Monday, October 28, 2013

In the interest of smarter rodents ... or smarter seniors?

So University of Reading scientists say that elderly champagne-drinking rats have improved spatial working memory! Not quite sure what that means in the rodent world, but if it translates to modest champagne intake improving the neurological function of the ageing human population, I foresee a lot of very happy campers. 

I expect there will be some phytochemical present in champagne (much like the polyphenols identified in red wine) that improve memory. Yes, modest, but regular alcoholic beverage definitely seems to have benefits, but as in all things, moderation is the name of the game.

While we’re on the subject of maintaining mental acuity into older age, I love the Lumosity brain-training programs and reckon those games played daily, together with fresh, organic, whole food diet, robust supplementation, regular exercise and continuing embrace of new, different and challenging mental and physical activities are key. So as a baby-boomer, what did you do today that took you out of your comfort zone? What did you do to extend your physical and mental reach? What will you do tomorrow to make sure cell growth stays one step-ahead of cell-death?

If you're relying solely on a glass of champagne to keep those ageing neurones firing, you're definitely missing out on other, very important parts of the healthy-ageing equation. 

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