Yawning is Cool

Researchers around the world are studying the human brain to find out what makes it tick. One interesting finding from the University at Albany found that the simple act of yawning helps the brain. Researchers Andrew C. Gallup and Gordon G. Gallup, Jr., say our brains burn up to 33 percent of the calories we consume – and generate heat. Yawning cools brain cells, thus making them more efficient. The research­ers also found that yawning increases blood flow and helps maintain optimum levels of functioning. And they suggest we’re biologically hard-wired to yawn to stay alert and protect ourselves from danger.