It’s almost Mother’s Day, and it seems a good time to reflect on what a wonderful thing motherhood is for the brain. There are all kinds of chemical and physical changes in the brain stimulated by being a mother — starting when the child is in the womb and then throughout the development and life of the child.
It’s not easy for scientists to pinpoint the best foods for brain health. But in study after study, one essential nutrient has stood out: omega-3 fatty acids.
I enjoy hearing about or even falling for a good harmless prank — and I certainly enjoy pulling a child or two’s string, in a cheerful, happy way, just to keep them on their toes — so, April Fools’ is one of my favorite days of the year. The holiday underscores how important surprises are for our brains. Of course, one hopes those surprises will be delightful ones!
Turning our clocks ahead next weekend, will rob us all of an hour – as we are sleeping. With World Sleep Day coming up on Friday (March 13), and in honor of Brain Awareness Week that starts Monday (March 16), it seems an opportune time to talk about the hard work being done by your brain while you sleep.
It feels as though the new year has only just begun, yet most of us have already failed at our New Year’s resolutions. One researcher estimates that 80 percent of us will have given up on those well-intentioned commitments by Valentine’s Day. What’s up with that?
Tis the season of Joy. And, that’s a good thing for your brain. When you experience joy, the brain chemical dopamine is released. At this time of year, it flows in great abundance.
Think you’re too old to quit smoking? Leaving behind cigarettes can be good for your cognitive abilities, hearing, seeing, and more. Here’s why — plus, ideas to help you quit.
Public libraries are treasure troves for keeping your mind sharp and your brain healthy. Here are five ideas for using your library to stretch your mind.
With menopause, the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone dip, which can cause mental and emotional changes. Here’s what to know about menopause, memory, and mood, and what you can do about them.
There may be a link between how strong your handgrip is and your brain function later in life. It could even be linked to a heightened risk of dementia. Here’s what to know.