Final answer:
Physical exercise is associated with superior cognitive functioning and higher IQ across the lifespan, while chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and poor nutrition negatively impact cognitive performance.
Step-by-step explanation:
One study by Sharp & others revealed that physical exercise was related to superior cognitive functioning and IQ across the lifespan. The cognitive benefits of exercise are well-documented, showing protective effects against neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia and enhancing cognitive function in older adults. Exercise is thought to support brain health through multiple mechanisms, including the reduction of stress-related hormones, bolstering neuron development, and facilitating effective memory formation.
In contrast, chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and poor nutrition tend to have negative impacts on cognitive abilities. Stress can interfere with healthy neuron development and brain function, leading to declines in cognitive performance. Likewise, sleep deprivation is known to result in cognitive deficits, reducing mental alertness, impairing decision-making, and hindering memory formation.