We should know by now that factors that aid the health of
that 3 lb. organ in our skull are many and varied. Still, sometimes we are
surprised at the findings.
Light Level is a Big
Deal for Brain Performance
You’ve probably heard, and perhaps used the term “cabin
fever”. It usually refers to the need to get outside after a prolonged cold
spell. That cold spell could also be accompanied by cloudy, overcast days. Lily
Yan, MD, PhD and a team of researchers from Michigan State performed some
experiments to evaluate the impact of lower light levels on the brain.
Using test animals, they found that “When the animals were
housed in dim light during the day, mimicking the cloudy days or typical
indoor lighting, the animals had a ~30% reduction in the dendritic
spines, which make the connection between the brain cells, within the
hippocampus, a brain region critical for learning and memory.” (Emphasis mine).
Further comments from Dr. Yan: “Environmental lighting
conditions can impact brain functions”.
Here in MA, we’ve had a long stretch of clouds: rain for a
few days, then on and off snow for a few days, then back to rain, resulting in
lower sunlight levels. Other than inducing lethargy, I didn’t realize that my
brain connections were likely shrinking. The clear implication: peak
performance means a healthy light level, which includes sufficient lumens and
candlepower on overcast days. You might need a new task lamp.
Importantly, long dendritic
spines are linked to resilience against Alzheimer’s Disease. (Dendrites
extend from neurons in search of connections.) Link to more here.
In Case You Missed It
Last week we reported a study that regular moderate (read as
tiny)
consumption of alcohol helped remove the proteins from the brain that are
associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Research was performed at Rochester
University and the University of Copenhagen. Link to more here.
And interesting research from the Semel Institute for
Neuroscience and Human Behavior at the UCLA Longevity Center found that
curcumin, a substance derived from the spice turmeric, may help prevent
dementia and Alzheimer’s. Turmeric is an ancient spice and a key ingredient in
curry. Link to more here.
Shameless Plug
Did you make a New Year’s resolution about health and
fitness? Now might be a good time to get a workout booster shot with our
fitness kits. Travel friendly, includes two pages of sample exercises and a
bargain.
Always trying to grow bigger brains.
www.BigBrain.Place offers fun stuff that
is good for your brain.
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