Can Fragrance Improve Our Cognition by 200%?

Memory lapses and cognitive decline often cast a disheartening shadow over the golden years. For adults over the age of 60, a sense of fading mental sharpness can transform simple daily tasks into insurmountable challenges. But what if a simple and enjoyable remedy exists—one that harnesses the power of our senses? 

 

Cognitive Decline in Older Age: A Silent Reality 

 Aging comes with wisdom, experience, and for many, a gradual decrease in cognitive abilities. Everyday tasks like remembering names, following conversations, and making decisions can become more difficult. Though widely accepted as a natural part of aging, cognitive decline significantly impacts the quality of life, not just for the individual but also for their families and caregivers. Medications and therapies are available, but these treatments often come with side effects and limitations. 

 

Smell and Memory: An Underestimated Connection

Scientific research has long suggested that our sense of smell, or olfactory capacity, is closely linked to our cognitive abilities. The loss of the ability to smell can often be a harbinger of neurological and psychiatric diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and even schizophrenia. Recently, smell loss due to COVID-19 has also been associated with subsequent cognitive decline. Unlike eyesight and hearing, for which interventions like glasses and hearing aids exist, there's been a dearth of solutions for the loss of olfactory function—until now. 

 

The Study 

In an effort to make olfactory stimulation a practical and effective method for cognitive enhancement, researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) designed a study to check just what the influence of changing fragrances may have on cognitive functions. Conducted through the UCI Center for the Neurobiology of Learning & Memory, the study involved men and women aged 60 to 85 without memory impairment. A key consideration was to simplify the application of scents, particularly because earlier methods, which involved opening and sniffing multiple bottles of odors, were impractical for older adults, especially those already experiencing cognitive issues. 

 To accomplish this, each participant was provided with a diffuser and 7 cartridges of different natural oils. The enriched group received full-strength cartridges, while the control group was given diluted versions. Each night, participants inserted a different cartridge into their diffuser, which activated for two hours as they slept. This approach not only streamlined the process but also integrated it seamlessly into the participants' daily routines, eliminating the need for any conscious effort during waking hours. 

 

Results and future applications 

The results were nothing short of astonishing. The enriched group displayed a staggering 226% increase in cognitive performance compared to the control group, as gauged by a common word list test used for evaluating memory. Additionally, brain imaging indicated better integrity in the left uncinate fasciculus - a crucial pathway connecting regions responsible for memory and decision-making. Participants also reported an improvement in sleep quality. 

 

Notably, the study confirmed the long-standing scientific belief that the olfactory sense is directly connected to the brain’s memory circuits. With other senses like vision and hearing, the sensory data (what we see and what we hear) first has to pass through a region called the thalamus in our brain, before reaching the brain's memory circuits. Think of it like a way station where all our other senses have to stop and go through analysis, while our sense of smell bypasses this way station. It doesn't stop at the thalamus at all, and so provides us with a more direct and powerful link to our memory.

What Does This Mean for You?  

The most compelling aspect of this study is its practical application. A product based on the study is expected to come to market soon, giving adults a simple, non-invasive way to potentially deter cognitive decline and improve memory. Though the researchers aim to extend their study to those with diagnosed cognitive loss, the current results are promising for adults looking for an uncomplicated, at-home method to boost their cognitive health. 

 

In summary, if you've noticed your memory isn't what it used to be, this could be an olfactory opportunity you won't want to forget about. The study's findings not only shine a light on the untapped power of our sense of smell but also offer a path to enhancing cognitive function in older adults. While further testing is very much needed to better understand how exactly this works, we would say that adding a few different fragrances to the room while you sleep may be beneficial! 

 

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Alzheimer’s Threat: One in 8 suffering from cognitive decline

A dementia epidemic is looming in the country with one in eight Indians suffering from cognitive decline today as against 1 in 25 in 1990.

The Government data of Alzheimer’s Disease, the commonest form of dementia, shows a three-fold rise in the prevalence of cognitive decline over 1990, signaling the urgent need to address risk factors for the chronic neurodegenerative disease which leaves patients and families broken on account of the massive psychological and medical costs.

As Indians age successfully with advancements in medical science, experts say it’s urgent to build individual cognitive reserves from an early age to fight dementia.

Leading neurologist with AIIMS New Delhi Manjari Tripathi says 35 pc of dementia is attributable to a combination of modifiable risk factors which can be addressed at early stages.

