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NeuroTracker has been used in independent research by neuroscientists around the globe for well over a decade. A diversity of research approaches have led to some fascinating insights on how the brain influences human performance and wellness. This list of the NeuroTracker Team's top 10 most interesting discoveries demonstrates how this deceptively simple form of cognitive training can provide a unique window into brain function, as well as enhance human cognitive abilities in many surprising ways - enjoy!

1. ‘Enhancing Cognitive Function Using Perceptual-Cognitive Training’

The first on our list, this landmark NeuroTracker study selected the tool of qEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalogram) to dig into actual changes in neuroelectric brain function. qEEG works by measuring cycles of brain frequencies, yielding vast amounts of data. Healthy university students were selected as the study participants, who completed 36 distributed NeuroTracker sessions with pre-post qEEG and standardized neuropsychological assessments, to isolate changes in brain function specific to the training intervention.

The students increased their NeuroTracker speed threshold baselines by close to 100%, demonstrating a strong learning response. The neuropysche assessments showed clear and broad transfer to high-level cognitive functions, demonstrating that this form of training can enhance attention, information processing speed, and working memory.

Perhaps most interesting were the positive changes seen in the detailed qEEG data. This revealed positive and sustained increases in several types of brainwaves, including across brain regions outside the visual centers of the brain, similar to the effects of taking the ADHD medication Ritalin. In particular this included the frontal lobes, where executive functions and decision-making capacities reside.

For the first time this study revealed that an abstract visual training task can transfer widely and significantly to non-visual brain functions.

Read the study here

2. ‘3D-Multiple Object Tracking task performance improves passing decision-making accuracy in soccer players’

Far transfer in elite sports is notoriously rare. In a meta-review by German sports scientists of 1692 perceptual-cognitive training studies, only this study was deemed to provide reliable evidence of far transfer. In this NeuroTracker control + placebo study, just 3 hours of NeuroTracker training improved competitive soccer passing decision-making by +15%, effectively reducing passing errors by a whopping 40%.

Competitive soccer performance was objectively assessed by double-blind professional coaches via video recordings. In addition the soccer players themselves performed self-assessments, with remarkably close agreement between the assessment for the NeuroTracker trained group. Interestingly the placebo group, who were trained on 3D videos of FIFA matches, believed they had also improved, but the coaches observed no benefits.

One other interesting finding here is that NeuroTracker is an abstract and neutral training task, designed to build up cognitive capacities that are fundamental to human performance. Contrary to traditional sports science views, which hold that effective training requires a high degree of task similarity to end performance, this study demonstrated that training up core mental abilities may be the most effective way to achieve to success.

‍Read the study here

3. ‘Prior perceptual-cognitive training builds mental resistance during acute physical fatigue in professional rugby athletes’

Anyone who has competed in grueling team sports matches like rugby, soccer, football and so on, is acutely aware that when heavy physical fatigue kicks-ins towards the latter stages of competition, mental game-losing errors creep in surprisingly often. Similar to military performance in the field, it is well known that fatigue negatively impacts our ability to maintain focus and make sound decisions.

This study sought to investigate if these physically induced effects on cognition could be minimize with mental resilience training. To do this, two groups of equally elite rugby players were tested. The first group was untrained on NeuroTracker, while the second group was pre-trained (15 sessions). Both groups were then pushed to exhaustion on an exercise bike, maintaining a minimum of 80% of their maximum heartrate. While in an actively fatigued stated they completed a NeuroTracker baseline, with surprising results.

As expected, the cognitive performance of the untrained group dropped dramatically, with an effective loss of around 30% of their situational awareness. In contrast, the pre-trained rugby players exhibited virtually no loss of NeuroTracking performance (-0.03%). This exploratory study revealed that with elite athletes, the human brain can be quickly trained up to be remarkably resilient to the negative impacts of physical fatigue.

Read the study here

4. ‘Effects of 3D Multiple-Object Tracking on Off-the-Block Reaction Time in University of Victoria Varsity Swimmers’

When we think of athletic reaction times, we tend to think of agile physical abilities. However the speed at which the brain can process sensory cues becomes a significant factor in sports where the margins for winning come down to hundredths or thousandths of seconds. Swimming is one such sport where it is surprisingly common for medal positions to be decided in less than the time it takes to blink. As such professional swimmers commit serious amounts of training time to improving their reaction times off-the-block in order to shave all-important milliseconds off their overall race times.

For this reason researchers at the University of Victoria selected elite swimmers (including a world champion), to undergo NeuroTracker training to see if it could improve their sensory processing time in reaction to the starting gun. Using the latest technology to accurately measure off-the-block reaction times, untrained swimmers were pitted against NeuroTracker trained swimmers on pre- and post-training dive tests.

The control group showed negligible changes, while the NeuroTracker trained group experienced a significant gain in response time post-training. Although this only equated to literally 1 tenth of a second difference, it represented an 11% improvement in reaction time. This is way more substantial than traditional off-the-block intensive training programs, and in contrast this training intervention only spanned 90-minutes of training time.

In a follow-up article analysis by the lead researcher, this 0.1 second change in race results would have caused a total of 65 Olympic medals to have exchanged hands between the 1972 and 2004 Olympic Sprinting events (50 m – 200 m)!

‍Read the study here

5. ‘Enhancing learning in a perceptual-cognitive training paradigm using EEG-neurofeedback’

Neuropsychological and Neurofeedback expert Brendan Parsons teamed up with NeuroTracker inventor Professor Faubert to investigate if NeuroTracker learning rates could be accelerated with a novel 'closed-loop' approach to cognitive training. The goal was to use real-time Neurofeedback to iteratively amplify learning responses on a moment-by-moment basis throughout actual NeuroTracker training.

The idea is that if you use feedback to more accurately and rapidly adapt the exercise to a user’s needs, it triggers an altered cognitive state. Then the feedback can be used repeatedly to adjust the training continuously, and with progressively increasing accuracy, to facilitate a proximal zone of development. The key advantage of this concept is the acute nature of how it can adapt temporally, based on a person's responsive performance level, regardless of their variability in cognitive state.

Specifically this study utilized certain brainwaves signatures to reliably detect the moment when a person’s attention is either drifting-off during the NeuroTracker task, or when they have effectively lost track of the targets. At this point an automatic re-indexing technique kicked-in, where the software would kind of say, ‘Hey, you need to refocus right now - here are your targets’, at any precise moment there was a lapse in attention.

With training across 30 sessions, this method produced superior learning rates compared to conventional NeuroTracker training, which is already very effective. An active-control group using sham Neurofeedback (random signals), ruled out placebo effects. For the first time this study uncovered the synergistic potential of combining active cognitive training with closed-loop Neurofeedback.

Read the study here ‍

6. ‘Examination of the Training Effect of the Three Dimensional Multiple Object Tracking Task on Community Dwelling Elderly’

Fall-risk in older adults is well known to be the major threat to health, and to longer term wellbeing following injury. Clinical researchers in Japan looked to see if balance related impairments and fall-risk could be reduced with a 3-hour cognitive intervention of NeuroTracker training. Before and after training, active and control participants (nursing home residents) underwent a comprehensive battery of validated fall-risk assessments.

Overall the active participants improved significantly on NeuroTracker scores (+32% increase in speed thresholds), demonstrating a clear learning response for this task in old age. The NeuroTracker group also experienced significant to large gains in post-test assessments on the Trail Making Test A, 5 meter walking time, Timed Get-up and Go test, and the Functional Reach Test. In contrast, controls experienced a moderate or significant decline across all tests, apart from 5 meter walking time.

As these measures correlate strongly to predictions of falling injuries, this study suggests that such risks could be significantly lowered with a short cognitive training intervention. It also correlates with other NeuroTracker research showing that brain function and motor-coordination are closely interconnected.

Read the study here (in Japanese)

7. ‘Professional athletes have extraordinary skills for rapidly learning complex and neutral dynamic visual scenes’

The last four studies on this list only focus on assessment of cognitive abilities (not training transfer), yet still reveal a fascinating window into the functioning of the human brain. In this landmark study, which was featured on the homepage of Nature.com, Professor Faubert sought to test a hypothesis that elite athletes are at the top of the game because their brains are hyper-plastic.

Neuroplasticity, the ability of our brains to effectively rewire and grow new neural connections to improving learning, is not fixed - it can vary from individual to individual, as well as across different times in our lives. As NeuroTracker has negligible technique or practice-related effects, improvements in speed thresholds provide a reliable measure of functional learning response, which has also been correlated to levels of neuroplasticity through qEEG research.

A total of 175 elite professional athletes (NHL, EPL and Top 14 Rugby) and elite amateur athletes (NCAA) were assessed for learning rates over 15 NeuroTracker sessions. In addition, non-athlete university students were also assessed. As the NeuroTracker task is relatively abstract and non-context specific, the differences in learning rates represent differences in brain function, rather than any kind of familiarity with the task.

Elite professionals demonstrated much higher initial baselines, with elite amateurs and students starting out at a similar level. However, even with such high initial baselines, elite professionals' speed thresholds improved at a far higher rate than the elite amateurs, who in turn improved much faster than university students.

Featured across media internationally, these results showed that elite athletes are far from the stereotype of 'dumb jocks', and instead have unusually high levels of neuroplasticity. Further research is needed, but this study suggests that having a highly adaptive brain that can learn new tasks very rapidly, may be one of the key prerequisites for becoming a top performing athlete.

Read the study here ‍

8. ‘Visual tracking speed is related to basketball-specific measures of performance in NBA players’

This fairly straight-forward study examined if cognitive assessments could predict the statistical performance of an NBA team over the course of a season's play. Just a single 6-minute NeuroTracker session was used as a benchmark at the outset of the season, to see if this measure correlated with official NBA performance stats.

Assist-to-turnover ratios, steals and turnovers all correlated strongly with NeuroTracker speed thresholds (Visual Tracking Speed). Backcourt players were most likely to outperform frontcourt players in Assist-to-turnover ratios, and very likely to do so for higher NeuroTracker baselines. In conclusion, the higher the 1-session NeuroTracker baseline, the more likely the NBA basketball players would see and respond to various stimuli on the basketball court, resulting in more positive plays.

Read the study here

9. ‘Perceptual-Cognitive & Physiological Assessment of Training Effectiveness’

In a collaborative research project, the Faubert Lab, the University of Iowa’s Operator Performance Lab, the University of Montreal, and Rockwell Collins (avionics and simulation training company), partnered their fields of expertise to come up with an innovative way to assess the mental loads of flying.

In an experimental combination of man-machine technology, an Aero Vodochody L-29 jet plane had a NeuroTracker system integrated into the dashboard and pilots were hooked up with eye tracking and ECG equipment.

The purpose of the setup was to have jet pilots perform three different difficulty levels of flight maneuvers in both simulated and live flight. During these maneuvers the pilots performed NeuroTracker as a secondary task in order to measure what level of 'spare cognitive capacity' was left over from the demands flying the jet plane. As hypothesized, live flight was much more demanding than simulated flight, but only for the more difficult maneuvers such as barrel rolls. For the most difficult flight tasks, spare cognitive capacity was almost completely saturated during live flight, yet not significantly taxed in the simulator.

This innovative study showed the limitations of simulated training for flights skills, which lack the high degree of physical stress on both the body and mind in live jet flight.

Read the study here

10. ‘Driving simulator scenarios and measures to faithfully evaluate risky driving behavior: A comparative study of different driver age groups’

Our last study on this list combined a standard NeuroTracker baseline assessment with highly sophisticated assessments of simulated driving abilities. 115 drivers of different ages and level of driving experience undertook 2 hours of simulated driving tests. This included low, medium and high levels of driving workload, including exposure to random high-risk events. Each participant was assess across 18 different measures of specific driving skills.

Analysis revealed that NeuroTracker scores were a very good predictor of overall driving performance, somewhat surprisingly being much more reliable than age or level of driving experience. Perhaps most importantly, lower NeuroTracker baselines effectively predicted elevated risks of crashes. More specifically, NeuroTracker data predicted the steering rate and the distance at which large steering reactions were made in order to evade accidents.

The findings, replicated in other studies, showed that a simple and abstract cognitive assessment can be a valuable measure of driving safety across different types of drivers.

Read the study here

If you are interested in exploring more NeuroTracker research, then check out our science summaries.

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In the quest for effective weight loss strategies, numerous diets have gained popularity, each claiming unique benefits. This article reviews seven of the most popular weight loss diets, providing detailed insights into their mechanisms, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you're seeking to shed a few pounds or embark on a major weight loss journey, understanding these diets can help you make informed decisions.

1. High-Fiber Diet

A high-fiber diet emphasizes the consumption of foods rich in dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Fiber is known for its ability to promote satiety, regulate blood sugar levels, and improve digestive health.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Satiety: Fiber expands in the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness that can reduce overall calorie intake.

• Improved Digestion: Fiber aids in regular bowel movements and prevents constipation.

• Blood Sugar Control: Soluble fiber helps to slow the absorption of sugar, which can prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.

Drawbacks:

• Digestive Issues: A sudden increase in fiber intake can cause bloating and gas. It's advisable to gradually incorporate high-fiber foods into your diet.

