Mediterranean Diet Can Boost Brainpower

A recently conducted study has revealed that Mediterranean diet can increase the brainpower. According to www.newswise.com, diet with rich quantities of fruits, vegetables, cereals, olive oil and fish helps improve the brainpower. The study was conducted by the researchers at the Rush University Medical Centre, Chicago.

During the study, about 4000 people in their mid 60s were made to take cognitive tests followed by clinical interview. It was found that those who performed well in the tests and had lower cognitive declines were found to be having a routinely consumption of Mediterranean diet. The study spanned for a time period of over 15 years.

As reported by www.blog.taragana.com, the team of researchers also said that moderate consumption of wine together with intake of non refined grains may also help keep the brain in healthy condition. Cognitive skills include the power of the brain to recall numbers and symbols, which tends to face a decline with the growing age.

Researchers also mentioned about the importance of exercise in the study. “Finally, we want older adults to remember that physical activity is an important part of maintaining cognitive skills,” said Dr. Christy Tangney, lead researcher of the study.

Tips on How to Live to 100

Those born after the year 2000 have more opportunity than ever to live to 100, according to new research from Denmark. Good news for kids, but what about us grown ups?

Genetics play a big factor, somewhere between 20% and 50%, depending on the experts you ask. That still leave over 50% up to you! Walter Bortz, MD, a clinical associate professor of medicine at Stanford University, suggests how you can improve your odds of a long and happy life:

• Bulk up on fruits and veggies, adds 5 years (plant-based whole foods diets reduce disease)

• Exercise five days a week, adds 2 to 4 years (move and elevate your heart rate for a half-hour a day, minimum)

• Reduce stress, up to 6 years (From meditation to music to movement to some sort of art therapy. Find what works for you)

• Get a hobby, adds 2 years (Provides a sense of accomplishment.)

• Floss, adds 6.4 years (Removing harmful bacteria reduces stroke and heart attack risks.)

• Vacation, adds 1 to 2 years (Leisure is a great stress reliever)

• Sleep seven to eight hours nightly, adds 2 years (Sleep assists cell repair.)

• Have Sex, adds 3 to 5 years (Releases feel-good hormones and burns about 200 calories, too!)