Susan Clark is an award-winning, Emmy-nominated journalist and author who has written about nutrition, health, and wellness for 27 years. She has developed content for articles, reports, books, videos, and television news segments featuring some of today’s top alternative and integrative doctors. She earned a bachelor of science in broadcast journalism from Texas Christian University. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and numerous pets.
Pity poor Pinocchio. The wooden boy of legend always had to tell the truth – otherwise his nose would grow longer and give away the fact that he was lying.Well, soon we may all be living in a world
More than a quarter of Americans have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, and over two-thirds struggle with sleep at least once a week. For these people, listening to white noise can
Your diet and lifestyle are the most important components of building cognitive reserve and maintaining a sharp
“It’s like sitting on a subwoofer,” explained professor Lee Bartel from the University of Toronto.Professor Bartel led the first-ever study to test the therapeutic effects Alzheimer’s patients
Research shows that how you start the day can make a big difference in how well your memory works and how reliable your decision-making abilities hold up through the day.So why not start your day
Scientists are constantly looking for methods to detect Alzheimer's at a very early stage, before any obvious signs of memory loss or when the signs are still barely noticeable.Eye tests, the ability
If you've ever had a tune stuck in your head, you're not alone; most people experience this on a weekly basis or more.These catchy tunes or “earworms” can be annoying and even distressing for some,
If you're like most Americans, you're consuming huge amounts of a cooking oil that can make you more prone to serious memory problems.The food industry wants you to think this oil is a healthy food.
Researchers have stumbled on a super-powered duo of nutrients that may be able to rescue your brain from the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other debilitating disorders.According to some of the most
When researchers at the Australian National University (ANU) examined the consequences of high blood pressure, which occurs in about one out of every three people, they discovered that it might make
Continuity of care with the same physician is valuable. A good doctor-patient relationship builds knowledge, trust, and respect over time and increases quality of care.There’s no reason to believe
These days, a lot of people will tell you, “I do puzzles to keep my brain sharp.” But have you ever wondered if those endless crosswords and Sudokus actually make a difference in reducing “senior
EQ impacts grades, earnings, and relationships. Learn how to build your emotional intelligence and why it's more valuable than ever in today’s fast-paced world.
The MIND diet cuts Alzheimer’s risk, slows brain aging, and boosts heart health. Learn the top 10 foods for better memory, clarity, and longevity.
Sleep apnea may do more than disrupt your rest—it could silently trigger the brain damage linked to Alzheimer’s, even in those with no memory loss symptoms.
Declining sleep quality in your 40s or 50s may set the stage for Alzheimer’s. Learn how sleep protects your memory and what to do if insomnia strikes.
Discover how your heart health shapes your brain’s future—and what you can do now to protect your memory and reduce Alzheimer’s risk.
Discover how a simple ankle blood pressure test can reveal early warning signs of dementia and help you protect your cognitive health before it's too late.
Flavonoid-rich foods like berries and tea may cut Alzheimer’s risk in half. Even small diet changes can yield big benefits for brain health, new research shows.
New research uncovers how your brain, memory, and sleep can trigger hay fever—even when no allergens are present. It’s a breakthrough in allergy science.
Calling all “glass half empty” types: your persistent negative outlook is not doing your health any favors.Scientists have long been fascinated by how behavior influences our general well-being. And
OTC sleep aids like Benadryl may harm your memory. Discover the risks and explore natural, brain-friendly ways to get restful, restorative sleep.
In this newsletter the topic is usually how to remember things. Memory loss is a huge worry, especially among those of us who are getting old.But what if you want to forget something? Sounds odd, but
Emerging science questions the safety of statins, linking them to memory issues, brain cell disruption, and reduced CoQ10—key for cognitive health.
Do you recall vivid scenes or just the facts? Your memory style might predict your brain’s aging path and resilience against memory decline.
Learn how short breaks during practice supercharge learning, with your brain rehearsing skills up to 20x faster than during active work.
It doesn’t happen often, but a simple remedy from nature sometimes gains acceptance by the medical profession.Lithium – a common mineral – is the most widely used and studied medication for treating
Posterior cortical atrophy disguises itself as poor eyesight but is a neurological disorder tied to Alzheimer's. Learn the symptoms, diagnosis process and new research on this hidden threat.
Even if you're sitting, your brain doesn't have to be idle. Choosing mentally active pastimes like reading or computer work may offer protective benefits against cognitive decline.
Eating a brain-healthy diet isn't just about avoiding unhealthy foods- it's also about selecting the right options, such as fish, green vegetables, and healthy fats, to support cognitive function
Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease continue to increase around the world. So, it's no surprise that dementia researchers are actively exploring various strategies to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s
New research reveals that immune cells in your brain can go rogue destroying critical connections that power memory. The good news: A powerful food nutrient can stop the damage and restore thinking.
“Life's Simple Seven”, promoted by the American Heart Association, is a set of recommendations designed to reduce heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.Since heart and brain health are closely
You know that too much stress is bad for your body and your brain. Over the long term, a high-stress lifestyle can lead to anxiety, chronic inflammation, obesity and even cancer.However, the latest
Receiving a diagnosis of dementia is devastating, but what if it's all been a terrible mistake.A false diagnosis can and does happen, more than many doctors might like to admit.Sometimes, a mistaken
For years researchers have been investigating what they believed was the link between the herpes virus and Alzheimer’s disease.Laboratory tests have consistently shown that there was probably some
True or false? “By the time you reach 18 or 20 your brain is fully grown and fixed for life. It’s all downhill after that.”For 400 years this was what “experts” believed. But it’s a view that wasn’t
By now, we’ve all heard plenty about the things that can go wrong with the aging brain – chief among them, memory loss and the fact that your risk for Alzheimer’s disease climbs with every passing
Since almost two out of three Alzheimer's patients are women, some scientists speculate hormonal changes that take place leading up to and during menopause may trigger the disease process.This theory
Could snorting insulin save your memory if you start to develop Alzheimer’s disease?Some researchers believe it can. But studies of whether or not it works have been mixed.And questions remain. For
During the past few years technology companies have been trying to devise video games that improve brain power – with only limited success.What they’re overlooking is that there’s already an easy
If you've ever yawned after watching someone else yawn, felt sadness at another's plight, or smiled seeing others laugh, it's because we are social beings, and that can lead us to empathize with
Your brain’s thirst for energy is just about insatiable. Because its neuronal networks constantly reshape themselves and transmit signals, these cells need constant refueling. But all that activity
Cold winter weather and dark mornings may fill you with the desire to put your head back on the pillow, close your eyes and go back to sleep. If you do, it’s understandable, but it’s not a good idea.
Winston Churchill was devoted to "that refreshment of blessed oblivion." So were Eleanor Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, P.G. Wodehouse, and many others.In fact, some our greatest philosophers,
It's unlikely you've ever heard of farnesol. But you've probably smelled or tasted it, because it's a compound found in essential oils and is used in candles and incense, perfumes, air fresheners,
This delicious food has a hard protective shell – much the way the brain has a skull. Its ‘meat’ is divided into two halves – the brain has two hemispheres. It’s covered in furrows – the brain is
Snack foods are often nutritional disasters. Items like potato chips, fries or onion rings offer little to the body except fats rendered toxic by overheating and starches that raise your blood
Some 30 years ago, researchers were shocked to learn that the diet in France, which was high in saturated fats, was actually associated with a low death rate from heart disease. The finding was call
Who doesn’t love grapes?They’re sweet and juicy and make the perfect partner for your favorite cheese and crackers.Now, research shows there’s another reason to grab a handful of grapes that has
By the time an American reaches the age of 50, they’ve lost an average of 12 teeth each. By age 65 and over, more than a quarter (27.27 percent) have lost all their teeth.Teeth really matter, and not
Back in 1970, Nobel Prizewinner Linus Pauling made headlines when he said large amounts of vitamin C could cure or prevent the common cold.It was probably the first introduction most Americans had to
Remember the last time you lost your cellphone or keys? Chances are you solved the mystery by retracing your steps, mentally going over where you’d been in the last few hours.But next time, you just
The number of years you’ve been alive is an imprecise measure of your risk for chronic disease because people age at different rates.
The mind-blowing Artificial Intelligence-powered ChatGPT, which can produce a human-like response to any task that involves language, has been making headlines since its recent release because of its
You are what you eat. This old adage has never rung truer than it does when it comes to your memory.Over the last few decades, research has piled up showing that the foods you consume have a major
You can find this strong-tasting herb in gardens around the world. It’s also a “must have” in the kitchen whether you’re cooking chicken, pasta dishes or holiday stuffing.In addition to its delicious
For a healthy heart, most of our savvy readers know they need two omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA from fish oils.Probably there aren't as many people who know they also need these fats if they want
You know that great feeling you get after a brisk walk or bike ride? It turns out that your brain is reaping the rewards as well. You see, your heart-pumping workout is sending extra blood throughout
The role of diet in brain health has grown to such an extent that it even has its own name – neuro-nutrition. And no wonder: there’s strong evidence that some foods are especially good for cognitive
There’s a tiny part of your brain called the hypothalamus that’s about as large as a pebble or a pea, yet it’s a real-life illustration of the term “small but mighty.” That’s because the hypothalamus
In the last few years, there’s been a lot of buzz about improving your mind and memory through playing games, and a few enterprising companies have cashed in with various computer games to give your
The ancient exercise of yoga is claimed to have multiple physical benefits - improving mobility, balance, and strength, while preventing or slowing frailty. It’s also said to offer mental health
When you think of your bones and your brain you might not consider that they are intimately linked. Of course, the brain tells your muscles how to move your bones, but that’s about it, right?There’s
Those of us who support holistic solutions to health problems are never surprised by the interconnections between “unrelated” parts of the body.Perhaps the most striking example in recent years has
Every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke. In fact, 800,000 Americans suffer a stroke every year.While a stroke often has short-term health consequences for those who survive, such as
The science is clear that healthy lifestyle choices can prevent or at least delay the onset of dementia. Now researchers are assessing whether a simple lifestyle scoring system could identify areas
Vitamin C has now been shown to be vitally important for the brain and for the strength and function of your memory.
It often seems to me that modern medicine suffers from a bad case of amnesia when it comes to remembering important and effective traditional ways to treat disease. A great example is one forgotten
Learn the little-known symptoms of low omega-3 levels and deficiency. Plus, how to boost your omega-3 intake for clearer thinking and more.
If you’re a loyal follower of Brain Health Breakthroughs, there’s a good chance you’ve read about the benefits of a ketogenic diet in one of our articles.Researchers have found this type of diet may
You probably think zombies are only made up for scary television, movies, and books. However, that’s not entirely true…There’s a real-life zombie that can weaken your memory and lead you down the
It’s a well-accepted fact that all of us are going to experience memory changes with the passing years. But some of us will do better than others and hang on to more of our mental
Encouraging words can have powerful effects.For instance, halftime inspirational pep talks by sports coaches are famous for getting athletes to improve their performance.But now medical researchers
Air pollution is linked to over four million premature deaths worldwide and up to 360,000 fatalities in the U.S. each year.Research from around the world points to “fine particles” from pollutants as
Everyone knows that winter is the flu season, and many of us also know it’s the time of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression brought on by lack of sunlight.Other issues aggravated
A safe, widely available antioxidant nutrient is now being recognized as a brain-protector that can both defend your brain against the damage of a concussion and help improve your brain if you get
If you’ve been with us for a while, you’re aware that the right nutrients in fruits and vegetables can improve the way your brain functions and ages.But researchers have now also found that the color
Every wintertime people in cold weather climates take a “polar bear plunge” into an iced-over lake or river. Some might call it a test of physical strength while others might say it’s crazy. But this
Genes are the "command centers" of cells. They instruct cells to make specific proteins, which then determine what kind of cell it will be. Genes also control a cell’s construction and operation, as
One of the best natural ways to relieve feelings of anxiety and depression that you won’t hear about from your doctor.
Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest and most popular herbs in use today. For years people have pointed to ginkgo’s abilities to sharpen focus and to improve concentration and attention span. And now
A thyroid drug prescription comes with a huge red flag
Discover the easiest way to avoid middle-age dementia by understanding 15 risk factors that are behind the explosion in dementia diagnoses.
