cognitive function Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Bali Secret Grows New Brain Cells

The AHA! Team — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:32:15 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – When I was in Bali, I learned that elephants – which are well known for their long and impressive memories – go to great lengths to seek out gotu kola leaves. It’s one of their favorite foods. Could this plant be the reason why elephants never forget? Who knows? What we do know is that research proves gotu kola can enhance your brain power. Let me explain… For decades, scientists believed that the adult human brain couldn’t grow new brain cells. They thought we were born with all the brain cells we’ll ever have – and that when they were gone, they were gone for good. They thought we were born with all the brain cells we’ll ever have However, a breakthrough study by researchers at Princeton University proved the opposite. That study, published in the prestigious Journal of Science, revealed the continuous growth of new brain cells in adult macaque monkeys. Then, a follow-up study published in the journal Cell found that humans also produce new neurons. And that – even in old age – your brain still produces around 700 new neurons a day.[i] In other words, despite what “medical experts” may tell you, your memory and cognitive performance don’t have to decline. In fact, they can actually improve as you age. And one of the best ways to boost your brain performance is with gotu kola, or Centella asiatica. Research shows it can revitalize your brain and nervous system and help you feel sharp and alert as it recharges your memory. Research shows it can revitalize your brain and nervous system In a number of studies, gotu kola enhanced memory performance, problem-solving abilities, intelligence, and mental energy.[ii] A landmark study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that gotu kola stimulates the growth of brain cells…[iii] While additional studies proved that gotu kola: [iv],[v],[vi],[vii] Improves cognitive function – even in cognitively impaired older adults Doubles how quickly and accurately you process information Increases problem-solving skills up to 45% Improves reading skills up to 29% Significantly boosts your attention span Increases concentration Further studies also give us lots of evidence that gotu kola is a powerful antioxidant and brain protector, as well as a nerve growth factor. Studies show it may also help stop plaque formation in Alzheimer’s disease and prevent dopamine neurotoxicity in Parkinson’s.[viii],[ix] I’ve recommended gotu kola for years as a way to treat stroke victims suffering from stroke-related dementia. A recent study backs up what I learned from traditional healers… According to this study from Indonesia, where gotu kola is used commonly in both traditional and mainstream medicine, concluded that therapy with an extract of the herb at 750 mg per day for six weeks was “effective in improving cognitive impairment after stroke.” The extract is called TTFCA, which stands for triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica. This contains gotu kola’s most potent components. And it has shown special strength in improving memory.[x] Other studies have shown gotu kola is highly effective at preventing strokes in the first place – by promoting healthy veins and combatting high blood pressure. TTFCA improves the dilatation of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure and improves blood flow throughout your body – from the largest veins to the tiniest of capillaries.[xi] When choosing a gotu kola supplement, look for one with more of the active components. Choose one that is standardized to the asiaticosides or asiatic acid. 3 Ways You Can Improve Your Memory with Gotu Kola I recommend my patients use gotu kola in three ways. As an extract. Take 10 to 20 ml per day. As a supplement. When choosing a gotu kola supplement, look for one with more of the active components. Select one that is standardized to the asiaticosides or asiatic acid. I recommend taking 300 mg a day. As a dried herb. One of my favorite ways to use gotu kola is by making a cup of tea. Here’s how: Measure 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 6 to 8 grams) of dried gotu kola into a cup. Cover with boiling water and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Strain, then sweeten with organic honey. Enjoy three cups a day. [i] Spalding K, et al. “Dynamics of hippocampal neurogenesis in adult humans.” Cell. 2013 Jun 6; 153(6):1219–1227. [ii] Prakash A, Kumar A. “Mitoprotective effect of Centella asiatica against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity in rats: possible relevance to its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptosis mechanism.” Neurol Sci. 2013 Aug;34(8):1403-9. [iii] Soumyanath A, et al. “Centella asiatica accelerates nerve regeneration upon oral administration and contains multiple active fractions increasing neurite elongation in-vitro.” J Pharmacy Pharmacol. 2005;57(9):1221–1229. [iv] Shinomol GK, et al. “Exploring the role of ‘Brahmi’ (Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica) in brain function and therapy.” Recent Pat Endocr Metab Immune Drug Discov. 2011;5(1):51-57. [v] Xu Y, et al. “Gotu kola (Centella Asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide.” J Alzheimers Dis. 2008 Apr;13(3):341-9. [vi] Tiwari S, et al. “Effect of Centella asiatica on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and other common age-related clinical problems.” Dig J Nanomater Bio. 2008;3:215–220. [vii] Wattanathorn J, et al. “Positive modulation of cognition and mood in the healthy elderly volunteer following the administration of Centella asiatica.” J Ethnopharmacol. 2008;116(2):325-332. [viii] Orhan I. “Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: From traditional medicine to modern medicine with neuroprotective potential.” eCAM. 2012;2012:946259. [ix] Xu Y, et al. “Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica) extract enhances phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein in neuroblastoma cells expressing amyloid beta peptide.” J Alzheimers Dis. 2008 Apr; 13(3):341-9. [x] Farhana KM, Malueka RG, et al. “Effectiveness of gotu kola extract 750 mg and 1000 mg compared with folic acid 3 mg in improving vascular cognitive impairment after stroke.” eCAM. 2016: 2795915. [xi] Incandela L, et al. “Total triterpenic fraction of Centella asiatica in chronic venous insufficiency and in high-perfusion microangiopathy.” Angiology. 2001 Oct.;52 Suppl 2:S9-13. To read the original article click here.

