Posted on 04/29/2005 8:59:41 AM PDT by Bacon Man
Drinking alcohol boosts the growth of new nerve cells in the brain, research suggests.
But while this might sound good in theory, the Swedish team believe these new cells could contribute to the development of alcohol dependence.
Mice fed moderate quantities of alcohol grew extra brain cells, but also showed a preference for alcohol over water.
The Karolinska Institute research appears in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology.
Brain growth
Lead researcher Professor Stefan Brene said: "We believe that the increased production of new nerve cells during moderate alcohol consumption can be important for the development of alcohol addiction and other long-term effects of alcohol on the brain."
Alternatively, the extra cells might help with learning and memory, he said.
Another theory, according to the researchers, is that the tranquilising effect of alcohol triggers the growth.
All of the new cells developed normally.
A spokeswoman from the Campaign for Real Ale said: "It is well known that alcohol in moderation is good for your body so it's no surprise it's also good for your mind.
"Maybe that is why lots of pub quiz teams are so bright."
A spokeswoman from Alcohol Concern said: "This type of study could prove useful in the long term to shed light on the relationship between alcohol intake and dependency.
"However, very little can be drawn from a single animal-based study at this stage.
"Much more research is needed to explore the relationship between drinking patterns and their effect on the human brain."
The iron chef just won again.
TV is really boring this late at night....
Correction... TV is really boring.
I only know new russian customs, yes.
I thought the Iron Chef was the name of the show, not a contestant! What do you think about Rachel Ray?
Curious.... flat chested, hippy (not hippie) woman of slightly above average looks is the new "girl next door" sex object.
I had furniture delivered a few months ago - I had to turn the tv off - because they couldn't do anything but stare at her.
I call her, "attainable pretty" - where she is pretty enough - but not too pretty. Know what I mean?
Was Backwoods, now exurban for the last 10 years.
I read your profile page.
Spartans really were good to you this year!
And that's because the yuppies moved here.
She is pretty, or perky anyway. Like her boobs. But her cooking sucks. My wife tried 3 or 4 of her recipes, and I put an end to that.
I was a Yuppie - a long time ago.
Why aren't YOU cooking....
I'm trying to train my wife, for pete's sake. Actually, when it comes to italian food, she's very good. She's from 100% italian east coast stock. But beyond that I do cook. Steaks, birds, mexican, & especially seafood.
What is your talent in the kitchen (besides the obvious)?
Me a chauvinist?
I was glad to see them make it to the final 4. The seniors had a lot of critics since they wern't as successful as the 2000 squad that set the standards by winning it all.
I was a Yuppie - a long time ago.
I always say that I "dress yupppie, but think redneck." I can easily blend in with the yuppies, but I'll always be a redneck at heart.(Literally, since I can't tan)
I can make anything....
I love Italian, make great fish dishes, but I generally quickly grill something and add a salad. Too much work for one.
I have a few single guys that I know who come here for dinner so I can keep up my talents... ;-) in the kitchen.
Many years ago.... I was an young, upwardly mobile, BMW driving, professional.
Now, I'm a less young, executive with a bigger BMW and a few other toys.
Things change.... ;-)
BMW.....Speed Bump....Explorers can run over em'... :)
Only one of you can pick on me at a time!
But I only ook 465.
I'm not picking on you. It's just my (in)famous Irish charm. :)
I'm batting my eye lashes - don't tell Pissant.
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