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Fish Oil For Depression: Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids An Effective Treatment?

Since the early 2000s, supplementation of fish oil has significantly increased in part for the touted antidepressant effects. Many studies have found correlations between people who eat diets high in fish and lower incidences of depression. This has lead many Americans and others to look for ways to possibly mimic this antidepressant effect. One shortcut …

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How Different Types Of Meditation Affect the Brain

Most people tend to believe that all types of meditations are the same. It is common to hear about the benefits of “meditation,” but most people don’t know that there are different benefits to be obtained based specifically on the type of meditation practice pursued. One person may practice Vipassana meditation a.k.a. “mindfulness” and reap …

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Preventing Weight Loss While Taking Adderall

Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts) remains among the most popular pharmaceutical ADHD medications on the market. In part, it is popular due to the fact that it is highly effective, and tends to be well-tolerated among individuals with ADHD. When used responsibly, many professionals consider it a safe and effective long-term treatment option for inattentiveness and hyperactivity. …

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Translocator Protein (TSPO) Structure To Spur New Treatments For Anxiety

Michigan State University (MSU) researchers recently published new data in the journal “Science” providing a first ever look at the crystallized structure of translocator protein (TSPO) (18kDa). Translocator protein is located within the outer portion of the mitochondrial membrane. Its primary function is to transport cholesterol within mitochondria, which then is utilized to produce steroids. TSPO …

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Self-Directed Neuroplasticity: Consciously Changing Your Brain Function

Self-directed neuroplasticity is a concept derived from the researcher Dr. Jeffrey M. Schwartz in his book, “The Mind & The Brain“ (Neuroplasticity and the Power of Mental Force). In the book, he makes a compelling argument that you aren’t at the mercy of genetically-predetermined brain activity. His research suggests that you play an active role in influencing brain function …

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Dementia Linked To Benzodiazepines, Sleeping Pills, Anticholinergics

In recent years, increasing evidence has suggested that certain types of commonly prescribed medications may cause increased risk of developing dementia. This ranges from drugs used to treat anxiety (e.g. Xanax) to over-the-counter drugs (e.g. Benadryl). A majority of these medications tend to depress activity in the CNS and help minimize arousal and/or anxiety. Dementia …

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