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Combat Cognitive Decline and Grow New Brain Cells with an Intriguing Mineral

The AHA! Team — Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:50:37 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – At its mildest – which may involve occasional “blanking” on names or temporarily misplacing car keys – it causes embarrassment, annoyance, or minor inconvenience. At its worst, it is debilitating, jeopardizing the ability to read, write, and talk and threatening one’s ability to live independently. We are speaking, of course, of cognitive decline. Sometimes called cognitive impairment, this age-related condition is characterized by a decrease in the ability to learn, remember, and concentrate. There is currently no cure for cognitive decline, and ongoing research focuses on therapies and treatments intended to alleviate it or slow its progress. Recent research has illuminated the ability of selenium, an essential trace mineral, to help maintain healthy cognitive function – and potentially combat cognitive impairment. What functions does selenium perform in the body? Selenium is an important constituent of selenoproteins, a group of compounds needed for antioxidant defense, DNA synthesis, and thyroid hormone metabolism. (In fact, glutathione, the body’s “master” antioxidant and neutralizer of toxins, is one of the primary selenoproteins). Because selenium combats oxidative damage and inflammation in the brain, it is believed to play an important role in protecting brain health. And this mineral may even take the protection of cognitive function to the “next level.” In recent studies, it has been found to promote neurogenesis – the formation of new brain cells – in the hippocampus, an area of the brain linked with learning and memory. Warning: Low levels are linked to neurodegenerative conditions Like so many health-sustaining compounds, selenium is normally present in good supply in young people but becomes scarcer with age. Researchers have observed that the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease rises as selenium levels fall. In a 2023 meta-analysis published in Nutrients, the authors concluded that people with neurodegenerative diseases have lower levels. These shortfalls can have grave consequences. For example, preliminary studies have suggested that selenium deficiency causes brain inflammation. Conversely, animal studies have shown that increasing intake can reduce the accumulation of harmful tau and beta-amyloid proteins linked with Alzheimer’s disease. The “million-dollar question:” Can selenium improve age-related cognitive decline? Research has yielded encouraging results. Preliminary studies have shown that treating cultured brain cells with selenium led to increases in proliferation and signs of neurogenesis. A separate study showed that adding supplementary selenium directly to the drinking water of elderly mice caused significant improvements in learning and memory. Clearly, cell and animal studies offer valuable data on the potential of this micronutrient. But what about human studies? In a study published in 2023 in the Journal of Cardiac Failure involving patients with congestive heart failure, participants with higher levels of selenoproteins (which, in turn, indicate selenium levels) performed better on global cognitive tests than those with lower levels. This seemed to echo the findings of an earlier study published in Epidemiology that showed better cognitive performance among older adults with increased levels of selenium. Another study published in the European Journal of Nutrition showed that supplementing with a single selenium-packed Brazil nut improved verbal fluency and mental function in patients with mild cognitive impairment. However, other research has shown mixed results, and more studies are needed. It’s worth noting that selenium can also promote heart health and discourage atherosclerosis. A review involving over 433,000 participants with coronary heart disease showed that supplementation decreased levels of inflammatory C-reactive protein while increasing levels of glutathione. How much is too much? While serious selenium deficiencies are uncommon in the United States, holistic practitioners note that inadequate intake can occur in vegetarians, vegans, and others who consume little meat and seafood. Consuming food grown in soil with low selenium levels can also cause shortfalls. The Office of Dietary Supplements recommends 55 micrograms of selenium daily for adults. You can increase your intake by eating oysters, poultry, beef, cold-water fatty fish, and eggs. However, the undisputed “heavyweight” of selenium content is the Brazil nut, with a single ounce (six or seven nuts) delivering a whopping 544 micrograms. Incidentally, there is such a thing as “too much selenium.” Symptoms of excessive intake include skin rash, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and irritability. Acute selenium toxicity, a more serious condition, can lead to tremors, acute respiratory distress syndrome, organ failure, and even death. The Food and Nutrition Board has established a daily upper limit for selenium (from food and supplements combined) of 400 mcg for adults. (Caution – Brazil nuts could cause toxicity if consumed in excessive amounts. A mere half dozen Brazil nuts, in one sitting, could exceed the tolerable upper limit for the day. Limiting yourself to no more than 3 of these tasty, nutritious nuts a day allows you to rack up healthy levels of this essential trace mineral without risk of toxicity.) Selenium is available as a supplement, with typical amounts ranging from 50 to 400 micrograms a day. However, consult with your holistic doctor before supplementing. Remember: Other steps to protect cognitive function include proper nutrition, staying physically and mentally active, and maintaining a healthy social network. The latest research suggests that selenium may help you retain sharp mental function while safeguarding your priceless memories well into old age. It’s certainly wise to ensure you have adequate amounts of this valuable micronutrient. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov LifeExtension.com NIH.gov OfficeofDietarySupplements.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Springer.com VeryWellHealth.com To read the original article click here.