• Nutrient Absorption: Excessive fiber can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals, such as iron and calcium.

2. Low-Carb Diets

Low-carb diets, such as the ketogenic diet and the Atkins diet, focus on reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing protein and fat consumption. These diets aim to shift the body's metabolism from burning glucose to burning fat for energy.

Benefits:

• Rapid Weight Loss: Reducing carbs can lead to quick initial weight loss due to the depletion of glycogen stores and water weight.

• Improved Blood Sugar Levels: Low-carb diets can be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes by stabilizing blood sugar levels.

• Appetite Control: Increased protein and fat intake can reduce hunger and cravings.

Drawbacks:

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Restricting carbs can lead to a lack of essential nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Sustainability: Many people find it difficult to maintain a low-carb diet long-term due to its restrictive nature.

3. Zone Diet

The Zone Diet balances macronutrient intake with a focus on a 40-30-30 ratio: 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, and 30% fat. The diet aims to reduce inflammation, improve hormonal balance, and promote weight loss.

Benefits:

• Balanced Nutrition: The Zone Diet encourages a balanced intake of macronutrients, which can support overall health.

• Steady Energy Levels: By balancing blood sugar levels, this diet can help maintain consistent energy throughout the day.

• Reduced Inflammation: The emphasis on anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce chronic inflammation.

Drawbacks:

• Complexity: Measuring and balancing macronutrient ratios can be challenging and time-consuming.

• Moderate Restriction: Some people may find the 40-30-30 ratio restrictive, especially when it comes to carbohydrate intake.

4. Ultra-Low-Fat Diet

Ultra-low-fat diets, such as the Ornish diet, severely restrict fat intake to less than 10% of daily calories. These diets typically emphasize plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Benefits:

• Heart Health: Reducing fat intake can lower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.

• Weight Loss: Low-fat diets can be effective for weight loss, especially when combined with regular exercise.

• Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Emphasizing plant-based foods can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and certain cancers.

Drawbacks:

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Restricting fat intake can lead to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and essential fatty acids.

• Satisfaction: Low-fat diets may lack satiety and flavor, making them difficult to stick to in the long term.

5. Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet, also known as the "caveman diet," focuses on consuming foods that were available to early humans, such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. It excludes processed foods, grains, legumes, and dairy.

Benefits:

• Natural Foods: The emphasis on whole, unprocessed foods can improve overall health and reduce the intake of additives and preservatives.

• Weight Loss: The elimination of processed foods and refined sugars can lead to weight loss and improved metabolic health.

• Anti-Inflammatory: The diet's focus on anti-inflammatory foods can reduce chronic inflammation.

Drawbacks:

• Restrictiveness: The exclusion of entire food groups, such as grains and dairy, can make the diet difficult to adhere to and may lead to nutrient deficiencies.

• Cost: High-quality organic and grass-fed products recommended by the Paleo diet can be expensive.

6. HCG Diet

The HCG diet combines a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) with the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Proponents claim that HCG helps to reduce hunger and promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass. It's particularly popular in New York, where many seek effective weight loss solutions.

Benefits:

• Rapid Weight Loss: The combination of HCG and a VLCD can lead to significant weight loss in a short period.

• Appetite suppression: HCG is believed to reduce hunger, making it easier to adhere to the VLCD.

• Fat Loss: The diet targets fat stores while preserving lean muscle mass.

Drawbacks:

• Safety Concerns: The HCG diet is controversial and has been criticized for its potential health risks, including nutrient deficiencies and muscle loss.

• Sustainability: The VLCD component of the diet is not sustainable long-term and can lead to rebound weight gain.

For those interested in exploring this diet, it's advisable to seek professional guidance, especially in regions like New York where "HCG diet New York" and "HCG diet plans in New York" are widely available.

7. Atkins Diet

The Atkins Diet is a well-known low-carb diet that emphasizes high protein and fat intake while minimizing carbohydrates. It consists of four phases, starting with a very low-carb induction phase and gradually increasing carb intake.

Benefits:

• Effective Weight Loss: The Atkins Diet is known for its rapid weight loss effects, particularly in the initial phases.

• Appetite Control: High protein and fat intake can reduce hunger and increase satiety.

• Improved Blood Sugar Levels: Reducing carbs can help stabilize blood sugar levels, benefiting individuals with insulin resistance or diabetes.

Drawbacks:

• Nutrient Deficiencies: The diet's restrictive nature can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Initial Side Effects: The induction phase can cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, and fatigue, often referred to as the "Atkins flu."

Conclusion

Choosing the right weight loss diet involves considering personal preferences, lifestyle, and health needs. Each of the diets reviewed here offers unique benefits and challenges. High-fiber diets and low-carb diets, for example, are effective for many people but require careful planning to avoid nutrient deficiencies. The Zone and Paleo diets promote balanced nutrition and natural foods, respectively, but can be restrictive. Ultra-low-fat diets offer cardiovascular benefits but may lack satiety. The HCG diet, particularly popular in places like New York, offers rapid weight loss but comes with significant risks. Lastly, the Atkins diet provides effective weight loss through carbohydrate restriction but can be challenging to maintain long term.

Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any diet is crucial to ensure it aligns with your health goals and nutritional needs.

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I'm excited to share our Centre de développement PAC journey and the very encouraging results we've seen with our holistic brain training program in schools across Quebec, especially with the Kanamata High School in Shefferville. Our approach has brought a lot of positive changes, and I believe sharing our story can inspire others to consider similar initiatives.

Kanamata High School: Train Your Brain Challenges

We've formed a partnership with the Innu community of Matimekush Lac-John, leading to our new project aimed at strengthening school perseverance, memory and concentration with Kanamata High School. This school is part of a native community in Northern Quebec, which is remote and can only be reached by train or airplane.

In April, we visited Kanamata High School. The community is small, with about 50 high school students, and we presented the project to all students. Having completed over a hundred NeuroTracker sessions myself, and seeing the difference it can make, helped for making a convincing pitch.

The visit was a key success factor for securing buy-in from the school’s principal and teachers from the outset. We conducted preliminary meetings to explain the benefits of our cognitive training methods, which meant the teachers were enthusiastic and supported the project from the start.

We introduced NeuroTracker training programs within the school’s classrooms, having the same teachers dedicated to specific subjects overseeing the training with each student, so that they could ensure consistency and ease of implementation.

Part of our core approach involved a one-month challenges called "Train Your Brain". We used engaging visuals and offer prizes to motivate the students. To make it even more exciting, we asked the students what prizes they would like. Their suggestions, along with generous sponsorship from Tata Steel Minerals Canada, led us to offer three pairs of iPod Pros and $400 worth of Amazon gift cards.

This incentivized approach significantly boosted motivation and commitment. The community's response to our program has been overwhelmingly positive. The teachers noticed significant improvements in student engagement and focus after introducing our NeuroTracker sessions.

A Truly Engaged School

‘‘...the school actually moved more challenging subjects like math and science to the mornings, so they would be done right after the NeuroTracker training.’’

Over five months, the majority of the students completed four sessions per week, totaling over 400 sessions. The pupils remained highly engaged and we observed remarkable improvements with wonderful feedback. For instance, teachers reported that students were significantly more engaged and calmer in daily lessons, and that they were delighted with the results - a more attentive class makes for more contented teachers!

One key outcome of the program which really stood out, was that administrators actually rearranged the school's lesson schedules. This came about after noticing that the students were much more alert and attentive in classes after their morning NeuroTracker sessions.

For this reason, the school actually moved more challenging subjects like math and science to the mornings, so they would be done right after the NeuroTracker training.  Considering schools like routines and are generally resistant to sudden changes, we believe this was superb validation that the program was making a real difference from both the students' and teachers' perspectives.

Expanding Our Reach

Our success at Kanamata High School, and other native community schools we have had success with, caught the attention of more schools and communities in the region. We are now working on expanding our "Train Your Brain" contests to include interschool competitions. This initiative will start in September and involve multiple schools competing against each other, fostering a sense of community and friendly rivalry.

Alongside this we have been working hard to develop a mobile app that allows students to access their NeuroTracker dashboard and other resources such as meditation practices, stress management techniques and physical exercise routines.

We also provide educational blogs and interactive online learning modules so that participants can grow their understanding the importance of nurturing brain performance and wellness in daily life. Part of the purpose of this is to maintain a presence even when we're not physically there, ensuring continuous support and engagement.

The Importance of Brain Training

People often overlook the importance of cognitive development, assuming that their mental abilities are fixed. However, like any muscle, the brain needs regular exercise to stay sharp. A good example is which a lot of people talk about being important is ‘‘hockey sense’’, which relies on situational awareness and rapid decision-making. These skills are rooted in cognitive processing, not physical skills or prowess, which is how many people perceived them.

Our training program focuses on enhancing sensory perception and cognitive processing speed, which are crucial for overall human performance. Educating people about the benefits of brain training is a key part of our mission.

Future Plans

Starting in September, we will launch our interschool challenge, further expanding our program and ramping up the motivation to be compete with brain power. Once established in this tight-knit community, other schools have quickly express interest, generating a lot of excitement. We've been featured in news pieces by Radio Canada and CBC, which has helped spread the word about our work.

One thing we are keen to focus on is customizing programs to for each school’s needs. We are a small team and do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Accordingly, we tailor our programs to each school's unique challenges and resources, ensuring that our solutions are effective and relevant. Following a crawl, walk, run philosophy we’ve purposely kept our growth has been steady. We are now well into the "walking" phase, steadily progressing towards greater success with a quality over quantity mindset.

While there are always unexpected challenges, such as navigating internal politics, the results have been worth the effort. Once we gain a school's commitment, the engagement is incredible, allowing us to focus on applying our program and demonstrating its effectiveness.

Takeaways

By focusing on engagement, personalized rewards, and community involvement, our brain training program has made a significant difference in the schools we work with. We’ve found that education is key to adopting new technologies and services and getting them to stick. Our NeuroTracker in-class program combined with our holistic brain wellness platform has shown amazing results, and we are confident in its potential.

We hope to continue making a positive impact on students' lives through this unique approach and look forward to seeing even more positive outcomes in the future. Stay tuned for more updates as we expand our reach and help more communities thrive.

Feel free to visit our website or contact us there to learn more.

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The connection between the gut and the brain has garnered significant attention in recent years, with growing evidence suggesting that a healthy gut can lead to a healthy mind. This fascinating interplay, known as the gut-brain axis, highlights the importance of nurturing our digestive health to optimize mental well-being. In collaboration with experts from Manhattan Gastroenterology, this article explores practical steps and scientific insights into improving your mental health through your gut.

Understanding the Gut-Brain Axis

The gut-brain axis is a complex communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and brain. This bidirectional pathway involves neural, hormonal, and immunological signaling. Key players in this connection are the gut microbiota—trillions of microorganisms in the digestive tract. These microbes produce neurotransmitters and other compounds that can influence brain function and mood.

Expert Advice from Manhattan Gastroenterology

Dr. Michael Dann, a leading gastroenterologist at Manhattan Gastroenterology, emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to gut health for enhancing mental well-being. According to Dr. Dann, “A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for maintaining digestive health and supporting

emotional and cognitive functions. By making mindful choices in diet and lifestyle, we can positively impact our gut health and, consequently, our mental health.”

Steps to Optimize Gut Health for Mental Well-being

1. Dietary Choices

○ Increase Fiber Intake: A diet high in fiber supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Dr. Dann recommends incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet. “Fiber acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut, which is essential for a balanced microbiome,” he explains.

○ Incorporate Probiotics and Prebiotics: Probiotics (live beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (food for these bacteria) play crucial roles in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods are excellent probiotic sources. Prebiotics are found in bananas, onions, garlic, and asparagus. “Fermented foods are a great addition to your diet as they introduce beneficial bacteria to your gut,” notes Dr. Dann.

○ Reduce Sugar and Processed Foods: Excessive sugar and processed foods can negatively impact gut health by promoting the growth of harmful bacteria. Dr. Dann advises, “Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible to support a healthy microbiome.”

2. Stay Hydrated

○ Drinking plenty of water aids digestion and helps maintain the mucosal lining of the intestines, creating a favorable environment for beneficial gut bacteria.

“Hydration is key to digestive health and helps in the smooth transit of food through the gut,” says Dr. Dann.

3. Exercise Regularly

○ Physical activity has been shown to affect the composition and diversity of gut microbiota positively. Regular exercise can help reduce stress and inflammation, further supporting gut and mental health. Dr. Dann states, “Exercise benefits your body and your gut, promoting a more diverse microbiome linked to better mental health.”

4. Manage Stress

○ Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and compromise the gut barrier, leading to inflammation. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can help maintain gut health. “Stress management is crucial for gut health. Practices like mindfulness and yoga can help reduce stress and its negative impact on the gut,” Dr. Dann advises.

5. Get Enough Sleep

○ Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including gut health. Poor sleep patterns can negatively impact the gut microbiome and affect mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a consistent sleep routine. Dr. Dann emphasizes, “Good sleep hygiene is vital. A regular sleep schedule helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.”