Doctors and scientists tell us nothing can be done about age-related cognitive decline. Losing our mental faculties to some extent is an inevitable part of aging.But what if they're wrong?What if -
In my years of writing about ways to lower the risk for Alzheimer’s, I’ve covered a long list of lifestyle habits that can improve your memory.I’ve explained how exercise protects the brain. How
A natural pesticide that protects plants against insects may actually help your brain defend itself against Alzheimer’s disease.And you may be drinking it every day already.It’s the caffeine in
Living longer we may be, but record numbers of people are experiencing cognitive decline and dementia.In fact, in mid-November, Brits woke up to the scary headline that dementia is now the leading
It’s safe to say that salt is one of the most popular spices on the planet. But the latest research shows that if you overindulge, it’s not only your heart that will suffer. You could be doing harm
For most of us, being diagnosed with dementia is our worst nightmare. Because mainstream medicine has yet to find a drug or therapy to cure this memory-robbing disease.But what if I told you there’s
You’ve heard for decades now how eating more fruit and vegetables can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer and obesity. And for readers of this newsletter, you also know a diet
If you want to keep your memory going strong as you get older, you need to know that taurine is central to the health of the brain’s neurons. Although not technically one of the “amino acids” you
Today's subject is an herb native to the Mediterranean region that has a long history of treating a wide variety of issues, including memory, cognition and anxiety. These days it's found in gardens
Alzheimer's happens when there’s damage to the brain's gray matter.But deeper parts of the brain, where white matter is located, can also suffer damage that leads to cognitive decline and
We’ve been reporting on the importance of physical activity to keep your brain in good shape for many years now. The science is clear that staying physically active is essential to maintaining a
The brain benefits of sleep are becoming more apparent every year. Seven or eight hours of deep, restorative sleep helps regulate mood, boost learning, solve problems and preserve memory.But some
If you’re buying a joint pain supplement, chances are good that it has glucosamine in it. This popular natural remedy is often touted as an effective pain reliever for aching arthritic joints.But
If you think Alzheimer’s disease happens only to older people, think again. A Chinese teenager has become the world’s youngest person to be diagnosed with the condition.Although Alzheimer’s can
The Centers for Disease Control report the average American consumes 13 to 20 teaspoons of added sugar a day, much of it in the form of sugar-sweetened beverages. I’ve seen estimates that average
Avid readers tend to have a strong preference for books over electronic devices. There’s something about holding a book and turning the pages that can’t be replicated by scrolling down a screen.Now,
Exciting new research from New Zealand suggests that in just six minutes you can improve your memory and delay the onset of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
We’ve long reported on the importance of nutrition for your noggin. And we believe the foundation of good nutrition is a healthy diet and a good multi-vitamin. Now, there’s been countless studies on
As one of our frequent readers you’re no stranger to the link between processed foods and poor cognitive function. But now, new research offers undeniable evidence that regular consumption of
The research is clear that staying socially engaged throughout middle age and beyond helps protect your memory against Alzheimer’s disease. But what about getting married and having a family?Being
A seemingly odd trend came into existence about a dozen years ago. People began watching videos showing someone receiving a massage or having their hair brushed. Other videos included watching a
“In the next 30 years, the number of people with dementia is expected to triple. We need to do everything we can to reduce our risk of dementia."So stated the director-general of the World Health
You know omega-3-rich fish, berries and even dark chocolate are your brain’s best friends. But did you know that for every brainy food out there, there’s a tempting food that can undo all your good
A new study from Japan is the first to show that oxytocin can reverse some of the damage caused by the build-up of brain plaques that form in Alzheimer’s disease.Oxytocin, sometimes referred to as
For years Alzheimer’s disease researchers have pointed to tau proteins and amyloid beta proteins as drivers of the brain plaques behind the disease. Of course, natural doctors aren’t convinced that
Sweeteners have long gotten a bad rap when it comes to brain health. Everything from sugar to saccharine has been linked to the inflammation behind memory loss and diseases like Alzheimer’s.That’s
The link between memory loss and high blood sugar is so well established, memory loss is sometimes called “type-3 diabetes.”What is unclear though, is whether the harm to the brain caused by excess
If you’re over 55 and want to know your risk of developing dementia within the next five years, you can now find out in a matter of minutes.Rigorous research conducted in Canada led to the
When you get hit by a 255-pound offensive tackle up to 50 times a game, it's bound to inflict physical harm.That's exactly what brain scans of hundreds of active and retired football players have
We've all been in situations where we've taken the wrong turn and gotten lost. But for some people, this is an everyday occurrence. And in rare cases, people can even get lost inside their own
For most of us, flickering lights and clicking sounds would drive us to distraction. But for people with Alzheimer’s, they could be a life saver.Studies in mice with Alzheimer’s suggest delivering
Why cancer patients don't get Alzheimer's and vice versa. Plus, how you can protect yourself against both diseases.
Easy brain hack combining two kinds of exercise with brain games can improve your thinking and clarity.
Alzheimer’s disease can be “transmitted” to living people.
The APOE e4 gene increases your risk for Alzheimer's disease. And a new analysis shows having TWO of them is even worse.
It’s been engrained in you that a high level of good cholesterol, known as HDL cholesterol, is good because it moves extra cholesterol out of the bloodstream, keeping your arteries safe from
Your brain is getting bigger. Here's why and how you can capitalize on larger brain size to help you sharpen your memory.
Should you be taking acetyl-l-carnitine supplements?
Adults who were recently diagnosed with ADHD were much more likely to suffer from dementia.
Artificial intelligence reviews years of research and uncovers seven new risk factors Alzheimer's doctors couldn't find. How you can protect yourself.
Navigational problems are a common early sign of Alzheimer's disease
Strawberries are great for your memory and brain function.
Explore the link between hidden visceral fat and Alzheimer’s disease even in slim individuals.
Highly accurate test for pre-symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease
mushrooms could play a role in preventing Alzheimer's disease and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Occasional forgetfulness and delay in remembering a person’s name can be part of the natural process of aging. But when memory problems begin to interfere with normal daily life, it may be a sign of
Description: New, non-invasive deep brain stimulation (DBS) for depression, Alzheimer's disease and more is a game changer for patients.
A growing number of scientists believe pathogens lie at the root of Alzheimer’s disease. Theyre turning their attention to a common stomach bug. What to know...
Discover how garlic extract fights memory loss to reduce brain inflammation and bad protein deposits.
If you’ve ever forgotten to show up for an appointment or forgotten a name or a common word, you’ll likely understand the concern about whether this predicts a more serious memory problem, like
A skinny brain is a drain on your memory
A new study shows why music is so important to your aging brain
Two herbicidal toxins have long-term effects that can lead to Alzheimer's-like neurodegeneration
this wonder pill is not a drug or chemical compound, it’s a 100 percent natural supplement. We’re talking about the humble multivitamin.
Kiwifruit, also called Chinese gooseberry, is one of the healthiest berries around
Mainstream medical researchers have been going back and forth on whether aspirin can help you prevent Alzheimer’s disease or not.
Link between oral health and cognitive impairment
Poor gut health is liked to Alzheimer's disease. Here are the bad bacteria involved and the good bacteria that can reduce your risk of dementia.
On any given day, 159 million Americans enjoy a cup of tea.And unlike soft drinks, AKA sugar water, tea is actually good for you, improving bone density, strengthening immunity, and reducing the risk
Innovative treatments using oxytocin to manage cognitive decline and dementia
dreams and patterns of dreaming may be an early warning system alerting us to health trouble ahead.
Hidden risks associated with the widespread use of soybean oil in cooking
The recent finding that the brain's immune system is linked to Alzheimer's lends support to the idea that pathogens such as viruses could be one cause of the disease.
In recent years researchers have wondered if harnessing specific smells could help to increase your mental focus, clarity, and memory recall.
Quick physical activity that can bolster your ability to problem solve
Is forgoing saturated fat really good for you?
In recent years the gut microbiome, containing trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, has emerged as a key target in Alzheimer's, not only because of its link to the brain via the
Soon it may be possible to go to bed one night and wake up the following morning knowing your future risk of dementia. While it may sound like pie in the sky, scientists are working on ways to make
They’re among the most used medications on the planet because they work so well at relieving uncomfortable symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. But, there’s also a dark side to these drugs.Research
People with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can’t look to conventional medicine for help as there’s no approved intervention doctors can offer. So, what can people do in this situation?In these pages
A good night’s sleep helps your brain and your memory stay strong and healthy. While you sleep, your neurons consolidate your memories, and your brain cells clear away toxic waste products.But it
Many suffering with painful and swollen joints turn to glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride to find relief. But there’s another form of glucosamine that’s not ordinarily used to treat
Longer Telomeres Linked To Lower RiskOf Dementia Telomeres are caps at the end of chromosomes that protect DNA from degrading. But when a cell divides and the chromosomes replicate, telomeres shorten
How can a serious medical problem affecting almost half of all adults over the age of 60 be so little known?It’s especially surprising when you consider that this health problem increases the risk of
Carbohydrates have had a target on their back ever since the trend towards low-carb, high-protein diets began decades ago. I’m talking about paleo-diets, the Atkins diet, and the South Beach diet, to
Your brain will thank you for working up a sweat and engaging in regular exercise. But for scientists, demonstrating that physical exertion lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s isn’t enough. They want to
How do brain cells die in Alzheimer’s disease? Scientists have pondered this question for decades. Now, at long last, the mystery has been solved thanks to a large team of international
When too many of the wrong kind of microbes take root in the gut, it causes an imbalance that can lead to a wide variety of health disorders.Could this also occur in the brain?An international group
Have neuroscientists been barking up the wrong tree for the last hundred years when it comes to cognitive function?Brain activity, they say, is solely down to the complex web of connections that
These Vegetables Can INCREASE Your Risk of Dementia.As a member of our community, we want to offer you a totally FREE copy of one of our latest eBooks, The 11 Shocking Foods That Can Fog Your Brain
Changes that occur in the brain cells of Parkinson’s disease patients also impact nerve cells in the spinal cord and the intestinal wall. This can lead to unpleasant symptoms in the gastrointestinal
If you’re looking to improve the way your brain works – and if you’re like me, you’re always looking for a way keep your brain as sharp as possible – look no further than thinking about the way you
When it comes to solving the Alzheimer’s mystery, the mainstream is all thumbs.That’s because they focus solely on beta-amyloid plaques – the protein clusters that cause damage to your brain. Sure,
Scientists at Oxford University have developed a new dementia risk score that’s outperformed three other leading risk scores when it comes to predicting dementia.This new score consists of 11 factors
Many folks spend a fortune trying to delay the effects of aging. Our modern-day quest for youth has made the anti-aging market a 63-billion dollar a year industry. But as the search continues for The
When researchers recently discovered a protein that powerfully influences your brain health and life expectancy, they named it klotho – after one of the ancient Greek goddesses of fate.But while the
What you eat can make a big difference in the strength of your memory, the clarity of your thinking and the overall health of your brain.Trouble is, turning away from delicious burgers, hot dogs, and
The largest and most comprehensive analysis of one quick, safe, non-invasive therapy has found it significantly enhances mental function. Best of all, this treatment works for all ages, in the
Parkinson’s Disease remains a mystery, even in this golden age of science.Sure, we know contributing factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors all play a role in the
The nagging feeling of déjà vu, the notion that you’re experiencing something that you have somehow already experienced before, can be spooky. Many folks wonder what it signifies and how it’s
For decades researchers have believed that when you’re walking and doing another task, both tasks suffer. But the latest research shows that’s not always the case. What’s more, some fascinating
Lately, we’ve sounded like a broken record when it comes to the link between physical and emotional stress and memory loss.For instance, we recently reported on an important study out of Australia
For some people the thought of getting older fills them with a sense of dread. They’re worried about experiencing illness or loneliness. While others welcome the end of their working life and
In the past few years, we’ve reported discoveries about how engaging in musical activities like singing, learning to play a musical instrument, and even simply listening to your favorite songs can
A “world leading” group of British scientists have created a groundbreaking approach to prevent the development of inherited forms of Lou Gehrig’s disease and frontotemporal dementia, a form of
Your doctor probably hasn’t told you, but your brain has a superpower that allows your memory to stay healthy at any age—as long as you keep fueling the process. That power is the ability of neurons
A new, novel therapy for people suffering with Parkinson’s disease is drug free and requires no anesthetic, no incision, and no hospital stay.If that sounds too good to be true, then you’ll want to
If you’ve got restless leg syndrome (RLS), you already know it can flip your life upside down.The uncontrollable urge to move your legs can disrupt your social life… your exercise routine… and even
Subtle changes in an everyday activity may signal Alzheimer’s is around the corner for you or a loved one. Unfortunately, these changes are too small to be picked up by the human eye, but they can be