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Study: A Day of Hard Thinking Can Lead to Bad Choices

AHA Publisher — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 07:24:55 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever noticed a feeling a brain fog and fatigue after a day of thinking hard? Perhaps after a difficult day at work or long test, your brain just feels … tired. A new study suggests that your body may be pushing you to make poor choices after a long day. It’s not that you’re being lazy or trying to punish yourself, but natural biological regulations are working to combat cognitive fatigue by favoring easy, short-term decision making. Study Findings: Thinking Hard Can Lead to Bad Choices A study published in August 2022 in Current Biology explored cognitive fatigue with magnetic resonance spectroscopy during a workday. This tool measures electromagnetic signals within metabolites of the brain. For the study, two groups of participants performed either high-demand or low-demand cognitive control tasks and economic decisions. Data showed that choice-related fatigue markers were only present in the high-demand group, and those participants were more likely to prefer short-delay and little-effort options during decision making. Researchers found that the hard thinking group displayed increased glutamate levels in the cognitive control region of the brain compared to the low-demand thinkers. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter (or chemical messenger) in the brain that has “excitatory effects,” meaning that it can actually excite cells to their death, according to prior research. Study data also shows that this glutamate increase triggers a natural regulation mechanism in the cognitive region of the brain, which reduces a person’s control over decision making. What It Means This study indicates that after a day of hard thinking, you may experience a reduced ability to make decisions, and your brain will prefer little-effort options. Because there’s a natural increase of glutamate levels in the brain after a day of intense thinking, it becomes more difficult to use the prefrontal cortex, the region of the brain that controls our thoughts and decision making. We can learn from the study that it’s normal to feel brain fatigue after a day of hard thinking, and although we may not be aware of how tired our brains are, we should consider our abilities to make good decisions in these moments. Tips to Support Cognition Clearly, your brain is impacted by hard thinking and needs nourishment and rest to function optimally. Here are some tips to support cognition that you can practice every day: Eat nutrient-rich brain foods. Your diet has a tremendous impact on the health of your brain, so opt for foods that are rich in nutrients, including antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Some of the best brain foods include avocado, berries, cruciferous vegetables, leafy greens, walnuts, coconut oil, bone broth and dark chocolate. Try nootropics. Nootropics are supplements that help cognitive function and support concentration. Some of the most popular nootropics include ginseng, ginkgo biloba, medicinal mushrooms, omega-3 fish oil, ashwagandha and vitamin B12. Get enough rest. It’s clear from this study that the brain needs time to rest. For starters, make sure you get enough sleep every night — at least seven hours is needed. It’s also important to take breaks throughout the day to reset and recover. This can include taking a leisurely walk outdoors, chatting with a loved one or sitting quietly over a cup of tea. Reduce stress. Stress increases cortisol levels, which impacts cognitive function, energy, sleep and more. When stress is chronic, or occurs daily, it can have a detrimental effect on your ability to think and make good decisions. Some effective ways to reduce stress include spending time outdoors, practicing meditation or quiet time, doing gentle exercise, and spending time with loved ones or pets. Move your body. Daily movement increases energy and cognition, improves sleep, and helps balance your hormones. Opt for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. This can include walking, jogging, biking, swimming, dancing, lifting weights, yoga, pilates and more. Conclusion A study published in Current Biology indicates that after high-demand thinking the brain will experience fatigue, resulting in a preference for short-delay and little-effort options during decision making. Hard thinking increases neurotransmitters that excite brain cells, triggering a natural regulation system in the brain that can cause cognitive fatigue. As a result, people have a hard time making difficult decisions, sometimes without even noticing the difficulty. To avoid this brain fatigue, make sure you get enough rest and support your brain health with nutritious foods, proper sleep and exercise. To read the original article click here.

