Cognitive Function News and Research

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Cognition is a concept used in different ways by different disciplines, but is generally accepted to mean the process of thought. For example, in psychology and cognitive science it refers to an information processing view of an individual's psychological functions.

Teens who eat more ultra-processed foods score lower in school

A study of 800 Spanish adolescents links ultra-processed food intake to lower academic performance, emphasizing diet quality's role in educational success.

4 Feb 2025

Alzheimer’s disease may leave early signs in the gut, study finds

Scientists used high-resolution 3D X-ray imaging to uncover major structural and immune changes in the gut of Alzheimer's disease models, suggesting a potential early biomarker.

3 Feb 2025

Could a handful of nuts a day prevent cognitive decline?

A new study suggests that a daily handful of nuts could help protect brain function in older adults, potentially reducing cognitive decline and supporting long-term mental sharpness.

2 Feb 2025

Does COVID increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease?

COVID-19, even in mild cases, is linked to changes in Alzheimer’s disease-related brain biomarkers comparable to four years of aging. This study raises concerns about long-term neurological risks and cognitive decline post-COVID.

2 Feb 2025

Lifelong exercise linked to lower dementia risk

People who exercise throughout their lives have a better chance of avoiding dementia - even if they show signs of diseases like Alzheimer's, finds a new study led by UCL researchers.

31 Jan 2025

Frequent social engagement may delay dementia onset

Visiting friends, attending parties and going to church may help keep your brain healthy, according to research conducted at Rush.

30 Jan 2025

Premature aging and cognitive decline could be detected by ECG tests and AI

Electrocardiogram tests may someday be used with an artificial intelligence (AI) model to detect premature aging and cognitive decline, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2025.

30 Jan 2025

The key to healthy aging? Exercise might be the answer

Researchers explore the health benefits of physical activity in the elderly.

30 Jan 2025

University of Oklahoma researcher leads efforts to unravel mysteries of cognitive decline

An estimated 76,000 Oklahomans are living with Alzheimer's disease, a number that has surged by 13% in just five years. Yet, despite the increasing need for effective treatments, therapies for age-related dementia have largely failed to slow or halt the disease's progression.

29 Jan 2025

From gut health to metabolism: How sleep controls more than you think

Study reveals that sleep traits predict over 15% of body characteristics across 15 physiological systems, with visceral fat, cardiovascular health, and metabolism deeply intertwined with sleep patterns.

29 Jan 2025

Can an online lifestyle plan keep your brain sharp? Research says yes

"Maintain Your Brain" study shows how a tailored online program can improve cognition and lower dementia risk—discover how simple lifestyle changes could protect your brain as you age.

29 Jan 2025

Study explores the effects of recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function

A new study published today in JAMA Network Open explores the effects of both recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks.

28 Jan 2025

Study shows long-term cannabis use disrupts critical brain processes

Heavy lifetime cannabis use is associated with reduced brain activation in key cognitive regions, particularly during working memory tasks, while recent use may cause temporary cognitive impairments.

28 Jan 2025

Study links oral microbiome to cognitive function in older adults

The microbial ecosystems within our mouths may affect our cognitive function as we age, according to a study. Interventions such as prebiotics, including dietary nitrate, have potential for delaying cognitive decline.

28 Jan 2025

Exercise improves brain insulin sensitivity and lowers dementia risk in older adults with prediabetes

Researchers explore the impact of exercise on the short-term regulation of insulin pathways in brain circuits.

28 Jan 2025

Study reveals the importance of physical activity for healthy aging

Can physical activity extend the lifespans of older adults? A review article published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) https://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.231336 summarizes the considerable evidence supporting the important role physical activity plays in preventing or reducing the effects of diseases and discusses how to prescribe effective exercise for older adults.

27 Jan 2025