In looking for natural ways to improve brain health within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), researchers have uncovered a compound that can produce profound improvements in memory.This natural
Some call it monkeyhead. Others refer to it as tree hedgehog or bearded tooth. Yes, the names are unusual, but no matter what you call it, for eons this mushroom has been enhancing people’s
Are you someone who worries that all of that online screen time is turning your memory to mush?Well, we've got some good news.Whether it’s emailing an old friend or researching a travel destination
If you or your partner snore, you already know how common and disruptive this condition can be.Your lost hours of sleep… your dry throat… and your endless fatigue are all enough to drive you mad.But,
Obesity is a well-known risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. But new research shows there may be more to the link between having a higher percentage of body fat and developing dementia.Researchers at
It's very well known that sugar and, in particular, the sugar called fructose, can wreak havoc on the body and brain. And now a group of researchers believe fructose may be connected to the increase
Wouldn’t it be amazing if a few magic words could help you strengthen your memory?Well, scientists now say that speaking the words of a second language are the only magic words you’ll ever need! In
Regular readers of our family of publications have heard us sound the alarm regarding the impact of stress on virtually every aspect of our health, from heart disease to cancer.Recently, we’ve cast a
What will you do today to bolster your brain?Perhaps you’ll sit on the sofa solving crossword puzzles, or maybe you’ll be panting from jogging round the streets. Either one of these activities will
When it comes to fighting dementia, the mainstream has nothing new to offer.It’s the same old risky drugs… unproven therapies… and endless hours of “investigative” scans and procedures.Fortunately,
You know that the health of your body is linked to the health of your brain. A healthy cardiovascular system and well-functioning digestive system are critical to a sharp memory. But what you may not
The world’s first “smart patch” to both deliver the COVID-19 vaccine and measure its effectiveness was developed in 2021.Now the technology has been extended to early detection of the memory-wasting
Researchers made a surprising finding about another risk factor for Alzheimer’s. And the results of this brand-new research will have you tightening your helmet when you’re biking and doing what you
It’s a subject I’m reluctant to bring to your attention, but in the name of science - and to help protect you from dementia - I really must.It’s nose picking.A recent study showed a species of
When it comes to solving the problem of dementia, the mainstream is at a loss.Big Pharma wants you to believe the problem is one only their drugs can fix, and your conventional doctor will blame it
Scientists could barely hold back their excitement following publication of a new clinical drug trial for Alzheimer’s. They described the trial as “a historic moment”, “a new era” and “the beginning
Memory loss is the main symptom we associate with Alzheimer’s disease. What this looks like in real life is that dementia sufferers often can’t recall recent events and learning new information
It’s surprising that a health problem affecting as many as 100 million Americans isn’t better known. Part of the reason that this problem remains overlooked is that it often has no symptoms, can’t be
If you’re concerned there may be memory trouble in your future, something you can do to save your memory is to take a page out of Fred Astaire’s book… and that is turn up the music and dance.While
Few things are as great as a cup of hot tea in winter. The warmth and flavor are enough to make even the gloomiest day a little bit better. And now, there’s an even better reason to put on the
When it comes to the causes of Alzheimer’s disease, the mainstream focuses on just one thing: beta-amyloid plaques.But this is where they get it all wrong.As a regular reader, you know there’s more
For years a number of Alzheimer’s researchers have tried a variety of approaches in the fight against memory loss. One of them, helping the brain heal itself by giving a leg up to the immune system,
Experts thought they had a good handle on how many Americans suffer from Parkinson’s disease. And then researchers took a closer look at the number of cases of this neurodegenerative condition.The
There’s no single “key” that can explain how the body and brain age. The biological changes that accompany aging involve multiple processes that lead to increasing levels of systemic inflammation and
For good brain health, diet matters. As we’ve reported here many times, long-term consumption of a Mediterranean style diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and olive oil, leads to better cognition in
This must surely be the holy grail of non-invasive therapies for memory loss.You don’t feel a thing. This therapy doesn’t generate any tingling or even heat—which is surprising because it’s a laser.
The part of your brain called the hypothalamus plays a central role in your daily life. It keeps tabs on your daily rhythms – regulating appetite, metabolism, sexual behavior, the release of
Driving is complicated. And dangerous. Roughly 43,000 people died in car crashes in the U.S. in 2021.And for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the joy of driving that was once a symbol of
Current methods of diagnosing Alzheimer’s come far too late to help the patient. This has incentivized scientists to search for biological markers that indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s early on
The use of the spice ginger has a long, venerable history in medicine and in the kitchen that goes back at least 5,000 years.Nowadays, it's still a prized spice and, along with ginger’s recognized
To suggest microbes that reside in the gut could impact the health of the brain was considered heresy just a decade ago. And yet today the gut-brain axis is well recognized.The connection is
‘Tis the season to be… sick.It’s winter, and we’re already facing the “tripledemic” of COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). And while the possibility of having any of these viruses
When it comes to treating Alzheimer’s disease, the mainstream is of little help. They keep dishing out expensive drugs with risky side effects.Aducanumab, for example, was just approved by the FDA
The brain is protected from toxins and other insults by the blood-brain barrier. It’s an important line of defense against damage and infection. But with aging it becomes “leaky,” leaving the brain
If you’re among the 15 million birdwatchers in the U.S., you’re regularly picking up your binoculars to watch your favorite colorfully feathered friends.You’re also on the receiving end of an
A widely available supplement popular with body builders and other athletes for supporting muscle growth and performance has found a whole lot of new fans… researchers who are studying its benefits
If you want your memory to work a little better, researchers say they've found some easy ways to give it a little boost.According to these studies, moving your hands and eyes in certain ways can
Throughout human history, people have been searching for ways to improve thinking skills and boost memory.Nowadays, many of us turn to a strong cup of coffee or tea in the morning to sharpen our wits
Frequent readers of our publication know that meditation has scientifically proven cognitive and physical benefits.1 But meditation isn’t for everyone. If you haven’t developed your meditation skills
The mainstream wants us to believe that the first signs of dementia have to do with your memory. They’ll tell you to look for memory misses like misplacing your keys… forgetting appointments… and
By now you’re well aware that what you eat, how much you sleep, your activity level, and your genetic make-up can affect your risk of Alzheimer’s Disease. And while you work hard to make smarter
When you consume nicotinamide riboside, a compound related to niacin (vitamin B3), it can energize the neurons in your brain and help your memory stay sharper -- especially as you age.Added to that,
A brain training program using computers has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia in seniors. So has stimulating the brain with a mild electrical current.What would happen if doctors used both
Researchers have identified an amino acid that may be the key to warding off the damaging changes linked to two common conditions – chronic stress and depression.According to these studies, the link
Alzheimer’s sets off on its destructive path decades before symptoms appear, spewing untold amounts of damage in the memory centers of the brain before the patient receives a diagnosis.Early
It comes as no surprise to you that your brain function may slip a bit as you get older. But now researchers believe that the natural chemicals in some foods can sharpen your brain and add more
Has Dr. Donald Weaver lost his mind? How can he possibly suggest Alzheimer’s isn’t a brain disease?But hold on. What he’s saying about the cause of Alzheimer’s disease makes more sense than appears
If you’re feeling anxious and under stress in these challenging times, you’re certainly not alone. While there are several ways to naturally reduce stress and anxiety, a team of doctors believes one
If you’re anything like me, you’re doing everything possible to stop dementia before it starts. Especially if one of your close relatives suffered from Alzheimer’s leaving you at genetic risk for the
Remember that adage, “You’re as young as you feel”? Well, studies show that whoever coined this popular phrase was on to something.It turns out that your moods, feelings, and thoughts about aging do
A new technology could come to the rescue of people who are suffering either short-term or long-term memory loss. Even more exciting, it can restore memory in a way that’s fast, safe, non-invasive,
A lot has been written about how the right nutrients can help your brain stay in better shape as you get older.To test some of those claims, researchers in Europe spent two years investigating the
It’s no secret that certain nutrients are good for your brain. Nutrients like vitamin B-12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are often touted for staving off Alzheimer’s and other memory-robbing
No one wants to get that call…You know, the one where your doctor tells you, “It’s dementia… and it’s not going to get any better.”That’s because this life-changing disease can slowly strip away your
It’s one of the most cited scientific articles on Alzheimer’s ever published - a breakthrough 2006 study that identified amyloid beta star 56 as the cause of memory loss in mice.This single study led
When children don’t pay attention, act impulsively, or are hyperactive a doctor may diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication to help them have better focus, control their impulses and feel more
For decades scientists have argued that the protein amyloid beta triggers the process that leads to Alzheimer’s.Others question this and suggest other underlying causes. These include abnormal tau
The statistics are shocking: African American adults are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as white adults. Why is this?Genetic factors come to mind as an explanation. But two new
A patient with suspected Alzheimer's may undergo a range of tests and examinations before a diagnosis is ever reached. This is time consuming, and, in the end, the diagnosis might not even be
Ask a mainstream doctor what causes dementia, and they will likely point their finger at three things: your diet, your stress level, and your genetics. And sure, they aren’t wrong – these three
While vegetables get a lot of credit for improving your health, there’s one forgotten vegetable that’s turning out to be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to your memory.This vegetable
Summer is a great time to indulge in your wanderlust. Your memory will not only thank you, but it may also depend on it, researchers now say.That’s right, a study conducted by a cross-disciplinary
We've all become only too aware of the COVID-19 pandemic. But there's another pandemic taking place right under our noses. It has been going on for decades, yet few are aware of how it can destroy
For years, plenty of praise has been heaped on grape seed extract because studies show it can fight cancer. But the research on grape seed extract goes way beyond cancer.Research also demonstrates
Close to death, a 14-year-old boy lay in a Toronto hospital bed with type-1 diabetes. He was no ordinary teenager however, because he became the first person in the world to receive an insulin
In the Christmas movie classic White Christmas, Danny Kaye swirls Vera Ellen around as he croons, “The best things happen while you’re dancing….”Although Mr. Kaye was likely referring to dancing’s
Any type of physical exercise you perform improves how your brain functions. But researchers now say there’s a particular type of exercise that’s both enjoyable and provides an extra dose of oomph to
There are many ways to protect your brain as you get older, but one of the simplest involves nothing more than increasing your intake of a powerful anti-inflammatory nutrient well-known for helping
A hospital in England is the first in the world to implant a deep brain stimulation (DBS) device to deliver electrical impulses to areas of the brain impacted by Parkinson’s.It’s the smallest DBS
You’ll find this tiny crimson berry dried in granolas, stewed into a relish on Thanksgiving dinner plates or juiced in a cocktail. But for most of us cranberries are an afterthought, which may be a
More and more research is proving the health benefits of the carotenoid called lutein, one of the pigments in fruits, vegetables and other plants that give them their color.You’ve no doubt heard of
Research into a previously ignored area of the brain has revealed a molecule that could be a key driver of Alzheimer’s. Not only has this neurotoxic chemical been identified, but so has a drug to
Relief from Alzheimer’s-related memory loss doesn’t come from the pleasure derived from looking at this colorful flower—if only it could be that easy. Nor does it come from smelling the differing
Since a good deal of brain damage occurs before symptoms of Parkinson's disease appear, it’s vital to come up with a test that can identify the disease in the earliest stages.Existing lab tests have
The latest clue in the search for new, more effective ways to treat Alzheimer’s disease happened by accident. Scientists were studying people being treated for inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid
If there’s one thing we’re all losing sleep over in our golden years, it’s memory loss.Because chances are, your life is being directly impacted. Maybe it’s a family member… your spouse… your
For many of us, the ability to smell the world around us is something we take for granted. If there’s something cooking in the oven, we delight in the delicious odors wafting from the kitchen. On a
When the saying “roughage keeps you regular” was coined it reflected fiber’s ability to prevent or relieve constipation.Soon doctors were touting the benefits of dietary fiber for everything from
Cell-damaging free radicals in the brain are considered a consequence of Alzheimer’s. But in breakthrough new research, scientists now believe that free radicals, far from being a result of the
Cannabis has been used medicinally for over 2000 years and about half the states in the U.S. allow physicians to prescribe it in select medical conditions, Alzheimer's being one of them.Decades of
When beta amyloid and tau proteins go rogue, they form the characteristic brain plaques and tangles thought to be a cause of Alzheimer's.But inflammation is also an early feature of the disease and
In an ongoing exploration of the origins of dementia, researchers from the United States and Israel coordinated a large cohort study to examine a common nutritional deficiency - folate, or vitamin
Research this year confirms studies from the past decade that show small amounts of a certain mineral can lower your risk for Alzheimer’s disease.This trace mineral is sometimes found in tap water,
