Brain Health Network - Is Stress an Invaluable Asset for the Brain?
On 31st July 2016, the most dangerous stunt ever attempted was shown live on US TV. Forty two year-old skydiver Luke Aikins leapt out of an aircraft at 25,000 feet, landed and walked away, without a parachute. After a terrifying two-minute freefall, he landed just off-centre in a 100-by-100 foot net at the Big Sky movie ranch in California. Was there any point to this alarmingly stressful stunt, other than sheer daredevilry? The answer to that is, ‘yes’.
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The Importance of Sleep: Why Less Than 6 Hours of Sleep May Raise Your Risk of Dementia
The Importance of Sleep: Why Less Than 6 Hours of Sleep May Raise Your Risk of Dementia
Sleep is one of the most important functions for human survival. Without it, we cannot function properly let alone perform efficiently.
When we sleep, the glymphatic system is engaged. Think of this as a type of ‘plumbing’ system for the brain that works by detoxifying - it removes the buildup of waste products and plaque, allowing you to have a clean, fresh start when you wake up in the morning. This is why we so often feel revitalised after a good night’s sleep. At the same time as eliminating these toxins, sleep filters out unnecessary connections while enforcing new neural pathways to solidify memory, experience and emotions, all the while preserving your brain health...
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BRAIN HEALTH NETWORK
Brain Health Network's mission is to help people keep their brain healthy as they age - lowering the risk of neurodegeneration, feeling good, and staying sharp.
There is a widespread lack of awareness around the ever-increasing recent evidence showing that it is possible to significantly lower risk, as well as improve day-to-day cognitive function (staying sharp), by maintaining a healthy brain through simple lifestyle factors.
At Brain Health Network, we work with leading researchers and academics around the world to help explain their findings and recommendations related to brain health in a clear and understandable way, and to help people make sustainable lifestyle change through our product and service offerings.
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Brain Health Network - Professor James Goodwin Declares War on the Chair
DECLARING WAR ON THE CHAIR!
In 2004, two demographers, Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain, identified an obscure region in Sardinia as the part of the world with the most centenarians. Not satisfied with a single find, they went on to discover another 4 areas. They were Okinawa, Loma Linda (California), Costa Rica and Icaria, a Greek island. These areas, now called the Blue Zones, shared 9 common lifestyle features. One of them was moderate, regular and prolonged daily physical activity. As a way of life.
But there is another must-know secret that science has revealed and that we must act upon. Being active is not enough - for the mind, brain, or body, keep reading as Professor James Goodwin explains why we must Declare War On The Chair.
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The Brain Health Method - How Can Essential Oils Impact Your Brain Health
The Brain Health Method - How Can Essential Oils Impact Your Brain Health
Nick Carter, a Kentucky hound, was the greatest tracker in history, with a record in excess of 600 successful arrests. Born in 1899, he began a partnership with Captain G V Mullikin of Lexington, Kentucky which led to more than 150 criminal convictions. He was a bloodhound, a breed which holds the ultimate record for tracking: the location of a missing family in Oregon after more than 300 hours of their disappearance, a record held since 1954.
But ‘sniffing’ is more than just smell, it is critical for survival in all mammals – for finding and acquiring food and water, detecting predators or other threats, contributing to social interaction and for reproduction.
So, we could ask - can the same be said of us humans?
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Brain Health Network - What are Electrolytes and How Can they Benefit your Brain Health?
Brain Health Network - What are Electrolytes and How Can they Benefit your Brain Health?
In the realm of health and wellness, the term “electrolytes” often sparks images of sports drinks and post-workout recovery. But beyond their association with physical exertion, electrolytes play a crucial role in maintaining optimal brain health.
Electrolytes are charged particles that contribute to balancing the pH of the body. They play a major role in the nervous system and muscular contractions, and they help to maintain good hydration (eg sodium) and cognitive function.
In recent years, research has suggested that some dietary minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium are associated with a lower risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia.
“Recent evidence suggests that increasing dietary intake of minerals reduces the risk of dementia” Karger, 2018.
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Your Monthly Dose of Brain Health Network News
YOUR MONTHLY DOSE OF BRAIN HEALTH NETWORK NEWS
A curated selection of the latest insights and articles on brain health and cognitive function.
Latest advice from the US National Institute On Aging - To keep your mind healthy and engaged
Cognitive health is the ability to think, learn, and remember clearly. It is needed to carry out many everyday activities effectively. Cognitive health is just one aspect of overall brain health.
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New research shows quality sleep can help to prevent the risk of Alzheimer’s
Getting more than six hours of quality sleep a night may help prevent, or slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, according to new research from Murdoch University.
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Neurologist shares their #1 food to improve cognitive functioning
If you’ve been feeling more forgetful than usual lately, or you’re struggling to stay focused on simple tasks, you may be wondering how to get your mental clarity back. The good news? Certain foods can keep your brain sharp as you age.
