Computer brain games are popular among seniors who want to preserve their mental sharpness.
But a new study shows that any kind of computer activity—it doesn’t have to be brain games—enhances memory.
In fact, simply doing what you’re doing right now—reading information from a website—cuts your risk of mild cognitive impairment, researchers found.
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is worse than normal age-related memory loss.
… Read MoreAbout 30% of Americans are plagued by sleep problems.
They may have difficulty falling asleep. Some awaken too early and can’t get back to sleep. Frustration sets in when the problem repeats itself night after night.
Little wonder that so many people resort to sleeping pills. But study after study shows they aren’t a good solution. They work only in the short term, if at all.
… Read MoreRunning…biking…weightlifting…swimming…competitive sports. There are many ways to stay in shape.
But two new studies have found that one of the most effective exercises is one that is rarely mentioned by fitness gurus.
It not only greatly lowers your chances of dying from heart disease, but it slows brain aging.
British researchers analyzed data from 11 surveys that included 49,000 people. Their study was published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
… Read MoreDepression is a frustrating illness.
The cause is difficult to pin down. Episodes seem to come and go at random times. The standard treatment, antidepressant drugs, often don’t work.
That’s why a new study is so important.
It pinpoints a surprising cause—and the cure—for many cases of depression, especially those that don’t respond to antidepressants.
Researchers at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University looked at 125 patients with depression and how their sleep affected their mood.
… Read MoreDiverticulitis can make your life miserable.
It’s a common intestinal condition caused by small abscesses in the bowel which become inflamed or infected. This can lead to severe stomach pain and cramping. Constipation, bloating, and nausea are other symptoms.
The most frustrating part?
Doctors often can’t pinpoint the cause. That makes it difficult to treat effectively.
But a new study may reveal the hidden cause of diverticulitis in many people.
The research appeared in the journal Circulation.
… Read MoreYour bed is supposed to be a safe haven. Most of us spend a third of our lives there. Restorative sleep keeps your mind sharp and your body strong.
But new research shows that many of us are sleeping on a mattress that may be harming our health.
Chemicals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the problem.
Mattresses have long been known to emit them in gaseous form.
… Read More