6. Limit Antibiotic Use

○ While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, they can disrupt the gut microbiome by killing beneficial bacteria. Use antibiotics only when prescribed, and consider taking a probiotic supplement to help restore gut balance during and after antibiotic treatment. “Antibiotics can significantly alter your gut microbiota, so they should be used judiciously,” Dr. Dann notes.

7. Consider Supplements

○ In some cases, supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and specific probiotics may help support gut health and mental health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Dr. Dann suggests, “Supplements can be beneficial, but it’s important to discuss with your doctor to tailor them to your specific needs.”

Scientific Evidence Supporting the Gut-Mental Health Connection

● Neurotransmitter Production: Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which play critical roles in regulating mood, anxiety, and cognitive functions.

● Immune System Modulation: A healthy gut microbiome helps regulate the immune system, reducing inflammation that can negatively impact mental health.

● Stress Response: The gut microbiota influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the body's stress response. A balanced gut microbiome can help modulate the HPA axis, reducing stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

Optimizing mental health through your gut involves a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, and mindful use of medications.

Nurturing your gut health can positively influence your brain function and overall mental well-being. Embrace these practices, supported by expert advice from Manhattan Gastroenterology, to harness the power of the gut-brain connection and lead a healthier, happier life.

For more personalized advice and treatment, visit Manhattan Gastroenterology or schedule an appointment with one of their experienced specialists.

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As CEO of the International Center Sports Mental Coaching I like to say that our methodology and cognitive training with the NeuroTracker tool is as close as you can get to having a coffee, a ginseng, and an energy drink at the same time, but let's look at something interesting...

When it comes to maximizing cognitive performance, many people turn to stimulants like ginseng, coffee, or energy drinks. However, our cognitive training using NeuroTracker technology offers a more powerful and sustainable solution.

Let’s do a head-to-head rundown across 4 benefits from supplement forms of drinks and functional cognitive training to see why NeuroTracker training is the superior choice.

1. Instant Energy vs. Lasting Cognitive Enhancement

Ginseng, Coffee, and Energy Drinks

Immediate Boost: These stimulants provide a quick energy surge, making you feel more alert and awake almost instantly.

Short-lived Effects: The heightened alertness typically lasts for a few hours, after which you may experience a crash or fatigue.

Side Effects: Over-reliance on these can lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and dependency.

NeuroTracker Cognitive Training

Gradual Improvement: Cognitive training enhances mental capabilities over time through consistent practice.

Long-lasting Benefits: The improvements in attention, concentration, and cognitive processing are enduring, not just short-term boosts.

No Negative Side Effects: Unlike stimulants, cognitive training has no adverse health effects and can be tailored to individual needs.

2. Focus and Attention: Temporary vs. Permanent Gains

Ginseng, Coffee, and Energy Drinks

Temporary Focus: These substances can temporarily sharpen your focus, helping with tasks that require immediate attention.

Diminished Returns: The more you use them, the less effective they become due to tolerance build-up.

NeuroTracker Cognitive Training

Sustained Focus: Through targeted exercises, NeuroTracker improves your ability to maintain focus and attention consistently.

Enhanced Neuroplasticity: Training promotes brain plasticity, making it easier to adapt and process information even under pressure.

3. Performance Under Pressure: Peaks vs. Continuous Improvement

Ginseng, Coffee, and Energy Drinks

Momentary Peaks: These can give you short bursts of heightened performance, useful for quick tasks or overcoming immediate challenges.

Stress and Anxiety: High doses, especially from energy drinks, can increase stress and anxiety, which negatively impacts performance.

NeuroTracker Cognitive Training

Continuous Growth: The training method ensures gradual and steady improvement in cognitive functions, making it easier to handle complex tasks over time.

Resilience and Calm: Regular training helps in maintaining calm and composure under pressure, leading to better decision-making and performance.

4. Holistic Brain Health: Quick Fixes vs. Comprehensive Development

Ginseng, Coffee, and Energy Drinks

Quick Fixes: These are quick fixes that don’t contribute to overall brain health or cognitive development.

Potential Health Risks: Overuse can lead to various health issues, including heart problems and dependency.

NeuroTracker Cognitive Training

Comprehensive Development: Enhances various cognitive domains including attention, working memory, and visual processing.

Positive Health Impact: Encourages overall brain health and cognitive function without the risk of negative health consequences.

Takeaway

While ginseng, coffee, and energy drinks can provide temporary boosts in energy and focus, NeuroTracker cognitive training offers a sustainable and comprehensive approach to cognitive enhancement. With lasting benefits, no side effects, and the potential to improve performance under pressure, NeuroTracker stands out as the superior choice for anyone looking to unlock their full cognitive potential.

Transitioning into my role at NeuroTracker marked a significant shift in both my career and personal life. Although I actually studied neuroscience at Carleton University, prior to joining NeuroTracker my career was in medical device sales. This was often in high-stress and competitive environments, which was a challenge I enjoyed, but did mean I was accustomed to a world where securing a sale required persistence and overcoming frequent rejections.

NeuroTracker was different. When I was first introduced to NeuroTracker, the science and potential of it immediately intrigued me, so I introduced it to my husband Jonathan. Soon after he became the new CEO and I joined as head of neuromedical sales. Having spent years working mostly on my own and on the road a lot, this new career journey was a change not just in work life, but in being able to work at home as mother of three girls, to share steering a company with my husband, and to engage with a fascinating range of exciting clients.

Here I'd like to share some insights on how a career pivot can bring about a positive change in lifestyle.

The Positive Impact of Remote Work

The global shift towards remote work brought about by the pandemic coincided with a transformative period in my life. The move from a traditional office setting to a home-based environment significantly affected our family dynamics. Previously, my career demanded a considerable amount of travel and time in surgeries, while my husband also had a hectic travel schedule. This lifestyle required us to rely heavily on nannies due to the absence of nearby family support.

Working from home changed all of that. It allowed for greater flexibility and presence at home, enabling both of us to engage more actively in our children's daily lives. The ability to set our own schedules, create boundaries, and eliminate lengthy commutes transformed our approach to work and family life.

This newfound balance certainly enhanced our quality of life. For me it also opened my eyes just how easy it is in a busy career to miss all the special moments that happen on a daily basis, as your children grow and blossom so quickly.

Thriving in Sales with a Sought-After Solution

My role overseeing sales at NeuroTracker was a stark contrast to my previous experiences in sales, which was often a case of trying to create opportunities rather than respond to them. My first surprise was discovering that here was a product where clients actively seek us out for solutions.

The clients I now interact with come prepared, aware of what they need to enhance their performance—be it in sports, academia, or military applications. This shift from aggressively pursuing sales to facilitating eager clients through their decision processes has been a refreshing change to say the least!

Fortunately, the cloud-based NeuroTracker product is highly accessible – a new client can literally be up and running on it within minutes. Then, as over 100 scientific studies show, the first 6-minute session can deliver a valuable window in to the brain, and the cognitive benefits can be reaped within just a few hours of training. This makes introducing it to clients genuinely rewarding.

It is also endlessly interesting because each client has different needs and there are so many ways it can be adapted for how they want to make use of the product.

Engaging with a Diverse Clientele

The diversity of the clientele at NeuroTracker keeps my day-to-day interactions both challenging and fascinating. Each client brings unique needs and goals, requiring tailored approaches that utilize my skills in relationship building and strategic planning. From elite sports teams and educational institutions to military groups, the range of applications for NeuroTracker has broadened the scope of my professional expertise.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is the opportunity to interact with people who are genuine experts in their fields. Every new client or project brings a story, a set of challenges, and a chance to make a tangible difference. There's always something to learn. Whether it's improving the cognitive functions of athletes or aiding rehabilitation in medical patients, the applications of NeuroTracker are as varied as they are profound.

This diversity not only enhances my day-to-day experiences but also contributes to evolution of the company. Being part of a solution that has a direct impact on people's lives provides a sense of purpose that is gratifying in a way I wouldn’t have associated with a sales career.

Looking Forward

Reflecting on my journey so far with NeuroTracker, I am struck by just how influential a career change can be. New is sometimes scary, but in the bigger picture I found well worth the risks.

This role has not only allowed me to leverage my background in neuroscience and sales in innovative ways but has also provided a work-life balance that I hadn’t previously imagined. Now I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, confident in the knowledge that what we are building here extends far beyond the confines of traditional business—it's about making a lasting difference in people's lives.

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Dry, cracked, and painfully uncomfortable - chapped lips are a frustrating reality many face, especially during the harsh winter months. While drugstore shelves are lined with countless lip balms and treatments promising relief, those synthetic formulas can often do more harm than good. These harsh chemicals can end up aggravating sensitive skin.

Fortunately, Mother Nature provides a bounty of gentle, nourishing solutions to soothe and restore your lips naturally.

Read this article to bid farewell to that stinging, tight feeling and discover how to achieve soft, supple lips using nature's healing remedies.

What Causes Chapped Lips

Chapped lips are very common and can be caused by different things that make the lips dry out. Some of the main reasons lips get chapped are:

• Cold, dry weather

• Not drinking enough water (dehydration)

• Licking or biting your lips a lot

• Medical conditions like eczema or vitamin deficiencies

Understanding these common triggers can better address the root cause and choose an effective chapped lips remedy. They include the following:

1. Protect Your Lips from Harsh Elements

Protecting the lips from environmental elements that cause moisture loss is a major factor in preventing chapped lips. Lips are very vulnerable to drying out from harsh winds, low humidity, and cold temperatures, which can quickly lead to dry, cracked lips.

Harsh winds dehydrate lip skin through evaporation. When heaters are used, low indoor humidity in winter pulls moisture from lips and skin. Frigid temperatures further drain the lips of their natural oils and hydration.

It's essential to shield lips from these damaging conditions. Applying a thick, occlusive balm before going outdoors forms a barrier against winds and cold. Choose a balm made from beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil that soothes without irritating sensitive lip skin. Stay away from products with artificial scents, flavors, or dyes.

2. Hydrate From the Inside Out

One of the most effective natural remedies for chapped lips is to hydrate your body from the inside out. Why? Dehydration is one of the leading causes of dry, cracked lips. When your body doesn't get enough water, it draws moisture from the skin, including the delicate skin on the lips. Therefore, you can consider the following;

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. For maximum hydration, aim for around eight glasses (64 ounces) daily. Keep a water bottle handy to encourage regular sips.

• Eat hydrating foods high in water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. The water and nutrients will hydrate the skin from within.

• Avoid dehydrating beverages like coffee, tea, and alcohol, which cause water loss in the body.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air, especially in winter. Place one in the bedroom while sleeping to wake with hydrated skin.

3. Exfoliate Gently

Notably, the lips accumulate dry, flaky skin throughout the day, which can exacerbate cracking and chapping. Regularly sloughing off this dead skin allows moisturizers to penetrate more deeply.

The delicate skin on the lips requires an ultra-gentle approach. Wet a washcloth with warm water and gently rub it over the lips in a circular motion. This light friction lifts away dull flakes without irritation.

Dampen a toothbrush and brush softly around the lips for a targeted method. Discard toothbrushes frequently for a clean exfoliator. Some like using a warm sugar or salt scrub made of natural oils and granules weekly.

Whichever exfoliation method is chosen, go slowly and don't over-exfoliate. The goal is to remove dry patches, not irritate skin. After exfoliating, always apply a nourishing balm to moisturize freshly revealed skin.

Taking a few minutes a couple of times a week to exfoliate lips makes a noticeable difference. Leaving lips smooth allows natural treatments time to penetrate and heal chapping from within, resulting in a softer pout.

4. Use Natural Oils and Butters

Rich, emollient natural oils and butter are some of the most effective homemade remedies for chapped lips. They form an occlusive barrier on the skin to lock in moisture. They include the following:

• Coconut oil penetrates deeply to hydrate due to its medium-chain fatty acid composition. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as well. Swipe some onto lips like a balm anytime they feel dry.

• Shea and cocoa butter are dense moisturizers that layer thickly without feeling greasy. Melt a small piece and mix in coconut oil for easy application. Let it resolidify to create an all-natural SPF lip protectant.

Mix one above with a hydrating oil like jojoba, avocado, or rosehip seed for an even more nourishing salve. Apply before bed for overnight healing and preventative use throughout the day in cold weather.

5. Utilize Healing Agents

Certain natural ingredients have fantastic healing abilities to repair chapped lips when used topically. Integrating some of these agents can speed up recovery time. They include the following:

• Aloe vera is a powerful healing agent for chapped lips due to its anti-inflammatory properties and abundant vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The pure gel extracted from aloe vera plant leaves can be directly applied to soothe irritated skin and accelerate the repair of cracks or fissures. Its cooling gel texture also delivers hydration, helping to soften and moisturize dry, chapped lips.

• Honey is another natural ingredient with lip-healing abilities. As a humectant, honey draws moisture into the skin around the lips. It possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory attributes and the ability to disinfect minor sores and reduce inflammation. Applying a light layer of honey and allowing it to absorb for 15-20 minutes provides relief and healing benefits.

