Dear friend,

In a study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, British researchers found that people who drank moderately – 1 to 2 units of alcohol a day – before the age of 60, suffered less cognitive decline after the age of 60 than others who drank heavily or not at all.

This is not a suggestion of course to begin drinking heavily every day. But it does appear that moderate consumption of alcohol can benefit your mind, so if you enjoy a glass of wine with your supper, your tipple may be improving your mind.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Could depression be at the root of your memory problems?

Research conducted at the Medical College of Wisconsin Memory Disorders Clinic and the Marquette University School of Nursing, showed the leading cause of memory decline in a sample of 67 elderly people was depression, not Alzheimer’s disease.

Remarkably, only 14% of the participants with poor memory actually scored low on memory tests, and all but one of the participants scored high on the depression scale. Principal investigator, Dr Piero Antuono, found memory problems were frequently alleviated when patients were treated for depression.

If you suspect you may be suffering from depression, consult your doctor before taking any further action.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Do your brain a favour – lose the stress...

During times of stress, your body pumps out high levels of the hormone cortisol, which damages the hippocampus, the part of your brain that turns short-term memories into long-term ones.

To combat stress practice a relaxation exercise daily, whether it’s deep breathing, meditation or contemplative exercises such as tai chi or yoga.

For more about how to boost your brain power, click here!