cognitive function

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Protecting memory and thinking skills doesn't require expensive solutions. Harvard neurologist Dr. Scott McGinnis highlights that regular moderate-intensity exercise, like brisk walking, can increase brain volume and indirectly boost cognitive function by improving mood and sleep. Consistency is key, with benefits appearing after about six months of aiming for 150 minutes weekly.

The landline phones are back in trend with a modern makeover

Japanese longevity is attributed to centuries-old dietary staples like natto, miso, and seaweed, rich in probiotics, minerals, and nutrients supporting gut health, bone density, and metabolic function. Consistent consumption of anti-inflammatory wasabi, ginger, and antioxidant-rich green tea further contributes to healthy aging, highlighting the power of dietary patterns over single superfoods.

A long-term study has found that visceral fat, not just overall body weight, is closely linked to brain aging and cognitive performance. It also suggests that waist size and blood sugar may matter more than BMI alone

A UK student's tragic suicide has been linked to severe vitamin B12 deficiency stemming from her vegan diet. The coroner's findings highlight how unchecked nutritional gaps can lead to serious mental health issues and even psychosis. This case underscores the critical need for proper supplementation in restrictive diets to prevent devastating consequences.

The Department of School Education and Literacy has launched the Bharatiya Bhasha Summer Camp in New Delhi to promote multilingual learning among school students. Launched by Secretary Sanjay Kumar, the programme aligns with NEP 2020 and focuses on exposing students to Indian languages through school-based activities. It covers Classes 1 to 12 and includes Indian Sign Language. Officials said it aims to support language learning, cognitive development, and awareness of linguistic diversity across schools.

Harvard University is implementing a new grading policy to combat grade inflation, limiting A grades to 20% of students starting in 2027. This move aims to restore the meaning of top grades and reduce pressure on students to maintain perfect transcripts. The decision comes amid broader scrutiny of academic standards in higher education.

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.

Pregnancy and childbirth trigger significant physiological, psychological, and emotional transformations in women, often leading to "mommy brain" characterized by forgetfulness and mental fog. Scientific studies reveal neural recalibration, not decline, as the brain adapts to caregiving demands. This experience, while common, requires understanding and support for new mothers navigating identity shifts and cognitive loads.

Doctors emphasize that sustained focus goes beyond caffeine, highlighting the power of natural daily habits. Prioritizing sleep, hydration, movement, and mindful breaks can significantly enhance concentration and mental clarity without the side effects of stimulants. Simple routines like morning sunlight and short work pauses are key to a sharper mind.

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

Creatine, frequently associated with gym enthusiasts, extends its perks beyond simply bulking up muscle. It plays a pivotal role in energy production and may offer supportive effects for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease and mental health issues such as depression. Produced naturally in the body, it's crucial for both intense workouts and brain function.

About 91% centres run from rented spaces, over half barely in 25-50 square yards, and 22% in even smaller areas

Experts advise parents to consider a child's maturity, not just age, before giving them a first phone. Starting with basic devices and gradually introducing smartphones with monitoring tools is recommended. Open communication about online safety and responsible usage is crucial. Parents should also model healthy screen time habits. This approach helps children navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Every conflict leaves behind more than tactical outcomes; it generates a blueprint for future preparedness. Operation Sindoor, when examined through a structural and doctrinal lens, reveals a decisive shift in how India must think about air power, attrition, industrial capacity, and integrated warfare. Its most enduring lessons lie not in what was achieved, but in what must now be built.