• Cucumber: Contains hydrating vitamins and minerals that nourish parched lips when rubbed directly on the skin. Its refreshing juice soothes and replenishes moisture when lips feel dry and cracked.

• Green tea: Its high antioxidant and tannin content also effectively heals, helping reduce inflammation from chapping when a soaked tea bag is applied.

Final Thoughts

You can naturally heal and protect your delicate pout by addressing the internal and external causes of chapped lips. Proper hydration, exfoliation, protection from elements, use of healing oils and balms, and utilization of soothing natural agents work synergistically to replenish moisture. With consistent application of these simple remedies, chapped, flaky lips will become a thing of the past. Your smile will again be accentuated by beautifully soft lips - restored from within and without through wholesome, effective natural techniques.

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In the fast-paced tornado of modern life, when stress and anxiety are woven into daily living, yoga and meditation become your refuge of total well-being. These ancient practices provide a sanctuary for your mind, body, and spirit amid the chaos, offering advantages beyond physical exercise.

The seamless blend of yoga's physical elegance and meditation's thoughtful introspection leads to inner serenity, emotional resilience, and spiritual progress.

Therefore, this article provides in-depth details about yoga and meditation's benefits.

The Symbiotic Dance of Yoga and Meditation

Yoga & meditation are like a dance, a symbiotic collaboration that improves both practices. Through physical relaxation, cognitive quiet, and attention, yoga prepares the body for meditation. This synchronicity unlocks your ultimate well-being.

1. A Harmonious Blend for Overall Well-being

Combining yoga and meditation boosts their effects. The stress reduction and relaxation response of meditation amplifies the impact of yoga on sleep quality, immunity, and hormone balance. Their self-care symphony promotes your physical health and endocrine system's delicate dance.

2. Empowerment and Fulfillment

Along this transforming journey, you feel empowered. Yoga and meditation promote self-love, uniqueness, and emotional resilience. This increased strength propels you toward a life of purpose and potential, bringing fulfillment and empowerment.

3. Uniting With the Self and Beyond

Yoga and meditation unite you and the world. Self-discovery is linked to connection and diversity. This unity guides you beyond your mat to purpose and peace.

4. Embarking on Your Holistic Well-being Journey

In the midst of life's chaos, yoga and meditation guide you toward overall well-being. They transform lives to handle life's problems with poise and grit. Mind, body, and spirit work together to bring peace, contentment, and a deep connection to your soul. Inhale and move onto your mat to begin this transformative journey to harmony, self-discovery, and nourishment of mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga: A Holistic Discipline Rooted in Ancient Wisdom

The ancient Indian practice of yoga connects mind, body, and spirit. Its holistic approach reflects the interconnection of these three parts of your being. Yoga reduces stress, improves flexibility, and clears the mind through a combination of physical postures, breath control, and awareness. The comprehensive nature of yoga invites you to examine the profound link between your physical being and your consciousness.

1. Embracing the Mind-Body-Spirit Connection

Integrating mind, body, and spirit is yoga's essence. Harmony and unity within oneself are the goals of this physical activity. Yoga improves inner calm and balance by encouraging this connection. Asanas, or physical postures, strengthen and align the body, improving blood circulation, detoxification, and cellular sustenance.

2. Fortifying the Physical Self

Yoga poses have several physical benefits. The postures build strength, balance, and posture. These routines increase blood circulation, which aids detoxification.

Proper asana posture avoids injuries and manages chronic pain, making it a welcoming practice for individuals seeking physical relief.

You gain strength and balance and watch your blood flow as you go through positions. This detoxifying dance nourishes and energizes every cell.

3. Breath Control: The Essence of Pranayama

Pranayama, or breath regulation, is one of the pillars of yoga. Imagine mastering your breath, a bridge between your outward world and your inner reality. Inhaling and exhaling thoughtfully increases lung capacity, respiratory function, and deep relaxation.

4. Nurturing Emotional Wellness

Yoga helps mental well-being as well as physical health. Imagine the postures as emotional well-being. Fluid yoga postures and focused breath release endorphins. Feel-good hormones gently caress your inner self and lift your mood. This can aid depression management. The practice boosts serotonin, fostering self-awareness, mindfulness, and coping skills to help you overcome life's obstacles.

Meditation: A Gateway to Inner Tranquility

Meditation deepens your intellect and complements yoga's physical components. It boosts self-awareness, positivity, and emotional resilience. Close your eyes and envision a quiet location in your mind where you may examine your thoughts without judgment. Meditation, which promotes self-reflection and self-love, is based on this.

Each session improves cognitive performance, mental clarity, and attention. You tap into a universal energy that nourishes your spirit and links you to everything in this sanctuary.

1. Unleashing the Power of Mindfulness

Mindfulness, or being present in the moment, is the foundation of meditation. This exercise helps you observe your thoughts without judgment and disrupt negative thought patterns that cause tension and anxiety. Mindfulness can help you build compassion and self-acceptance, accepting your journey with kindness and empathy.

2. Strengthening Cognitive Abilities

Meditation has impressive cognitive impacts. Memory, cognition, and mental clarity improve with regular meditation. This is important in today's distracted environment. Meditation helps you focus and concentrate on routine duties.

3. The Spiritual and Transcendent

Meditation links the physical and spiritual. It leads to deep inner tranquility and self-discovery. The technique emphasizes unity and interconnectedness, like yoga. You can experience harmony, a greater connection with your spirit, and overall well-being through meditation.

Final Words

Your entire existence benefits from yoga and meditation. The complicated endocrine system dances to the rhythm of self-care, and its effects can be felt in the quality of sleep you get and the strength of your immune system. They give you the tools to eat well and respect your body.

In the broad fabric of life, yoga and meditation unite to celebrate connectivity, empower, and discover self. This holistic practice connects you with the world and yourself. Yoga and meditation become a gateway to fulfilling lives, confirming the search for inner peace, transforming power, and total well-being in the refuge you create within yourself.

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Dry, cracked, and painfully uncomfortable - chapped lips are a frustrating reality many face, especially during the harsh winter months. While drugstore shelves are lined with countless lip balms and treatments promising relief, those synthetic formulas can often do more harm than good. These harsh chemicals can end up aggravating sensitive skin.

Fortunately, Mother Nature provides a bounty of gentle, nourishing solutions to soothe and restore your lips naturally.

Read this article to bid farewell to that stinging, tight feeling and discover how to achieve soft, supple lips using nature's healing remedies.

What Causes Chapped Lips

Chapped lips are very common and can be caused by different things that make the lips dry out. Some of the main reasons lips get chapped are:

• Cold, dry weather

• Not drinking enough water (dehydration)

• Licking or biting your lips a lot

• Medical conditions like eczema or vitamin deficiencies

Understanding these common triggers can better address the root cause and choose an effective chapped lips remedy. They include the following:

1. Protect Your Lips from Harsh Elements

Protecting the lips from environmental elements that cause moisture loss is a major factor in preventing chapped lips. Lips are very vulnerable to drying out from harsh winds, low humidity, and cold temperatures, which can quickly lead to dry, cracked lips.

Harsh winds dehydrate lip skin through evaporation. When heaters are used, low indoor humidity in winter pulls moisture from lips and skin. Frigid temperatures further drain the lips of their natural oils and hydration.

It's essential to shield lips from these damaging conditions. Applying a thick, occlusive balm before going outdoors forms a barrier against winds and cold. Choose a balm made from beeswax, shea butter, or coconut oil that soothes without irritating sensitive lip skin. Stay away from products with artificial scents, flavors, or dyes.

2. Hydrate From the Inside Out

One of the most effective natural remedies for chapped lips is to hydrate your body from the inside out. Why? Dehydration is one of the leading causes of dry, cracked lips. When your body doesn't get enough water, it draws moisture from the skin, including the delicate skin on the lips. Therefore, you can consider the following;

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. For maximum hydration, aim for around eight glasses (64 ounces) daily. Keep a water bottle handy to encourage regular sips.

• Eat hydrating foods high in water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. The water and nutrients will hydrate the skin from within.

• Avoid dehydrating beverages like coffee, tea, and alcohol, which cause water loss in the body.

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air, especially in winter. Place one in the bedroom while sleeping to wake with hydrated skin.

3. Exfoliate Gently

Notably, the lips accumulate dry, flaky skin throughout the day, which can exacerbate cracking and chapping. Regularly sloughing off this dead skin allows moisturizers to penetrate more deeply.

The delicate skin on the lips requires an ultra-gentle approach. Wet a washcloth with warm water and gently rub it over the lips in a circular motion. This light friction lifts away dull flakes without irritation.

Dampen a toothbrush and brush softly around the lips for a targeted method. Discard toothbrushes frequently for a clean exfoliator. Some like using a warm sugar or salt scrub made of natural oils and granules weekly.

Whichever exfoliation method is chosen, go slowly and don't over-exfoliate. The goal is to remove dry patches, not irritate skin. After exfoliating, always apply a nourishing balm to moisturize freshly revealed skin.

Taking a few minutes a couple of times a week to exfoliate lips makes a noticeable difference. Leaving lips smooth allows natural treatments time to penetrate and heal chapping from within, resulting in a softer pout.

4. Use Natural Oils and Butters

Rich, emollient natural oils and butter are some of the most effective homemade remedies for chapped lips. They form an occlusive barrier on the skin to lock in moisture. They include the following:

• Coconut oil penetrates deeply to hydrate due to its medium-chain fatty acid composition. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as well. Swipe some onto lips like a balm anytime they feel dry.

• Shea and cocoa butter are dense moisturizers that layer thickly without feeling greasy. Melt a small piece and mix in coconut oil for easy application. Let it resolidify to create an all-natural SPF lip protectant.

Mix one above with a hydrating oil like jojoba, avocado, or rosehip seed for an even more nourishing salve. Apply before bed for overnight healing and preventative use throughout the day in cold weather.

5. Utilize Healing Agents

Certain natural ingredients have fantastic healing abilities to repair chapped lips when used topically. Integrating some of these agents can speed up recovery time. They include the following:

• Aloe vera is a powerful healing agent for chapped lips due to its anti-inflammatory properties and abundant vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The pure gel extracted from aloe vera plant leaves can be directly applied to soothe irritated skin and accelerate the repair of cracks or fissures. Its cooling gel texture also delivers hydration, helping to soften and moisturize dry, chapped lips.

• Honey is another natural ingredient with lip-healing abilities. As a humectant, honey draws moisture into the skin around the lips. It possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory attributes and the ability to disinfect minor sores and reduce inflammation. Applying a light layer of honey and allowing it to absorb for 15-20 minutes provides relief and healing benefits.

• Cucumber: Contains hydrating vitamins and minerals that nourish parched lips when rubbed directly on the skin. Its refreshing juice soothes and replenishes moisture when lips feel dry and cracked.

• Green tea: Its high antioxidant and tannin content also effectively heals, helping reduce inflammation from chapping when a soaked tea bag is applied.

Final Thoughts

You can naturally heal and protect your delicate pout by addressing the internal and external causes of chapped lips. Proper hydration, exfoliation, protection from elements, use of healing oils and balms, and utilization of soothing natural agents work synergistically to replenish moisture. With consistent application of these simple remedies, chapped, flaky lips will become a thing of the past. Your smile will again be accentuated by beautifully soft lips - restored from within and without through wholesome, effective natural techniques.

‍

Esports are a bit of an enigma.

On the one hand the dramatic rise of esports has been unprecedented, quickly garnering literally hundreds of millions of avid fans inspired by some of the most impressive brains on the planet.

On the other hand this domain is still in its infancy when it comes to understanding how to be effectively successful from a human performance perspective.

In a landmark bid to address this gap ‘‘Conditioning for Esports: A Guide to Training and Performance’’ is a book which comprehensively lays the foundations for teams, coaches and players to take performance to the next level. Here we will highlight what this quintessential guide has to offer this developing industry.

The Gist of the Book

From the outset comparisons are naturally drawn between esports and traditional sports. While from a sports science angle there is still a long way to go in terms of research, there is also a lot of underappreciated respect for competitive gamers as true athletes.

For example, studies are referenced which show that the levels of cortisol produced in competition are actually on par with that of a race car driver, matched with a high pulse rate of up to 180 beats per minute. Due to grueling training schedules and physical duress, around half of Esports athletes’ careers are ended due to injuries, often following multiple surgeries.

This underscores the need for a holistic approach to esports performance by both emulating a lot of what has been learned through sports science, while also appreciating the unique needs of esport athletes. In this light detailed attention is devoted to the performance mindset, the mind–body connection, the roles of nutrition, recovery, player development, and the physical and psychological conditioning necessary for peak performance in the gaming environment.

What makes the book a gem is the fact that the authors are bonafide experts in the fields of esports, traditional sports, physiological conditioning and human health. In a nutshell it is written from the ground-up to provide the necessary education and resources to help players achieve their performance goals, without losing sight of overall health and well-being.

A New Bible for Esports

Conditioning for Esports takes a rigorous approach to all aspects of player and team development, a kind of ten commandments style compendium delivered chapter by chapter across the following themes.

