New study finds that a compound in beer may help to fend off Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Cheers! A new study brings good news for those who like to drink beer. (Photo: Vladamir Skopcev/Shutterstock)
Unlike wine, with it's heart-healthy goodness, beer has never really topped the health food list. In fact, it's usually lumped in with potato chips, hot dogs and other types of junk food that health experts warn us away from whenever possible. Until now. A new study has found that beer might actually be good for your brain. So get ready to pop open a brew and learn more.
The study, which was published in the American Chemical Society's Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, found that an ingredient in beer hops called xanthohumol (Xn) protected the brains of mice from cell damage. Researchers think this compound might not only help to fight free radical damage in the brain but it might also potentially slow the development of disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
There is growing evidence that degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's may begin as a result of oxidative damage to the cells in the brain. So the theory is that if researchers can find a way to guard these cells in the brain from damage, it may help prevent or slow down Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. And that's where beer comes in.
Chinese medicine has long relied on the health benefits of hops, the female flowers of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus, that are used to flavor and provide stability to beer. In addition to giving beer its signature flavor, hops also release Xn, which previous research has shown might have healing proprieties.
To test the health effects of beer on the brain, five scientists isolated the compound and tested its effects on cells from rats. They found that Xn helped to protect their brains from damage and even helped to promote signaling between brain cells.
So how much beer do you need to drink in order to reap its protective effects? As with everything, moderation is key. But the researchers note that the best way to get the benefits of Xn is to consume products that contain it — such as beer.
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Despite his good fortune, he was never able to win that which he truly desired - the ability to control magic. When Twisted Fate learned of an experiment being conducted in Zaun that might help him with his wish, he did the only thing a gambler of his worth could do - he went all in and volunteered for the experiment. Conducted by the infamous Dr. Xavier Rath, Twisted Fate was told that the wager for such participation might be steep. He might change forever, or nothing might happen, or he might die horribly. Pain, however, was likely a part of the deal no matter the outcome. These were hardly the worst odds the gambler had faced; his hopes raised, Twisted Fate underwent the experiment, enduring what he must for a chance at his dream. Then, it ended - with seemingly no effect whatsoever. The gypsy rogue flew into a murderous rage, but, before he could strike down the team, he suddenly teleported himself miles away. With a sly grin, he realized his luck had won out yet again. He now brings his luck and rakish charm to the Institute of War, where he is the Champion of choice for many - especially the gambling kind. To this day, Twisted Fate has avoided his inevitable reunion with Dr. Rath. The Card Master knows, however, that a confrontation is coming. While the future may be mysterious and unknown to most, Twisted Fate is certain that his future lies within the cards. 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Take advantage of Destiny's ability to reveal stealthed units to finish them off. * Twisted Fate is viable as an Attack Damage or Ability Power character, letting him fit on many different team compositions. [tip_playing_against] => * Focus on dodging Wild Cards early when your champion doesn't have the hit points to afford getting hit. * If you have low Health, use Destiny as an indicator to run to safety. It will give you a head start in escaping any possible ganks. 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