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Dark Chocolate for Stress Starts in the Brain, New Study Shows

AHA Publisher — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:46 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – We often talk about the many health benefits of dark chocolate, perhaps because it’s so darn tasty. Its impressive antioxidant profile and impact on cardiovascular health are added, guilt-reducing bonuses. Well, good news: A new preclinical study shows that dark chocolate may also help your brain adapt to chronic stress. Study Findings: Dark Chocolate Could Boost Stress Response A June 2022 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience analyzed the impact of dark chocolate dietary patterns on the hippocampal CA1 brain region in rats when exposed to chronic stress. Thirty-five rats were placed into five groups: a control group, a stress group and three groups made up of different dark chocolate dietary patterns. Rats in the “compulsory diet” received only dark chocolate for stress, rats on the “optional diet” had an option of unlimited dark chocolate or chow, and those on the “restricted diet” received chow and only four grams of dark chocolate daily. Based on their findings, researchers concluded that the compulsory and restricted dark chocolate dietary patterns reversed the harmful effects of chronic isolation stress on the brain nerve cells that impact learning and memory processing. Results also show that food intake and body weight decreased significantly in all dark chocolate groups. What It Means This is the first study of its kind, testing the impact of dark chocolate for stress by way of affecting nerve cells in the brain. The next step is to research whether or not dark chocolate impacts humans similarly. There is already evidence that dark chocolate benefits brain health. A 2020 study found that dark chocolate consumption improved verbal episodic memory compared to white chocolate. Researchers believe that this may be due to increased cerebral blood flow from cocoa flavonoids. A parallel-group, randomized trial published in 2019 indicates that consuming dark chocolate enhances cognitive function performance compared to white chocolate. There’s also research on how dark chocolate impacts perceived stress. A 2014 study showedthat consuming 40 grams of dark or milk chocolate daily during a two-week period is an effective way to reduce perceived stress in females. This latest study on dark chocolate suggests that the antioxidant-rich food may have several mechanisms for boosting brain health and reducing stress in humans, which is exactly why it’s considered a happy food. Tips to Reduce Stress Controlling stress is a major issue among adults. Although it’s a natural feeling that can improve motivation, dealing with it constantly can have significant effects on your overall health. To boot, stress can impact your dietary and lifestyle choices, leading to a cycle of inflammation, low mood and trouble sleeping. There are many natural stress relievers that can help ease anxiety, reduce inflammation, improve mental clarity and promote restful sleep. Here are some of the top tips for reducing stress: Daily exercise or physical activity (including walking outdoors, jogging, yoga, swimming, biking and lifting weights) A nutrient-rich diet that includes high-quality protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables and herbs (avoid or cut back on processed, packaged and sugary foods, alcohol, and caffeine) Spending more time outdoors, taking casual walks, hiking or relaxing outside Keep a journal to track and work through emotions, helping you to identify triggers and common causes of stress Breathing exercises, stretching and massage Using adaptogenic herbs, such as ashwagandha, ginseng, cocoa and maca Engaging in daily spiritual prayer or meditation Conclusion A June 2022 study published in Nutritional Neuroscience evaluated the impact of dark chocolate dietary patterns on the hippocampal CA1 brain region, which plays a role in memory and learning. Researchers found that rats on dark chocolate dietary patterns showed a reversal of the harmful effects of chronic isolation stress on the brain nerve cells. Study results also show that food intake and body weight decreased significantly among rats fed dark chocolate. Although human evidence is needed, this study suggests that dark chocolate plays a role in reducing the impact of chronic stress on the brain. To read the original article click here.

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The Effect of Sedentism on Mental Wellbeing

AHA Publisher — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 08:00:12 +0000

