We all do this: researchers have discovered an unexpected method to enhance cognitive abilities.

If you aim to optimize both cognitive and physical performance, start with a simple action — emptying your bowels. According to recent studies, this seemingly trivial act can make you faster and smarter — a finding that is relevant not only for athletes, writes ScienceAlert.

The study, conducted on 13 triathletes, examined the impact of defecation on cognitive and physical abilities. Participants completed a cognitive task known as the Stroop test under different conditions: without prior bowel emptying, after natural defecation, and after taking magnesium oxide, a laxative.

The Stroop test is designed to assess cognitive flexibility by presenting conflicting information, requiring participants to identify the color of the text rather than the word itself, such as the word "red" written in blue ink.

The results showed that athletes exhibited improved Stroop test scores after emptying their bowels, with the most significant gains observed after using magnesium oxide. As noted by lead researcher Chen-Chang Wei from Taipei University, this indicates a connection between gut activity and cognitive functions.

The study's findings align with previous conclusions suggesting that constipation may exacerbate cognitive impairments in individuals with early-stage Parkinson's disease. The link between the gut and the brain, often associated with the gut microbiome and its influence on mood and mental health, provides a plausible basis for these findings.

This connection is particularly relevant for triathletes. Competing in physically demanding events like triathlons requires both mental acuity and physical endurance.

Previous research by the same team indicated that clearing the bowels before cycling improves blood circulation in the prefrontal cortex, enhancing physical performance.

The mechanisms behind this phenomenon remain speculative. Researchers suggest that when the digestive system is empty, resources such as blood and oxygen, which would otherwise aid digestion, are redirected to other vital processes, particularly brain function.

This may explain the common issue of diarrhea among runners during intense training, as blood is diverted from the gastrointestinal tract to the muscles, leading to reduced gastrointestinal function.

At the same time, experts caution against using laxatives as a method to enhance performance. Instead, individuals experiencing digestive issues are advised to consult healthcare professionals for guidance.

This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict it. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a physician.