Mental Attitude: Children Bullied in Fifth Grade at Risk for Substance Abuse in High School. In this study, researchers
analyzed data concerning nearly 4,300 children from three larger cities in the United States and found a dangerous trajectory between
being bullied at age ten or eleven and worrisome behaviors in high school, such as using alcohol, marijuana, or tobacco.
Pediatrics, May 2017
Health Alert: Hepatitis C Infections Hit 15-Year High. According to a government report, new hepatitis C infections have nearly
tripled over the last five years in the United States, reaching a 15-year high. Hepatitis C is a virus that is spread by contact with
contaminated blood, such as sharing needles, unsterile tattoo equipment, or through unprotected sex. Over the long term, the condition
can result in cirrhosis of the liver, which can require a transplant. Health officials for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) note the highest number of new hepatitis C infections were among 20-29 year olds, mostly as a result of injecting drugs linked
to the current opioid epidemic. The CDC’s Dr. Jonathan Mermin adds, “We must reach the hardest-hit communities with a range of
prevention and treatment services that can diagnose people with hepatitis C and link them to treatment. This wide range of services
can also prevent the misuse of prescription drugs and ultimately stop drug use—which can also prevent others from getting hepatitis C
in the first place.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, May 2017
Diet: Making Food More Flavorful. Going on a diet does not mean eating only bland and boring foods. The Academy of Nutrition
and Dietetics recommends adding flavor the following ways: pan-sear, grill, or broil to intensify flavors; drizzle vegetables with olive
oil, then roast in an oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232.2 degrees Celsius); caramelize onions over low heat in a pan with a little oil
to give a sweet flavor; add colorful peppers or some hot sauce; add citrus fruit, chipotle peppers, cilantro, or pomegranate seeds to
give richer flavor; and use flavorful condiments, such as horseradish, mustard, chutney, or salsa.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, May 2017
Exercise: Tai Chi May Ease Insomnia Among Breast Cancer Survivors. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that today is
practiced as a graceful form of exercise. In a new study, researchers surveyed 90 breast cancer survivors and found that this slowmoving
form of meditation is as good as talk therapy and more effective than medication in treating insomnia. The study suggests that
breast cancer survivors should consider this gentle form of exercise if they experience difficulty sleeping.
Journal of Clinical Oncology, May 2017
Chiropractic: Back Pain Associated with Curve of the Lumbar Spine. Investigators recently performed a research review on the
relationship between lower back pain and lumbar lordosis (curve) using data concerning 796 low back pain patients and 927 healthy
controls from a total of 13 published studies. The researchers found that overall, lower back pain patients tended to have a smaller
lumbar lordotic curve than those without back pain. Furthermore, the research team observed that the loss of lumbar lordotic curvature
is significantly associated with lower back pain caused by either disk herniation or disk degeneration. Spine Journal, May 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Do You Have a Spring Weather Kit? Spring can bring unpredictable weather, such as tornadoes,
thunderstorms, or floods. To help prepare for the surprises such weather can bring, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
recommends the following essential emergency supplies: a flashlight, weather radio, batteries, and an emergency evacuation plan for
your family; contact information for your family and neighbors, insurance information, and medical information; a first aid kit,
including bandages and antibiotic ointment; a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water to last up to five days; sleeping bags,
blankets, and personal hygiene items; and an emergency kit for your car. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, May 2017
Quote: “True life is lived when tiny changes occur.” ~ Leo Tolstoy

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