Hidaya Aliouche, B.Sc. via News-Medical – Sedentary behavior, defined as activities that require minimal to no body movement, which consequently result in low energy expenditure, has emerged recently as a potential indicator of both physical and mental health in adult populations. There is an association between sedentary behavior and mental health issues including depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. What Is a Sedentary Lifestyle? Sedentary behavior is defined by the Sedentary Behaviour Research network in 2012 as any conscious behavior such as leaning or sitting which results in an energy expenditure of 1.5 metabolic equivalent task (MET) or less. MET is defined as the work metabolic rate relative to the standard resting metabolic rate (RMR) of kcal/(kg/h). One MET is the RMR for a person at rest. To express quantitative MET values qualitative: Sedentary behaviour: 1.0–1.5 METs ( Light intensity is 1.6–2.9 METs Moderate intensity is 3–5.9 Vigorous intensity is ≥6 METs Physical Activity and Its Implications on Mental Health Strong evidence suggests that physical activity is an effective strategy in reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood. This has been found by reviews and randomized controlled trials alike. A study conducted in Australia reported increased rates of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms associated with changes in physical activity. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, a study from America reported that reduced physical activity combined with increased screen time from both pre and post COVID19 shutdown increased the likelihood of depression, loneliness, and stress. Another report demonstrated a positive effect of light activity on mental health. This finding was corroborated by a UK survey which demonstrated that negative mental health outcomes, including anxiety, were negatively associated with moderate daily physical activity. Sedentary Behavior and Depression Mentally passive sedentary behaviors which encompass sitting, listening to media, television viewing, and talking, are positively correlated with depression risk. Contrastingly, mentally active sedentary behaviors such as reading, typing and participation in a meeting are not always associated with depression risk. In particular, the use of a computer, classed as a mentally active sedentary behavior was found not to be correlated in one study with depression, but in another demonstrated positive correlation with depression risk. This study demonstrates its controversial association with depression. The mechanistic basis that underpins the correlation between sedentary behavior and depression is thought to include the blocking of direct communication and reduction in social interactions, or the reduction in available time to engage in physical activity which is known to increase overall sense of wellbeing and reduce risk of depression. Sedentary Behavior and Cognitive Function There is a controversial relationship between sedentary behavior and cognitive function. Some studies have indicated that a less sedentary lifestyle and less sedentary work patterns have beneficial cognitive effects, while others have demonstrated no changes in cognitive function. A study that looked at replacing sedentary time slots with other forms of activity across six months in elderly adults exhibiting little physical activity significantly improved cognitive functions. These activities included moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and sleep. Contrastingly, low-intensity physical activity did not cause statistically significant changes. Effects of COVID-19: Sedentism and Wellbeing Outcomes A recent study conducted in the United Kingdom in response to COVID-19 investigated the association between physical activity and sitting time on adults’ mental health as well as the influence of potential mediators and confounding variables. The researchers conducted an online survey between May and June 2020. 284 participants self-reported physical exercise, sitting time and mental health, through validated questionnaires. Results demonstrated that sitting time was strongly associated with adverse mental health effects during lockdown conditions. Interestingly, those with lower sitting times showed a significantly lower depression score than those that demonstrated increased physical activity. Similarly, subjective wellbeing appeared to be more strongly influenced by a reduction in total sitting time, with physical activity being non-significant in comparison. A combined analysis demonstrated that increased well-being was found to be the greatest in a group with the lowest sitting time and moderate or high physical activity compared to those that had high sitting time and low physical activity (that is, the reference group). Although the association between depression and sedentary behavior is well established in the literature, there is less robust, and indeed a controversial association between sedentary behavior and wellbeing. In addition, though there is a strong association between mental health and sedentary behavior, no studies have yet investigated the moderation effect of physical activity on the impact of sedentary behavior on the outcomes for mental health. Some evidence suggests that higher volumes of physical activity, that is between 60 and 75 minutes per day, can protect against an increased risk of mortality as a consequence of prolonged sitting (that is, more than 8 hours per day). However, this buffering effect for other mental health outcomes i.e. wellbeing is less demonstrable. In addition, the study performed a sub-group analysis that demonstrated the relationship between different aspects of physical activity and mental health. Consequently, domestic and garden physical activity as well as leisure-related physical activity showed a negative association with depression and a positive association with well-being. In a study conducted in Italy, gardening demonstrated a positive impact on psychological distress. The Impact of Socio-Demographic Factors, Sedentary Behavior, and Well Being A study conducted during the pandemic demonstrated that sociodemographic predictors for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety included female gender and young age, with university students having higher rates of depression relative to the overall population and women being more than two times as likely to suffer from depression about men. This increased risk persists until the mid-50s. In addition to gender and age, those who are of lower income, or possess one or more comorbid health conditions find a previous diagnosis of mental health increases one’s risk of poor wellbeing as a result of sedentary behavior. References Pears M, Kola-Palmer S, De Azevedo LB. (2021) The impact of sitting time and physical activity on mental health during COVID-19 lockdown. Sport Sci Health. doi: 10.1007/s11332-021-00791-2. Park JH, Moon JH, Kim HJ, et al. (2020). Sedentary Lifestyle: Overview of Updated Evidence of Potential Health Risks. Korean J Fam Med. doi:10.4082/kjfm.20.0165. Hamer M, Coombs N, Stamatakis E (2014) Associations between objectively assessed and self-reported sedentary time with mental health in adults: an analysis of data from the Health Survey for England. BMJ Open. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-004580. Teychenne M, Costigan SA, Parker K. (2015) The association between sedentary behaviour and risk of anxiety: a systematic review. BMC Public Health.; doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1843-x. Hamer M, Coombs N, Stamatakis E. (2014) Associations between objectively assessed and self-reported sedentary time with mental health in adults: an analysis of data from the Health Survey for England. BMJ Open. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2013-004580. To read the original article click here.