1. Bridging the Gap Between Traditional Sports and Esports

2. Player Development Within the Esport Ecosystem

3. The Cognitive Athlete—Making the Mind–Body Connection

4. Role of Performance Psychology in Esport Player Development

5. Nutrition and Esport Performance

6. Sleep, Fatigue, and Recovery in Esports

7. Esport Injury Assessment and Care

8. Corrective Exercise Guidelines for Esport Impairments

9. Physical Training and Exercise Guidelines for Esport Athletes

10. Physical Training Programming for Esport Teams

This offers a fresh holistic perspective on what it takes to succeed in this burgeoning field, in a way that is deeply detailed, yet highly accessible.

It paints a picture of an industry at a crossroads, with growing mainstream acceptance opening up more avenues for professional gamers to refine their skills. It emphasizes inclusivity, urging new talents from diverse backgrounds to bring their expertise into the esports arena.

Discussions cover how a panoply of skills can be honed and modified through the latest research, emphasizing that the understanding of neurophysical performance will continue to evolve in tandem with the growth of the industry.

Addressing Practical Needs

Transitioning from practice to game day, the book highlights the mental shift required to focus more on the process than the outcome. It underscores the importance of pregame readiness, advocating for mental and physical warm-ups to combat anxiety and sharpen focus. Communication, a critical component in team-based esports, is explored in depth, revealing how effective teamwork and preparation can significantly boost a player's performance.

Nutrition and trust in training receive special attention, emphasizing the need for personalized dietary plans and the crucial role of coaches in achieving team buy-in. This extends to the cognitive benefits of proper nutrition and the importance of understanding individual dietary needs to optimize performance.

It also tackles the less-discussed aspects of esports, such as the necessity of a well-designed gaming station to prevent injuries and promote long-term athlete health, the importance of sleep and its impact on cognitive and physical recovery, offering strategies to improve sleep hygiene.

The integration of exercise into an esports athlete's routine is also highlighted, detailing the benefits of a structured exercise regimen that aligns with general health guidelines but is tailored to the unique demands of esports.

Takeaways

Overall, Conditioning for Esports is a desperately needed one-stop guide for anyone involved in esports, from new players to seasoned professionals, coaches and even health practitioners. It offers a blueprint for not just surviving but thriving in the competitive world of esports, marking it as an essential read for those looking to elevate their game or understand the intricacies of this dynamic industry.

Available on Amazon: Conditioning for Esports: A Guide to Training and Performance

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, virtual counselling & therapy for mental health problems have emerged as pivotal resources. This guide delves into the intricacies of these services, highlighting their importance, mechanisms, types, & benefits.

What is Virtual Counselling & Therapy for Mental Health?

Virtual counselling & therapy refer to the provision of mental health services through digital platforms. This can include video calls, phone calls, chat-based interactions, & even AI-driven sessions.

Licensed mental health professionals offer these services, ensuring that clients receive the same quality of care as they would in a traditional face-to-face setting. The core objective remains to provide support, guidance, & treatment for various mental health issues, ranging from anxiety & depression to more complex psychological conditions.

Why We Need Virtual Counselling & Therapy

The need for virtual counselling & therapy has been amplified by several factors:

- Accessibility: One of the most significant advantages is the increased accessibility to mental health services. People living in remote areas, those with physical disabilities, or individuals with tight schedules can now receive the help they need without logistical barriers.

- Stigma Reduction: Mental health stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help. Virtual platforms offer a level of anonymity & privacy that can encourage more people to reach out for support without the fear of being judged.

- Convenience: Virtual counselling allows for flexible scheduling, making it easier for individuals to fit therapy into their busy lives. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those balancing work, family, & other responsibilities.

- Pandemic Response: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of virtual mental health services. With lockdowns & social distancing measures in place, many turned to virtual counselling as a vital resource for maintaining their mental health.

What are the common types of virtual counselling & therapy?

Virtual counselling & therapy encompass a variety of approaches, each tailored to different needs & preferences:

- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely-used therapy that helps individuals identify & change negative thought patterns & behaviours. Virtual CBT sessions are conducted through video or chat, making them accessible & effective.

- Psychodynamic Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on understanding unconscious thoughts & how they influence behaviour. Virtual sessions can help clients explore their past experiences & how they affect their current mental health.

- Humanistic Therapy: Emphasizing self-growth & self-actualization, humanistic therapy often involves open-ended conversations that can be effectively conducted over video calls.

- Group Therapy: Virtual group therapy brings together individuals with similar issues, providing a supportive community. Sessions can be conducted via video conferencing, facilitating interaction & mutual support.

- Family Therapy: Virtual family therapy sessions help families navigate conflicts & improve communication. It is particularly useful when family members live in different locations.

How does it work?

Virtual counselling & therapy services operate through various digital platforms designed to facilitate secure & confidential communication between clients & therapists. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

- Platform Selection: Clients can choose from a range of platforms that offer virtual counselling services. These platforms include Better Help, Talk space, & traditional healthcare providers that have adapted to virtual models.

- Initial Assessment: Clients often start with an initial assessment, which can be done through an online questionnaire or a preliminary consultation. This helps match them with a suitable therapist based on their specific needs.

- Session Scheduling: Clients can schedule sessions at times that are convenient for them. Many platforms offer the flexibility to book sessions outside of traditional office hours, including evenings & weekends.

- Conducting Sessions: Sessions are typically conducted through video calls but can also include phone calls, chat-based communications, or even text messaging, depending on the client's preference & the therapist's offerings.

- Confidentiality & Security: Reputable virtual counselling platforms prioritize confidentiality & data security. They use encryption & secure login procedures to ensure that all communications remain private.

What are the benefits?

Virtual counselling & therapy offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive option for many individuals.

- Increased Accessibility: Virtual services break down geographical barriers, providing access to mental health care for individuals in rural or underserved areas.

- Cost-effective: Without the need for physical office space, virtual counselling can often be more affordable than in-person therapy. Additionally, it saves on travel expenses.

- Comfort & Convenience: Clients can attend sessions from the comfort of their own homes, which can make them feel more at ease & open during therapy.

- Flexibility: The flexibility of scheduling allows clients to choose times that best fit their lifestyles, making it easier to maintain a consistent therapy routine.

- Variety of Options: Virtual platforms offer access to a wide range of virtual counselors & therapists & therapy styles, allowing clients to find the best fit for their needs.

- Anonymity: The option to remain anonymous can be crucial for those who feel uncomfortable discussing their issues face-to-face or in a local setting.

- Continuity of Care: Even if clients move or travel frequently, they can continue their therapy sessions without interruption, ensuring continuity of care.

Conclusion

Virtual counselling & therapy represent a transformative shift in how mental health services are delivered. By leveraging technology, these services make mental health support more accessible, flexible, & convenient. As we move forward, the integration of virtual counselling into the broader mental health care system is likely to grow, driven by ongoing advancements in technology & a greater societal recognition of the importance of mental health. For anyone seeking support, virtual counselling & therapy provide a viable, effective, & increasingly popular option to consider.

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Cognitive assessments are pivotal tools in understanding the complexies of our brains function, our human performance needs, and in identifying specific signs of cognitive impairments. These assessments, rooted in neuroscience and psychology, provide key insights into the inner workings of our minds and are essential for both healthcare professionals and researchers.

The Foundations of Cognitive Assessment

Cognitive assessment involves a series of neuropsychological tests designed to evaluate mental functions such as memory, attention, reasoning, and language comprehension. These tests offer a comprehensive view of an individual's cognitive abilities, helping to establish a baseline of their mental fitness or to detect specific neurological. These tests can be highly specific, for example measuring different types of verbal working memory, or be designed to diagnose certain neurological conditions such as ADHD.

Decoding Brain Function with Cognitive Assessments

The brain, our most complex organ, coordinates thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger, and every process that regulates our body. By applying cognitive assessments, specialists can pinpoint which areas of the brain are functioning well and which may be lagging. This is crucial for diagnosing neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, stroke, or traumatic brain injury. Understanding specific deficits allows for targeted therapies that can improve symptoms and enhance quality of life.

Alternatively, some cognitive assessments like NeuroTracker tests how many cognitive subsystems perform in an integrative way to measure more global cognitive functioning. This can be particularly useful for predicting real-world performance abilities, or as tools for initial cognitive screening to detect potential neurological problems for further investigiation.

Understanding Human Performance Needs

In settings like schools and workplaces, cognitive assessments are invaluable for identifying individuals' strengths and weaknesses. This knowledge can be used to develop customized educational or training programs that optimize learning and performance.

For instance, if a student shows outstanding problem-solving skills but struggles with memory, tailored educational strategies can be implemented to support their learning needs.

Early Detection of Cognitive Impairments

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of cognitive assessments is their ability to detect early signs of cognitive decline or neurodegenerative associated with aging.

Identifying these issues at an early stage can lead to interventions that may slow the progression of cognitive impairments, offering individuals a better prognosis. This is especially vital for older adults, where early signs of decline can often be overlooked as typical age-related changes.

The Future of Cognitive Assessments

The future of cognitive assessments is marked by technological advancements that promise more precise and accessible evaluations. Digital tools, wearables, neuroimaging and neurofeedback techniques used while performance mental tasks, along with AI applications to analysis cognitive data, are progressing quickly. These are set to transform the power and specificity of cognitive assessments, also making them more user-friendly. The increasing power of smartphones and digital telehealth solutions likewise improves accessibility to brain data to guide best practices in daily life.

Takeaway

Cognitive assessments are more than just evaluations, they are keys that unlock the complex functions of the human brain and act as early warning systems for cognitive decline. As we continue to advance our understanding and technology, the role of cognitive assessments in improving mental health and human potential becomes increasingly clear. Their integration into routine healthcare and personal development is essential for fostering a society where brain health is prioritized and understood.

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It’s rare for pro sports teams to engage in peer-reviewed neuroscience studies. It’s even less rare to study ‘far transfer’, that is, whether or not generic forms of training can produce measurable improvements in competitive sports performance. Researchers from Nishinippon Institute of Technology, Kyusyu Institute of Technology, and Kyushu Sangyo University teamed up with the Saitama Seibu Lions, a professional baseball team in Japan's Pacific League. Their goal was to investigate if training with NeuroTracker’s 3D multiple object tracking could produce far transfer effects by enhancing hitting performance. Here we will summarize the surprising results.

Breaking New Ground in NeuroTracker Research

Although there are over 100 independently published NeuroTracker studies, this ambitious study titled ‘Transferability of Multiple Object Tracking Skill Training to Professional Baseball Players’ Hitting Performance’, employed some new research methodologies.

Firstly, the training intervention spanned approximately 5 months, with coaches at the Seibu Lions advising on the most relevant performance metrics to measure.

Secondly, the study gave the baseball players the freedom to choose when and where to do their training using the remote capabilities of the NeuroTrackerX platform.

Lastly, this was the first NeuroTracker study to examine the effects of extended training, with some players completing above 80 sessions (vs the standard of 30 sessions). For this reason, some dual-task NeuroTracker training was incorporated into the intervention according to the patented NeuroTracker Learning System. This is the first research to include this methodology in a far transfer study.

What Was Studied

12 pro baseball players undertook the NeuroTracker training intervention. Most players opted to perform their NeuroTracker sessions following their baseball practice (74.8% of sessions).  

Out of these players, 6 met the inclusion criteria (factoring in effects of player transfers and injuries) for studying far transfer effects to competition performance. 2 of the baseball players were short-distance hitters, three were medium distance, and one was long-distance.

Data for these athletes was collected from professional league games for 4 months prior to the training, through to 5 months after the starting the NeuroTracker intervention. The performance metrics collected were as follows.

Zone contact: the percentage of batted balls (including foul balls) that occurred when the batter swung.

Zone-swing strike: the percentage of all pitches thrown in the strike zone that resulted in strikes when the batter swung at them.

Outside swing: the percentage of batters who swung at pitches thrown outside the strike zone.

Outside-swing strike: the percentage of cases in which a batter swung at a pitch thrown outside the strike zone.

What Was Found

In terms of group average the players started out with NeuroTracker speed thresholds of around 1.7, which is atypically high for professional athletes. This rose to 2.2 by the end of training - approximately a 30% increase in visual tracking speed skill.

Importantly, learning rates through the extended training intervention showed no ceiling effects, suggesting that long-term NeuroTracker training yields on-going cognitive benefits.

Hitting Performance for each of the metrics were separated into two sub-categories: fast-balls and non-fastballs.

For batting against fastball pitches there were mixed results, with marginal but non-significant gains overall. The in-conclusive results here may be related to the limits of human perception and reaction.

As baseball and sport-vision expert Dr. Dan Laby states, when it comes to the extreme pitch speeds that pros can reach, hitting a baseball is ‘‘the most difficult task in all of sports’’.

This is because hitters have an effective window of just 150 milliseconds to see the pitch, decide, and then trigger a motor action. This is half the time it takes to blink!

For non-fastball pitches such as curve balls and sliders, significant post-training improvements were seen with surprisingly large effect sizes.

Successful hit rate increased by +12%, while zone swing and outside swing strikes were reduced substantially by -25.3% and -26.5% respectively. Outside swings were also positively reduced by -9.6%.

