Health Alert: Mid-Life Hypertension Can Dramatically Increase Heart Risks. Among a group of 1,029
middle-aged adults whom researchers monitored for more than two decades, those with elevated blood pressure
readings—which accounted for more than half of participants—had up to an eleven-times greater risk for
developing cardiovascular disease. Hypertension, September 2023
Diet: Dietary Fat Can Affect Platelet Counts. In a recent animal study, researchers observed that adding
polyunsaturated fatty acids to the diet of mice led to increased platelet counts, while increasing their saturated
fat intake reduced platelet counts. The findings suggest that individuals with low platelet counts, such as those
undergoing chemotherapy, may benefit from switching from a high-saturated fat Western diet pattern to a
polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich diet, such as the Mediterranean diet. Nature Cardiovascular Research, July 2023
Exercise: Pilates an Option for Chronic Low Back Pain Patients. Doctors of chiropractic often advise
chronic low back pain patients to engage in at-home exercises to strengthen the core muscles to both aid in
recovery and reduce the risk for recurrence. An analysis of data from eight clinical trials found that Pilates is an
effective option for improving core muscle strength in chronic low back pain patients and can serve as a viable
alternative to other core strengthening exercises. Healthcare (Basel), May 2023
Chiropractic: Stressful Events and Low Back Pain. An analysis of data concerning 2,930 older men in the
Osteoporotic Fracture in Men Study revealed that 57% had experienced a stressful life event—such as the loss
of a pet or partner or financial problems—within the previous year. These individuals were 42% more likely to
have present low back pain and 56% more likely to develop back pain in the following year.
European Journal of Pain, August 2023
Mental Attitude: Negative Thoughts and Depression Relapse. New research suggests that patients with a
history of major depression can reduce their risk for a future episode by learning to reframe negative thought
patterns with the aid of cognitive behavioral therapy. Additional strategies for managing depression include
getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet.
Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science, August 2023
Wellness/Prevention: Bystander CPR, Defib Use Saves Lives. If an individual experiences cardiac arrests in
a public setting, the use of an automated external defibrillator and CPR by bystanders until emergency medical
technicians arrive can more than double their chances for survival.
European Society of Cardiology, August 2023
Quote: “Today, you have 100% of your life left.” ~ Tom Landry

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