Well, it's Saturday -- that means Brain Day here at Alive in Concert. A weekly round-up of the top stories related to neurology, neuro- science, psychology, psychiatry, and brain studies will follow. Of course, if you're a "scient"-ologist, then you don't believe in any of this stuff, so - Tom, if you're reading this - now would be a good time to make yourself a sandwich.
First up -- as I sit here nursing my third cup of Kona blend, I feel it imperative to pass along one of this week's best stories. It confirms what we coffee imbibers have always known: that coffee really helps our heads.
Starbucks Can Save Your Brain
photo by thalamus - anno domini 2008Go ahead, grab another cup of joe – it’s good for you! [BBC] We already knew drinking a little coffee cuts your risk of Alzheimers’. Now we may know why. According to new research, "coffee may cut the risk of dementia by blocking the damage cholesterol can inflict on the body."
Here’s how it works: There is a "blood brain barrier" surrounding the brain which protects the central nervous system, filtering harmful chemicals out of the blood. When you have high cholesterol, this barrier can get a little leaky. Scientists have found, however, that a daily dose of a little caffeine can protect that barrier from the destructive effects of cholesterol.
Go to Rest of Article
No comments:
Post a Comment