Scientists find saturated fat is vital for memory and learning
November 6th 2009 02:50
Signature Tune
By studying live brain cells in a petri dish, scientists at Johns Hopkins have discovered that saturated fat, the type berated by many nutritional researchers, is vital for long-term memory and learning.
Palmitate, a saturated fat found in palm oil, butter, cheese, milk and meat makes brain proteins, also named NMDA receptors. These fat-derived receptors continually strengthen and weaken their connections with other brain cells, sculpting and resculpting new memory circuits.
The researchers suspect that if there was a disruption to formation of NMDA receptors, the result would be learning and memory impairment because neurons can't communicate with each other. Maybe we need some saturated fat after all.
Nutritionally speaking, brain cells also respond well to the right water intake for your weight (your weight in Ibs x 0.7 = optimal daily water intake in fluid ounces), omega 3 fatty acids from fish, and protein from meat.
Source: Huganir. R. (2009). Neuron (journal). October 29th, 2009.
Eat up ----comment by katyzzz
| 63 |
| Vote |
Add To: 
subscribe to this blog
Comment by Lara M
Love Speaks
Food Slate
Comment by katyzzz
Photography Tips
MS Paint Art