MentalHealthDaily

Effects of Pramipexole on Reward Learning: Possible Depression Treatment? (2023 Study)

by GLOOM

In a significant stride toward understanding and treating depression, a 2023 study meticulously investigates the effects of pramipexole, a dopamine D2-like agonist, on reward learning. By exploring its impact on healthy volunteers through rigorous behavioral and neural assessments, the research offers groundbreaking insights into how this drug (occasionally used in depression) could revolutionize therapeutic strategies …

Microplastics & Nanoplastics Cross Blood-Brain Barrier within Hours & May Cause Damage

by GLOOM

Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) from the breakdown of plastic materials pollute the environment and make their way into the human body, raising concerns over potential health impacts. Research shows that microplastics and nanoplastics are able to cross the blood-brain barrier in mice within 2 hours of ingestion. Key Facts: Polystyrene nanoparticles with a size of …

Effects of Spaceflight on Astronauts’ Mental Health: Neuroplasticity Changes & Cognitive Decline

by GLOOM

The extreme environment of spaceflight induces a myriad of stresses on astronauts – and these stresses may negatively impact mental health, neuroplasticity, and cognitive abilities. New research offers insight into the neurological mechanisms underlying these effects. Key Facts: Prolonged spaceflight can lead to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in astronauts. The composite stresses of the …

Synergistic Effect of Fish Oil & Choline Supplementation on Brain DHA & Memory (Mouse Study)

by GLOOM

Recent research reveals that combining fish oil and choline supplementation may have synergistic effects in boosting levels of brain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and memory enhancement in middle-aged mice. Key Facts: Combining fish oil and choline increased DHA levels in the brain more than either supplement alone in mice. The combination upregulated expression of key fatty …

Long COVID Brain Fog & Cognitive Deficits Linked to Specific Biomarkers

by GLOOM

A large prospective study has uncovered two blood biomarker profiles measured during acute COVID-19 that are associated with cognitive deficits months later. Higher fibrinogen and lower C-reactive protein predict both objective and subjective cognitive impairment. Higher D-dimer and lower C-reactive protein predict subjective deficits and occupational impact. Key Facts: In 1,837 COVID-19 patients, two acute …

Milk Fat Globule & Lactoferrin Infant Formula May Boost Intelligence (IQ)

by GLOOM

Parents naturally want to do everything they can to optimize brain development in their children. The first years of life are a critical window when nutrition lays the foundation for lifelong brain health and abilities. A new study shows that an infant formula augmented with certain milk fats and an immune protein offers cognitive advantages …

Provigil For ADHD: Can Modafinil Help Manage Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

by GLOOM

A newer medication called Provigil (Modafinil), which is used to promote wakefulness (eugeroic), has also been found to help manage symptoms of ADHD. Many people don’t have good experiences with using amphetamines to treat their attention-deficit symptoms, so they turn to other classes of medication that may be effective. Many psychiatrists have prescribed their clients …