Frequent readers of this newsletter know I caution against antibiotic overuse.Sadly, it’s common for doctors to prescribe antibiotics even when they’re not 100 percent sure the patient has a
As we emerge from this era of pandemic isolation, researchers have taken a closer look at the health repercussions of loneliness in older adults.The news is sobering.A brand-new study has revealed
Numerous tests claiming to predict a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease years in advance are emerging from research around the world. Some of them rely on blood markers observed from a blood sample
The placebo effect has confounded conventional medicine for years.This effect occurs when people take a placebo pill (a pill that contains nothing that is supposed to influence your health) or
It's usually assumed - and backed up by a large body of research - that thinking speed peaks when we're in our twenties, after which it's downhill all the way. But a massive new study using machine
Our ability to access and use our memory grows with age. Hence the saying, with age comes wisdom. Yet it’s also known that our memory declines with age. How can wisdom and forgetfulness occur at the
New research published in the journal Neurology offers hope for those who face mild cognitive impairment (MCI).1Investigators discovered that MCI could be reversed in certain individuals with a high
Having a furry, scaly, or feathered friend in your life not only brings a great deal of joy but the science shows that it can improve your physical and mental health as well.Pet ownership can lower
Many people pride themselves on their ability to multitask – juggling Zoom meetings, while also writing memos, exchanging text messages, watching videos, and composing emails as well as coping with
It's been well-established that aerobic exercise improves brain health. But researchers haven't been able to identify the specific pathways that make this possible.But now researchers at the
An increasing public health concern is multimorbidity, or having two or more chronic health concerns.Even if none of these health problems is neurological, their presence in mid-life can dramatically
When you think about how the mineral calcium affects your health, chances are the first thing that pops into your head is how this mighty mineral strengthens your bones.But if certain researchers
With their bright colors and tendency to school, zebrafish are commonly found in home aquariums.Scientists, however, are interested in this tiny fish for a medical reason… the zebrafish present an
We often write about the cognitive benefits of exercise in this newsletter, and now there’s even more evidence to motivate you to lace up those sneakers.Scientists have long studied how physical
Well known as the leading prescription treatment to improve men’s sex lives, Viagra (sildenafil) may also keep Alzheimer’s at bay.A new study led by the Cleveland Clinic showed the drug reduced the
Almost four million older American adults have cataract surgery annually, but better vision isn’t the only benefit, surprising new research reveals.1A University of Washington study finds that adults
Imagine if you could sharpen your memory and revitalize your brain just by sitting still.Simply relax, take a nap, listen to music, meditate, or watch a DVD. While you take it easy your brain and
For decades, parents everywhere have told their children that watching too much television will rot their brains (in a manner of speaking, of course). And if you’re of a certain age, you’ll recall
Years ago I first reported on a startling discovery – one of the most important factors that keeps your brain healthy and your memory intact is a hormone released by your bones.And unless you can
As more people work from home during the pandemic many are reporting an increase in loneliness, snacking more often, and putting on weight. While these aren’t necessarily healthy results of the
In the U.S., more than 38 million people suffer with migraine headaches, with some estimates suggesting that this number may be even higher, impacting as many as 50 million or more.Some migraine
From the department of “it-sounds-too-good-to-be-true” comes news of a study suggesting wine and cheese may protect you from age-related cognitive issues.Yes, I was skeptical, too. But then I
Driving is a complex task involving multiple cognitive processes. It's also an essential part of people's lives, so it's surprising how little is known about how changes in the brain that come with
A study that examined how well hundreds of people remember events in their lives demonstrates that individuals who view their daily routines with a sense of purpose possess a stronger memory over
How good is your sense of smell?For over three decades, scientists have been interested in this question because the answer can indicate your risk for Alzheimer's.Back in the 1970s researchers
Remembering new information or learning a new skill gets harder as we get older, but thankfully, some brain functions don’t head south over time.The good news is the cognitive skills that we use
Drugs licensed for specific medical conditions are often found to be valuable in treating other health conditions. This is sometimes called “off label” use.There are a surprising number of drugs in
Years ago, the comedian Bob Hope used the song “Thanks for the Memories” as his theme song.Now, brain researchers are humming a similar tune. Because it turns out that listening to old, familiar
Since Alzheimer’s disease is known to cause structural changes within the brain well before the first symptoms of memory loss appear, the disease can also result in changes to one’s personality.But
Scientists who study how the brain can influence the growth of cancer have become convinced that brain cells hold a cure for the disease.This belief stems from studies that reveal how the brain’s
Isn’t it nice when a study comes along that supports a common daily habit that was long regarded as an unhealthy vice?Such is the case with a study published recently on the brain health benefits of
There’s another new test on the horizon that claims to help diagnose cognitive decline in its earliest stages, before severe memory loss takes hold.This minimally invasive, inexpensive blood test was
No drug has ever been approved for nerve repair, but that may be about to change thanks to groundbreaking research by prize-winning scientist Jerry Silver.His discovery, NVG-291, has been thirty
As we get older, our brain faces new challenges in defending against toxins. There are well-known toxins such as industrial pollutants in the air we breathe and the water we drink that compromise the
Sadly, type-2 diabetes is more prevalent than ever in our society due to increasing rates of obesity, inactivity, stress, as well as an aging population. It’s long been known that diabetes increases
The number of adults suffering from symptoms of depression has skyrocketed during the pandemic and remained high. This is disturbing because depression is linked to an increased risk of developing
Recovery from COVID-19 will be different for everyone. But whether a person makes a speedy recovery or suffers with long COVID, a new study has uncovered something alarming that can affect anyone who
For quite a while now, researchers have known that the extra pounds most of us carry around our waistlines can contribute to harmful inflammation that increases the risk for heart disease and
When was the last time you tried something new that was totally out of your comfort zone?Perhaps it was flailing around the pickleball court with a friend. Or that ceramics class you took, even
According to researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, they've come up with an algorithm that can predict Alzheimer’s disease and its progress.The researchers use
Chronic pain affects a quarter to a third of older adults and your risk rises with age.While those medical facts may not surprise you, this one might: Chronic pain occurs even more frequently in
Vehicle exhaust was cut dramatically. Dust particles flying from construction sites ceased. Star gazers enjoyed a clear view of the constellations and, at long last, fresh air wafted through open
We Americans love our coffee. It's the most popular hot beverage in the U.S. with double the number of drinkers compared with tea.It’s not surprising, really.Coffee not only picks you up at the start
By the time people are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, they may have had the disease for up to twenty years. During that time, the disease can damage cells and tissues in the brain that are hard,
Do you have a valued friend or family member who always has time to lend an ear? Well, count yourself lucky. Not only is it heartwarming to feel heard, but those of us who have a good sounding board
While Alzheimer’s disease is certainly the best-known type of dementia, there are others to be aware of.One is called frontotemporal dementia (FTD), also known as early-onset dementia because it’s
Medical researchers have long been worried about the effects of the coronavirus on the brain and cognitive function.Concern began when people often lost their sense of taste and smell after getting
People who struggle to hear their companions chattering in a bustling restaurant are in good company. Difficulty hearing speech when there's background noise is a common problem for those with
There's good news and bad news about dementia.The distressing part is that a brand-new study reveals the number of dementia cases is about to rise dramatically – tripling by the year 2050.But the
Just as challenging the body with weight-bearing exercise makes bones stronger and helps to slow bone loss with aging, challenging the brain with cognitive exercise can make it more resilient and
Plants are full of pigments that produce the vibrant colors that attract our attention in the fruit and vegetable aisle. This rainbow of hues does more than please the eye. When we eat them they also
Many people who suffer with depression also have problems with their circadian rhythm or sleep-wake cycle. As a result, they also have insomnia.Now a novel five-day sleep therapy promises to bring
By now, just about everybody should know that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can support a healthier brain and a sharp memory for years to come.But the latest research has begun to pick apart
While medical experts have long disputed what’s behind the development of Alzheimer’s disease, they all agree that a simple, affordable diagnostic test is long overdue.Up until now, the most accurate
Short term stresses are part of everyday life; nothing to be concerned about. However, chronic, unrelenting stress is something else, and has long been recognized as a risk factor for Alzheimer's
Research into the development of Alzheimer’s disease has revealed how changes in speech patterns related to memory loss become detectable years prior to a clinical diagnosis.These changes are too
I have to admit I was skeptical when I first heard about the possibility that CBD, or cannabidiol, derived from hemp or marijuana might be useful for improving brain health. The CBD craze seems like
For decades this vitamin has been overlooked for its importance in keeping your memory sharp as you age, but now it’s finally getting some of the attention it deserves.I’m talking about vitamin K.And
Scientists are making great strides in developing a blood test to detect Alzheimer's years before symptoms first appear.But Alzheimer's isn't the only type of dementia, and there are many other kinds
Cholesterol-lowering statin drugs have been one of the biggest money-makers of all time for drug companies, with some experts estimating that they bring in about a trillion dollars in sales
Even though pharmaceutical companies keep spending obscene amounts of money looking for a "silver bullet" drug that might be able to treat Alzheimer's disease, a growing number of experts now believe
If you’re a regular reader of this publication, you know we frequently report on new research regarding the importance of a healthy lifestyle to cognitive health.Now, a new study from China’s Duke
With millions forced to work, learn and socialize remotely, the pandemic has been a boon to video conferencing. Many older folks had little choice but to replace their traditional face to face chats
About a million Americans suffer from Parkinson’s disease – a brain condition that impairs your ability to move around and causes tremors, balance problems and stiffness along with other difficulties
When the FDA convened an independent commission in 2020 to decide whether a new Alzheimer’s drug called Aduhelm (generic name aducanumab) should be approved, ten out of the 11 experts on the
Amyloid and tau proteins have long been linked to the development of Alzheimer's, yet frustratingly, their presence can't reliably predict the onset of the disease.The challenge for scientists has
Spending a lot of time watching television might be relaxing after a long day, but it also leads to brain shrinkage and lower cognitive function.At a recent American Heart Association (AHA) virtual
Walk outside, what do you smell?Perhaps it’s the lovely rose bush blooming nearby. Or maybe it’s an unpleasant aroma, such as manure or air pollution. The important part is that your sniffer is still
When someone develops Alzheimer's diseases, the brain changes. These changes include more than the growth of telltale plaques. The brain’s cells themselves change, especially their membranes.These
The latest research points to a new hallmark of Alzheimer's disease that could prove to be far more promising as an early marker of the malady than the often talked about tau tangles and amyloid
Memory researchers have long been searching for early warning signs indicating the development of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. The latest scientific studies are leading them to an
In the search for a healthy body and brain many folks exercise, improve their diet and try to get more sleep.But research now shows there’s another factor they probably should pay more attention to:
For decades Alzheimer’s drugs have been developed to clear amyloid beta plaques from the brain. Yet when it comes to testing these drugs in clinical trials with Alzheimer's patients they’ve failed
For years, experts have argued over how much of a danger aluminum presents to the brain. But one thing that’s not disputed: The brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease contain elevated amounts of
I was a late convert to the wonders of NAC (N-acetyl cysteine), a well-known nutrient. Somehow I overlooked it.But now I’m a full believer and proselytizer. I got religion when I learned that NAC is
Looking for yet another reason to take care of those gums and pearly whites?More research linking gum disease with Alzheimer’s disease will have you running to your bathroom for your toothbrush and
This won’t be the first time you’ve read news here about the importance of your heart to the health of your brain. Everything from high blood pressure to clogged arteries, diabetes and stroke has
Medical authorities are sticking to their guns when it comes to advice on high fat dairy foods like cheese. They suggest replacing cheese, milk and yogurt with low or non-fat versions to protect
If the global pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that social isolation is detrimental to mental health.What’s more, it’s been particularly rough for older people, who may not be as technologically
In a Canadian pilot study published this year, a very simple but controversial therapy helped three out of four Alzheimer’s patients enjoy “remarkable improvements” in their mental abilities within
Do sexually active older people have better cognition than their more celibate counterparts?The answer seems to be a resounding yes, at least when it comes to some aspects of cognition. Here’s the
Springtime is when people everywhere start dusting off their backyard grills and filling them with burgers and hot dogs. But before you reach for a hot dog, consider new research from the University
There is no diagnostic test, objective measure or clear sign that chronic fatigue syndrome exists, still health authorities are beginning to accept that this syndrome is a real medical condition.
