WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 6-8-2026026

Health Alert: Sleep Apnea Associated with Higher Cancer Rates. An analysis of data concerning more than 3 million hospitalized patients found that obstructive sleep apnea was associated with a 40% higher risk of cancer over a five-year timeframe. The researchers speculate that chronic low oxygen levels during sleep may influence inflammation, metabolism, and immune function, potentially creating conditions in the body that allow cancerous cells to grow more easily. BMC Pulmonary Medicine, May 2026 Diet: Dried Fruit and Cheese Intake Linked to Lower Stroke Risk. New research suggests that dried fruit and cheese intake were associated with a 50% and 27% lower risk of stroke, respectively. Researchers speculate that compounds in these foods may influence inflammation, circulation, and metabolic health in ways that support brain and blood vessel health. Medicine (Baltimore), May 2026 Exercise: Daily Walks May Help Seniors Live Longer. A systematic review and meta-analysis involving 46 studies and more than 367,000 older adults found that higher daily step counts were associated with a lower risk of early death, with each additional 1,000 steps per day linked to an approximately 13% reduction in risk. American Journal of Health Promotion, May 2026 Chiropractic: Hands-On Care Effective for Chronic Low Back Pain. Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) refers to persistent low back pain without a clearly identifiable structural cause or underlying pathology. An umbrella review of 21 systematic reviews found that manual therapy techniques—including spinal manipulation, soft-tissue therapy, myofascial therapy, massage, and neuromobilization techniques—were effective for reducing pain and disability in CNLBP patients by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and influencing painprocessing pathways. Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, March 2026 Mental Attitude: Self-Injury Affects 1 in 16 Teens. Questionnaires completed by nearly 36,000 adolescents revealed that 6.2% engaged in non-suicidal self-injury during the previous 30 days, with depression and a history of bullying both associated with a greater risk. Mental health experts often view self-injury as a serious indicator of psychological distress because it is associated with a higher risk of future self-harm and other destructive behaviors. Journal of Child & Adolescent Mental Health, May 2026 Wellness/Prevention: Simple Physical Measurements May Help Assess Risk for Type 2 Diabetes. Using data from the UK Biobank study, researchers found that adults with both high waist circumference (strongly associated with metabolic dysfunction) and low grip strength (linked to reduced physical function) had nearly an eightfold higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to individuals with low waist circumference and high grip strength. The study suggests that combining these simple measurements may improve diabetes risk assessment and help identify individuals at elevated metabolic risk. BMC Medicine, May 2026 Quote: “Jealousy… is a mental cancer.” ~ B. C. Forbes

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 6-1-2026

Health Alert: Common Chemicals Linked to Stroke Risk. Phthalates are chemicals commonly used to make plastics more flexible and are frequently found in food packaging, cosmetics, household products, and medical materials. Over time, these chemicals can break down or leach out of products and enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers found that higher urinary levels of several phthalate metabolites were associated with increased stroke risk. The findings suggest environmental toxins may play a larger role in stroke risk than previously recognized. Cardiovascular Toxicology, April 2026 Diet: Diverse Diet May Support Cardiovascular Health. A study involving nearly 2,900 adults found that men consuming a wider variety of foods were less likely to have abnormal blood lipid levels, while women showed lower risks of overweight/obesity and hypertension. Researchers believe dietary diversity may improve nutrient balance and overall diet quality, helping to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Nutrition Journal, May 2026 Exercise: Exercise Intensity Influences Stroke Risk. Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, researchers report that regularly engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity can reduce stroke risk by nearly 25%, while vigorous exercise may cut the risk in half. Brain Impairment, June 2026 Chiropractic: Effective Treatment for Chronic Neck Pain. For patients with chronic neck pain, a recent study found that manual therapy techniques combined with cervical stabilization exercises—a common chiropractic approach—improved pain, range of motion, and functional capacity over a four-week period. Pain Management Nursing, November 2025 Mental Attitude: Cigarette Use Associated with Self-Harm Behaviors in Adults with Depression. According to a study that included more than 31,000 adults, smoking cigarettes is associated with a greater risk of self-harm among individuals with major depressive disorder. The data suggest that for each additional cigarette smoked per day on average, the risk of self-harm attempts increases by 2%. Researchers speculate that tobacco exposure may affect neurotransmitter systems and stress-related pathways involved in emotional regulation and impulsive behavior. BMC Psychiatry, May 2026 Wellness/Prevention: Changing Sleep Schedules May Influence Metabolic Health. Among more than 8,800 adults, researchers found that those with greater night-to-night variability in sleep duration were up to 78% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes within the following decade. Researchers believe inconsistent sleep patterns may disrupt circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation, and insulin sensitivity. The findings support the importance of healthy sleep routines for metabolic health. Medicine (Baltimore), May 2026 Quote: “If you think you can, you can. And if you think you can’t, you’re right.” ~ Mary Kay Ash

