United News of Bangladesh

Researchers in Singapore have found that caffeine may help reverse certain memory problems caused by lack of sleep, offering new insights into how sleep deprivation affects the brain. The study, conducted by scientists at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore and published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, suggests that caffeine's benefits may go beyond helping people stay awake. The research focused on social memory, the brain's ability to recognize and remember individuals encountered before. The study was led by Sreedharan Sajikumar and researcher Lik-Wei Wong. Scientists examined a part of the brain called the hippocampal CA2 region, which plays an important role in social memory and receives signals linked to sleep and wakefulness. To study the effects of sleep loss, researchers subjected laboratory animals to five hours of sleep deprivation. The animals were then given access to caffeine through drinking water over a seven-day period. The team found that sleep deprivation weakened communication between brain cells in the CA2 region, reducing the brain's ability to strengthen important neural connections associated with learning and memory. These changes were linked to noticeable difficulties in social recognition memory. However, caffeine was found to restore communication between neurons in the affected brain region and return normal levels of synaptic plasticity, the process that allows the brain to adapt and store new information. As a result, the memory problems caused by sleep deprivation were reversed. Researchers noted that caffeine's effect appeared to be highly targeted. Rather than broadly stimulating the entire brain, it specifically restored the neural pathway involved in social memory. The study also found that animals that had not experienced sleep deprivation did not show signs of excessive brain stimulation after consuming caffeine. "Sleep deprivation does not just make you tired. It selectively disrupts important memory circuits," Wong said. He added that caffeine was able to reverse these effects at both the molecular and behavioural levels, suggesting its benefits extend beyond improving alertness. Sajikumar described the CA2 region as a key link between sleep and social memory and said the findings improve understanding of the biological processes behind cognitive decline associated with sleep loss. The researchers said future studies will explore how caffeine affects memory formation and recall, as well as the relationship between specific brain circuits and memory function. The findings highlight the importance of adequate sleep for maintaining healthy brain function while suggesting caffeine could play a role in reducing some of the cognitive effects of sleep deprivation.

Discover the best caffeine-free herbal teas that help reduce inflammation naturally. From turmeric to ginger, these soothing teas—popular in Bangladesh and beyond—offer powerful health benefits and delicious flavors. Explore our list of the best anti-inflammatory teas to support your wellness journey. 10 Delicious Caffeine-free Teas to Heal Inflammation . Licorice Root Tea Licorice root tea is known for its naturally sweet taste and medicinal properties. It helps soothe digestive issues, supports respiratory health, and reduces inflammation. The active compound, glycyrrhizin, has potent anti-inflammatory effects that may help with conditions like gastritis and arthritis.  Studies suggest that licorice root can help protect the stomach lining and ease symptoms of acid reflux. To prepare, steep dried licorice root in boiling water for about 10 minutes before straining. However, excessive consumption should be avoided as it can raise blood pressure and lower potassium levels. Drinking this tea in moderation can provide numerous health benefits while adding a natural sweetness to herbal blends. Read more: 10 Teas for Upset Stomach and Improved Digestive Health Ginger Tea Ginger tea has a warm, spicy flavor and is a common household remedy in Bangladesh. It contains over 50 antioxidant compounds that minimize the production of inflammatory cytokines. Regular consumption may help manage arthritis, muscle soreness, and digestive discomfort. Ginger is known for its ability to alleviate nausea and promote gut health.  Several studies revealed that ginger may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve cardiovascular health. To make ginger tea, slice fresh ginger and boil it in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the tea and enhance its flavor with honey or a splash of lemon. Drinking ginger tea regularly can contribute to overall wellness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Rosehip Tea Rosehip tea is made from the fruit of wild rose plants and has a tart, fruity flavor. It is rich in vitamin C, carotenoids, and polyphenols, which combat inflammation and promote skin and joint health. Studies suggest that it can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and boost immune function. Read more: 10 Best Winter Teas to Fight Cold and Flu Rosehip tea is also beneficial for heart health due to its antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and improve circulation. To prepare, steep dried rosehips in hot water for 6-8 minutes before straining. Its high antioxidant content makes it an excellent immune-boosting drink, perfect for daily consumption. Hibiscus Tea Hibiscus tea is known for its deep red color and tangy taste. It contains anthocyanins and flavonoids, which reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Studies show that hibiscus tea lowers inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein, often elevated in arthritis and heart disease.  It is also linked to improved blood pressure regulation and better cholesterol levels. To make hibiscus tea, steep dried hibiscus petals in hot water for 5-10 minutes before straining. It can be enjoyed hot or cold. Drinking hibiscus tea regularly may help support cardiovascular health and strengthen the immune system. Read more: 10 Best Teas for Weight Loss Turmeric Tea Turmeric tea is well-known for its vibrant golden hue and earthy flavor. The active ingredient, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that may help with arthritis, muscle soreness, and digestive disorders. Studies suggest that curcumin may reduce inflammation associated with chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.  However, curcumin absorption is enhanced by black pepper. To prepare, simmer ground turmeric in water for 10 minutes, strain, and add honey or black pepper for additional benefits. Drinking turmeric tea regularly can support joint health and aid in overall inflammation control.