Research shows that physical activity goes a long way in boosting brain power.

Researchers carefully assessed cognitive function through testing of 45 normal-weight kids ages 7-11, half of whom were active and half who were inactive. The researchers gave the same battery of tests to a matched group of children who were overweight and inactive.

Kids who were lean and active exhibited superior brain function compared to those who were lean and inactive, indicating that physical activity boosts brainpower. Relative to overweight and inactive children, kids who were lean and active scored nine points higher on planning skills and eight points higher in the ability to focus. But weight ultimately appeared to have the greatest impact on brain function, with the lean and inactive kids scoring 12 points higher than the overweight and inactive children.

To put the results of this study in a “real world” perspective, the lead researcher said that being overweight can mean the difference between having average cognitive function vs. the top level of normal kids.

Click here to see what science tells us are the most effective parent and home-based strategies for preventing childhood obesity and improving weight control.

Below is my strategy for choosing the healthiest options for cereals.

Dr. Ann Kulze is founder and CEO of Just Wellness and has a knack for breaking down the science of healthy eating and living into simple and easily digestible messages. She has been featured on “Dr. Oz,” “Oprah and Friends,” WebMD and U.S. News & World Report. Alabama NewsCenter is publishing advice from Dr. Ann.