The effect of four-weeks combined exercise improves cognitive functions in obese women

This study investigated the effects of a four-week combined exercise program on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in obese women. Obesity has been associated with reduced BDNF levels, which can negatively impact cognitive function. Although previous research has shown that obesity affects BDNF levels in both men and women, this study focused on female participants to examine gender-specific responses. Twenty obese females (mean age: 21.85±1.43 years, body mass index [BMI]: 31.61±2.87 kg/m²) participated in the program, which involved moderate-intensity exercises performed three times per week. Blood samples were collected before and after the intervention to measure brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kits. Paired sample t-tests were conducted with a significance level of 5%. Results indicated that BDNF levels in the control group (COG) increased from 614.49±34.86 to 626.74±34.13 pg/mL (p=0.399), while the treatment group (TRG) showed a significant increase from 619.14±69.96 to 716.41±21.92 pg/mL (p=0.001). These findings suggest that a four-week combined exercise program effectively increases BDNF levels and may be a physical therapy option for improving cognitive function in obese individuals. Keywords: BDNF, Cognitive function, combined exercise, obesity, women