Topic Editors

Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Rome Open University, 00166 Rome, Italy
eCampus University, 22060 Novedrate, Italy

Exercise and Nutrition for Physical Performance, Mental Health and General Well-Being

Abstract submission deadline
12 January 2026
Manuscript submission deadline
12 July 2026
Viewed by
1840

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Delving into the exciting connection between exercise, nutrition, and brainpower, this research explores how what we eat and how we move can supercharge our cognitive function and general well-being for peak physical performance. We are taking a close look at how specific diets, supplements, and workout routines can enhance thinking skills, slow down age-related mental decline, and contribute to overall better mental and physical states. The quest is to uncover the optimal nutrition and fitness strategies for both mental sharpness and athletic prowess. This involves examining the impact of various types of exercise, from heart-pumping cardio to muscle-building strength training, on brain function and mood. Simultaneously, we are investigating how certain nutrients and supplements can fuel the brain for top performance. A major focus is harnessing the power of exercise to safeguard long-term brain and physical health, with the goal of preventing age-related cognitive as well as physical decline and mood disorders. This includes a deep dive into the gut–brain connection and how the food we eat influences our mental state through the bacteria in our gut. Experts from diverse fields, such as sports science, nutrition, psychology, and neuroscience, are joining forces to develop innovative ways to optimize cognitive, mental, and physical well-being for both athletes and the everyday person. Beyond the field, it empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle choices that promote global wellness. In essence, this topic embraces a comprehensive view of health, emphasizing how exercise and nutrition can work hand-in-hand to boost brain function and physical well-being. The ultimate aim is to create practical, personalized strategies that empower everyone to achieve better physical and mental health through smart lifestyle choices.

Dr. Gian Mario Migliaccio
Dr. Luca Russo
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • physical enhancement
  • mental health
  • exercise regimens
  • nutritional supplements
  • cognitive function
  • sports performance
  • global well-being
  • preventive health
  • multidisciplinary approach
  • gut–brain axis

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Applied Sciences
applsci
2.5 5.3 2011 17.8 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Brain Sciences
brainsci
2.7 4.8 2011 12.9 Days CHF 2200 Submit
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
jfmk
2.6 4.2 2016 18.9 Days CHF 1600 Submit
Nutrients
nutrients
4.8 9.2 2009 17.5 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Sports
sports
2.2 4.1 2013 20.4 Days CHF 1800 Submit

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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12 pages, 1156 KiB  
Article
Determining the Levels of Cortisol, Testosterone, Lactic Acid and Anaerobic Performance in Athletes Using Various Forms of Coffee
by Melda Gür, Vedat Çınar, Taner Akbulut, Kenan Bozbay, Polat Yücedal, Mehdi Aslan, Gökçe Avcu, Johnny Padulo, Luca Russo, Joanna Rog and Gian Mario Migliaccio
Nutrients 2024, 16(19), 3228; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16193228 - 24 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1551
Abstract
Background: Coffee is considered one of the most preferred and consumed beverage types in the world, and caffeine is known to increase physical performance due to its ergogenic properties. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of coffee consumption in [...] Read more.
Background: Coffee is considered one of the most preferred and consumed beverage types in the world, and caffeine is known to increase physical performance due to its ergogenic properties. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of coffee consumption in different forms on cortisol, testosterone, lactic acid and anaerobic performance levels. Methods: A total of 15 licensed male football players participated in the research voluntarily. The research was implemented in a single-blind, counterbalanced, randomized and crossover study design. Participants were given caffeinated coffee (CK), decaffeinated coffee (placebo) (DK), powdered caffeine (in a gelatin capsule) (PC) and powdered placebo (maltodextrin in a capsule) (PM) on different days, and the Wingate test protocol was performed after the warm-up protocol. Blood samples were collected post-test. Cortisol, testosterone and lactic acid levels in the serum samples taken were determined by the ELISA method. Results: As a result, it was revealed that caffeinated coffee given to participants who exercise increased anaerobic power. However, it was observed that lactic acid levels were higher in placebo and decaffeinated coffee. The highest level of cortisol was found in caffeinated coffee and powdered caffeine compared to the placebo. Testosterone values were observed to be highest in caffeinated coffee and decaffeinated coffee compared to a placebo. Conclusions: The study suggests that the type of caffeine is a factor that affects absorption rate, which impacts performance and hormone levels. Full article
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