Just Two Short Weeks!

It hardly seems possible, but a new report from a geriatric expert says that just two weeks of simple lifestyle changes (memory exercises, physical exercise, relaxation techniques, and a healthy diet) can significantly improve mental functioning (‘cognitive function’) and brain efficiency. It was a small pilot study done in 17 healthy volunteers with mild age-related memory complaints. The subjects were divided into two groups – one given the ‘healthy lifestyle’ regimen, and the other advised not to change their routine.

After 2 weeks the people in the lifestyle group had significantly improved verbal fluency, while the controls did not. Moreover, positive emission tomography (PET, a measure of localized brain function) showed a 5% decrease in one area (the left dorsolateral prefrontal area) in the lifestyle group, but no change in the controls. This decrease suggests the brain functioned more efficiently and didn’t require as much glucose to perform effectively, according to Dr Gary Small, the principal investigator.

If this can happen within two weeks, think what two months – or even two years – could do for you!