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 5-25-2026

Health Alert: Poor Metabolic Health May Affect Hip Replacement Outcomes. More than a half-million total hip
arthroplasty surgeries are performed in the United States each year. A recent study found that patients with poorer
metabolic health prior to surgery had worse hip function and psychological health one year after surgery compared to
those with better baseline health. The findings suggest that addressing metabolic factors such as central obesity, high
blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar before surgery may help improve patient
outcomes. Journal of Arthroplasty, April 2026
Diet: High Sodium Intake Linked to Heart Failure Risk. Using data from the Southern Community Cohort Study,
researchers reported that consuming about 4,200 mg of dietary sodium per day—well above the recommended 2,300
mg—may increase the risk of heart failure by 15%, independent of known risk factors such as high blood pressure,
overall diet quality, and caloric intake. JACC: Advances, March 2026
Exercise: Exercise May Counteract Trauma-Related Changes in Brain. Past research has linked childhood
trauma with detrimental changes in brain regions involved in stress and emotion regulation. However, a recent study
found that connections between these key brain regions are stronger in early life trauma victims who regularly
exercise, suggesting that physical activity may be key to supporting brain health in survivors of childhood trauma.
Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, January 2026
Chiropractic: Multimodal Approach for Migraine Treatment. For migraine patients with concurrent neck pain, a
recent study found that a treatment approach combining manual therapy, exercise, education, and lifestyle
strategies—commonly used by chiropractors—may help reduce migraine intensity, frequency, and disability. The
findings suggest that migraineurs who do not respond to usual care or self-management strategies may benefit from a
more comprehensive, multimodal approach. Archives of Physiotherapy, February 2026
Mental Attitude: Siblings Help Buffer Grief After Parent’s Death. Understandably, the death of a parent can take
a heavy toll on mental health. However, a recent study found that individuals with one or more siblings tend to have
better mental health outcomes following parental loss than those without brothers or sisters. This suggests that
family support plays a key role in the grieving process, which may become more challenging in the future as family
sizes continue to shrink in wealthier countries. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, March 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Algorithm May Improve Placement of Lifesaving Defibrillators. It’s estimated that
automated external defibrillators (AEDs) placed in publicly accessible areas save nearly 2,000 lives in the United
States each year; however, a recent study that mapped AED placement against locations of previous cardiac events
found that optimizing where AEDs are located could substantially increase coverage of cardiac arrests, suggesting
the potential to save thousands of additional lives annually. IJC Heart & Vasculature, April 2026
Quote: “The right time is any time that one is still so lucky as to have.” ~ Henry James