Low-level inflammation that glows brighter with each passing year has become a “hot” topic in scientific research. Often triggering a process known as “inflammaging”, chronic inflammation is known to
When it's working at its best, your brain, like the rest of your body, remains on a daily rhythm that synchronizes its cellular activities with the functions of your digestive tract, heart, liver,
One out of every eight adults suffers from hearing loss, and the older you get, the more likely you are to lose your hearing.Treatment is as simple as getting a hearing aid, yet millions avoid it. If
An amino acid may hold the key to treating and preventing a wide range of brain problems including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and depression.Its secret is a unique ability to energize brain cells.
Last March, as the coronavirus raged across Italy, something remarkable happened.To raise one another’s spirits in the midst of stay-at-home orders, people started breaking into song from their
One of the best ways to deal with Alzheimer’s disease?Make sure you never get it in the first place. And one of the more effective methods for lowering your risk of Alzheimer’s disease is to build up
The American Heart Association is reporting on dramatic new evidence that poor psychological health can damage your heart. The new study directly links mental and emotional trauma, stress and
Are you carrying extra weight around your waist? If so, you’ve no doubt heard how excess weight—especially around the waistline— contributes to numerous health problems, from cardiovascular disease
In Alzheimer's disease, some types of brain cells are affected very early on, while others escape the disease process until much later.What causes this difference in vulnerability?Finding the answer
When you hear the word ultrasound, you might think of a medical imaging system and a pregnant woman looking at images of her unborn baby at a doctor's office.But there's another type of ultrasound
Although neuroscientists have spent most of their research efforts investigating how the brain’s neurons affect memory, they recently discovered another type of cell in the brain that’s just as vital
Researchers in South Korea announced a scientific breakthrough at the end of last year that centers on the well-known herb, ginseng.This discovery wasn’t about a new active compound within this
Currently, the most accurate way to diagnose Alzheimer's is via an invasive and uncomfortable spinal tap or a high-cost PET scan.Clearly something much simpler and more comfortable is needed, which
It’s a medical fact that exercise helps the brain function better. But just like food, not all exercise is created equal. Scientists are now exploring exactly which types of physical activity are
Doctors agree that early diagnosis can have a positive impact on the course of almost every disease, and Alzheimer’s is no different.There’s a new study that points to the ability of artificial
Evidence has been building for years that air pollution increases the risk of heart and respiratory diseases and reduces lifespan, but much less is known about how it impacts the brain.That’s
Numerous studies show that so-called “brain games” may help people fight off dementia by improving cognitive function, and maintaining overall brain health.One review published in the journal
As I've often pointed out, many researchers and drug companies who investigate brain health have been obsessed with eliminating the misshapen proteins – called amyloid and tau – that collect in the
For many people, tinnitus is a disturbing ringing sound, while for others it’s a buzzing, hissing, chirping or even roaring in the ears.1 Not surprisingly, many tinnitus sufferers also find it hard
Scientists are a mostly conservative bunch, shunning anything theatrical.But Professor Giovanna Mallucci made an exception on a cold October morning when she stood in front of an audience of swimmers
If you want to boost your ability to learn new things and remember important information, studies show there’s one quick and easy way to do that.Researchers have found that if we take notes by hand,
Researchers have been working on blood tests, eye tests, even sense of smell tests-- all in an attempt to uncover a screening tool that reveals the very earliest signs of dementia, long before
Car sickness and other forms of motion sickness are surprisingly common, with up to one in three people highly susceptible to the condition.Being a driver rather than a passenger is protective. But
There’s an old adage that “a rolling stone gathers no moss.” Stones might not be gathering moss, but traditional healers think you should if you want to maintain good health.Over the last 2,000
We all get the weight-gain angle. It’s pretty obvious that eating a lot of processed foods like chips, sweet snacks, fast food, sweetened drinks and other types of "junk" food can expand your
It’s a vibrant green, culinary herb with a flavor all its own and a long history dating back thousands of years. The herb cilantro was grown by the ancient Egyptians and even placed inside the tomb
When our environment darkens, the pupils open up to let in more light.Pupils also dilate when you’re feeling scared or threatened, or when you’re looking at someone you’re physically attracted to.
Scientists delving into the study of ancient herbs and how they help the body have once again proven the old saying, “Everything old is new again.”And that certainly applies to an Asian orchid that’s
Do you ever get dizzy, lightheaded, or feel faint when you get up quickly after you've been sitting for a while?If you do, you're in good company. These dizzy spells are shared by about six percent
Beta amyloid plaques and tau tangles are well known hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. But over the last decade, a third hallmark has emerged – a more significant one in my opinion: the presence of a
Many people around the world take a nap at some point during the day. In hot climates taking an afternoon nap, or siesta, is a common part of the daily routine. While napping can be a healthy way to
Lately, it seems there’s been a lot of scientific study attempting to assess your risk of dementia.Recently, we reported on a Harvard University study that found some great news: dementia rates for
What happens in your mouth doesn’t stay in your mouth.Gum inflammation and infections tend to have wider effects in your body beyond only damaging your gum tissues and teeth.For instance, it’s a
Whether you’ve been personally affected by dementia or not, you might agree that it appears the rates of dementia are rising across the U.S. and have been for at least the last decade.However, the
Described by experts as "a big step forward," "a breakthrough," and "a real game changer" in the fight against dementia, a simple blood test is now able to diagnose Alzheimer's disease years before
Everybody worries when their memory slips. Misplaced car keys. Forgotten names. Problems keeping track of the bills. These moments of forgetfulness can cause a great deal of anxiety.But researchers
With the complete failure of drug trials targeted at amyloid beta plaques you would think researchers would turn their attention to more likely candidates for the prevention and treatment of
It’s a little-known fact that too much iron can be dangerous, and almost nobody needs to take it in a supplement.It’s true that iron is needed to make hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that
A sharper brain is a less inflamed brain.Inflammation is one of the brain’s worst enemies. As you age, your immune cells can get stuck in a continual state of attack mode – called chronic
Detoxification of the body is a controversial subject. Expert opinion is mixed on whether you should or shouldn’t undertake a detoxification program. We’ve written about the pros and cons of
Groundbreaking new research into Alzheimer’s disease reveals that the memories of Alzheimer's patients are not permanently lost, as once believed. They're still there, and they’re still
The latest research reveals that a little-known herb from the mint family can keep your memory in mint condition.Tests in England show that people using this herb experience "improved memory
Hypertension puts us at higher risk of heart disease and stroke. It also appears to be a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia, but the scientific evidence is mixed.In 2017, the government
The book Dress For Success became a phenomenal bestseller during the 1970s.The book describes the huge impact our clothing choices have on the people we meet both socially and professionally.Since
People may get away with eating a nutritionally poor diet for a time, but eventually the damage it causes to the body will appear as heart disease, dementia, cancer and other chronic, debilitating
For many people, video screens have become a central part of daily living.We spend an awful lot of time staring into the screens on our phones, televisions and computers. Some estimate that the
The cold sore virus, herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1), is often considered not much more than a nuisance for the estimated 67 percent of the world’s population believed to be infected.However, the latest
Trauma of the Lockdown is “Almost Beyond Comprehension”"As a doctor, I'm worried about a new epidemic - post lockdown traumatic stress disorder," says Bilal Hassam who works in the National Health
Evidence has been growing for years that exercise improves brain health, but research has mostly been carried out in younger people who are already mentally fit.What about the benefits for people
There’s no single, underlying cause of Alzheimer's disease, but many researchers point to a range of genetic and environmental factors that are scientifically confirmed to contribute to the
To keep our memories intact it's important to exercise and eat a nutritious diet.But even with the best lifestyle choices, one person may stay razor sharp in their older years, while another isn't so
The sounds of snorting, snoring and other gurgling noises mean that a person is having trouble breathing, and that they’re not getting good sleep as a result. I think most of us know this because
Fever, dry cough, fatigue: by now you’re familiar with the most common symptoms of a COVID-19 infection.Less typical ones include headache, sore throat and skin rash. By far, the most dangerous
Regular readers know this familiar brain health mantra: exercise regularly, manage stress, eat lots of different fruits and vegetables, and supplement wisely.It seems that every day there’s another
Before astronauts are allowed to travel to Mars, scientists say they need to understand the impact of extended space flight on the body.Up until now, few men or women have remained in space long
Conventional medicine has spent a fortune researching Alzheimer’s. Of course this includes trying to concoct a drug to treat Alzheimer’s, but it also includes attempting to find some kind of blood
New research in people suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) reveals that a highly addictive chemical in cigarettes might point the way to a treatment that can reverse memory loss. I’m
The results of the first trial were astonishing. Five people diagnosed with dementia -- even the two most severe cases among them -- saw their memories improve.A larger trial is hoping to confirm the
The husband of the Queen of England, Prince Philip, is known to be a blunt character with no interest in political correctness. As you can imagine, he's caused much embarrassment to the royal
There's no game to match this one for combining both mental and physical stimulation. It's also fun to play and a great social activity that almost anyone can undertake. Not to mention, this sport is
Many people see hearing loss as a normal part of aging.There’s a good reason for this. Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is one of the most common health conditions affecting older adults.
