cognitive function

New research reveals a concerning link: older adults consuming high amounts of ultra-processed foods face a significantly higher risk of dementia and cognitive decline. This study adds to growing evidence suggesting these industrially manufactured products, often laden with artificial ingredients, may negatively impact brain health over time, underscoring the importance of whole foods for cognitive well-being.

Indian youth are increasingly shaping their identities and learning through social media, a shift amplified by the pandemic. While offering connectivity, these platforms pose risks to adolescent mental health and cognitive function, with concerns about addiction and comparison. Experts urge a balanced approach, focusing on education and responsible digital navigation for well-being.

World Brain Tumour Day highlights the importance of brain health, noting that while direct lifestyle links to brain tumours are unclear, healthy habits can significantly support overall brain function. Experts emphasize that a balanced diet, adequate sleep, exercise, and stress management bolster brain resilience and cognitive performance, even as research into tumour causes continues.

Children's brains adapt during breaks, leading to cognitive drift away from structured learning, particularly in math. This post - exam slump isn't laziness but a natural deprioritization of specific neural pathways. Effective re- entry requires building confidence through solvable problems and connecting math to relatable contexts, not just rote revision.

Many women in their thirties and forties experience relentless fatigue and emotional instability, often mistaking perimenopause symptoms for chronic stress from careers or caregiving. This hormonal transition, marked by fluctuating estrogen and progesterone, destabilizes mood and cognition. Ignoring these biological shifts can lead to misdiagnosis and self-doubt, preventing women from seeking crucial medical treatment and support.

Post-lunch slumps in students highlight the critical role of nutrition in learning and behaviour. Balanced meals with whole grains, fruits, and lentils boost energy and focus, while sugary foods cause fatigue. Schools like Orchids The International School are partnering with meal services to provide nutritious, nutritionist-approved options, ensuring children remain energised and engaged throughout their school day.

Excessive screen time is raising concerns about its impact on brain health, potentially leading to "digital dementia" by weakening memory and attention spans. Experts explain that constant digital stimulation and reliance on devices for basic functions can negatively affect cognitive abilities, sleep quality, and overall mental sharpness.

Brain tumours present subtle symptoms easily mistaken for stress or migraines. Early signs like persistent headaches, mood changes, and vision problems are often ignored. This delay hinders timely diagnosis and treatment. Experts urge prompt medical evaluation for persistent or worsening symptoms. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.

Multifunctional furniture is booming, driven by urbanisation and smaller living spaces, with the global market projected to reach USD 25.4 billion by 2034. Experts highlight that smart design now prioritizes both utility and elegance, with buyers advised to focus on quality and practical needs over mere aesthetics to avoid common pitfalls.

High achievers often confuse adaptability with self-sacrifice. Constant pressure leads to emotional exhaustion. Sustainable success requires cycles of effort and recovery. Boundaries are essential for long-term growth. Proactive pauses and workplace culture shifts are vital. Ambition should be values-led, not anxiety-led. The goal is to support ambition without sacrificing wellbeing.

President Trump's latest medical report declared him in 'excellent health' and fit to serve, despite advising weight loss and increased physical activity. The report noted his weight has increased, and he takes medication for cholesterol and cardiac prevention. Bruising on his hands was attributed to frequent handshaking while on aspirin.

Princess of Wales champions early childhood development. Her initiative highlights the critical first five years for brain growth and well-being. The campaign emphasizes responsive care and early learning. It links quality relationships to future societal resilience. Businesses, schools, and doctors are encouraged to consider their role in early life investments.

Every week, TOI+ subscribers ask questions about their health and India’s top doctors reply with clear, evidence-based guidance. From heart disease to diabetes, cancer to mental health, Hello, Doctor connects you directly with experts you can trust

India's IT giants Infosys, TCS, and Wipro have collectively deployed over 300,000 Microsoft 365 Copilot licenses in under six months, marking one of the largest enterprise AI rollouts globally. This rapid expansion signifies growing confidence in GenAI's ability to deliver measurable business outcomes, with high usage rates indicating deep integration into daily workflows and a shift towards enhancing human potential.

High blood pressure, a silent killer, often shows no symptoms until severe damage occurs. Millions are unaware they have it, as the body doesn't warn of danger. Modern lifestyles are increasing risks even in young adults. Regular, early monitoring, not just waiting for symptoms, is crucial for preventing heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage.

Our fast-paced lives have led to reduced chewing, impacting brain health. Researchers reveal that thorough chewing boosts blood flow to the brain, enhancing oxygen supply and activating neural networks linked to memory and cognition. Studies suggest this overlooked habit protects against cognitive decline, especially in older adults. Prioritizing mindful eating and foods with texture is key.

Multiple Sclerosis often goes unnoticed in India, with subtle symptoms like tingling or blurred vision dismissed as stress. This delay allows irreversible nerve damage to occur. Young women are frequently overlooked, their symptoms attributed to other factors. Experts urge greater public and physician awareness for early diagnosis and intervention to improve long-term quality of life.

Even if you drink plenty of water, dehydration can still occur due to poor fluid retention. Persistent bad breath, sugar cravings, muscle cramps, brain fog, irritability, and dry, inelastic skin are subtle signs your body needs better hydration. These symptoms indicate an imbalance, not just a lack of water intake, urging a closer look at your body's fluid management.

Michael Dell, founder of Dell Technologies, emphasizes that success hinges on how effectively one handles and learns from failure. His journey, from a college dorm to a tech giant, showcases this principle. Dell's quote highlights that processing setbacks, not avoiding them, is the primary driver of long-term achievement, a crucial lesson for navigating today's achievement-focused world.

The landline phones are back in trend with a modern makeover

Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to 117, defied aging expectations. Scientists discovered her internal chemistry mirrored younger individuals, with a unique microbiome and a Mediterranean diet, including daily yogurt, contributing to her remarkable health. Her lifestyle choices, devoid of smoking and alcohol, alongside constant activity and social connection, offer profound lessons for healthy aging.

Modern workplaces are increasingly becoming spaces where employees feel compelled to hide stress, burnout, and emotional exhaustion behind professional smiles. A new report reveals why millions continue staying in toxic jobs despite deteriorating mental health, exposing a deeper workplace culture where survival, silence, and constant performance have quietly become part of everyday professional life.

Every week, TOI+ subscribers ask questions about their health and India’s top doctors reply with clear, evidence-based guidance. From heart disease to diabetes, cancer to mental health, Hello, Doctor connects you directly with experts you can trust