Takeaways

Given that the time committed to NeuroTracker sessions was just 1 to 1.5 hours per month, the results suggest that this form of training is highly efficient for improving baseball hitting skills. In particular, reducing the number of strikes against curve balls and sliders by over 25% is a big result, essentially reducing the potential of pitchers on the opposing team.

The study also provides initial validation that a training protocol determined by the players themselves can still be very productive. Also, in terms of the on-going benefits found for longer-term training, these study findings indicate for the first time that it would be relevant to investigate such transfer effects across multiple sports seasons.

Lastly, and as mentioned at the outset, this type of research with sports professionals is extremely rare. The Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences in Germany conducted a meta-review of 1692 cognitive sports studies, finding that only 3 studies successfully examined far transfer to elite sports performance. As such this research may be influential in encouraging more qualitative studies into human cognitive performance.

Reference
‘Transferability of Multiple Object Tracking Skill Training to Professional Baseball Players’ Hitting Performance’ (open-access paper)
Ryousuke Furukado, Yoshiko Saito, Toru Ichikawa 3, Kei Morikawa, Daiki Enokida, Hirohisa Isogai.

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Although it's one of the simplest aspects of our diet to manage, optimal hydration plays an often overlooked role in brain health and performance. The vital organ within our skill depends on hydration like a traveler in a desert oasis. Beyond merely quenching thirst, optimal hydration is pivotal for maintaining peak cognitive function and preserving brain health. Here we will overview this critical relationship, highlighting the multiple ways in which water impacts our mental prowess.

Fluid in our Brain Biology

The brain is a watery marvel, comprised of about 73% water. Just as a river nourishes the land it flows through, hydration serves as the lifeblood of cognitive processes. Research emphasizes the significance of hydration in maintaining proper neurotransmitter function, facilitating efficient neuronal communication, and supporting overall cognitive performance.

Mental Agility

If you think of the brain as a finely-tuned engine, then hydration is a bit like premium-grade fuel. Studies have highlighted the correlation between hydration status and global cognitive function over multiple years, revealing that even mild dehydration over the long term can lead to reductions in attention, memory, and executive function. From tackling complex problems or playing sports, to staying sharp during meetings, staying adequately hydrated is a simple everyday way to avoid concentration problems.

Role in Memory and Mood

Hydration may be many people's unknown ally against forgetfulness. Studies reveal how liquid intake plays a surprisingly central role in memory consolidation, in particular showing that how short-term memory improves following fluid consumption. The takeaway is that if you are dehydrated, you are less likely to remember things. As memory is closely tied to learning, this is especially important for students.

Emotions emerge from our brain's chemistry. Here hydration quitely effects our mood stability, a little like being 'hangry'. Though in people who have generally poor hydration levels, the effects can be quite substantial, with research showing that increasing their daily water intake triggering significant improvements in overall mood levels.

This may also be a factor in the lows typically experienced in alcohol related hangovers, where the dehydration effects are known to cause headaches.
Accordingly, lack of water intake is also associated with increased risk of depression and anxiety.

Role in Brain Health

Known as the ''hydromolecular hypothesis'', lifelong hydration habits may play an important part in the prevention of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, into older age. For example Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients are often at major risk of dehydration, while typically unaware. Aside from complex chemistry interactions at the cellular level, each night while asleep the brain literally washes away dead cells and toxins through cerebrospinal fluid flow.

Related, hydration levels have also been shown to directly affect sleep quality. Intriguingly, inadequate fluid intake appears to result in too much the time spent in REM dream states, reducing the amount of time in deep sleep, which is crucial for restoration and repair throughout the body and brain.

The Simple Way to Safeguard Your Brain Health

For the majority of people water is cheap, accessible and a thirst quenching beverage. Though under appreciated by most people, our brains depend on adequate hydration to remain healthy in both the long and short term, as well as retain optimal cognitive performance. If you get to the state of feeling thirsty then usually you are already starting dehydrate. As possibly the easiest way to look after your grey matter, it's good practice to always have fluids to drink nearby.

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The physiological prowess of athletes has long fascinated researchers and sports fans alike. However past research published in Nature showed that perceptual-cognitive abilities are perhaps the strongest measure defining what makes elite athletes the cream of the crop. A new study by the Faubert Lab at the University of Montreal took on the nature versus nurture debate to investigate if playing sports actually helps enhance these mental abilities, as well as to see if such effects differs between males and females. Here we will cover the key findings.

What Was Studied

The study, conducted on 72 individuals aged 16 to 22, split participants into 4 groups: male athletes, female athletes, male non-athletes and female non-athletes.

Each group performed 15 sessions of NeuroTracker - a 3D multiple object tracking task that tests and trains perceptual-cognitive abilities. 15 sessions was used to establish an initial baseline of high-level cognitive functions, as well as to assess learning adaptations to this task – a novel functional measure of neuroplasticity.

What Was Found

All groups showed significant improvement within a total of 90-minutes of distributed NeuroTracker training.

Initially, male athletes demonstrated higher performance compared to their female counterparts and non-athletes. However, over five weeks of training performed in 3-session blocks, female athletes and male non-athletes demonstrated similar learning rates to male athletes.

Throughout the training female athletes also maintained consistently higher scores than male non-athletes, as did male athletes over other groups. This performance displayed a clear cognitive advantage from engaging in sports.

The data was then analyzed to produce ‘normalized’ learning rates, revealing very similar improvement rates, apart from the non-athlete female group. This contrasts prior research showing that experienced world-class athletes have greatly superior learning rates, suggesting a relationship between level of elitism in sports performance and functional neuroplasticity levels.

Discussion

Though a relatively simple study, the findings indicate that playing sports, even at a relatively young age, has an observable effect on enhancing cognitive performance.

The implications of these findings extend beyond the realm of sports. For instance, NeuroTracker performance has been shown in driving research to be significantly correlated with driving safety.

Additionally higher cognitive performance is associated with better brain health, possibly closing the loop between the benefits of sports and exercise. That said, more research is needed to differentiate the physiological benefits of exercise and the cognitive stimulation involved with high perception and decision-making demands found particularly in team sports.

In terms of the male and female differences, other NeuroTracker research by Texas A&M nutrition scientists suggests that these differences are negligible when college-age females have sufficient iron in their diet. This might partly corroborate these findings, given that young females athletes are likely to have more nutritious diets that non-athletes.

As the human brain does not fully mature until around the age of 25, the overall results add evidence to the potential neurodevelopmental benefits of early involvement in sports.

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Reference

Gender comparison of perceptual-cognitive learning in young athletes

Isabelle Legault & Jocelyn Faubert, Nature Scientific Reports

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In the competitive world of sports, where every fraction of a second and every split-second decision counts, one often overlooked aspect can make all the difference: sports vision. Dr. Daniel Laby, an ophthalmologist with over 30 years of experience and multiple championship rings from working with world-class athletes, brings to the forefront what this field is all about in his new book ‘‘Eye of the Champion: Unlocking the Power of Sports Vision for Peak Performance’’.

Drawing from his extensive career working with professional athletes across a panorama of sports, Dr. Laby delves into the intricate relationship between vision, neuroscience and psychology in the context of on-field performance. Here we will review what the book is all about.

About Dr. Laby

Trained in Ophthalmology and specializing sports vision research and training of athletes, Dr. Laby has worked closely with MLB, NHL, and NBA teams, as well medal-winning teams at the Beijing and Tokyo Olympic games.

As a researcher who has actively expanded the field of sports vision science, he has authored many journal articles, in particular revealing new insights into the visual performance characteristics of different types of athletes.

Dr. Laby has an unusual zeal for educating common athletes and coaches on the principles he has extensively put into practice with the pros. His YouTube channel, Sports Vision by Dr. Laby, quickly garnered over 14K+ subscribers and is a superb resource for anyone looking to up their game via science. Dr. Laby regularly publishes insights on human performance concepts and the practical applications of sport vision science, all discernible to the layman.

Dr Laby was also featured in a fascinating Red Bull documentary detailing his comprehensive sports vision work with soccer star Trent Alexander Arnold, of Liverpool FC.

Who is the Book for?

Eye of the Champion isn't just a theoretical exploration, it's a practical guide, born from decades of hands-on experience.

Although it is interspersed with attention-grabbing anecdotes of his work with all-time greats like baseball legend Manny Ramirez, this book is all about aiding athletes and coaches at any level. Dr. Laby’s goal is to help people harness the applied use of knowledge accumulated in the whole field of sports vision science.

That said, there is also lots to learn even for a seasoned sports vision trainer. For example, a surprising 80% of the refracting power of the eye is due to the air and fluid interface in the tear film, as opposed to 20% coming from the lens. The critical role of the lens is actually its adaptive focusing abilities.

About the Book

What sets this book apart is how Dr. Laby distills the core scientific foundations of vision-related human performance, and then builds-out how they are applied with crystal clear examples and even introductions to the tools and technologies available.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring amateur, Eye of the Champion is a piece of literature thoughtfully designed from the ground-up to empower athletes to optimize their visual capabilities, ultimately enabling them to perform at their best.

Some cursory insights to be gained include:

- What 20/20 vision actually is, and why it is insufficient for most sports.

- How ‘quiet eye’ technique works.

- Why peripheral vision is stronger in low light conditions.

- Why where an athlete is looking before they make a play can predict their success rate

- The extent you process visual information and execute sports actions unconsciously.

- Why training mental muscle is much more effective than trying to train eye muscles.

- Why refractive surgery isn’t usually a good option for sports performance.

There are also pedagogically excellent images and QR code links, such as interactive illusions, helping give first-hand experience of the concepts being discussed.

The Sports Vision Pyramid

The core learning component of Eye of the Champion is the grandiose ‘‘Sports Vision Pyramid’’, a kind of ten commandments guide to the overall application of sports vision principles.

Accordingly, Dr. Laby first takes the time to outlay the essential concepts of the pyramid, like why it is so important to have solid foundations of the lower tiers, before working on aspects of the higher tiers.

He then breaks down each tier, chapter by chapter, delving into nested subjects like Go No-Go decision-making, along with details of their practical applications.

Dr. Laby also goes the extra mile to precisely describe how to reliably assess and train these sub-components of visual performance, as well as introducing the best practical tools for the job, in each domain.

Finally, he gives explanations of concepts athletes and coaches might have heard of, but are not quite sure about. For instance, what neuroplasticity is and if it is actually trainable from a sports performance perspective. Or why ocular dominance is one of the most common misconceptions in sports.

Takeaways

Overall Eye of the Champion is an erudite and comprehensive exposé of sports vision science and its real-world applications from a seasoned leader of the field. Dr. Laby makes this crucial dimension of human performance not only accessible, but memorable. There are lots of valuable lessons here, both conceptual and practical, that any athlete and coach can add to their toolkit.

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In the dynamic landscape of professional sports, where the margins between triumph and defeat are razor-thin, athletes are constantly in pursuit of innovative strategies to gain a competitive edge. Amidst the relentless quest for physical prowess and tactical mastery, an often overlooked frontier has emerged – the realm of sports vision science. This interdisciplinary field has not only reshaped our understanding of human perception but has also revolutionized the way athletes prepare, perform, and excel on the field.

Tracing the Evolution of Sports Vision Science

The journey of sports vision science is one marked by relentless exploration and groundbreaking discoveries. Initially relegated to the sidelines, vision training has gradually evolved from rudimentary exercises to sophisticated, data-driven methodologies. What began as simple eye drills has blossomed into a nuanced understanding of visual acuity, dynamic tracking, and cognitive processing – all tailored to the demands of high-performance athletics.

Practical Implementations in Professional Sports Performance

Visual Perception Training: Professional athletes undergo rigorous visual perception training to sharpen their ability to process and interpret visual stimuli in real-time. This may involve exercises to enhance peripheral vision, improve depth perception, and optimize hand-eye coordination.

Neurofeedback and Virtual Reality Simulations: Cutting-edge technologies, such as neurofeedback systems and virtual reality simulations, are employed to create immersive training environments. Athletes can simulate game scenarios and fine-tune their decision-making skills under realistic conditions, fostering rapid adaptation and heightened situational awareness.

Customized Vision Enhancement Protocols: Sports vision specialists work closely with athletes to develop personalized training protocols tailored to their specific sport and position. Whether it's enhancing visual tracking for a baseball outfielder or improving depth perception for a basketball point guard, these customized interventions address the unique demands of each athlete's role on the field.

Performance Analysis and Feedback: Advanced analytics and biomechanical assessments are utilized to analyze an athlete's visual performance during practice and competition. By identifying areas of strength and opportunities for improvement, coaches can provide targeted feedback to optimize technique and decision-making on the field.

NeuroTracker: Matt Ryan's ascension to MVP of the NFL was attributed to in-part to his use of NeuroTracker training. In an interview with the New York Times he gave this insight.
‘‘It’s important to have your mind operating on a high-level…that’s key as a quarterback, to be able to see things and how they relate to each other quickly. I think that’s exactly what NeuroTracker helps you do.’’

