Research appearing in the Journal of Physiology (Published online before print April 2, 2012, doi: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.230078 May 1, 2012) looked at sugar consumption in rats and how it affected their ability to learn complex tasks. Scientists at UCLA conducted a five-day training session, teaching the rats how to navigate a complicated maze. After the training
We seem pretty clear on the idea that diet can prevent certain diseases, like heart disease and diabetes. Diet can also effect the brain. It can influence mood and cognition. A diet that is high in refined carbohydrates, for example, can create insulin insensitivity. Insulin insensitivity can make a person prone to mood swings or
A study that appeared in the American Journal of Ophthalmology (Epublshed ahead of print July 20, 2012) looked at the relationship between diet and glaucoma. The cross-sectional study looked at 584 African American Women, 77 of whom were diagnosed with glaucoma in at least one eye. Researchers found that a high intake of foods that
The Appleton Central Alternative High School in Appleton, Wisconsin was established in 1996 for “problem” students that did not fit well into a traditional high school setting. Students were described as “rude, obnoxious, and ill-mannered” by their own dean of students. Problems with discipline were severe enough that a policeman had to be on campus