Maintaining good oral health can help slow down the development of Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research. In a study published in Science Advances, researchers discovered that Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium that causes chronic periodontitis (gum infection), colonizes the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. The toxic substances produced by P. gingivalis — called gingipains — correlate with the levels of tau and ubiquitin … Continue reading Brush your teeth every day to keep brain disease away: Study links gingivitis bacteria to increased risk of Alzheimer’s
Are your children safe from toxic aluminum exposure?
You’ve childproofed your home, switched to organic food and personal care products, and generally do all you can to ensure your little ones are safe from harm. However, one danger you might have overlooked is aluminum. That might sound like a ridiculous statement on the surface; after all, you’ve probably been wrapping your food in … Continue reading Are your children safe from toxic aluminum exposure?
Understanding brain fog and how to treat it
Brain fog is a type of cognitive dysfunction that causes feelings of confusion, forgetfulness, and a lack of focus and mental clarity. It is not a medically recognized condition, but rather a symptom of other medical conditions. There are many reasons why brain fog occurs. Listed below are the main causes of brain fog and how to treat it: … Continue reading Understanding brain fog and how to treat it
The science behind “familiar smells:” How odors affect memory formation in the brain
The processes by which the brain learns new things and stores memories respond to input from the senses. German researchers have recently reported that scent processing might affect the brain’s memory centers. Their study covered the piriform cortex. This region of the olfactory brain interprets smells picked up by the nose’s olfactory receptors. The Ruhr Universitat Bochum (RUB) team … Continue reading The science behind “familiar smells:” How odors affect memory formation in the brain
Think positive: Optimists eat healthier
Having a positive mindset can lead to eating healthier. A study published in the journal Appetite found that optimists tend to follow a healthy diet. A team of researchers from the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England looked at the motivational role of a theory known as regulatory focus on consumers’ involvement in nutrition. In other words, they measured the time … Continue reading Think positive: Optimists eat healthier
Mental health issues linked to higher mortality rates in men than in women
Mental health issues affect tens of millions of Americans, and only half of those affected reach out for help. Mental illnesses, which include depression and anxiety disorders, and which can range from mild to severe, affect more women than men, with around 22.3 percent of women affected compared to only 15.1 percent of men. Young … Continue reading Mental health issues linked to higher mortality rates in men than in women
Physical fitness equals brain fitness for older men, according to study
Brain function tends to decline with age. The good news is that exercise is found to boost brain health, especially for aging men. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology revealed that older men who exercise regularly saw better improvements in their cognitive function or executive function than older women. Executive function refers to a person’s ability … Continue reading Physical fitness equals brain fitness for older men, according to study
Beat depression by eating more fiber, vegetables
It’s pretty clear how your diet can impact your heart health and your weight, but did you know that it can be just as influential when it comes to mental health? While there are lots of interesting connections between food and mental health, one of the most useful in the wake of climbing depression rates … Continue reading Beat depression by eating more fiber, vegetables
Is depression just a symptom of bad gut health? Study confirms link between gut and brain health
One area of research that has been getting a lot of attention recently is the connection between gut and brain health. With mental health problems a growing concern, scientists have been trying to uncover some of their causes, and a new study out of Belgium shows that depression could well be a symptom of poor gut … Continue reading Is depression just a symptom of bad gut health? Study confirms link between gut and brain health
Fight Parkinson’s with these 6 alternative treatments
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movements. Treatment for this condition focuses on managing its symptoms. Here are six alternative treatments that might help people with Parkinson’s disease. Acupuncture: A traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture enhances the appetite, promotes relaxation, boosts energy levels, promotes better sleep, and combats stress – all of which are beneficial to everyone, especially … Continue reading Fight Parkinson’s with these 6 alternative treatments
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 