Friday, 30 October 2009

Juggling keeps brain alert


Learning to juggle - at any age - can cause positive changes in the brain, UK neuroscientists have found. Oxford University’s department of clinical neurology found juggling caused changes in the bundle of nerve fibres that carry electrical signals between cells and connect various areas of the brain, boosting overall brain power. The findings show the brain remains adaptable beyond childhood. Juggling was chosen for the experiment because it’s a difficult motor skill to master - researchers say the same principle applies to any similar task, including doing crosswords.

HIDDEN SALT
Gherkins, pickled onions, capers and artichokes are preserved in brine, which contains a lot of salt - something you should keep in mind when putting these items in your supermarket trolley. If possible, rinse them before eating to get rid of excess salt and have them as a treat, not an everyday snack - particularly if you have high blood pressure.