Searching the net boosts brain activity

Boffins have found that searching the internet can stimulate and improve brain function.

Tests showed that typing searches and clicking on links triggers key centers in the brain that control decision-making and complex reasoning.

The researchers from the University of California Los Angeles used a sample of 55-76 year-olds and performed fMRI brain scans on them as they used the web or read a book.

Compared to people who do not go online very often, web-savvy internet surfers registered increased activity in the frontal, temporal and cingulate areas of the brain, apparently that's good.

However you should not use this as an excuse to spend your free time searching for online porn rather than reading Proust - a daily dilemma I know many of you have.
Scientists discovered that during Internet searching, those with a good level of experience sparked 21,782 voxels - the tiniest measurable unit of brain activity - compared with only 8,646 voxels for those with less experience.

Neuroscience Professor Dr. Gary Small said: "The study results are encouraging, that emerging computerized technologies may have physiological effects and potential benefits for middle-aged and older adults.

"A simple, everyday task like searching the Web appears to enhance brain circuitry in older adults, demonstrating that our brains are sensitive and can continue to learn as we grow older."