Mental Attitude: Hearing Checks Could Prevent Late-Life Depression. An analysis of health data concerning 5,239 men and women over age 50 revealed that those with mild hearing loss were almost twice as likely to have significant symptoms of depression. Furthermore, the researchers observed that elderly individuals with severe hearing loss were over four times more at risk for depression. The findings suggest that treatment of age-related hearing loss could be one way to head off late-life depression. JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, December 2018 Health Alert: Persistent Hot Flashes May Increase Breast Cancer Risk. According to a review of data concerning more than 25,000 women, there’s an association between persistent vasomotor symptoms (which includes symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats) lasting ten or more years and an elevated risk for breast cancer. Menopause, December 2018 Diet: Impulsivity Linked to Poor Diet/Eating Disorders. Among a sample of over 15,000 adults taking part in the NutriNet-Santé Study, those who scored high on assessments that measure impulsivity were significantly more likely to consume a poor quality diet, snack, and have an eating disorder. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, December 2018 Exercise: Aerobic Exercise Benefits. Experts from the Mayo Clinic report that aerobic activities (such and running, bicycling, and swimming) can benefit you in the following ways: keep excess pounds at bay; increase your stamina, fitness, and strength; reduce your health risks; manage chronic conditions; strengthen your heart; keep your arteries clear; boost your mood; and help you stay active and independent as you age. Mayo Clinic, January 2019 Chiropractic: Low Back Pain Linked to Depression. Among a group of 152 older adults, researchers found that those with a history of back pain scored higher on assessments used to measure depression. The findings suggest that low back pain may be a potential risk for increased depression in older adults and managing a patient’s back pain may provide mental health benefits. Rehabilitation Nurse, January 2019 Wellness/Prevention: Vitamin D May Slow Diabetes Progression. In a study involving 162 patients with both prediabetes and vitamin D deficiency, those who took a high dose vitamin D supplement for six months experienced improved insulin sensitivity that significantly reduced their risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, December 2018 Quote: “Storms make trees take deeper roots.” ~ Dolly Parton

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