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Can Exercise Slow Mental Aging? The Answer May Surprise You

AHA Publisher — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 08:00:02 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – For the 6.2 million Americans currently affected by Alzheimer’s disease, the condition can be truly debilitating – interfering with judgment, distorting personality, erasing precious memories, and torpedoing the potential of many seniors to live independently. While pharmaceutical treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia have yielded disappointing results, brand-new research – involving a simple, natural intervention – might provide a ray of hope. In a just-published study from UC San Francisco, researchers examined the potential of regular physical activity to maintain healthy cognition and memory in elderly individuals. Let’s look at the encouraging findings. Physical Activity Alters Brain Chemistry and Protects Function The study, published last month in the journal Alzheimer’s and dementia, involved the postmortem examination of 404 elderly patients from the Memory and Aging Project at Rush University in Chicago. The project had tracked the later-life physical activity of the participants, who had agreed to donate their brains after death. The scientists found that the patients who had stayed physically active had more of a certain type of protein that enhances the connections (or synapses) between neurons – promoting healthy thought processes and memory and allowing participants to maintain cognition late in life. Lead author Kaitlin Casaletto, PhD, a neuropsychologist at the Weill Institute for Neurosciences, announced that the research was the first to use human data to show that synaptic protein regulation was linked to physical activity. Even more significantly, the synaptic improvements were responsible for beneficial cognitive outcomes. Not only that – but they could potentially ward off dementia, Dr. Casaletto noted. “Synaptic health can support the brain against Alzheimer’s disease,” she concluded. “Warring Proteins” – Presynaptic Protein Diminishes the Harm From Toxic Brain Chemicals Researchers believe that a pair of proteins – amyloid and tau – are deeply implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. But, the true science behind this theory has yet to prove it. In fact, there are some experts that say these proteins might be trying to protect the brain from toxic substances. Having said that, amyloid proteins can accumulate in the brain, causing cellular dysfunction and cell death, while tau proteins can form harmful neurofibrillary “tangles.” But, the study showed that having higher levels of “presynaptic proteins,” such as synaptophysin, led to good synaptic connections. By the way, it turns out that a synapse is more than just a “connection” between neurons. It is actually the site where the process of cognition occurs, Dr. Casaletto explained. In addition, the presynaptic proteins brought about by exercise help shield the brain from the damaging effects of amyloid and tau. Even when the brains of deceased individuals were laden with pro-inflammatory amyloid, and tau proteins, the protective impact of exercise could still be seen. Physical Activity Awards a “Jackpot” of Health Benefits Clearly, the study makes a case for the merits of exercise in preserving cognitive ability. Of course, scientists already credit regular physical activity with a “laundry list” of benefits. In addition to improving synaptic function, regular exercise can help alleviate oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, setting the stage for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. And regular exercise can also help reduce both depression and obesity – additional risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Other health bonuses include increased energy metabolism, better circulation, improved glucose metabolism, and the release of “feel-good” brain chemicals, including endorphins. Just about every health expert will suggest 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise – such as power walking, jogging, or biking – several times a week to help maintain reasoning and learning skills, sharpen memory and possibly delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and age-related cognitive decline. Before you begin a new workout routine, though, consult your integrative physician or a health coach – who can help you find a program that’s right for you. Slow Mental Aging With Natural Techniques Nutrients and supplements that promote cognitive function and accurate memory include rosemary, ginkgo biloba, lion’s mane mushrooms, acetyl-l-carnitine, Panax ginseng, vitamin C, curcumin, and omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA found in fish oil. In addition, B vitamins – particularly vitamin B12, vitamin B9 (folate), and vitamin B3 (niacin) – can help break down homocysteine, a pro-inflammatory amino acid implicated in poor heart function. As always, though, check with your trusted integrative doctor before supplementing. Generally speaking, the Mediterranean diet – featuring antioxidant spices, healthy monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and limited amounts of high-quality protein – has been linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. (It has also been associated with a lower incidence of heart disease as well as longer life – so many healthcare providers suggest this healthy way of eating is a win/win). Of course, getting sufficient sleep, managing stress through natural methods, staying well hydrated with pure, filtered water, and reducing exposure to environmental toxins and metals (such as aluminum) can all help support healthy cognition and memory. “You’re only as old as you feel,” according to the old adage. But, when you consider the effects of aging on the brain, it might be more accurate to say: “You’re only as old as you THINK.” As the latest study suggests, elderly people who continue physical activity may have an “inside track” on staying (cognitively) youthful. And that’s something to think about. Sources for this article include: Wiley.com ScienceDaily.com LifeExtension.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov EverydayHealth.com To read the original article click here.

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Greater Body Fat Found to Be a Risk Factor for Reduced Cognitive Function

AHA Publisher — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 08:00:54 +0000

McMaster University via News-Medical – A new study has found that greater body fat is a risk factor for reduced cognitive function, such as processing speed, in adults. Even when the researchers took cardiovascular risk factors (such as diabetes or high blood pressure) or vascular brain injury into account, the association between body fat and lower cognitive scores remained. This suggests other not yet confirmed pathways that linked excess body fat to reduced cognitive function. In the study, 9,166 participants were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis to assess their total body fat. As well, 6,733 of the participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure abdominal fat packed around the organs known as visceral fat, and the MRI also assessed vascular brain injury – areas in the brain affected by reduced blood flow to the brain. The results were published today in JAMA Network Open. “Our results suggest that strategies to prevent or reduce having too much body fat may preserve cognitive function.” Sonia Anand, lead author, professor of medicine of McMaster University’s Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine and vascular medicine specialist at Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) She is also a senior scientist of the Population Health Research Institute of McMaster and HHS. She added that “the effect of increased body fat persisted even after adjusting for its effect on increasing cardiovascular risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as vascular brain injury, which should prompt researchers to investigate which other pathways may link excess fat to reduced cognitive function.” Co-author Eric Smith, a neurologist, scientist and an associate professor of clinical neurosciences at the University of Calgary, said that “preserving cognitive function is one of the best ways to prevent dementia in old age. This study suggests that one of the ways that good nutrition and physical activity prevent dementia may be by maintaining healthy weight and body fat percentage.” Smith is head of the brain core lab for the two population cohorts used for this new analysis– the Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds (CAHHM) and PURE Mind- a sub-study of the large, international Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study. The participants were in the age range of 30 to 75 with an average age of about 58. Just over 56% were women; they all lived in either Canada or Poland. The majority were White European origin, with about 16% other ethnic backgrounds. Individuals with known cardiovascular disease were excluded. To read the original article click here.

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NEW STUDY Shows Listening to Emotionally Significant Songs Improves Cognitive Function

AHA Publisher — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:00:20 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia continue to impact a tragic number of people throughout the United States. Over 6.5 million Americans are currently affected – and the number is expected to soar to 13 million by the year 2050. Sadly, the Alzheimer’s Association reports that deaths from Alzheimer’s disease have increased by an alarming 16 percent since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conventionally speaking, there is currently no cure, and pharmaceutical medications have yielded disappointing results – along with unwanted side effects such as nausea, muscle pain, and headaches. However, scientists at the University of Toronto report that a natural intervention may help improve cognitive function. A just-published study points to the benefits of music for people suffering from cognitive decline. To learn more about the intriguing potential of music to improve cognition and memory, read on. Benefits of Music Include Improved Brain Function, Landmark Study Shows In the small pilot study published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, patients with Alzheimer’s disease listened to a selection of their favorite songs for an hour a day for three weeks. The songs were chosen because they were “autographically salient,” meaning that they were familiar tunes with personal meaning for the participants. For example, the repertoire might include songs the participants had danced to at their weddings. All patients underwent MRIs before and after the listening sessions – and the results led the scientists to an extraordinary conclusion. The team reported that regularly listening to beloved songs could change the brain’s neural pathways and improve structure and function. Listening to Familiar Songs Stimulates the Prefrontal Cortex Senior author Dr. Michael Thaut, a professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Music and Temerty Faculty of Medicine, reported that listening to music can cause changes in neural pathways – notably in the prefrontal cortex, where deep cognitive processes occur. “(Listening to music) can stimulate neural connectivity in ways that help maintain higher levels of functioning,” Dr. Thaut stated, adding that patients also showed improvement in the integrity of the brain. Interestingly, listening to music written and performed in a similar style – but with no particular personal meaning – activated an “auditory” network, which meant that it caused brain activity that indicated the act of listening. But, when participants listened to familiar, well-loved songs, the prefrontal cortex activated significantly, indicating cognitive engagement. It seems that the benefits of music include activation of the “control center” of the brain. “Music is an ‘access key’ to the memory and prefrontal cortex,” declared Dr. Thaut. The researchers concluded that listening to music is an effective way to increase brain plasticity in patients with dementia and mild cognitive decline – and that there is a clinical potential for personalized, music-based interventions. Benefits of Music Therapy Include Practicality and Low Cost Dr. Thaut likened the stimulating effect of familiar music to that of a “brain gym.” And, apparently, daily workouts yield the best results – as the therapy is not a “one and done” technique. The research suggested that repeated. Regular listening is necessary to reap the full benefits of music for people with cognitive decline. Lead author Corinne Fischer, director of Geriatric Psychiatry at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, said that the study showed that a home-based approach to music listening could be beneficial and have lasting effects on the brain. She praised the music-based intervention as feasible, cost-effective, and readily available. Dr. Thaut expressed his belief that the study “opened the door” to further research on therapeutic applications of music for people with dementia. Support Good Cognitive Function With Other Natural Techniques According to a study published in 2017 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, regular physical activity can positively influence cognitive ability, reduce the rate of cognitive aging and even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Experts say that exercise may increase the production of beneficial brain chemicals, improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Herbs that are believed to help enhance cognitive function include turmeric, ginkgo biloba, and rosemary, which have promoted memory in clinical studies. Rosemary’s close cousin, sage, may hold even more promise. A controlled study showed that rosemary extract inhibits an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter needed for memory and learning. Of course, consult your integrative doctor before supplementing. People have always intuitively realized the power of music to uplift, inspire and console. While larger controlled clinical trials are needed, this intriguing early study helps “roll back the curtain” and reveal some of the science behind that power. Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com AlzheimersAssociation.com NIH.gov Carewatch.co.uk To read the original article click here.

