Cannabis, Metabolic Syndrome, And Emotional Distress

by David Godot on January 3rd, 2010 § 2

Cannabinoids & Metabolism

Santa Needs a TokeMuch attention has been paid to the emotional and cognitive effects of marijuana. However, we believe that these effects can only be understood in the context of the endocrine interactions which are initiated by marijuana’s ingestion. In this article we will examine the function of both endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids with an emphasis on metabolic functioning.

We will review evidence which points to endocannabinoids as critical components of the body’s energy balance apparatus, and implicates endocannabinoid dysregulation in the development of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and mental illness. Finally, we will suggest that cannabis extracts may be useful in the treatment of metabolic dysregulation, and that illicit use of marijuana may in many cases constitute a form of self-medication for the emotional effects of metabolic disorder.

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Aging Brains Only Shrink When They’re Sick

by David Godot on September 9th, 2009 § 0

Shrunken Cornish pirate's headIt is well known that the average brain size of elderly people is smaller than that of younger ones. Most doctors and scientists have decided that this is a normal part of aging. However, it turns out that this may not be the case.

A new study in the APA journal Neuropsychology used a highly controlled sample from Maastricht University’s long-term Aging Study in Holland. These individuals were screened every three years for a wide range of neurological problems, and divided into groups based on level of functioning. Neuropsychological test batteries were used to determine how well participants maintained neural functioning, and MRI scans were used to measure the physical size of seven brain areas important for aging, including hippocampal and parahippocampal areas as well as the frontal and cingulate cortices. » Read the rest of this entry «

Welcome Cognitive Scientists!

by David Godot on August 19th, 2009 § 0

MedulloblastomaWelcome to the cognitive psychology and neuroscience section of Chicago Psychology. This community blog is for sharing and discussing the latest research, theories, and insights into the functioning of the human mind.

Participating is very simple: once you’ve set up your free account on ChicagoPsychology.org, just join the Cognitive Science group and then ask a group administrator to grant you access to post on the Cognitive Psychology & Neuroscience group blog. This will allow you to post your own thoughts and ideas, announcements about new findings or events, or anything else you think is relevant to the cognitive psychology community. Other members will be able to post comments on your post, or write their own separate posts in response.

An account on ChicagoPsychology.org also allows you to create your own free web site or blog to promote yourself and your practice, or to just share information and ideas that you think others will find interesting or helpful.