Do you sometimes find it difficult to remember where you left your keys or parked your car? Perhaps it takes you longer to study for a driving test or recall the words to a favorite song than it did a few years ago. It's easy to assume that these types of incidents are just a natural part of the aging process. Although cognitive decline is associated with age, studies are beginning to show that training the brain with mental exercises can provide an increase in mental focus and memory at any age.
In a recent study, targeting regions of a rat's brain that process sound with certain stimuli caused a decrease in age-related mental impairment. Other studies have shown that certain types of cognitive training can actually “rewire” brain circuits. Starting with middle age, gradual changes in the brain begin to affect mental processing.
Read MoreDementia refers to a group of disorders that affect a person's thinking skills, causing symptoms such as short-term memory loss, reduced attention span and impaired reasoning skills. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting 35 million people worldwide. Although the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is unknown, new research is suggesting a link between high blood sugar and the eventual development of Alzheimer's disease.
Diabetes is a disorder in which the body stops producing enough insulin to properly maintain glucose levels. This causes the blood sugar levels in the body to rise, risking damage to the blood vessels, heart and other organs. Doctors have known for a long time that patients with diabetes have an increased risk of developing dementia.
Read MoreWith celebrities such as Halle Berry and Julia Roberts looking astonishingly beautiful well into their 40s and beyond, women of all ages are paying close attention to skin care and looking for ways to slow the signs of aging. Although certain elements such as sunscreen should always be part of a good skin care regimen, it's important to keep in mind that your skin care needs change as you get older.
Skin can start to show signs of sun damage in the 30s. Normally this is also the age that fine lines begin to make their appearance. Collagen production slows and the skin becomes thinner, and it may begin to show areas of redness or dullness. This is a great time to start using products to repair collagen. Moisturizing with products containing vitamin C and vitamin A derivatives such as retinol can work to reduce fine lines, prevent future wrinkles and improve skin tone.
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for Vibrant Health Network
