ALZHEIMER'S LEAD: Scientists have discovered the possible reason why India has much lower rates of Alzheimer's disease than countries in the western world. Curcumin oil, a chemical compound extracted from turmeric, the popular curry spice, has been shown to protect against brain degeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers from the University of Catania in Italy and the New York Medical College in the US found that rat neurons exposed to higher concentrations of curcumin produced greater enzyme activity, protecting the brain against progression of the neuro-degenerative disease.
LOOKING AT ME: ME Awareness Week goes ahead this year from May 8th - 15th. The central event - apart from the annual fundraising campaign - is a free public lecture on Saturday, May 8th at 3 p.m. in the Royal Dublin Hotel, O'Connell Street, Dublin. This year's keynote speaker is Malcolm Hooper from the Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Sunderland in England.
He will discuss diagnosis and treatment approaches to this condition, drawing material from his book, Engaging ME: Towards Understanding, Diagnosis and Treatment. Further details from the Irish ME/CFS Support Group, PO Box 3075, Dublin 2. Tel: 01 2350965.
BEST FOR BABY: Interested in learning first aid techniques for babies or getting advice on good infant nutrition?
If so, consider attending one of the forthcoming baby health days in Cork city (May 8th) or Drogheda, Co Louth (June 8th). Organised by aromatherapist Lorraine McHugh, the workshops will also teach parents baby sign language and aromatherapy for babies. Full details and booking on tel: 087 8510741.
BARNARDOS BENEFIT: Calling all creches, Montessori and pre-school groups keen to participate in the sponsored "toddles" in aid of Barnardos.
This major fundraising drive for the countrywide educational support and advice service carried out by Barnardos goes ahead from May 1st - 16th. Registration details and free sponsorship packs from tel: 1850 222300.