A meta-analytic review of the effects of exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

ABSTRACT: Consistent evidence indicates that exercise improves cognition and mood, with preliminary evidence suggesting that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may mediate these effects. The aim of the current meta-analysis was to provide an estimate of the strength of the association between exercise and increased BDNF levels in humans across multiple exercise paradigms. We conducted a meta-analysis of 29 studies (N = 1111 participants) examining the effect of exercise on BDNF levels in three exercise paradigms: (1) a single session of exercise, (2) a session of exercise following a program of regular exercise, and (3) resting BDNF levels following a program of regular exercise. Moderators of this effect were also examined. Results demonstrated a moderate effect size for increases in BDNF fol

SUBMITTER: Szuhany KL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4314337 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature