HealthWatch: Caffeine May Benefit Your Mind
Believed To Prevent Several Afflictions

Dr. David Marks, M.D.
Reporting

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(CBS) If you're a coffee lover you probably won't forget this story -- at least not right away.

That's because a new study shows the caffeine in coffee, tea and other beverages may help us remember. Using high powered scans, researchers found the stimulant can activate the short-term memory center in our brain.

Austrian doctor Florian Koppelstatter presented his research at a medical conference in Chicago. He put 15 people in an MRI machine and asked them questions to trigger their short-term memory. He then ran the tests a second time after giving patients caffeine.

The difference? A specific part of the frontal lobe lit up on the scan.

"We had more activation or increased activation through the effect of caffeine in this distinct part of the brain," Dr. Koppelstatter said.

Previous research has shown caffeine can improve memory function.

In tests people were able to recall information faster and work more efficiently. Other studies have shown caffeine can improve reaction time. But that doesn't mean the more you drink, the more you'll remember. Too much can make you wired, leading to a loss of focus and concentration.

According to Dr. Koppelstatter, "We used 100 milligrams of caffeine -- that's the amount of about one to two cups of coffee."

Researchers are studying claims that caffeine can prevent some cancers, heart disease, Parkinson's and other conditions. But what we know for sure is that you should only drink it in moderation. Too much can make you anxious, and give you headaches, insomnia and the shakes.

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Source: http://wcbstv.com/seenon/local_story_334200113.html