“From a young age itself we need to work on our cognitive reserves. Cognitive reserve is the ability of the brain to resist disease by modifiable life experiences so that we can push back dementia by several years. This reserve can be built by avoiding smoking, alcohol, eating healthy, consuming unsaturated oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables, taking regular walks, avoiding sugar and too much protein and practicing small meals and intermittent diet,” advises Tripathi.

The expert says engagement in brain games and avoiding long hours before the computer are avoidable risk factors.

Research has further revealed that neurotic personalities are more prone to cognitive decline and it pays to keep the mind calm with meditation. Western countries, Tripathi notes, have reduced the burden of Alzheimer’s by implementing lifestyle changes.

On the research front, dementia – an umbrella term for degenerative diseases -- most common being Alzheimer's Disease – remains a very complex disease with scientists still studying the triggers.

“Currently about every seven seconds there is one case of dementia and one person will develop major cognitive decline because we are aging successfully. We are still learning about the disease. What we know is it leads to shrinking of the brain memory cells and has two main causes -- non-modifiable (genes and age) and modifiable,” says Tripathi, associated with the Delhi chapter of Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of India.

Experts also call for reading the early warning signs of dementia that start with small memory lapses and changes in the ability to discharge normal activities and tasks like reading, writing and comprehending.

“We want to pick up a patient early where mild memory and behavior changes are visible. At that stage we can help more by stemming some level of progression,” Tripathi says.

Experts also call for policy makers to create awareness on the need for advanced directives and living wills by the elderly in India. Evidence shows huge implications of Alzheimer’s Disease among Indian patients because often the elderly have the money in their bank accounts but they have forgotten to read, write and sign because of the disease. Advanced directives and living wills can aid the autonomy of patients, experts note.

World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on September 21 every year.

The government data of Alzheimer’s disease, the commonest form of dementia, shows a three-fold rise in the prevalence of cognitive decline in 30 years (from 1990 to 2020), signalling the urgent need to address risk factors for the chronic neurodegenerative disease which leaves patients and families broken on account of the massive psychological and medical costs.

As Indians age successfully with advancements in medical science, experts say it’s urgent to build individual cognitive reserves from an early age to fight dementia.

Leading neurologist with AIIMS, New Delhi, Manjari Tripathi says 35 per cent of dementia is attributable to a combination of modifiable risk factors which can be addressed at an early stage.

“From a young age itself, we need to work on our cognitive reserves. Cognitive reserve is the ability of the brain to resist disease by modifiable life experiences so that we can push back dementia by several years. This reserve can be built by avoiding smoking, alcohol, eating healthy, consuming unsaturated oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables, taking regular walks, avoiding sugar and too much protein and eating small meals,” says Tripathi.

Experts call for reading the early warning signs of dementia that start with small memory lapses and changes in the ability to discharge normal activities. 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Alcohol dependence:signs and symptoms, causes, health risks and how to overcome it

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, is the most serious form of drinking problem that can lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Commonly referred to as alcohol use disorder, it occurs when a person drinks so much that their body eventually becomes dependent on or addicted to alcohol. Meanwhile, a comprehensive government survey found that an estimated 5.7 crore people in India need treatment for alcohol dependency. The report also showed that there are an estimated 72 lakh individuals who need treatment for cannabis use, 60 lakh for opioids and 11 lakh for sedatives.
The exact cause of alcohol use disorder is still unclear, however, there are certain factors that can increase the risk for developing the disorder, including stressful events such as losing a job or bereavement, having a mental health problem like depression, anxiety, etc. It is claimed that alcohol dependence can also run in families. According to the researchers, early onset of intoxication and drinking can result in heavy drinking and alcohol dependence. 

Signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence

People with alcohol use disorder may exhibit the following signs:

1. Making excuses to drink
2. Waking up and drinking
3. Eating poorly or not eating
4. Being unable to control alcohol intake
5. Having a high tolerance- consuming more to feel the effects of alcohol
6. Putting alcohol above personal responsibilities
7. Craving alcohol when not drinking
8. Withdrawal symptoms (when not drinking) such as sweating, shaking and nausea  
9. Tremors
10. Lapses in memory

Alcohol dependence: Health risks, what you can do about it

Limiting or taking regular breaks from alcohol is the best way to prevent and reduce your risk of becoming dependent on alcohol. However, you should seek treatment if you begin to engage in behaviours that are signs of alcohol use disorder.