Nearly every adult has one occasionally, but one person in twenty suffers from one almost daily.In fact, headache is one of the most common complaints medical professionals report seeing in their
Are you looking forward to the time when you can putter around in the garden, amble across the golf links, take long-awaited vacations – or just sleep late?Retirement can certainly bring great
Health and wellness experts have long espoused the virtues of yoga, and for good reason.The most obvious benefits include better flexibility and mobility, as well as stress reduction.Plus, a review
The pursuit of happiness has become a cultural obsession. Of course, people have always wanted to be happy. That’s not new. But now it’s been turned into a science.Numerous TED talks advise us on how
Linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's and certain cancers, it's easy to see why olive oil - especially extra virgin - is popular with
Meditation. Biofeedback. Deep breathing. Yoga. All are extremely valuable tools for combating chronic stress.But many busy people aren’t willing to commit the time needed to master these methods. If
By now we are all somewhat familiar with the world of voice-activated technology. You can ask your smartphone to find the best highway route, remind you of appointments and even dictate a text.Plus,
The first prescription drug since 2003 to be approved for Alzheimer's is now available at pharmacies -- but not yet in the United States.Much to the surprise of the global Alzheimer's research
During the past few years, medical research has been sounding a warning about the health risks linked to cheap vegetable oils used in restaurant meals, fast foods, processed foods and even in many
While the vast majority of scientists focus their Alzheimer’s research efforts on banishing plaque from the brain, others are looking at different ways to prevent and reverse dementia.One alternative
For the last several decades medicine has made great strides using artificial devices to replace damaged organs and body parts. From artificial hips and knee joint replacements, to pacemakers and
Ancient Greeks and Romans believed dreams predicted the future. Sigmund Freud thought they expressed repressed conflicts or desires and could help people unravel the reasons for mental illness.I take
When it comes to memory-robbing brain proteins, amyloid and tau top the list.Lately, scientists are investigating how these can be removed from the brain once they've grown out of control, or better
Nearly a decade ago the American Heart Association began to promote seven targets to shoot for to achieve ideal cardiovascular health.They hoped the strategy, called “Life's Simple 7,” would reduce
Your height, eye color and wavy hair can all be linked to your DNA. However, the development of Alzheimer’s disease may not be determined by your genetics to the extent some experts think, according
The neurons in your brain need a lot of nutritional support to do their jobs, because they never stop working.They need a steady stream of nutrients to protect them from destructive oxidation and
To keep our memory and learning abilities strong we need an abundance of dendrites on our brain cells.Good sized dendritic networks indicate a healthy, well-functioning brain. Disrupted dendrite
Raymond Dalio is an American investor. Jack Dorsey is the founder of Twitter. Both have something in common -- apart from being billionaires that is.They both take time out to meditate each day.And
Long-time readers know that we strive to offer the latest research on brain health, as well as lifestyle tweaks proven to cut the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.However, in this article I’d like to
Some people have the misfortune of experiencing a rare mutation in a gene called presenelin 1, which causes early memory loss.Presenelin 1 triggers memory loss in people as young as 40 and develops
Here at Brain Health Breakthroughs, we report on useful research findings that prove how certain lifestyle habits can help to prevent, slow down or even reverse dementia.These healthy behaviors range
I don’t think a lot of people are aware of what a major factor head injuries are in making you susceptible to dementia.The public probably has some awareness of the problem because it’s now known
Even though just about everybody knows cola soft drinks are unhealthy, the focus is usually on weight gain, high blood sugar, and so forth. Few people know about the bad things they can do to your
Is aspartame hazardous to our health? This question has been hotly debated for nearly fifty years.In 2013, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted a thorough review of the artificial
[Editor’s Note: Part one of this article covered how this health secret can help you slash your Alzheimer’s risk by 65% and burn 600 calories while sitting still. To review part one, please click
Last year scientists thought they'd discovered why excessive salt intake causes memory loss. It's because salt restricts blood flow to the brain.But it turned out they were wrong. True, it does
"I feel a certain sense of comfort knowing there are factors I can control that can contribute to the decreased risk of me getting Alzheimer’s.”That's what Stephen Chambers, a 48-year-old physical
Your thinking may slow down as you get older, but just as exercise can work wonders for your physical health, a regular workout can boost your brain, too.In fact, the latest research reveals mental
If you want a brain that quickly learns new information, remembers things easily and helps you cope with the problems of daily life, you need a well-connected brain.What do I mean by that?I mean the
Over the years you’ve no doubt heard your doctor explain how high blood pressure, or hypertension, increases your risk of heart attack, stroke and heart failure, and can damage organs like the
The performance of the United States in the 2019 Rugby World Cup is something to quickly forget, having lost all four games in the group stages.On the other hand, we may have fond memories of Tiger
If you'd like your brain to function more effectively—and who wouldn’t?— I've got some good news for you.There's an easy, enjoyable, affordable, at-home way to improve memory and cognition. Even
Think about what you encounter when you walk along the beach: The soothing sound of waves crashing into the shore. Sea birds darting back and forth. A comforting ocean breeze and the salty smell of
Years ago, I reported on the case of the songwriter Kris Kristofferson who thought his mind and memory were being wiped out by Alzheimer’s disease when, in actuality, it was the result of an
Frequent readers of this site know that throughout the years I’ve shared piles of evidence linking a healthy, nutrient-rich diet with optimal brain function.But I recently discovered there’s one
Suffer a poor night's sleep and you may find yourself nodding off during the day -- you might even feel the urge to take an afternoon nap.But if daytime napping becomes excessive, especially in the
A single symptom affects a high proportion of patients with all forms of dementia.In fact, it's been described as the most common neuropsychiatric symptom of dementia, with a bigger impact on
It's been a major concern for the last 60 years.But as yet, we still don't know whether surgery harms the brain. And I’m not just talking about brain operations – I mean any kind of surgery. Most of
As if they weren’t troublesome enough, migraines – those crippling, high-octane headaches – may also raise your risk of cognitive decline.Canadian researchers have found a link between migraines and
What's good for the heart is good for the brain.If we want to stay mentally sharp, we need to give the cardiovascular system a regular workout. Generally, aerobic exercise is the go-to option:
Almost two out of three Americans with Alzheimer's disease are women, yet we only have some dubious theories to explain why.Is it caused by genetics? Differences in brain anatomy? Hormones? All of
Some of the most powerful nutrients yet discovered for ensuring a sharper, stronger memory are made naturally by your own body.I’m talking about nutrients like enzymes and vitamin D. Recently,
The advice from sleep experts couldn't be clearer. If you have trouble sleeping, seek help. Ignoring the problem increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attack, stroke and
"When you are just getting out and interacting with people, you are using your brain a lot." So says Claudia Kawas, Professor of Neurology at the University of California, Irvine.She strongly
A nutrient that gets a lot of attention for slowing down aging is now also being recognized for the good things it does for your brain and mood.Those good things include improving memory, protecting
If you know you should lose weight, but haven’t quite summoned up the motivation to get the job done, today’s article may give you the extra push you need.In a large observational study,1researchers
"Avoid them like crazy," was a recommendation I gave three years ago. We've had to wait a while, but the lead author of an important new study now says the same thing.Okay, she didn't put it quite as
Hearing loss has emerged as an important risk factor for dementia.Compared to people with normal hearing, many studies have found those with a declining ability to hear have an increased risk of
Women generally live longer than men. And it used to be thought their longevity was the reason they developed Alzheimer’s disease more often than men. They simply lived longer. Men died sooner, from
The last time you faced a big challenge like interviewing for a job or giving a presentation, did you try to get yourself stoked with a little pep talk?Good idea.Many of us try to psych ourselves up
Your brain needs to be protected from itself.That’s because your brain is a workaholic, always chugging along overtime, relaying messages from neuron to neuron. Those messages are whirling around you
The link between type 2 diabetes, impaired brain health and cognitive decline is so well established that some doctors call Alzheimer's disease “type 3 diabetes.”But don’t be too sure the risk of
If you are a frequent reader of this publication, you’ve seen articles urging you to learn a new skill to keep your brain young. The benefits are huge, especially for working memory. Learning a new
At one time or another -- hopefully now in the past -- you probably gorged on a candy bar, stuffed yourself with ice cream, or downed a fizzy drink to give yourself a pick-me-up and boost your
When it comes to treating somebody who is just beginning to suffer Alzheimer’s disease, the conventional medicine folks have a big problem.They don’t know how the disease starts. So they can’t catch
Three decades ago, pharmacist and cancer researcher Ross Pelton, PhD, described a certain combination of two ingredients as "the most potent memory enhancing therapy yet discovered."Today, with a few
Researchers have not been very successful at deciphering exactly how Alzheimer’s disease begins its destructive course through the brain.When the destruction of brain tissue becomes extensive, it’s
The internet is changing how we live, work, shop and interact with each other. There are many positive aspects to this. But it also comes with drawbacks.In the first major review of the way the
The brain may not be a muscle, but many scientists believe you can exercise it and train it to stay in better shape much the same way.The most familiar form of this theory is that working crossword
In these pages we’ve let you know that sage, cinnamon, turmeric, and saffron are all powerful brain boosters. Sage is so potent, it’s an ingredient in a brain supplement from our sister company,
You’re notified of a big win on the lottery. Swept away by an internet romance. Excited to receive a phone call from a grandchild whose voice doesn’t sound quite right – and who urgently needs
If you’re a fan of caffeine like me, you’re well aware of its power to enhance cognition. It obviously gives you energy, but that’s not what I’m talking about. Beyond all the get-up-and-go, I find
Obese middle-aged men and women are at greater risk of cognitive decline and dementia. That much is known.But this link is not well established among obese seniors. And in fact, some studies even
In the first century AD, a man named Scribonius Largus was the court physician to the emperor of Rome. Among other things in his medical bag of tricks, he had a novel method for relieving
For one man, his mother's dementia was so distressing he decided to stop visiting her at the care home she was staying in.Yet only a short time later he was seeing her regularly. What made the
A definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's is hard to obtain before death because only then can brain cells be scrutinized closely under the microscope.So in living patients, doctors have to rely on
Before you have any kind of surgery, especially if you are middle-aged or older, you need to be aware of the brain damage that often results from general anesthesia – the kind where you lose
In looking into the importance of a vitamin you need to keep your brain and nerve tissue healthy, I’ve had to wonder – when is a widespread lack of a nutrient a national emergency?Because every time
First, a confession: This headline is a teeny bit misleading. I don’t recommend beer for dementia prevention. But a common beer ingredient – hops – does exactly that. And it’s available as a
In the last few years it seems like it’s been accepted that somebody is truly dead and beyond hope when they’re “brain dead.” It’s broadly defined as a state when brain activity has apparently
Used for over three thousand years for conditions ranging from hemorrhoids to snake bites, modern scientists have confirmed the healing properties of garlic. This intense, aromatic, and flavorful
If you’re looking for a better memory and a sharper edge to your intellectual abilities, an easy, five-minute exercise may do the trick.According to research at the University of Colorado at Boulder,
If you’re like me, when you think about dessert, you probably consider it a guilty pleasure, not a healthy option.But at least many desserts contain an appealing spice that stimulates the brain as
Botanically, it's closer to an animal than a plant. Some types glow in the dark, others are hallucinogenic, many are poisonous.Fortunately, the safe, edible variety is not only chock full of
If you’re an avid follower of the research into improving brain health, you’ve probably heard about the benefits of fasting or near-fasting – when you eat a very limited amount of food during a
The birth, growth and development of new brain cells - neurogenesis - happens throughout life. Or does it? This has been one of the liveliest debates among neuroscientists for over half a century.If
In Issue #583 I warned about the brain dangers of BMAA, a toxin produced by cyanobacteria. These are very common microbes found in algae blooms in lakes and oceanic red tides – and recently linked to
It's FDA-approved for major depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and migraine headaches. I’ve also been told that similar devices can relieve joint and muscle pain almost anywhere in the
Wouldn't it be wonderful if there was an easy, low cost, non-invasive way of reversing Alzheimer’s – one that didn’t involve turning your life upside down?Well, perhaps there is. A new study by MIT
It’s frustrating when you draw a blank while trying to remember something you need to recall -- now.But it happens to everyone. The name of someone you just ran into on the street ... where you left
A plant that has been used for generations to treat a wide range of health conditions is now known to contain a powerful compound that protects the brain.This remarkable plant chemical not only
Behind almost all Alzheimer's drug research is the idea that you need to clear away the build-up of brain plaques (beta-amyloid proteins) and stop the development of new ones.It’s a dubious theory.As
For over 25 years scientists have speculated that watching television can contribute to dementia. And yet in all this time, the idea hasn't been explored in any detail.Actually, concerns about TV
Over and over again, mainstream medicine offers health advice that is worse than useless – it can be downright dangerous.And nowhere does the nonsense get any worse than when it comes to salt.How
If you are a woman, and the same age as me, I've got some good news for you. Your brain is nearly four years younger than mine.Actually, it doesn't matter what age you are. Once adulthood begins, a
More than 500 species of bacteria live in the mouth, but there's one that can turn nasty, corroding the gums and decaying the teeth. It's called Porphyromonas gingivalis.What's more alarming, this
One of the paradoxes of brain health is that while your body can make its own brain and memory-boosting chemicals, it often won’t if you don’t have the right lifestyle habits.But that’s the way the
I’ve been writing alternative health newsletters for about 12 years now, and Brain Health Breakthroughs specifically for nearly six years.My aim is to give information the average person will
“Alzheimer’s is the most under-recognized threat.” -Dr. David Satcher, former U.S. Surgeon General and former Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Finally, a cause that
Imagine you could do something in your 50s to cut your risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s… by an extraordinary 88%.Well a study published recently says you can!Here’s the amazing discovery.
