WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Napa Chiropractor, 5-24-2021

Health Alert: Obesity Linked to Higher Healthcare Costs. A review of health records concerning nearly
180,000 adults and children found that healthcare costs are nearly $1,900 higher per year for obese individuals,
with the cost increasing $235 a year with each unit increase in body mass index. PLOS ONE, March 2021
Diet: Processed Meat May Increase Risk of Dementia. According to a study that included data on close to
500,000 adults, consuming a 25-gram serving of processed meat each day is associated with a 44% increased
risk for developing dementia later in life. Lead researcher Dr. Huifeng Zhang writes, “Worldwide, the
prevalence of dementia is increasing and diet as a modifiable factor could play a role… Our research adds to the
growing body of evidence linking processed meat consumption to increased risk of a range of non-transmissible
diseases.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, March 2021
Exercise: All Physical Activity Seems to Help Against Depression. Using data from the European Health
Interview Survey, researchers report that regularly engaging in physical activity of any kind—recreational,
active commuting, or work—can help reduce the risk and severity of depressive symptoms.
Depression and Anxiety, April 2021
Chiropractic: Low Back Pain Common with Hip Impingement. Examinations of 158 patients with
femoroacetabular (hip) impingement revealed that three in five also suffer from clinically significant low back
pain, and that increased disability in one location is associated with greater disability in the other. The findings
suggest that clinicians should evaluate both the hip and low back pain of patients presenting with either
complaint. Doctors of chiropractic are skilled in the evaluation and management of musculoskeletal conditions
such as low back pain and hip impingement. PM&R, February 2021
Mental Attitude: Mental Health Issues Common in Future Healthcare Professionals. Questionnaires
completed by 449 students pursuing a degree in the health sciences revealed that 65% are stressed, 85.1% are
anxious, and 51.4% are depressed.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, March 2021
Wellness/Prevention: Tips to Help Prevent Diabetes. To reduce one’s risk for type 2 diabetes, the American
Diabetes Association recommends the following: get more physical activity, get plenty of fiber, go for more
whole grains, lose extra weight, avoid fad diets, make healthier food choices, and get regular checkups to
monitor blood sugar levels, especially if you’re overweight. American Diabetes Association, April 2021
Quote: “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” ~ Aristotle

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