Sleep problems links to faster brain aging — and more
Medical Watch Digest for Oct 28
Sleep problems links to faster brain aging
There is new evidence that the quality of your sleep can impact your brain.
A new study finds that people who struggle getting a good night’s sleep in early middle age can show signs of cognitive health problems later in life.
Researchers found that people who have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep or who experience early morning awakening were linked to accelerated brain aging.
It’s especially true if they’ve had these problems for more than five years.
Researchers recommends a consistent sleep schedule, exercise, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before going to bed.
The study was published in Neurology.
New study shows marijuana in pregnancy hurts child development
A new study on smoking marijuana during pregnancy confirms and expands on previous research.
It’s not good for the child’s development.
Cannabis exposure in the womb is associated with poorer thinking skills and behavioral problems, like aggression and impulse control.
The data comes from a study in today’s JAMA Pediatrics Journal.
Researchers combined multiple assessments to track the development of preschool children.
Short bursts of exercise may aid weight loss
Exercising in short bursts may help shed pounds faster.
Researchers in Milan, Italy have found starting and stopping activity burns up to 60-percent more energy than a longer, sustained effort.
But that may not mean high-intensity workouts are better for weight loss.
Experts say the actual benefit varies on a person’s metabolism and exercise habits.
They also point to the size of the study and the age of the participants. It only involved 10 people with an average age of 27.