Many nutrients play their part in lowering the risk of Alzheimer's, but one in particular stands out in importance. Yet only one American adult out of every nine meets the recommended “Adequate
Many older adults are trying to slow down memory and cognitive loss by stimulating their brains with teasers, crossword puzzles, or Sudoku. Some even take up cognitive training programs.One such lady
According to current estimates, over 40 million1 Americans suffer from anxiety at some point in their lives, making it the most common mental illness in the United States – even more common than
Exercise is an effective tool to ward off Alzheimer's. You probably won’t hear it from your conventional doctor, but it’s widely known among those of us who have looked into the burgeoning field of
To feel valued and wanted and to make a contribution to others is a basic human need. But after people retire, the loss of social connections can harm the mind and body.There's a simple answer to
If you want your brain to be at its best from now until a ripe old age, there’s one crucial nutrient that may be the most vital. For years everyone – including me – has thought of it as an eye
Comedian Mike Birbiglia nearly died when he jumped out of a hotel window. Retired grocer Donald Dorff slammed hard into his bedroom dresser. Brian Thomas from Wales strangled his wife to death.These
To keep your memory and intellect going strong, follow the old maxim “Use it or lose it.” It’s good advice, and repeated often in these pages.You can’t go wrong when you keep your brain fine-tuned by
A leading UK neuroscientist has issued a warning that neurosurgical instruments could be contaminated. He also advises monitoring blood donated by people over 60 years of age.His concerns center on
In their search for a therapy that can stave off brain issues like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s, researchers have performed a staggering variety of tests, scans, examinations and experiments
The industry has thrived in the state of Oregon for over a century.Grown in 800 orchards -- many of which have been farmed by the same family for generations – and covering 70,000 acres, the state
It's natural to assume medical tests are valid and precise. But in reality, few meet these criteria.Even if the test is accurate, mistakes can arise in the way it was executed, in calibration of
More than 50 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease worldwide. What’s more, experts predict that these numbers will only increase in coming years.In spite of these troubling statistics,
I’m sure that if you’ve watched a sporting event on TV or gone to a game, you’ve seen the fans in the stands do “the wave” – standing up and sitting down in a coordinated way that sends a wave around
The link between diabetes and all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's, is now well established.The greater the blood sugar instability, the higher the risk for dementia, with type 1
Your doctor completes the short procedure and gives you the unwelcome news: You are at high risk of developing a devastating neurological disease ten years down the road.This scenario could soon
Every year, companies in the US produce 100 billion pounds of plastic for all kinds of products and packaging. But a toxic substance -- bisphenol A (BPA), described as a “plasticizer” – is frequently
In the 1990s, the "amyloid hypothesis" provided a new and simple explanation for the cause of Alzheimer's disease. The idea was that beta-amyloid proteins build up to form plaques that damage brain
From ‘you’re as young as you feel’ to ‘age is just a number,’ our culture provides us with a wealth of adages urging us to take a positive attitude toward aging.Perhaps these old chestnuts sound
Researchers at the University of Utah think they may have found a way that might – just might – slow the progress of Alzheimer’s disease – no drugs, foods or supplements required.The non-invasive
Any trip to the hospital can stress you out. The hubbub of people constantly in motion. The noises of the medical machinery. Anxiety about your health problems...And when you’re hospitalized you
Over the next three decades the number of US adults with cataracts is expected to double from 25 to 50 million. It's the reason one in five lose their sight and one in seven suffer moderate to severe
You may know that it’s harder to hold onto lean muscle mass as you age – a condition of aging called sarcopenia. In fact, the average person loses 30% of their muscle by the time they reach 60!While
It's a common health condition affecting one in six Americans. If you’re over age 65, the incidence rises to one in four. And after age 75, half of us suffer from a loss of this important faculty.The
With brain diseases like Alzheimer's, maybe it's time to start thinking outside the box.While the brain is the obvious go-to place to look for the cause, it's not the only body part to consider.
You don’t need me to tell you that loud noise and loud music can destroy your hearing. That’s very well-known.But just as worrying – you have another body part that is vulnerable to damage from these
The idea first came to poet Gary Glazner whilst working as a florist in 2003.Delivering bouquets of flowers to a nursing home and seeing the residents' faces light up gave him the inspiration to help
A few weeks ago (Issue #534) I wrote about the role infections play in Alzheimer’s disease. Much of the focus of that article was on herpes viruses.The herpes-dementia link is an important enough
Grown in the warm, marshy wetlands of India, Pakistan and other Asian countries, this creeping herb has been prescribed by traditional Ayurvedic (Indian) health practitioners for thousands of
In the field of Alzheimer’s research, it’s a million-dollar question whether an infection is the root cause of Alzheimer’s disease.When I say “million-dollar question” I mean it literally. Leslie
Environmental scientist Barbara Maher was clearly surprised and alarmed by the results of a study she led. She described the findings as "dreadfully shocking."She said it was “a discovery finding,
Poems often proclaim the eyes to be a direct window to the soul.Medical researchers are more prosaic, but they make much the same point without the poetry. We now understand that the eyes provide a
It's painless, it doesn't show any outward symptoms you’d notice, and the first sign you’ve got this problem is often a fracture of the hip, wrist or spine.As you might have guessed from that hint,
Conventional medicine has made some amazing strides in treating heart disease – bypass surgery, angioplasty and all kinds of wonder drugs have succeeded in reducing the risk of heart attack or
You’d think that if a food additive has been proven capable of both wrecking your physical health and endangering your brain, we’d all avoid it like it was poison.But we don’t. It remains one of the
The temptation to multi-task often seems irresistible.For instance, our cellphones continually call out to us with notifications of text messages, Facebook postings, new emails, and more.Too often,
Super-agers – people of advanced age who have hung onto their mental capacity -- are known to suffer much the same atrophy and degenerative changes seen in people with advanced Alzheimer's.How can
If you’re a regular reader here, you know about the unique power of frequent exercise, even a daily walk. I’ve called it the world’s most powerful medicine.It keeps us healthy and young. And as I’ve
What have all these symptoms got in common?Chest pain, stomach upset, insomnia, anxiety, anger, depression, overeating, drug abuse and social withdrawal.If you answered stress, you got it right with
One of your brain’s biggest enemies is oxidative stress – the buildup of toxic molecules called free radicals that can oxidize and destroy neurons and the network connections among brain cells. When
One of the good things about brain health is that the main things you need are inexpensive or even free.For example, you've got to have two simple vitamins that offer priceless protection from a
In the midst of our junk-food-addled, sleep-deprived, over-medicated culture, there exists at least one popular trend that’s good for our brains: The near-death of the necktie.The traditional suit
What was her secret?It's not only that neurobiologist Rita Levi-Montalcini lived to the age of 103, the only Nobel prize winner who ever achieved that distinction.It's that she was still engaged in
If you want to keep your brain strong enough to resist Alzheimer’s disease and fight back against other memory-robbing illnesses, you need to strengthen one muscle in particular that the brain
"This is a major breakthrough in the management of Alzheimer's disease." So states Professor John Nolan, lead scientist in a new human trial.He wasn’t talking about a new drug. He was talking about a
Over a century ago, Dr. William Howard Hay proposed that meals heavy in proteins and carbohydrates upset the digestive system and lead to weight gain.The Hay (food combining) Diet still has loyal
When I first saw Barbara’s story, I was amazed. I had never heard of a person in the final stages of advanced Alzheimer’s disease improve their symptoms thanks to a mainstream medical treatment. And
Changing a bad habit can be tough. Whether you’re dealing with overeating, drug addiction, obsessive surfing on the Internet or some other activity you’d prefer to stop, good intentions are often not
“A healthy mind in a healthy body” is a proverb coined by the ancient Greeks sometime around 600 BC, although the Latin version -- “mens sana in corpore sano” -- is more familiar to moderns.This old
If you take a prescription drug, its side effects could endanger your mental well-being and brain health.And chances are your healthcare provider hasn’t warned you about that possibility -- even
To avoid dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions, there are two (or maybe three) daily tasks you can do that will boost your chances of success.That's because these activities stimulate the
Don’t tell me you thought you only had one brain.Although the brain that sits inside the skull gets most of our attention when we think about our memory and cognition, many medical researchers
If you’ve read anything about alternative medicine in the last 20 years, you’ve probably heard the main reason to eat fish is the omega 3 fatty acids, found at especially high levels in oily fish
A few years ago, there were a lot of news stories about the die-off of bee colonies. I haven’t seen anything lately – the media circus moves on – but if you’re concerned about your brain health,
Added to salads or smoothies, its green, creamy texture is high in fiber and chock-full of vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and healthy fats.One important carotenoid found in this nutrient-dense
I'm sure you've had that frustrating feeling of trying to call a word or name to mind but feel like it's just out of reach – on the tip of your tongue.But now researchers believe they've located the
Last year, three anthropologists from New York published research which revealed that brain size of non-human primates is predicted by diet.Whether this finding applies to humans is unknown, but if
Switzerland leads the world, consuming almost 20 pounds per person annually. The US trails in 9th place. We only munch our way through a mere 9½ pounds.Then again, the Swiss are renowned for their
Strange as it may seem, less than half your body is human.57% of the cells in you body are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and a type of single-celled microorganism you've probably never heard of, called
Much of the research into Alzheimer's disease has focused on neurons - the nerve cells in the brain that transmit the electrochemical impulses that are associated with thinking and memory.But what if
It’s always been obvious that inhaling air pollution can hurt your heart and lungs. But now researchers are catching on to the fact that the brain and nervous system can be harmed, too.And the damage
It’s been a long time since we’ve seen any kind of breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research.That’s why this recent news caught my attention. While it’s not a cure, it shows promising ways we can help
Fresh, frozen, canned or dried; it doesn't matter. Just make sure you include at least 14 ounces in your diet every day.That's the message of Fruits & Veggies - More Matters®. This initiative was
Twice as many women as men get Alzheimer’s disease.And it’s not just because women usually live longer than men.Researchers have discovered that as women age, metabolic changes in their brains –
Video game companies and movie makers have been the most enthusiastic supporters of developing virtual reality goggles. If you’re not familiar with these techno-gadgets, they are generally
20 years ago, in a landmark article, researchers concluded that the human brain retains the potential for self-renewal throughout life.Before this, scientists believed the adult brain was hard-wired
If you want an excuse to be lazy while improving your memory at the same time, I've got some good news for you.As a powerful aid to remembering something that has just occurred, all you need to do is
About 11% of people over age 65 are suffering from dementia. And for people over 85, the figure grows to a staggering 32% -- almost one-third.1Today we’ll look at an intriguing theory that may go a
Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher slept only four or five hours a night, and were proud of it. So is Donald Trump, who seems to wear it like a badge of honor.But both the former president and prime
Stress is a brain killer. It can jumble your thoughts, make it harder to learn new information, and blur your memory.And as researchers keep delving into the mysteries about how stress can warp
Did you know the position you sleep in may have a significant effect on how well your brain cleans itself out at night, and thereby protects your neurological health?We’ve talked in these pages about
If you’ve been indulging in sweet squash this winter, like acorn, butternut, or sugar pumpkin, you made a good choice for your overall health. You may even have reduced your risk of dementia.Why?
