioritize resistance training to preserve lean mass, protect neurological pathways and protect metabolic rate

  • Retest regularly to assess program progress

Tate Fitness Systems is now offering both the Resting and Active Metabolic Assessments with VO2 Master... shoot me an email if you like more information.