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Using Internet in Retirement Boosts Cognitive Function — New Research

AHA Publisher — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 07:00:13 +0000

Lancaster University via Newswise – Using the internet during your retirement years can boost your cognitive function, a new study has found. Researchers from Lancaster University Management School, the Norwegian University Science and Technology and Trinity College Dublin examined the cognitive function of more than 2,000 retired people from across Europe, and found that post-retirement internet usage is associated with substantially higher scores on tests. The study, published in the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, uses data drawn from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) that collects information about the health, employment history and socio-economic status of older people. Focusing on a sample of 2,105 older people from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Israel, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland who have been retired since 2004, researchers examined retirees’ cognitive function in both 2013 and 2015. They specifically focused on a word recall test, where individuals were asked to recall a list of 10 words immediately, and then again five minutes later. Results found that, on average, people who used the internet after they retired were able to recall 1.22 extra words in the recall test compared to non-internet users. However, retirees who used the internet were also more likely to be male, younger, better educated, and have been retired for a shorter period. They also appear to be in better health – even though they drink and smoke more*. Dr Vincent O’Sullivan, a co-author from Lancaster University Management School said: “Our results reveal that using the internet, post-retirement, leads to a marked reduction in the rate of cognitive decline. “Interestingly, this protective effect was found to be most significant amongst women, with female retirees who regularly surfed the internet able to recall 2.37 more words compared to women who didn’t go online. The results were also consistent among men, with retired internet users able to recall 0.94 more words than men with similar characteristics who didn’t use the internet. “We also found that retirees who used computers in their jobs before retirement were more likely to keep using computers once they retired, and hence had better cognitive function.” Researchers compared the cognitive function of retirees who used to work in jobs where computers were commonplace to retirees who worked in jobs where computers weren’t often used. For example, among teachers, computers became common in the workplace much later than sectors such as financial services. Their results revealed that people with pre-retirement exposure to computers were more likely to continue to use them once they retired. Among the overall results, the researchers also found a stark difference in the patterns of internet usage between European countries, with no more than 12% of retirees using the internet in Italy, compared to over 60% in Denmark. “Research has shown that retirement from the workforce is a critical period for cognitive function, which declines with age and can be a predictor for a range of key health outcomes among older people,” said co-author Likun Mao, formerly a PhD student at Lancaster but now at Trinity College Dublin. “Although there is a widespread belief that computer usage improves older people’s cognitive function – such as memory, attention, spatial abilities and problem solving – there has been mixed evidence from previous studies. “We were able to discern that pre-retirement computer usage does not directly influence post-retirement cognitive decline, and we ensured our results referred only to post-retirement internet usage.” Professor Colin Green, of the Norwegian University Science and Technology, added: “Within our study we estimated statistical models which controlled for individuals’ ages, education levels, occupational skills and years since retirement, so we are confident that our results are robust and relate only to the use of the internet, post retirement. “This sets it apart from other studies and raises the interesting question of what it is about internet use exactly, that drives this positive effect on cognitive function. Interacting with others online, finding out information in order to attend social activities or simple tasks like shopping online can all make life easier for retirees, but we are yet to understand which, if any, of these tasks actually go as far as improving cognitive performance.” To read the original article click here.

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