Real-World Success Stories

The impact of sports vision training is perhaps most palpable on the grand stage of professional sports. Countless athletes attribute their success to the insights gleaned from sports vision science and the dedicated efforts of their support teams.

From baseball sluggers who effortlessly track fastballs to soccer goalkeepers who anticipate shots with uncanny precision, the influence of visual training crosses every aspect of athletic performance.

The Future of Sports Vision Science

As we peer into the future, the trajectory of sports vision science appears boundless. Advancements in wearable technology, artificial intelligence, and genetic profiling promise to unlock new frontiers in human performance optimization. By harnessing the power of data-driven insights and interdisciplinary collaboration, we stand poised to redefine the boundaries of human potential in sports and beyond.

The evolution of sports vision science represents a paradigm shift in our approach to athletic development and performance enhancement. By recognizing the pivotal role of visual perception in sports, we have unlocked a treasure trove of strategies to elevate athletic excellence to unprecedented heights. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation and exploration, one thing remains clear – in the pursuit of victory, vision is not merely a tool but a gateway to triumph.

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The Road to the Olympics (RtO) project, founded under the European Platform for Sports Innovation (EPSI), has begun. On the 15th and the 16th of February a new Erasmus+ project, Road to Olympics,  was kicked off with a meeting hosted by Kinetic Analysis in Breda, Netherlands. Partners, including the project leader The International Centre Sports Mental Coaching (Spain), the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, Olympiacos SPF (Greece), EPSI (Belgium) and the Technological University of Shannon (Ireland), discussed the importance of this project co-funded by the EU that will be implemented for the next 2 years.  

RtO Kick Off meeting

The project will target Ukranian pre-olympian athletes, using Cognitive Training techniques to strengthen their mental skills. Considering the challenging situation their country is experiencing, the project hopes to implement mind coaching techniques, to prevent athletes’ performance levels from dropping.  

During the first day of the kick-off meeting, participants had the opportunity of networking, creating the basis for a positive working relationship. The leaders introduced the project and the technology they developed at the International Centre, to strengthen cognitive skills. The second day saw a practical demonstration of the different variants of NeuroTracker, a cognitive training tool that will be instrumental in the implementation of the project.

As well as NeuroTracker, other technologies that will be fundamental parts of the project were presented to participants, including IDRO and SportsLapp, by Kinetic Analysis. These tools will be used to collect and analyse data on the athletes’ performance levels.  

The Cognitive Training Program

The involvement of Ukrainian athletes and coaches will be ensured by the presence within the project Consortium of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine. In a spirit of inclusion and aggregation, the project’s scope will also be open to non-Ukrainian athletes and coaches. Around 30 athletes from Ukraine and 10 from Greece will be selected to take part in the project, as well as some coaches.

They will have access to training sessions held in Madrid (Spain) and Athens (Greece), which will be hosted by project partners in the next two years. The Cognitive Training methodology, developed by the International Centre, will be adapted to the needs of the participants and implemented throughout the project’s lifetime. The project outcomes will be scientifically evaluated. Lastly, a collection of guidelines on cognitive and mental training will be elaborated to give a Europe-wide resonance to the importance of cognitive and mental training.

EPSI Leads the Communication

Thanks to its expertise in the field, EPSI will guide the Communication and Dissemination of the project. EPSI aims to promote the objectives and results of the project, so as to involve and engage Sport organizations and other relevant stakeholders and raise their awareness on the importance of cognitive and mental training. By coordinating with other partners, EPSI will implement a common Communication Strategy, to disseminate the impact of RtO.  

Being part of such an important project pushes the accelerator further on the sports innovation front, one that can have such a positive impact on the lives of people impacted by war, to hopefully keep them on the path to becoming Olympians.

To keep up with project updates, please visit: https://epsi.eu/project/road-to-olympics
Or contact Pedro Gormaz – CEO and Founder of the International Center Sports Mental Coaching.

Article source: https://epsi.eu/news/a-new-road-to-the-olympics/

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In the realm of neuroscience, few substances have garnered as much attention and controversy as psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain species of mushrooms. Although traditionally associated with recreational use on the fringes of society, 85% of psilocybin use in the US is now centered around mental health treatment, psychotherapy, and cognitive enhancement. It is also by far the most commonly used psychedelic drug. Here will give an overview of the modern neuroscience perspective surrounding natural psilocybin and its research-based benefits.

Psilocybin for Mental Health

One of the most compelling areas of study is the use of psilocybin in the treatment of mental health disorders, particularly depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research has shown that psilocybin can induce profound mystical experiences, which have been linked to long-term improvements in mood and overall well-being. Studies have demonstrated that a single dose of psilocybin, administered in a controlled therapeutic setting, can lead to significant reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety, with effects lasting for months.

Moreover, psilocybin has shown promise in treating conditions such as addiction, with preliminary studies suggesting that it can help individuals overcome substance dependence by promoting introspection, insight, and a sense of connectedness. The therapeutic potential of psilocybin in mental health treatment is immense, offering new hope for those who have not found relief through traditional therapies.

Psilocybin for Psychotherapeutic Benefits

In addition to its potential as a standalone treatment, psilocybin has also been investigated as an adjunct to psychotherapy. When used in conjunction with psychotherapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapy, psilocybin has been shown to enhance the therapeutic process by facilitating introspection, emotional processing, and psychological insight.

Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to explore the root causes of their psychological distress in a safe and supportive environment. By catalyzing deep, transformative experiences, psilocybin can help patients break free from maladaptive patterns of thinking and behavior, leading to profound shifts in perspective and lasting therapeutic gains.

Psilocybin for Cognitive Enhancement

Beyond its therapeutic applications, psilocybin has also been studied for its cognitive and creativity-enhancing effects. Research suggests that psilocybin may promote neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new connections, which could lead to improvements in cognitive function, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. This may be because of it's effects in encouraging neurons to form new synaptic connections unusually long distances across the brain.

Preliminary studies have shown that psilocybin can enhance cognitive flexibility, increase the capacity for divergent thinking, and promote novel insights. These cognitive enhancements may have far-reaching implications, not only for individuals seeking to optimize their cognitive performance but also for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

Future Research

While the research on psilocybin is still in its early stages, the applied benefits for mental health, psychotherapy, and cognitive function are already well-founded. That said, it's likely that future neuroscience studies will continue discover more about the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of psilocybin, along with deeper and broader insights into its therapeutic and wellness enhancing applications.

In particular this will include the long-term effects of treatments, the optimal dosing protocols for different mental health conditions, and the precise ways by which psilocybin exerts positive effects on the brain and ways to minimize any associated risks. Additionally, advances in neuroscience techniques, such as neuroimaging and molecular biology, may provide new avenues for understanding the neurobiological basis of psilocybin's effects and identifying biomarkers of treatment response.

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Virtual Reality (VR) is an unusual technology in that it is used by neuroscience researchers and entertainment enthusiasts alike. For decades VR has been the go-to tool for psychophysicists to investigate how the brain leverages it senses and cognition to simulate our perception of reality.  The dramatic increase in the power and affordability of VR in recent years is driving mass adoption, making it also important to learn how VR experiences influence our cognition and mental states. There is certainly still lots to discover when it comes to understanding the complexities of the human mind. Here we will highlight the diversity of ways this tech can be utilized like a microscope to delve into our sophisticated perceptual systems.

1. Immersive Experiments: Unlike traditional research methods, VR provides an immersive environment where participants can engage with stimuli in a controlled yet naturalistic setting. Researchers can design experiments that mimic real-world scenarios, allowing for a deeper understanding of how individuals perceive and interact with their surroundings.

2. Spatial Cognition: VR enables researchers to investigate spatial cognition with high precision. By manipulating virtual environments, scientists can study how humans navigate complex spaces, perceive distances, and form mental maps—a vital aspect with applications ranging from urban planning to cognitive rehabilitation.

3. Embodied Presence: One of the most interesting features of VR is its ability to induce a sense of presence, where users feel fully immersed in the virtual world. This phenomenon opens avenues for exploring embodied cognition—the idea that our bodies shape our cognitive processes. Through VR, researchers can examine how bodily sensations influence perception, memory, and decision-making.

4: Multisensory Integration: Human perception is inherently multisensory, integrating inputs from various sensory modalities to construct a coherent understanding of the environment. VR technology facilitates the study of multisensory integration by manipulating visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli in synchronized fashion, offering insights into how the brain combines sensory information to form perceptions.

5. Perceptual Illusions: VR provides a platform for creating perceptual illusions—phenomena that challenge our understanding of reality. By presenting conflicting visual cues or altering spatial relationships, researchers can induce illusions such as the rubber hand illusion or the size-weight illusion, shedding light on the mechanisms underlying perception and consciousness.

6. Empathy and Perspective-Taking: VR has emerged as a powerful tool for fostering empathy and perspective-taking by allowing users to experience the world from different vantage points. Whether simulating the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities or immersing users in unfamiliar cultural contexts, VR promotes understanding and empathy by bridging perceptual and experiential gaps.

7. Cognitive Rehabilitation: VR also has direct applications for enhancing cognitive rehabilitation interventions. By creating tailored environments and tasks, clinicians can target cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive functioning in individuals with neurological conditions or cognitive impairments, offering a dynamic and engaging approach to therapy. Or alternatively exposure to threatening scenarios within a safe and controlled environment can be used to help overcome fear based conditions, such as PSTD.

8. Virtual Embodiment and Self-Perception: Through avatars and virtual embodiment, VR offers a unique window into self-perception and body representation. Studies have shown that embodying avatars with different physical characteristics can influence users' self-perception, attitudes, and behavior, highlighting the profound connection between virtual experiences and real-world identity.

9. Learning and Skill Acquisition: VR-based simulations provide a safe and immersive environment for learning and skill acquisition across various domains. From surgical training to driver education, VR allows individuals to practice and refine their skills in realistic scenarios, accelerating the learning process and enhancing performance outcomes. It also opens up the option for remote applications, such as telesurgery.

Future Directions

With tech giants like Meta and Apple investing heavily in VR developments the rapid evolution this immersive technology shows no signs of stopping. On the horizon are applications that will allow people to interact with photorealistic avatars that truly blur the lines between real and simulated. Integration with other tech like brain computer interfaces, live biometrics, eye tracking and neuromodulation techniques will only expand its applications in psychology, neuroscience, education, and industry training. As well as the impacts this will bring on our 21st century lifestyles, we can also expect a plethora of new insights into the workings of the human mind.

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In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, cognitive health often takes a back seat. Still, the demands of modern living require us to be at the top of our mental game, so it's imperative to explore various avenues that can noticeably promote optimal brain function; beyond traditional lifestyle changes, incorporating brain-boosting beverages into our routines can be a delicious and effective way to enhance memory - so, just what yummy concoctions have shown promise in supporting cognitive brilliance?

1. Humble H20 - With a Twist

In the quest for mental well-being, simplicity often holds the key. Infused water, with its hydrating and flavorful properties, serves as a mindful elixir that not only refreshes the body, but also provides a moment of tranquility for the mind - just a squeeze of lemon, some muddled berries, or whatever takes your fancy, could be just what the concentration doctor's ordered. Traditional ‘bubbles’ might have to wait until after work - but watermelon bubbles can be enjoyed all day!

2. Green Tea

Green tea, celebrated for its antioxidants and minimal caffeine content, emerges as a powerhouse for cognitive enhancement, and the science backs it up a treat; the amino acid L-theanine found in green tea has been associated with improved focus and attention, making it an ideal beverage for those seeking to elevate their working memory.

3. Blueberry Smoothies

Blueberries, often dubbed as nature's brain food, are packed with flavonoids that boast powerful antioxidant properties that have been linked to improved cognitive function, including memory; blend them into a delicious smoothie to create a refreshing elixir that will have your taste buds singing while boosting your brainpower.

4. Turmeric Latte

The active compound curcumin in turmeric has garnered attention for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and has the potential to support brain health; a comforting turmeric latte is not just a trendy beverage, but also a flavorful way to introduce this brain-boosting spice into your daily routine.

5. Ginseng Infused Tea

Ginseng, revered in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic properties, can be infused into tea to create a beverage known for promoting cognitive sharpness. Enjoy a cup of ginseng tea as a soothing and invigorating addition to your memory-enhancing arsenal.

6. MCT Oil Coffee

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) found in coconut oil have been associated with improved cognitive function; add a splash of MCT oil to your morning coffee for a creamy concoction that not only provides sustained energy, but also supports mental clarity and focus.

7. Cherry Juice

Quality sleep is vital for memory consolidation, and cherry juice has been linked to improved sleep duration and quality - try sipping on a glass of tart cherry juice in the evening to potentially enhance your sleep and, consequently, boost your memory.

8. Cinnamon-infused Almond Milk

Cinnamon has been associated with cognitive benefits, including improved attention and memory; combine this aromatic spice with almond milk for a deliciously spiced beverage that not only tantalizes your taste buds, but also contributes to cognitive well-being.

9. Ashwagandha Elixir

Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, has been traditionally used to support cognitive function and reduce stress; you can create your very own herbal elixir by infusing ashwagandha into warm water or tea, manifesting a harmonious blend that may enhance cognitive resilience.

