Abstract
Using a near infrared measurement device, we measured brain activity during cooking, and proved that cooking stimulates the prefrontal cortex. This means that by cooking one has the possibility of developing and improving brain functions which are controlled by the prefrontal cortex such as communication, self-care, creativity etc.
With a near infrared measurement device (optical topography system), weak near infrared light is illuminated onto the head from optical fibers attached to the scalp. This light passes through the skull and reaches the cerebral cortex. The light is partially reflected back through the scalp. The reflected light back on the scalp contains information about activities of the cerebral cortex-where physical exercise, senses, recognition, linguistics, and consideration are controlled.
In this study the brain activity of 15 female adults was measured while they performed the following cooking tasks-planning a menu for dinner, cutting ingredients, frying the cut ingredients with gas, and dishing up. Measurements proved that prefrontal cortices of both the right and left hemispheres were active during each task.