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 5-18-2026

Health Alert: Heart Risk Linked to Hip Fracture in Postmenopausal Women. Likely due to shared mechanisms
such as chronic inflammation, impaired calcium metabolism, reduced blood flow, and postmenopausal estrogen
decline, researchers reported that among more than 21,000 older women, those with a higher cardiovascular risk
profile had a 93% greater risk of hip fracture compared to those in the lowest-risk group. Additionally, women in the
high-risk group who did sustain a hip fracture tended to do so at an earlier age. The findings suggest that addressing
cardiovascular risk factors may also support better bone health in postmenopausal women.
The Lancet Regional Health – Americas, March 2026
Diet: Whole Wheat Fiber May Protect Against Gut Inflammation. A recent animal study found that gut bacteria
in mice break down whole wheat fiber into bioactive compounds that help regulate immune responses and suppress
inflammation, potentially protecting against inflammatory bowel disease. This adds to a growing body of evidence
on the role different types of dietary fiber play in supporting gut health. Science Advances, January 2026
Exercise: Cutting Sedentary Time May Improve Anxiety Symptoms. An analysis of data concerning 692 adults
found that reducing sedentary leisure time to under seven hours per day was associated with fewer anxiety
symptoms; however, no similar association was observed for meeting exercise recommendations of 150 or more
minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week or for sleeping 7–9 hours per night.
Journal of Affective Disorders, April 2026
Chiropractic: Hands-On Care for Temporomandibular Disorders. For patients with temporomandibular
disorders (TMD), a recent study found that manual therapy aimed at addressing fascial tissue distortions—such as
trigger bands, herniated trigger points, and continuum distortions—may help reduce pain, improve jaw function, and
support head posture. Doctors of chiropractic are well-versed in a variety of manual therapies commonly used to
manage musculoskeletal conditions, including TMD. CRANIO, March 2026
Mental Attitude: Loneliness Linked to Suicidal Thoughts. A study that included more than 633,000 adults found
that loneliness acts like an amplifier of the aspects of anxiety and depression that may stimulate an individual to
consider suicide. The findings suggest that addressing loneliness—through social connection and community
engagement—could be a practical and accessible strategy to reduce suicide risk in individuals struggling with a
mood disorder. JAMA Network Open, March 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Junk Food Tax Could Prevent Deaths. An economic modeling study suggests that
implementing a 20% tax on unhealthy foods and using the funds to subsidize fruits and vegetables could improve
diet quality and reduce the risk of chronic disease, potentially preventing about 212,000 premature deaths each year
in the United States. The Lancet Public Health, April 2026
Quote: “Action, so to speak, is the genius of nature.” ~ Robert Blair

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 5-11-2026

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.Health Alert: Fluctuating Sleep Apnea May Signal Hidden Heart Risk. While obstructive sleep apnea is
associated with elevated cardiovascular risk, recent research suggests that individuals whose sleep apnea varies in
severity significantly from night-to-night show signs of accelerated vascular aging—approximately 30% greater
compared to those with more stable patterns—regardless of their average severity level. These findings indicate that
single-night sleep studies may underestimate cardiovascular risk, and multi-night monitoring may provide a more
accurate assessment. npj Digital Medicine, February 2026
Diet: “High In” Front-of-Package Labels May Better Inform Food Choices. The Food and Drug Administration
has proposed front-of-package labeling guidance that requires food manufacturers to note if nutrients of concern like
added sugars, sodium, and saturated fat are low, medium, or high with respect to dietary guidelines. However, a
recent study found that unhealthy foods may be perceived as healthy if they are low in two of the nutrients and only
high in one and instead recommends noting only when a food item is high in a nutrient of concern, as this may better
help consumers identify less healthy choices. The Lancet Public Health, March 2026
Exercise: Exercise Linked to Lower Cancer Risk. University of Kentucky experts note that regular physical
activity is associated with a reduced risk of several cancers, including breast, colon, lung, and kidney cancers. It’s
suggested the benefit may be attributed to exercise’s effect on reducing chronic inflammation, regulating hormones,
improving immune function, and decreasing excess body fat—all factors linked to cancer development.
University of Kentucky, March 2026
Chiropractic: Mid-Back Adjustment Helps with Neck Pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17
randomized clinical trials found that spinal manipulative therapy applied to the thoracic spine may improve pain,
mobility, and disability in patients with neck pain. The authors note that reduced mobility in the upper thoracic spine
can increase mechanical load and strain on cervical structures, potentially contributing to neck disorders.
Frontiers in Medicine, March 2026
Mental Attitude: Sleep Brain Age Predicts Dementia Risk. An analysis of long-term data involving nearly 7,000
adults found that individuals whose brain wave patterns during sleep appeared older than their chronological age
were more likely to develop dementia over a 17-year period. Specifically, for every 10-year increase in brain age
beyond chronological age, the risk of dementia increased by about 40%. JAMA Network Open, March 2026
Wellness/Prevention: More Sleep and Exercise May Lower Diabetes Risk in Teens. The American Heart
Association reports that replacing just 30 minutes of daily sedentary time with either sleep or moderate-to-vigorous
physical activity may significantly reduce insulin resistance—a key risk factor for type 2 diabetes—by about 5% or
15%, respectively. American Heart Association, March 2026
Quote: “Time stays long enough for anyone who will use it.” ~ Leonardo da Vinci

