Figure 1.
Energy metabolism and cognition. Diet and exercise can affect cellular metabolic activity, which can influence neuronal plasticity and cognitive processes. It is possible that ATP produced by energy metabolism activates BDNF, a molecule that enhances synaptic plasticity. Energy production also generates oxidative by-products, known as ROS, which in overwhelming amounts can lead to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress weakens synaptic plasticity and cognitive function.