Boron has recently been discovered to be a brain stimulant. Thirteen women were placed on a boron-free diet, eliminating all fruits and permitting only a few vegetables. After six months every woman in the group demonstrated brain wave changes similar to those seen during periods of drowsiness. The researchers do not recommend the use of boron supplements as they may disrupt the body's mineral balance. A diet emphasizing fresh fruits and vegetables should provide adequate boron.
Many elderly people complain of loss of taste, making eating much less enjoyable.
A study from Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland, reveals that regular physical activity may help elderly individuals maintain their sense of taste. Women who ate meat five or more times per week had a breast cancer incidence 80 percent higher than those who ate meat only twice a week. The researchers feel that thermal irritation may play a role. The intake of cabbage and collards reduced the incidence of induced breast cancer in laboratory animals in a study conducted at the University of Nebraska. Abnormal liver function tests may subject the patient to unnecessary stress, loss of life insurance, unnecessary testing and perhaps even liver biopsy.