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 5-4-2026

Health Alert: Plastic Chemical Linked to Nearly 1 in 13 Preterm Births. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a
chemical commonly added to plastics to increase flexibility. However, when heated, flexed, worn down, or exposed
to oils or solvents, it can leach into surrounding materials and enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin
contact where it may interfere with endocrine and reproductive function. A recent study estimated that about 8% of
preterm births may be associated with DEHP exposure, highlighting the need for broader regulation of plastic
chemicals to reduce health risks, particularly for pregnant women and infants. eClinicalMedicine, March 2026
Diet: Repeating Meals May Aid Weight Loss. For individuals in a weight loss intervention, researchers found that
participants who maintained a stable daily calorie intake by repeatedly consuming the same meals lost more
weight—5.9% of body weight versus 4.3%—over a twelve-week period than those with a more varied diet.
Health Psychology, April 2026
Exercise: High-Intensity Training Reduces Sarcopenia Risk. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) combines
short bursts of near-maximal effort with periods of moderate recovery. Using data from the Generation 100 Study,
researchers found that seniors who engaged in a HIIT intervention cut their risk of developing sarcopenia in half
over a five-year period. Sarcopenia is characterized by age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, affects
approximately 12% of older adults, and is associated with reduced independence and a higher risk of mortality.
Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, April 2026
Chiropractic: A Multimodal Approach for Migraines? Following a review of findings from 59 studies,
researchers found that a multimodal approach combining manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education
may help reduce the intensity, duration, and frequency of migraines. Frontiers in Pain Research, March 2026
Mental Attitude: Gut Microbiota May Slow Cognitive Decline. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 15
studies found that interventions aimed at supporting the gut microbiome—such as prebiotics, probiotics, and dietary
patterns like the Mediterranean diet—may improve memory, executive function, and overall cognition. The authors
attribute these benefits to reduced inflammation, enhanced neurotransmitter activity, and improved metabolic
function associated with a healthier gut microbiome. Nutrition Research, March 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Simple Habits Can Help Reduce Constipation. Tufts University researchers note that
increasing fiber intake, drinking adequate fluids, maintaining regular physical activity, and establishing consistent
bathroom routines can significantly improve bowel regularity. However, individuals suffering from persisted or
severe symptoms should be evaluated by their healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions.
Tufts University, April 2026
Quote: “Absence is to love what wind is to fire; it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.” ~ Roger de Rabutin

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 4-27-2026

Health Alert: Six Cancers Increasingly Affecting Adults Under Age 50. New research suggests that at least six
cancers—colorectal, cervical, pancreatic, prostate, kidney, and multiple myeloma—are occurring at increasing rates
globally among people under age 50. Investigators attribute this rise to population-wide increases in obesity, proinflammatory
dietary patterns, and physical inactivity. Military Medical Research, November 2025
Diet: Fiber Supports Brain Health Too. Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced when gut bacteria ferment
dietary fiber. In addition to supporting intestinal health, it can also help reduce inflammation that affects the brain
and nervous system. In a recent animal study, rats fed a fiber-free diet showed impaired activity in the amygdala—a
brain region involved in fear and emotional memory—suggesting that adequate fiber intake may play an important
role in brain health. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, February 2026
Exercise: Dance Class Benefits the Brain. Brain imaging of 53 older adults with subjective cognitive decline
revealed that taking part in a twelve-week dance class increased oxytocin levels and enhanced functional
connectivity in the default mode network—both of which are important for cognitive health.
Innovation in Aging, November 2025
Chiropractic: Scapular Dyskinesis May Contribute to Neck Pain. Among a group of 83 office workers with
chronic neck pain, researchers observed that scapular dyskinesis—abnormal positioning or movement of the
shoulder blade—was associated with greater neck disability. The findings suggest that altered shoulder mechanics
may contribute to neck pain and functional limitation. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, March 2026
Mental Attitude: Post-Seizure Brain State May Offer Critical Treatment Window. According to a recent study,
the brain enters a deep sleep state after a seizure that resembles memory consolidation, inadvertently strengthening
seizure-related neural pathways. Researchers suggest this post-seizure period may provide a critical window for
interventions—such as neuromodulation or adaptive brain stimulation—to disrupt this reinforcement and potentially
reduce the risk of future seizures. Journal of Neuroscience, February 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Several Health Conditions Linked to Alzheimer’s Risk. Vanderbilt University Medical
Center researchers analyzed health histories of more than 450,000 adults and found that individuals later diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s disease were more likely to have developed a range of mental health, neurologic, sleep-related,
cardiovascular, and endocrine/metabolic conditions in the preceding decade. The findings may help researchers
develop tools to identify individuals at increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease, potentially enabling earlier
interventions to delay or prevent the neurodegenerative disorder.
Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, December 2025
Quote: “We tend to live up to our expectations.” ~ Earl Nightingale
Joseph T. Megna, D.C.
(707) 226-5200
DRJOEMEGNA

