Internet Search Improves Brain Health

By: Bill Waters
Published: Oct 17, 2008
Updated: Mar 20, 2010

Internet search activity can actually stimulate your brain. A recent study suggests that elderly and middle-aged practice Internet search behavior to keep their minds sharp. The study was carried out by the University of California.

A recent study was carried out by scientists at the University of California which suggests that searching the Internet is healthy for your brain. The UCLA has published a study and found that brain activity in the elderly was sharp by practicing Internet searches.

Internet search behavior triggers key center in the brain that control decision making. The study suggests that searching the Web can possibly improve brain function.

"Internet searching engages complicated brain activity, which may help exercise and improve brain function," Dr. Gary Small, a professor at UCLA's Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, said in a statement.

Scientists also found that another mind engaged practice such as crossword puzzles may also help brain health.

Researchers tested 24 neurologically normal volunteers between the ages of 55 and 76, half with experience searching the Internet and half with no experience. The participants performed Web searches while undergoing functional magnetic scans to record changes in the brain.

The study unveiled significant brain activity during web searching, but the experienced group registered a twofold increase in brain activation during web use when compared with those with little Internet experience.