L-Theanine may help protect the memory during a stroke

In this study a blockage stroke (ischemic stroke; the most common form by far) was simulated in laboratory animals. L-Theanine was supplemented immediately after the first stroke. L-Theanine significantly protected their memory and this effect was evident 7 days after the second stroke. Moreover, L-Theanine significantly protected brain cells with fewer cells dying in the hippocampal area of the brain; the brain region important for learning and memory. The study is published in the August 17th, 2007 issue of the journal Phytotherapy Research.

Over a third of the world's deaths attributed to pollution according to a Cornell review of existing studies.

Scientists at Cornell University reviewed data from over 120 published reports concerning the effects of environmental damage, malnutrition and a steadily increasing population on human illness. Malnutrition has climbed from 20 % of the world's population in 1950 to 57 % of the most current figure of 6.5 billion people. Malnutrition contributes to infections, disease, and death. Lack of clean water and urban crowding make their contribution. Soil contamination and erosion spreads infections and toxins. Air pollution contributes to the death rate by causing cancers, immune system malfunctions, and birth defects (you can add lung disease, diabetes, and heart disease to the list). The study review is published in the current issue of the journal Human Ecology.