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 4-20-2026

Health Alert: Binge Drinking Raises Mortality Risk in Adults Over Age 50. Using data from the Canadian
Community Health Survey, researchers report that binge drinking—defined as consuming five or more drinks within
a few hours at least once per week—is associated with a 19% increased risk of death over the following decade
among middle-aged and older adults. The authors conclude, “Targeted interventions and screening campaigns are
needed to address binge drinking among older adults.” Alcohol, March 2026
Diet: Inflammatory Diet May Promote High Blood Pressure. A diet high in processed or fried foods, red or cured
meat, sweets and sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and excessive alcohol intake has been linked to increased
inflammation in the body. In an analysis of data from the Fasa Adult Cohort Study, researchers found that
individuals with a more inflammatory dietary pattern had more than double the risk of developing hypertension over
the following five years. Hypertension Research, February 2026
Exercise: Inexperienced Exercisers May Face Psychological Risks from Fitness Trackers. Nottingham Trent
University researchers warn that individuals new to fitness are more likely to become dependent on fitness tracker
metrics for validation and experience negative emotions when failing to meet exercise targets.
Internet Research, February 2026
Chiropractic: Manual Therapy May Improve the Body’s Internal Balance System. Proprioception is the body’s
ability to sense the position and movement of its parts, contributing to coordination and balance. Because
proprioceptors are concentrated in muscles, tendons, and joints, musculoskeletal injuries can disrupt their function,
potentially impairing recovery and increasing the risk of secondary injuries due to altered biomechanics. An analysis
of data from seven clinical trials found that the manipulative and mobilization therapies frequently used by
chiropractors to restore joint movement may also help improve proprioception.
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, January 2026
Mental Attitude: Tinnitus Harms 1 in 5 Careers. Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in
the ears or head without an external sound source. The condition is estimated to affect up to 15% of adults, and
according to a recent study, nearly 1 in 5 tinnitus sufferers have reduced workhours or left jobs due to tinnitus’ effect
on concentration difficulties, fatigue, and communication challenges. Brain Sciences, February 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Vitamin D Status Linked to Bladder Cancer. An umbrella review that included eight
systematic reviews found an association between vitamin D status and bladder cancer risk. Specifically, the data
show that the risk of bladder cancer increases by 32% when vitamin D levels are deficient or insufficient, while
optimal levels are associated with a 14% lower risk. Cancer Medicine, March 2026
Quote: “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” ~ Albert Einstein

