Scientists Discover Virus That Makes People More Stupid
Finally, A Scientific Explanation For Stupidity...
Rachel Moss— The Huffington Post UK
High intellect may not be down to education and good genes alone, scientists have discovered a virus that may cause stupidity.
American scientists from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the University of Nebraska have identified a virus that impairs brain activity by attacking human DNA.
Those affected by the algae virus, known as ATCV-1, may experience difficulty with learning or memory.
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The scientists made the chance discovery while analysing throat microbes for a different purpose.
The virus was detected from throat swabs of 40 out of 90 participants.
Researchers found those who did not have the virus in their system achieved higher scores in tests measuring cognitive function, including visual processing and attention span.
"This is a striking example showing that the ‘innocuous’ microorganisms we carry can affect behaviour and cognition," said Robert Yolken, a virologist who led the original study.
“Many physiological differences between person A and person B are encoded in the set of genes each inherits from parents, yet some of these differences are fuelled by the various microorganisms we harbour and the way they interact with our genes.”
Yes, those addictive daily crosswords and Sudoku puzzles can be good for your brain. Helping to practice your basic math and spelling skills can challenge your noggin and make you think.
Exercise (02 of10)
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Exercising your body also means exercising your brain. Thirty to 60 minutes of regular exercise including yoga, walking, cycling, swimming or gardening are all easy (and fun) ways to get your brain stimulated this summer.
Eat Healthy (03 of10)
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Diets that include a variety of healthy food groups all contribute to a healthy brain. "Limit foods like caffeine and alcohol as well as foods high in glucose and all its commercial equivalents (cane sugar, sucrose,) as well as salt as these can increase your risk of illnesses, like diabetes, high blood pressure and stroke," says geriatrician Dr. Michael Gordon.
Socialize (04 of10)
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Spend a few minutes a day catching up on the latest TV gossip or talking about an upcoming event or trip. Gordon says socializing regularly with family and friends also helps keep your brain alert.
Learn Something New Every Day (05 of10)
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This can be done via anything from reading (or trying) a new recipe to learning a new word to taking a new route to work. Getting out of your regular routine and trying something new will help stimulate and challenge your brain.
Gordon says if you're over 55, have regular check-ups with your doctor regarding your brain's health. "The incidence of illnesses, like atrial fibrillation double, with each decade of life beginning at 55, puts a person at increased risk of a severe and debilitating stroke," he says.
Read(08 of10)
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Reading everything from books to blogs to the latest news report helps your brain learn new words and boost your memory.
Drink Lots Of Water (09 of10)
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Gordon says a sharper brain also means sticking to a healthy fluid diet. Unless you have medical conditions that require you to drink a specific amount of water, aim for at least six to eight cups a day.
Listening To Music (10 of10)
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We all know music can be healing and Gordon says instrumental and non-vocal tunes can all help with concentration and focus. "Even if it is not yet shown to improve cognitive function, there is evidence that music promotes brain function and reactivates important and positive memories which may be very helpful in those living with dementia," he says.