10. Pomegranate Green Tea

Pomegranate, rich in antioxidants, can be paired with green tea for a flavorful combination that supports cognitive brilliance; this antioxidant fusion not only provides a refreshing taste, but may also contribute to improved memory function.

11. Oat Milk Latte with Maca

Oat milk, known for its nutrient content, combined with maca, an adaptogenic root, creates a latte that supports overall brain vitality; enjoy the richness of this nutrient-packed beverage to fuel your day with sustained cognitive energy.

12. Passionflower Tea

Passionflower tea, recognized for its calming properties, can be a tranquil tonic that supports relaxation, and potentially aids in memory recall; sip on this soothing tea to unwind and give your memory a gentle boost.

13. Rosemary Lemonade

Rosemary has been linked to improved cognitive performance, and when paired with the refreshing zest of lemonade, it becomes a delightful elixir for mental clarity; try infusing rosemary into your homemade lemonade for a tasty, memory-enhancing treat.

14. Walnut Milk Smoothie

Walnuts are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain health. Blend walnut milk into a smoothie with brain-friendly ingredients for a delightful beverage that not only tastes great but also supports cognitive agility.

15. Beetroot Juice

Nitrate-rich beetroot juice has shown promise when it comes to enhancing blood flow to the brain, which, in turn, supports cognitive functions, including memory; incorporating this vibrant elixir into your daily regimen is a shrewd strategy to harness its potential benefits for a sharper mind.

16. Coconut Water

Dehydration can impair cognitive performance, and coconut water emerges as a natural hydrator packed with nutrients; maintaining optimal hydration levels is crucial for supporting overall brain function, making coconut water a delicious and effective choice for cognitive excellence.

17. Dark Hot Chocolate

Indulge in the richness of dark chocolate, which contains flavonoids associated with cognitive improvement, including memory enhancement; you can transform your hot chocolate into a brain-boosting elixir by choosing dark chocolate with high cocoa content for a delightful treat that nourishes both your body and mind.

18. Fish Oil-infused Smoothies

Omega-3 fatty acids, abundant in fish oil, play a vital role in maintaining brain health; you could even enhance your smoothies by incorporating fish oil - alongside other brain-friendly ingredients - for a tasty, nutritious elixir that supports cognitive vitality.

19. Pumpkin Seed Milk

Pumpkin seeds are a treasure trove of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper - all essential nutrients for optimal brain function; try elevating your morning latte or smoothie by using pumpkin seed milk as a base, for a delicious way to promote cognitive wellness.

20. Sage Tea

Sage, historically recognized for its memory-boosting properties, can be brewed into a soothing tea; sip on a cup of sage tea, anytime the mood takes you, to enjoy its aromatic essence while potentially reaping cognitive benefits.

21. Matcha Latte

Derived from powdered green tea leaves, matcha combines antioxidants with a gentle dose of caffeine. The synergy of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha has been shown to improve attention and memory. Transform your morning routine with a matcha latte for sustained cognitive agility throughout the day.

Here’s to a Sharper Mind

As we explore the world of brain-boosting beverages, it's crucial to remember that true cognitive health stems from a truly holistic approach; while these beverages certainly hold promise in enhancing memory, they surely work best when complemented by a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Before making significant changes to your routine, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional; here's to a sharper mind and a future filled with cognitive brilliance!

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A new study with professional soccer players in Greece aimed to investigate whether neuromotor training could accelerate football-specific decision-making outcomes across two competition seasons. It focused on the relationship between visual tracking speeds (VTS) and football-specific performance measures. Here we will cover a summary of the study.

What Was Studied

The study included 11 professional football players (5 offense players, 6 defense players) from two major Super League football clubs. The offense players had an average age of 26.8 years, while the defense players had an average age of 23.2 years.

Visual tracking speed was assessed via NeuroTracker, with players completing one core session consisting of 20 trials. Football-specific performance measures were collected using the Wyscout analytics platform, including actions when:-
·      Team is winning/losing

·      Actions with/without a yellow card

·      Dribbles

·      Through passes

·      Forward passes

·      Assists

Rigorous statistical analysis methods were used to compare variables between seasons. Effect sizes were calculated to determine the magnitude of differences.

What Was Found

The study found significant improvements in most variables in the second season compared to the first season. Specifically, there were significant increases in actions when team is winning/losing, total actionswithout a yellow card, through passes, forward passes, and assists.

The study findings suggest that visual tracking speed (VTS) plays a crucial role in evaluating football players, as it reflects their ability to monitor multiple objects in a dynamic environment, enabling quicker responses to game demands. Despite the study's preliminary nature, the results indicate a meaningful link between higher VTS and better performance in ball control measures, highlighting the importance of assessing players' cognitive capabilities for team success in recruitment and strategic planning.

Takeaways

The results suggest that NeuroTracker baseline measures are significantly related to football players' ability to perceive and respond to stimuli on the field. Enhanced tracking capability may lead to improved game-related measures of performance, particularly in ball control.

The study suggests that neuromotor training based around increasing visual tracking speed could be beneficial for football players, which would be a practical method for football clubs and academies to integrate into their player development programs to enhance decision making skills and improve the quality of talent produced.

The findings could also have implications for other teamsports, such as basketball, hockey, and rugby, where quick decision making and spatial awareness are crucial.

Study Reference

Does neuromotor training accelerate football-specific decision making outcomes in professional football players over two seasons? (open-access paper)

Georgios Kakavas, Nikolaos Malliaropoulos, MichailMitrotasios, Orestis Christofilakis, Florian Forelli, Panagiotis Tsaklis. Published in Sport Performance and Science Reports. 

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The human body is an intricate ecosystem, comprising trillions of microorganisms that play crucial roles in our health and well-being. Among these, the mouth microbiome stands out as a dynamic community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses residing in our oral cavity. While traditionally associated with oral health, emerging research suggests that the mouth microbiome may exert far-reaching effects beyond the confines of our mouths, even influencing the complex workings of the brain.

Understanding the Mouth Microbiome

At first glance, the mouth might seem like a simple gateway for food intake and communication. However, it is a bustling ecosystem teeming with microbial life. These microorganisms form intricate communities that interact with each other and with the host environment.

The balance of this ecosystem is crucial for maintaining oral health, as disruptions can lead to conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Recent scientific discoveries have illuminated the profound connections between oral health and overall well-being. Studies have linked poor oral health to an increased risk of systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

This has sparked interest in exploring the mechanisms through which the mouth microbiome influences distant parts of the body, including the brain.

The Mouth-Brain Axis

While the notion of a "gut-brain axis" has garnered considerable attention in recent years, researchers are now turning their gaze toward the potential role of what is scientifically termed the "Oral-Microbiome-Brain Axis" in shaping neurological health.

‍Emerging evidence suggests that the mouth microbiome may communicate with the brain through various pathways, including the bloodstream, the vagus nerve, and the immune system. These pathways can allow mouth microbes to influence microbial and metabolite escape, neuroinflammation, central nervous system signaling, and neurohormone responses.

Implications for Brain Health

Preliminary studies have revealed intriguing associations between the mouth microbiome and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and even mood disorders like depression and anxiety.

While the exact mechanisms underlying these connections remain elusive, researchers hypothesize that inflammation, microbial metabolites, and neural signaling pathways may play key roles.

Takeaways

The mouth is now understood to be not merely a gateway to the body, but a central player in the intricate web of health and disease. The young but fast-growing field of microbiome research adds even greater complexity to the understanding of human health and disease. However, research may also lead to new therapeutic targets for neurological disorders as well reveal practical ways to manage our mouth microbiota directly promote brain health. For example this could include oral probiotic toothpastes to promote healthy microbiota.

By nurturing a diverse and balanced oral microbiome, we may not only safeguard our oral health but also promote overall well-being. As research continues it is likely wise to prioritize good oral hygiene practices. You can also check if your dentist specializes in periodontal cleaning to reduce the risk of factors such as gum disease.

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Addiction is a complex illness that profoundly affects many facets of a person's life. One of the most important areas where addiction affects people is cognitive function. It is necessary to comprehend the complex interaction between addiction and cognitive function to create treatment plans that support long-term recovery. Often known as a substance use disease, addiction is a chronic, relapsing illness marked by obsessive drug seeking, prolonged drug use despite negative effects, and brain abnormalities that take time to heal. The brain's reward system is involved in the addictive cycle, which reinforces drug-using behaviors.

The Relationship between Addiction and Cognitive Function

A variety of mental processes, such as executive, memory, and attention, are included in cognitive function. These mental skills are essential for daily operations, decision-making, and well-being. Addiction that impairs cognitive function can cause many problems in several spheres of life.

There is a correlation between addiction and cognitive performance. Substance misuse can aggravate pre-existing mental abnormalities, and cognitive deficits may make it easier for addiction to start and persist. Rehab and successful intervention depend on an awareness of this dynamic interaction.

The Neurobiology of Addiction

Substance addiction causes major damage to the brain. Drugs and alcohol have an impact on neurotransmitter levels, particularly dopamine, which is crucial for the brain's reward system. The brain's structural changes brought about by long-term drug addiction affect the areas responsible for memory, learning, and decision-making.

A rise in drug cravings is caused by neurotransmitter level changes that upset the delicate equilibrium in the brain. This need adds to the cyclical nature of addiction, along with compromised cognitive function.

Brain areas linked to cognitive function and neural network functionality are impacted by addiction in terms of their form and structure. It is possible that these alterations will continue long after substance use stops, which emphasizes the long-term effects of addiction on brain circuitry.

Cognitive Functions Affected by Addiction

·         Attention and Concentration

Focus and consistent mental effort are necessary for the fundamental cognitive processes of attention and concentration. Addiction frequently causes attention deficits, which make it difficult for sufferers to focus on daily tasks. Attention is diverted, and challenges in sustaining focus result from the ongoing obsession with obtaining and abusing substances.

Apart from this, impulsive behavior is another sign of addiction that makes it harder for a person to focus. Addiction-related impulsive behavior can exacerbate attention deficits and cause disruptions to daily activities.

·         Memory

Addiction can affect both the short- and long-term processes that makeup memory.

Individuals with substance use disorders frequently experience problems in their short-term memory. Abuse of alcohol and other drugs can cause rapid harm to the brain, causing problems with memory recall and storage. It can cause forgetfulness and make it harder to remember things you've recently learned.

An essential additional cognitive effect of addiction is long-term memory degradation. A key part of the brain involved in forming long-term memories is the hippocampal formation, which is affected by long-term substance use. It gets more difficult for people to learn from the consequences of their actions since they may require assistance recalling past experiences and occurrences.

·         Executive Functions

Setting and making decisions can be hampered by addiction, which perpetuates the cycle of substance usage. Defective impulse control and poor decision-making are common side effects of addiction, leading to risky and impulsive conduct. The ability to adapt cognitively to new settings is reportedly compromised in people with executive function problems, which can impede the kind of constructive behavioral changes that are vital for healing.

Dual Diagnosis: Mental Health and Addiction

The relationship between mental health and addiction is intricate, and the co-occurrence of both conditions, known as dual diagnosis or comorbidity, is common. Mental health disorders can both contribute to the development of addiction and be exacerbated by substance abuse.

The interplay between addiction and mental health further intensifies cognitive issues. Individuals with dual diagnosis often experience more severe cognitive impairments, making treatment more challenging. Enough healing and cognitive improvement require addressing both the addiction and associated mental health concerns.

Recovery and Cognitive Improvement

It has long been believed that addiction causes lasting harm to the brain. Still, new research indicates that the brain is remarkably malleable and can experience good changes in response to therapy and abstinence.

Cognitive recovery is greatly aided by therapy and rehabilitation. It has shown promise that individuals in cognitive rehabilitation programs—which focus on improving specific mental processes—can restore cognitive abilities that have been compromised by addiction.

Patients' general cognitive performance is improved by an all-encompassing therapeutic approach involving counseling, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Healthy lifestyle choices like a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep support rehab-related mental healing.

Prevention Strategies

A comprehensive strategy addressing risk factors and fostering protective variables is needed to prevent addiction-related cognitive deficits.

·         Early Intervention and Education

Preventing the cognitive deterioration associated with addiction requires early intervention. Prevention-focused educational programs regarding substance misuse are offered in communities and schools; they educate people about the psychological effects of addiction and provide them with the information they need to make wise decisions.

·         Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Addiction's detrimental effects on cognitive function must be lessened by promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly all support resilience and general brain health, which lowers the risk of substance abuse-related cognitive impairments.

·         Community-Based Programs

For those who are at risk of addiction or who are already battling it, community-based programs like support groups and outreach projects help them feel supported and like they belong. These programs offer tools, motivation, and a network of people going through comparable struggles to support prevention and recovery.

Conclusion

To summarize, there are many facets to the impact of addiction on cognitive function, necessitating thorough knowledge and focused therapies. People can achieve mental recovery and reclaim a happy life outside of the grip of addiction with the help of early intervention, rehabilitation, and continuous support. Understanding the value of preventative measures highlights our shared need to build a culture that promotes and safeguards cognitive well-being even more.

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