It decreases blood pressure, boosts athletic performance and improves cognitive function, but a lot of people just don’t like beetroot juice.This was demonstrated in a trial of 14 participants where
Some people report that when they get sick with a cold or the flu, it often feels like their brain stops in its tracks. They can’t do any deep thinking, and if they have to make difficult decisions
If you find yourself feeling better the last couple of weeks, it could be because spring is just around the corner. During the winter months many people suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
If there’s one piece of diet advice I feel completely confident in giving, it’s “Eat nuts.”To start with, they’re a wonderful high-fat snack to replace the carbohydrates nearly everyone eats too much
One American in seven takes part in this relaxing yet challenging activity.From the comfort of your armchair it involves nothing more than turning to the back of your daily newspaper with a pen or
I'm sure you've received the message loud and clear by now that too much salt is bad for you. Medical authorities tell us it pushes up blood pressure, thereby contributing to heart attacks and
Considering it’s a universal human activity, it's surprising how little research has been conducted on the relationship between sex and the brain.To fill the void, several researchers from the UK
Curcumin is thought to be responsible for most of turmeric's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant dividends - making it a first choice for many suffering with arthritis. But it does more: The curcumin
There’s a protein that produces huge benefits for the brain. This assertion is a fact; it’s been proven.Study after study shows this substance – brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) – keeps the
Drug companies have been running in circles and spending fortunes to develop drugs for Alzheimer's disease. Basically, none of them have worked. But researchers at Ohio State have come up with a
Your brain cells require specialized types of cell membranes to keep your memory functioning.And each of those membranes requires a particular type of substance that gives it the right structure and
Your brain relies on a dependable, sufficient blood supply to keep it operating at its best. And there's a venerable herb that has been shown to help keep that blood supply flowing.It's been used
Back when I was a kid, "muscle head" was a term of derision applied to weight-lifters, and maybe the occasional football player, a class of people thought to be a bit dimwitted.Weight-lifters may get
A syndrome called "sugar coma" has achieved the status of urban myth. The phrase describes the cognitive price people supposedly pay if they eat too much sugar in a short period of time. The cause
Inflammation is a major factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease.Instead of being a short-term protective response initiated by the immune system to ward off pathogens, inflammation can turn
If your cellphone dominates your life – if, like most people, you carry it everywhere and you check it continually – this little device could be making significant changes inside your
Every 40 seconds someone in the US has a stroke, which makes it one of the leading causes of long-term disability.1 Chances are pretty high that someone you know has been disabled by one.But there’s
The Answer May Indicate if You’ll Get Alzheimer’s. The evidence just keeps on growing.Previous research groups revealed this mineral can lower rates of crime, suicide, homicide, drug-dependency,
There’s one antioxidant that’s so important in helping boost the brain’s health, many enthusiasts call it a “universal antioxidant.” In fact, more than 20 years ago this particular supplement was one
If you could figure out your chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease, would you want to know?Well, it won’t be long before you’ll have to make up your mind about finding out.In fact, the future is
Many people take iron supplements to defend against iron-deficiency anemia, a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells.This kind of anemia is caused by factors like poor diet,
We touched on the dangers of artificial sweeteners, particularly in diet sodas, back in Issue #301…And since that time diet soda consumption in the United States has continued to increase. Among
In the last issue we mentioned a major trial called the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment (FINGER).The study was designed to see if it was possible to lower the
They cost billions, yet have ended in almost total failure.244 clinical trials were conducted to test new drugs for Alzheimer's between 2002 and 2012, yet only one of the pharmaceuticals showed any
A year or so ago I reported on a hormone made by the body that helps neurons stay healthier and acts to keep your intellectual abilities at a higher level with the passing years.Now comes more good
Deep in your brain is a small, wishbone-shaped cluster of nerve cell connections that makes a big difference in how well your brain and memory function.You’ve probably never heard about this part of
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, three PhD students at the University of Iowa were developing drugs to combat cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease.They started to question the
I hear a great deal about the medical benefits of marijuana these days, mostly because our group also publishes information about alternative cancer treatments. When it comes to cancer, marijuana has
Ancient East Asian treatments for all kinds of conditions have made their way into Europe and the Americas as complementary practices. One of the first to do so was acupuncture. It made a big splash
A while back, several companies designed special computerized mental exercises that were supposed to be good for training the brain. Although heavily marketed, these programs were disappointing and
Social interaction is a basic human need. Studies have shown infants who don’t receive touching and involvement with others often fail to thrive, and even die young.And the world’s jailers have
Spending a lot of time in noisy environments, such as working in a loud factory or living by major roadways or airports, can cause long-term damage to your hearing.This fact is pretty well known.But
Parkinson’s disease, like Alzheimer’s disease, is caused at least in part by tangled proteins that steadily build up on neurons.In Parkinson’s disease these clumps are called Lewy bodies. They
Its reported health benefits include reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, deterring weight gain, lowering the risks of colon cancer, stroke and cardiovascular diseases, and eliminating waste and
It takes a lot to get the goat of scientists.Yet dozens became so exasperated by vendors claiming their online games can improve memory and prevent Alzheimer's, they collectively signed a statement
Earlier this year, Gwyneth Paltrow came under fire when her lifestyle website, Goop, warned against eating cucumbers, saying they caused dementia.As it turns out, there was some truth to her
Chuck Norris is suing his wife’s doctors for exposing her to a toxic metal during a medical scan.Researchers warn that this toxic metal, used in taking diagnostic images of the body, may enter the
Research shows that many Americans have brains that are shrinking at an alarming rate. And that shrinkage is a dangerous sign: It means you are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease and memory
Vitamin C more or less started the whole current wave of alternative health more than 50 years ago when Linus Pauling, a Nobel Prize winner, first told the world this vitamin could treat the common
Relationship advice columnist Wendy Atterberry believes there are 15 issues every couple must discuss before tying the knot.As well as more obvious ones concerning children and career plans, they
Parkinson’s disease is characterized by tremors, loss of balance and decreased mobility. It affects roughly one million people in the United States. It’s not a fatal disease, but as it progresses it
I wonder what Presbyterian minister Job Orton would have made of the dramatic growth in the sales of standing desks.220 years ago, he wrote, “A sedentary life may be injurious. It must therefore be
About 90 percent of American men and 96 percent of women don’t get enough vitamin E in their food or supplements. That’s bad news, because new research shows it’s essential for preventing memory
After reviewing hundreds of studies, a number of researchers have concluded that light to moderate alcohol intake, particularly red wine, lowers the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.But before
The root of an exotic orchid has been used for thousands of years in China to relieve pain, control convulsions and treat vertigo. Now, in modern scientific studies, it has demonstrated remarkable
Devices that transmit continuous electrical impulses are well known to people fitted with pacemakers, and to patients with Parkinson's disease for whom such gadgets help reduce tremors.There is no
For quite a while, medical researchers have explored all the ways a wonderfully helpful food acts as preventive medicine for the brain, keeping memory problems at bay.As a result, people whose
If you catch sight of a beautiful flower, you'll want to take a closer look. Spot a rattlesnake, and you'll back away fast. It's natural to move towards pleasure and away from anything that could
Only introduced to the American public 20 years ago, this supplement was first tested in Italy as a treatment for schizophrenia in the 1970s. But while doing so, doctors noticed it also lifted the
In our last issue, I covered some fascinating research that shows regular (and moderate) Champagne drinking is good for the brain. At the same time, I cautioned that daily drinking still doesn’t seem
All Champagne is sparkling white wine, but not all sparkling white wine is Champagne. According to European law, to be labeled a true Champagne, the bubbly must be bottled within 100 miles of the
After all the money that’s been poured into research on Alzheimer’s, much about the disease remains controversial or just totally mystifying to researchers. And yet important progress is being made,
A balm is a preparation that heals or soothes.And there’s an ancient balm with a long history that not only soothes your anxious brain, but may also be able to preserve your ability to think straight
Every 40 seconds somebody in the US suffers a stroke. And due to stroke’s devastating consequences, someone dies of one every four minutes.But now researchers from the UK have proved that a chemical
The vegetables in the genus Allium are full of medicinal properties and have been used as such for thousands of years. This group of foods includes leeks, onions, scallions, shallots, and
We know that eating a variety of organic fruits and vegetables promotes good health…We also know spending time in nature, whether it’s walking through green spaces or spending time in the garden, can
The next time you’re feeling really, really hungry, don’t be too quick to treat yourself to a snack.It turns out that the hormone behind that famished feeling is doing good things for your brain.By
Saved in the nick of time, vacationers in Utah stop their caravan just as it was about to plunge off a cliff.Three women are rescued when their hired SUV submerges in a lake in Bellevue, Seattle.A
Speaking may not seem like anything special. It's something we all do every day. But it's not just any old chatter that can preserve our memories. It's a special kind.Researchers have been fascinated
Your kidneys are fist-sized organs that filter toxins out of your blood and release hormones, red blood cells and Vitamin D into it.Obviously, kidney health is essential to overall health…But what’s
This type of beverage comes in countless flavors and goes by many names...You can find it in every restaurant, fast food chain and grocery store in the country… and about 48% of all Americans
A year ago, 31 senior scientists presented "incontrovertible evidence" that inflammation-creating infections were a key cause of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.Now, another whole category of
To most folks, a fried or grilled piece of meat smells great when it’s cooking and tastes wonderful when you eat it.But your brain isn’t as pleased as your taste buds when you chow down on those
After investigating a crucial nutrient that contributes to a better memory, researchers are still largely in the dark on how it influences neurons as we get older.But there's one thing the scientists
Inspired by the cuisine of people in Spain, Greece, Southern France and Italy, many health experts have strongly endorsed the Mediterranean diet in recent years.That's because this way of eating
Ancient East Asian treatments for all kinds of conditions have made their way into Europe and the Americas as complementary practices. One of the first to do so was acupuncture. It made a big splash
The theory that brain plaques cause Alzheimer’s disease may be on its last legs. Readers who watched our “Awakening from Alzheimer’s” video interviews last autumn already know the plaque theory is
Many scientists today see Alzheimer's as a brain-specific form of diabetes.Taking a blood test to see how your body deals with sugar should be a valuable indicator, not just of diabetes risk, but of
Longtime readers of this newsletter know there are many recommended ways to reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.These include reading fiction, being social,
They looked at the US diet, the Mediterranean diet, vegetarian diets. They looked at different calorie intakes.Whatever the diet or the amount of food Americans consume, the scientists sitting on the
It came as quite a revelation.It was sparked by the visit of a singer to entertain dementia patients at a rest home in Auckland, New Zealand.Yvonne Kleyn, the home's care manager, noticed that the
"These findings are not just significant, they're remarkable," enthused David Rollo, Ph.D., of McMaster University in Ontario, Canada.In 2013, he and his research team demonstrated that a specially
Breathing is a simple activity that we do thousands of times a day.But medical research show the way you breathe can affect your memory and also influence your heart and other organs. Now, there are
Rogue proteins called amyloid beta and tau are often named as the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. If you’ve been around the dementia biz for more than a week you’ve heard about amyloid beta and tau
Many people now consume probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt and in supplements, because scientific research confirms they improve digestion, reduce IBS symptoms and boost immunity.But
It improves the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of a heart attack, relieves pain, improves sleep and eases stress.That’s quite a collection of benefits for one activity. Better
If you aren’t eating organic food now, you will at least consider it after you read this.The story I’m going to tell you sounds like the plot to a TV show.In the 1940s, researchers at
As air pollution increases so do the number of road accidents. The reason? Pollution has an impact on the brain, affecting drivers' ability to concentrate and focus.That was the surprising conclusion
The Duchess of Windsor famously said, “You can never be too rich or too thin.” Well, it seems maybe you can. . .To stay healthy, one of the things you always hear about is to keep your weight in
Defeating Alzheimer’s disease is a complicated puzzle, but scientists have recently cracked one more piece of the AD code. And it might be one of the easiest ways ever to protect yourself from memory
What do you think of when you picture researchers hard at work trying to find possible cures and treatments for Alzheimer’s? Powerful drugs with harmful side effects? Exotic herbs growing on remote
There’s no question that testosterone can be a great help to the aging brain and the aging body. It can boost muscle strength, help brain power, and even decrease chronic pain.But is it safe to use?
Doctors generally can tell if a person has advanced dementia. The symptoms are pretty obvious. But as a rule they can’t tell if it’s the Alzheimer’s form of dementia without an expensive, highly
Research suggests a history of heavy drinking, especially in middle-aged folks, could contribute to memory loss in later years. It may even contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.And
Over 2000 years ago Hippocrates, the “Father of Western Medicine” said that all disease begins in the gut.One of the founders of immunology in the 19th century, Élie Metchnikoff, theorized that
How much will your brain shrink this year?Your brain shrinks with the passing years – a smaller brain is an inevitable result of aging.But some brains shrink faster than others. The trick to keeping
Someone once observed that the best drugstore is the one located inside your body. When your body manufactures its own natural health-boosting compounds, you benefit from substances that prescription
It’s been nicknamed “the forgotten vitamin”.Yes, when it comes to vitamins, most of us only know our alphabet from A to E. But there’s another one that lies beyond: Vitamin K.Even people who know
At one time or another you’ve probably said, “I was so worried I thought I was going to lose my mind” – or words to that effect.It turns out those words may be all too true, because chronic anxiety
If you feel like a large part of your life is out of balance, your waistline is too big, your thinking and memory are not as sharp as you’d like, and your foods are unsatisfying, some researchers
If there was one food that could increase good cholesterol, provide 13 essential vitamins and minerals, and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes … while building muscle, making you feel full and
If you believe the marketing hype, a certain calorie-free ingredient added to soft drinks can help you lose weight. But the truth about this chemical additive is less reassuring.Researchers have
Researchers have been trying to home in on the very best blood test for diagnosing the disease.
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