Carrying excessive weight is bad for your heart, increases your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, and might decrease your lifespan. But did you ever think that obesity could shrink your brain? Probably not, but according to new research, it may do just that—and potentially reduce your cognitive abilities as you get older. The study,… Read More »
A coloring and activity book for kids ages 8-12 Did you know the human brain generates enough electricity to power a small lightbulb? This free, printable coloring and activity book for children ages 8-12 features exciting facts about the human brain and mental health. Download and print the PDF version today! New Links on MedlinePlus
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – A new tool for medical professionals may help shed more light on tumors in the body and how the brain operates. Purdue University researchers created technology that uses optical imaging to better help surgeons map out tumors in the body and help them understand how certain diseases affect activity in the brain.… Read More »
New research in pigs finds that sugar intake alters the reward-processing circuitry of the brain in a similar way to addictive drugs. Whenever we learn something new or experience something pleasurable, our brain’s reward system becomes activated. With the help of natural brain chemicals, several brain areas communicate with each other to help us learn… Read More »
According to research, exercise helps bring about brain changes which can protect against cognitive decline in individuals at high risk, which includes Alzheimer’s disease. The study indicates that the benefits of exercise to brain function could be even greater for individuals at genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease compared to those without the genetic risk.[1] Individuals… Read More »
Juli Engel was delighted when a neurologist recommended a PET scan to determine whether amyloid — the protein clumps associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease — was accumulating in her mother’s brain. “My internal response was, ‘Yay!’” said Ms. Engel, 65, a geriatric care manager in Austin, Tex., who has been making almost… Read More »