Monday, June 05, 2006

THE AFTER LUNCH NAP IS ESSENTIAL

YOUR BRAIN, YOUR BODY AND SCIENTISTS ALL INSIST ON IT!

From the London Telegraph :

The importance of the traditional European siesta has been confirmed by scientists.

Research
at Manchester University has shown why humans and animals become dozy after a hearty meal. Brain cells which keep the body and mind active are switched off after eating, making us drowsy and in need of a good nap.

The discovery focuses upon the effects of glucose on neurons which release orexins, tiny proteins central to the regulation of states of consciousness. Glucose interferes with the mechanism through which the neurons release orexins, thus affecting the body's wakefulness.

These neurons are extremely sensitive to variations in glucose levels, and even a slight change can have a large impact. This is why a normal lunch can make us feel tired.

Until now, little was understood about how the basic energy molecule, glucose, regulated wakefulness and other energy-related behaviours. The experiments conducted by Burdakov and his colleagues have shed light on one of the most elusive operations of the brain.

Eat, then sleep, and know your doing your body, and brain, a huge favour.

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