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 4-13-2026

Health Alert: Women Face Higher Heart Risk at Lower Plaque Levels. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the
hardening and narrowing of the arteries, which can lead to potentially dangerous blockages if left untreated. A recent
study found that a woman’s risk of heart attack or hospitalization for chest pain begins at a lower level of arterial
blockage (20% vs. 28% in men), suggesting that standard risk thresholds may underestimate heart disease danger in
women and support the need for sex-specific prevention guidelines.
Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging, February 2026
Diet: Healthier Diet Linked to Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk. A large international study that included nearly
one million adults found that a diet pattern characterized by a high intake of fruit and vegetables (especially leafy
greens), legumes, dairy, coffee, and tea, and lower consumption of red and processed meats and sugary drinks is
associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2026
Exercise: One Reason Too Much Sitting Is Unhealthy. Serum osmolality is a measure of the concentration of
dissolved particles in the liquid portion of the blood, reflecting the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. Higher
serum osmolality has been associated with poorer cardiovascular outcomes. A recent study found that as sitting time
increases, so does serum osmolality—possibly due to reduced hydration, greater consumption of diuretic beverages,
delayed bathroom breaks, and elevated blood sugar levels from snacking. The findings point to one potential
mechanism by which prolonged sitting may negatively affect cardiometabolic health.
Acta Cardiology, February 2026
Chiropractic: Cycling and Low Back Pain. Among 1,521 cyclists, researchers found that 29.2% reported
experiencing low back pain within the previous year. Further analysis showed that younger riders, those with greater
body mass, and mountain bikers were at higher risk. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, December 2025
Mental Attitude: Cognitive Training Benefits Chronic Brain Injury Patients. Brain imaging conducted before
and after a 14-week computerized cognitive training program revealed significant improvements in white matter
microstructure among adults with chronic traumatic brain injury, particularly in regions associated with processing
speed, attention, and working memory. Journal of Neurotrauma, January 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Clean Indoor Air Key to Reducing Adult Asthma Attacks. New research suggests that
homes with air purifiers, proper airflow, no exposure to secondhand smoke, and fewer allergens—such as mold,
pests, or pet dander—are associated with fewer asthma attacks, better sleep, and improved daily activity among
adults with asthma. Atmosphere, February 2026
Quote: “The regrets of yesterday and the fear of tomorrow can kill you.” ~ Liza Minnelli
Joseph T. Megna, D.C.
(707) 226-5200
DRJOEMEGNA

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 4-6-2026

Health Alert: Artery Hardening Can Start in Childhood. Atherosclerosis is characterized by the hardening and
narrowing of the arteries, which can lead to potentially dangerous blockages if left untreated. Examinations of 130
pre-adolescent children revealed that excess weight is associated with endothelial dysfunction and inflammation—
key precursors to atherosclerosis. The findings add to a growing body of research on the lifelong effects that being
overweight or obese early in life can have on cardiometabolic health.
International Journal of Obesity, November 2025
Diet: Carb Quality Matters. While low-carbohydrate diets are often promoted for improving health, a study
involving nearly 200,000 adults found that carbohydrate quality also matters. Whole and minimally processed
carbohydrate sources were associated with more favorable metabolic biomarkers—including lower triglycerides,
higher HDL cholesterol, and reduced inflammation—while refined and processed carbohydrates were linked to
poorer cardiometabolic profiles. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, February 2026
Exercise: Cardiorespiratory Fitness Linked to Higher Emotional Resilience. In a study involving 40 healthy
young adults, researchers observed that participants with higher cardiorespiratory fitness experienced lower levels of
negative emotions, such as anger and anxiety, when exposed to stress-inducing images. The findings suggest that
regular physical activity may help improve emotional regulation during stressful situations.
Acta Psychologica, April 2026
Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Disorders Common in Office Workers. Questionnaires completed by 99 office
workers revealed that 80 reported musculoskeletal pain, most commonly in the neck, lower back, and shoulders.
Further analysis identified poor workstation ergonomics and higher levels of job stress as risk factors for workrelated
musculoskeletal disorders. Scientific Reports, November 2025
Mental Attitude: Lifelong Learning Protects Against Alzheimer’s. A study that included more than 1,900 older
adults revealed that those with the highest lifelong levels of intellectual engagement were not only 38% less likely to
be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, but of those who did, the neurodegenerative condition developed nearly five
years later in life. Neurology, February 2026
Wellness/Prevention: Sleep Factors May Indicate Poor Metabolic Health. Among 3,551 children and teens,
researchers found that napping for more than one hour per day and snoring were each associated with an elevated
risk of metabolic syndrome. The findings suggest that sleep behaviors—particularly snoring and long daytime
naps—may serve as early indicators of metabolic risk in children and adolescents.
Sleep & Breathing, February 2026
Quote: “The test of character is having the ability to meet challenges.” ~ Walter Annenberg

I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Rio Vista region.

Rio Vista Chiropractor Site