Those feeling mentally drained should try a brisk 20 minute walk before turning to coffee for a boost, according to a new study out of Western University.
In a first of its kind head-to-head comparison of caffeine vs exercise, researchers discovered even short bursts of physical activity match caffeine in enhancing working memory, attention, and alertness.
For the study, a 20-minute walk on a treadmill was tested against drinking one cup of coffee. The results were the same for both regular coffee drinkers and people who abstain from caffeine.
Anisa Morava, a graduate student in Western's Exercise and Health Psychology Laboratory, notes the findings are positive news for those who can't consume coffee, such as anxiety sufferers or individuals who experience muscle tremors as it gives them a brain power boost alternative. She states it can also help the over caffeinated, people who drink more than four cups of coffee a day, to curb their consumption.
“If people experience withdrawal, an acute, brisk walk may reduce some of the symptoms,” said Morava.
Signs of caffeine withdrawal include headaches, fatigue and crankiness.
The study has been published in the Nature Scientific Reports.