Alcoholism can seriously damage your liver. It can also lead to a whole range of health complications such as - high blood pressure, nerve damage, heart disease, brain defects, diabetes complications, vision damage, cancer, depression, etc. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol, seeking help sooner rather than later will help you get back on track to living a healthy, fulfilling life.

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Drinking orange juice could slash risk of dementia by 50 per cent

A new study now suggests that drinking a glass of orange juice every day could significantly lower one’s risk of getting dementia.

Researchers tracked almost 28,000 men for two decades to examine how their fruit and vegetable consumption affected their brain power.

Study found men who drank a small glass of orange juice were 47 per cent less likely to have difficulty remembering, following instructions or navigating familiar areas.

Lapses in memory, understanding and episodes of confusion can be early signs of brain decline which can ultimately lead to life-threatening dementia.

While there is no cure for the condition, scientists have been trying to find a cure for the memory-robbing disorder for years.

This new evidence reiterates the importance of a healthy diet in staving off the degeneration of the brain which comes with old age.

Lead study author  said long-term intake of veg, fruit and orange juice 'may be beneficial' for maintaining cognitive function.

Participants in the study answered questionnaires about what they ate every four years.

Overall, 6.6 percent of men who ate the most veg developed poor cognitive function and performed badly on the tests, compared with 7.9 percent of men who ate the least.

Fruit consumption, overall, didn't appear to influence the risk of moderate cognitive problems but drinking orange juice did, according to the research published .  

THIS IS ONLY FOR INFORMATION, ALWAYS CONSULT YOU PHYSICIAN BEFORE HAVING ANY PARTICULAR FOOD/ MEDICATION/EXERCISE/OTHER REMEDIES.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        PS- THOSE INTERESTED IN RECIPES ARE FREE TO  VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                           https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com/                                                                                                                                                                             FOR INFO ABOUT KNEE REPLACEMENT, YOU CAN VIEW MY BLOG-                                                                                                                             https:// kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com/                                                                                       FOR CROCHET DESIGNS                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com

Brain Damage - Types, Causes and Symptoms

Regardless of whether the cause is a tumor, trauma, stroke or any other illness, any injury which inflicts damage on your brain cells is considered to be a brain damage. 
There are two types of brain damage, both of which interfere with the standard functioning of the brain.
They are:

1. Acquired brain injury (ABI): Either resulting from a tumor or a neurological illness, for instance a stroke, this type of brain injury originates from the cellular level and is commonly linked with brain pressure.
2. Traumatic brain injury (TBI): It results from any damage imparted to the skull usually from an external and physical force like a blow to the head or a head accident, which in turn damages the brain.

How severe the brain damage is depends largely on the type of brain injury. Mild brain injuries are temporary, causing headaches, memory lapses, nausea and confusion. On the other hand, severe brain injuries cause cognitive, physical and behavioral impairments which are often life-changing and permanent.
Causes:
Acquired brain injuries may be caused by:

1. Poisoning
2. Being exposed to toxic substances
3. Choking, strangulation or drowning
4. Heart attacks
5. Infections
6. Stroke
7. Tumours
8. Neurological illnesses
9. Aneurysms
10. Illegal drug abuse

Traumatic brain injuries are usually caused by:

1. Car accidents
2. Sports Injuries
3. Physical violence
4. Head blows
5. Falls and other mishaps

Symptoms:
Whether acquired or traumatic, symptoms of brain damage can be classified under four major groups:
1.  Cognitive symptoms generally include

• Having a hard time processing information or expressing thoughts
• Difficulty in understanding others or abstract concepts
• Indecisiveness
• Memory Loss
• Short attention spans

2.  Physical symptoms generally include

• Excessive physical fatigue
• Extreme mental fatigue
• Persistent and frequent migraines or headaches
• Paralysis
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Sleep disorders
• Light sensitivity
• Loss of consciousness
• Slurred speech

3.  Perceptual symptoms generally include

• Spatial disorientation
• Smell and taste disorders
• Heightened pain sensitivity
• Changes in hearing, seeing, or touch sensations
• Unable to perceive time
• Balance problems

4.  Emotional or behavioral symptoms generally include

• Decreased stress tolerance
• Heightened or flattened reactions or emotions
• Aggressiveness
• Sluggishness
• Impatience and irritability
• Self-denial If you have any specific problem, you please consult a neurosurgeon.
  
  
   this is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   
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  https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
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