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Aesthetic Chills to Treat Depression? Psychogenic Shivers, Frisson, Goosebumps (2024 Study)

Depression, a prevalent mental health issue, often resists traditional treatments, making innovative approaches necessary. Recent research suggests that ‘aesthetic chills’—a peak emotional response accompanied by physical sensations like goosebumps—might offer significant benefits in treating depression. Highlights: Prevalence of Depression: Over 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression, making it a critical global health concern. Limitations …

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Olibanum Gum Ineffective for Mild-to-Moderate Alzheimers Disease (2023 Study)

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, significantly impacting the elderly. A recent clinical trial investigated the memory-improving potential of Olibanum, a traditional herbal remedy, in AD patients. Highlights: Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of dementia, characterized by memory loss and cognitive impairment. Olibanum, also known as Frankincense, has a …

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Gamification for Mental Health & Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders

In recent years, gamification has risen as a groundbreaking strategy to enhance mental health treatments and boost patient engagement. Gamification’s roots date back to games like Dance Dance Revolution in 1998, which intertwined physical activity with gaming fun. Today, an array of games and apps like Nike+ and SuperBetter are designed not just for physical …

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Exercise to Treat Depression: Aerobic & Resistance Training Effective Antidepressants?

Exercise has emerged as an effective treatment for depression, rivaling medication and psychotherapy in its ability to reduce symptoms. Both aerobic and resistance training provide mental health benefits, with a combination of the two being optimal. However, exercise is vastly underutilized and more research is needed to uncover the mechanisms behind its antidepressant effects. Highlights: …

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Magnesium For Depression: An Underexplored Treatment

Magnesium is regarded as an essential mineral for humans and functions as a cofactor in upwards of 300 biochemical processes throughout the body.  For example, magnesium is implicated in: ATP production, blood pressure regulation, bone development, glucose modulation, heart rhythm normalization, muscle and nerve function, plus protein synthesis.  Knowing that magnesium is essential for optimal …

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Niacin & Weight Loss or Gain? How Vitamin B3 Affects Body Weight

Niacin (vitamin B3), also referred to as nicotinic acid, is a human nutrient that functions as a precursor to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate).  NAD is a coenzyme recognized for its involvement in the catabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, as well as sending signals for DNA repair.  NADP is …

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Niacin For Depression: Does Vitamin B3 Improve Mood?

Niacin (vitamin B3) is a colorless hydrophilic organic compound classified as an essential dietary nutrient among humans.  Foods highest in niacin include: organ meat (liver, heart, kidneys), chicken, beef, fish, venison, and whole grains.  For human adults, the daily recommended allowance of niacin falls within the range of 12 mg to 16 mg per day, …

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