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University study shows brain function of older adults is catching up with younger generations
The brain function of older generations is improving, with the gap between old and young healthy adults lessening, according to research by Nottingham Trent University.
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Eating Like Our Ancestors - Can Intermittent Fasting Benefit Your Brain Health?
Eating Like Our Ancestors - Can Intermittent Fasting Benefit Your Brain Health?
Intermittent fasting is not novel. Its roots date back to ancient times when our ancestors first experienced periods of feast and famine between hunting trips. In the early 20th century however, scientists began exploring the physiological effects of fasting. It is thought that the episodic food shortages not only help to develop a brain whose activities are sharpened when hungry or even starved, but that the benefits could improve overall health and even extend lifespan.
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A Curated Selection of the Latest Insights and Articles on Brain Health and Cognitive Function
YOUR MONTHLY DOSE IN THE NEWS
A Curated Selection of the Latest Insights and Articles on Brain Health and Cognitive Function
Partnered with the Brain Health Network
(forthcoming event in Monaco - 19th June 2024)
FEATURED ARTICLES
Scientists Uncover Powerful Link Between Dietary Choices And Brain Health
A healthy, balanced diet is linked to superior brain health, better cognitive function and improved mental well-being, according to a newly published study
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Gut Bacteria’s Link to Alzheimer’s Explored
Researchers are investigating the connection between gut bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease. They believe harmful metabolites from bad bacteria can travel to the brain, causing inflammation and potentially triggering dementia.
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How ultra-processed food may affect your brain
The way ultra-processed foods may affect the brain has caused concern among some health experts. They suggest brain changes caused by eating a diet high in these foods can make cutting down on them difficult, especially for younger people.
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Brain Health Network - What day to day environmental toxins do we encounter that can impact our brain health?
Brain Health Network - What day to day environmental toxins do we encounter that can impact our brain health?
There are potential harmful chemicals in almost everything we touch, from household cleaning products to the make-up we use and the air we breathe. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals have the capability of negatively impacting our brain health and contributing towards neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in later life.
These chemicals can either be inhaled into our respiratory system or come into contact with the skin, the largest organ and protective barrier of the human body. There they work to penetrate the skin’s surface, making their way into the bloodstream or, if inhaled, the lungs. These toxins are considered to be harmful, and sometimes even fatal. The question is, what are we coming into contact with on a daily basis that we could possibly avoid, or switch out to with a healthier alternative…
Household cleaning products: many cleaning products contain chemicals including ammonia, bleach and volatile compounds, commonly known as (VOCs). Each one of these releases fumes into the air and can become a danger when there is exposure for long periods of time. This can lead to respiratory issues damaging the central nervous system and further impacting cognitive function in the long term.
Make-up products: whether opting for a natural look or heavy glam, make-up products are in constant contact with the skin. Fortunately over the last few years, the beauty industry has shifted away from using carcinogens such as silica and parabens in favour of more natural alternatives. For example, castor oil for skin hydration.
“According to current European laws, all cosmetics approved for use must be completely safe for their users, and the responsibility for this lies with manufacturers, distributors, and importers.”
There are however some companies that continue to use toxic substances within their products such as phthalates and heavy metals, and over time these toxic chemicals are absorbed through the skin. While the body’s biological systems are designed to eliminate these toxins, when they’re overwhelmed toxic effects such as headaches, memory loss and poor concentration can begin to take place.
Cigarette smoke: in 2007, the smoking ban came into effect with the hope of sparing future generations the side-effects associated with chronic exposure to cigarette smoke. Exposure on a daily basis can contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death worldwide which further impacts brain health. (World Health Organization, 2022). Symptoms include neurocognitive dysfunction and brain structural abnormalities which pave the way for neurodegenerative diseases including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Pesticides: these are chemical compounds that are used to kill pests, but according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 80% of an individual pesticide is used indoors. Pesticides contribute to a range of cognitive and psychomotor impairments, including memory loss, attention deficits and a loss of alertness. When next selecting your indoor plant pesticide spray, be sure to opt for a natural alternative that uses cinnamon or vinegar as a repellent. Prolonged exposure to ‘outdoor pesticides’ can contain neurotoxic substances that can damage long-term cognition and function.
Air Pollution: traffic-related air pollution significantly impacts our brain health. Evidence has shown that when we inhale exhaust fumes there is a clear link to cognitive decline in later life. When we breathe these fumes in, the central nervous system becomes inflamed and according to the recent paper, ‘The Effects of Air Pollution on the Brain’, this type of pollution not only contributes to cognitive decline but it can further impact behaviour and psychomotor skills.
The relationship between toxins and neurodegenerative diseases is complex, however it is clear that certain toxins can contribute to the development or progression of neurological conditions primarily through oxidative stress and inflammation.
While there is evidence suggesting an association between environmental toxins and cognitive decline, it’s important to note that this is not the only link. Many factors can contribute, including genetics, lifestyle and overall health. However, by reducing exposure to toxins and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the risk of cognitive decline in later life can be significantly reduced.
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