Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb with numerous scientifically-validated benefits for brain health and cognitive function. This medicinal plant can stimulate the nervous system, enhance work performance, and help treat stress-induced conditions like anxiety, fatigue and depression. Key Facts: Rhodiola rosea has a long history of use in traditional medicine in Nordic countries, Eastern Europe …
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has shed light on the growing use of kratom, an herbal drug with psychoactive effects, in the United States. The key findings show that kratom use is rising, with 0.7% of Americans aged 12 and older reporting past-year use. Use is especially common among …
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used in industrial and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. Research is now showing that these “forever chemicals” can accumulate in the human body and brain, causing neurotoxic effects. Key Facts: PFAS are used in non-stick cookware, …
The FDA-approved diabetes drug semaglutide reduces alcohol drinking in mice and rats, suggesting it could be repurposed as an effective medication for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Key findings include: Semaglutide dose-dependently decreased binge-like drinking in both male and female mice. In rats, semaglutide reduced binge-like and dependence-induced alcohol drinking. Semaglutide also decreased consumption of caloric …
A new neuroimaging study has uncovered associations between subclinical narcissistic traits and regional grey matter volumes in the brain, specifically in the insular cortex and multiple prefrontal regions. The research, conducted by scientists at the University of Jena in Germany, provides novel evidence that narcissistic personality tendencies are linked to structural variations in brain networks …
Nitric oxide (NO) is a surprising gaseous neurotransmitter in the brain that also contributes to neurotoxicity when produced in excess. Nitric Oxide Facts: NO is synthesized on demand in neurons and diffuses to activate receptor enzymes rather than binding to membrane receptors. As a novel neurotransmitter, NO may mediate memory, plasticity, and retrograde signaling. Too …
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, with surveys estimating that 30% of people aged 18-35 in the United States have at least one tattoo. However, there are potential health risks associated with the metals and other ingredients commonly found in tattoo inks. A new study analyzed the levels of aluminum, cobalt, copper, iron, …
A study published in Wellcome Open Research has uncovered evidence that exposures experienced by grandparents, including smoking and economic conditions at the time of their birth, may be associated with reduced IQ scores in their grandchildren. The research suggests potential lasting impacts across multiple generations of certain harmful environmental factors. Key facts: The study found …
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition characterized by challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors. One aspect that contributes to the heterogeneity seen across the autism spectrum is differences in intelligence and cognitive abilities. Recent research is shining new light on the intelligence profiles of individuals with ASD, showing a shift away from …
Researchers have uncovered concerning links between excessive exercise and psychiatric problems like depression, ADHD, and childhood trauma. This sheds new light on the concerning phenomenon of exercise addiction. Key Facts: Individuals at risk for exercise addiction scored higher on measures of depression, ADHD symptoms, and childhood trauma compared to frequent exercisers not at risk. Around …
