Today we’ll be discussing how memory loss isn’t the only sign of dementia. Also, can money affect your sleep? And finally, a couple of Brazil nuts could change your gut health. Welcome to Health Channel News.
First, most people associate dementia with forgetfulness. An article in The New York Times discusses other early warning signs that could indicate the need to see a doctor. So what were the red flags?
Finances were one of the first areas affected by cognitive difficulties. The article notes that this is because finances can be complex, are time-sensitive, and require risk assessment. A professor of neurology explained that financial mismanagement can be a sensitive indicator due to its complexity. Common problems cited included late bill payments, impulsive purchases, and a greater risk of falling for money scams and fraud.
Dramatic changes in sleep habits were another red flag. Some conditions result in people hitting, screaming, or yelling during their sleep. Others may start their mornings unusually early, like at 3:00 AM, or struggle to stay awake during the day. A neurology instructor at Stanford University explained that parts of the brain, like the brainstem, which regulate sleep-wake cycles, are among the first affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Another key marker is a narrowing social circle. A cited study indicated that individuals with underlying dementia may be less likely to go out with friends and become more withdrawn. They may also exhibit personality changes and be perceived as less conscientious or more disorganized.
Driving ability can also signal cognitive issues. The article stated that problems behind the wheel, such as car scratches, running stop signs, or sudden braking, can appear much earlier than forgetfulness. An associate professor of neurology described driving as the ultimate blend of the cognitive system, where even small impairments can increase the risk of crashes.
Loss of smell is another indicator. The parts of the brain that control smell are often damaged in dementia, leading to misidentification or a lack of smell. This loss can precede more apparent cognitive impairments by years or decades.
The article cautions that these symptoms may also be caused by other factors unrelated to dementia. However, when these signs occur concurrently, they may warrant a visit to the doctor.
Next up, thanks to an article from the BBC, we’re taking a closer look at how saving even small amounts of money could improve sleep and overall well-being. This story is based on a report by the Personal Finance Research Center at Bristol University. The research found that saving regularly, no matter how small the amount, not only boosts financial resilience but also improves sleep quality. Regular savers tend to feel less anxious about money and more optimistic about the future, which helps reduce stress and promotes relaxation.
Interestingly, people with lower incomes who save regularly reported similar levels of life satisfaction as wealthier non-savers. In the UK, nearly a quarter of adults have savings of less than £100 (about $180). Even saving a small amount regularly can help manage financial stress, reduce debt, and improve the ability to cope with unexpected events.
Finally, could a couple of Brazil nuts a day be the secret to better gut health and reduced inflammation? New research suggests they might be. Packed with selenium, an essential mineral and powerful antioxidant, Brazil nuts may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health, particularly for women struggling with obesity.
The study, conducted over eight weeks, showed that women who consumed Brazil nuts had lower levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein. They also experienced improved gut health, with reduced intestinal permeability compared to those who didn’t consume Brazil nuts. However, experts recommend moderation as excessive selenium intake can lead to toxicity. Nutritionists suggest limiting consumption to one or two Brazil nuts per day.
Overall, Brazil nuts could be a simple and effective addition to a healthy diet for reducing inflammation and supporting gut health.
Those were our top stories for today. Thanks for joining us on Health Channel News.
