Mental Attitude: Overweight Kids Often Suffer Socially. A new study has found that overweight kids are excluded and
ostracized by classmates more often than their thinner peers. Researchers examined the friendship dynamics of over 500
preteens and found that those who were overweight or obese were 1.7 times more likely to be disliked by their peers and 1.2
times more likely to dislike their peers. Study author Dr. Kayla de la Haye writes, “We consistently find overweight kids are
ostracized by their peers, which plays out over middle school and high school to the point where they’re pushed to the periphery
of these big social groups… We really need to take this seriously… Experiencing stigma has such big implications for these
kids, impacting their social development and mental health, and probably their physical health.” PLOS One, June 2017
Health Alert: Election Results May Be Harmful to Health. In this study, researchers found that some individuals on the
losing end of an election saw their mental and physical health start to sink under a wave of perceived threats and targeted
hostility. More specifically, the research team found that unwelcomed election results can increase stress levels as well as the
rates of disease incidence, premature birth, and early death. Study author Dr. David Williams comments, “The bottom line is
that we found that a dramatic social event, such as terrorist attack or even a presidential election, can be a factor that can
undermine health.” New England Journal of Medicine, June 2017
Diet: Drinking Coffee and Tea May Prevent Liver Disease. Chronic liver disease is a leading cause of death in the United
States, with nearly 32,000 people dying from it each year. Now, a new study suggests that a cup of coffee or tea a day may help
prevent this disease. In the study, 2,424 participants underwent a full physical checkup, which included anthropometric
measurements such as body mass index, height, blood tests, and abdominal scans. The data revealed that frequent coffee and
herbal tea consumption consistently correlated with a significantly lower risk of liver stiffness, which suggests regular coffee or
tea intake may prevent liver fibrosis before the signs of liver disease start to appear. Journal of Hepatology, June 2017
Exercise: Marathon Running Won’t Harm Arteries. In recent years, there’s been debate about whether endurance activities,
like marathons, are harmful for the heart. In a new study, researchers tested the arteries of 97 runners who had competed in long
distance races and found no evidence of a link between these endurance activities and atherosclerosis. Lead author Dr. Axel
Pressler adds, “Our study shows that runners who have finished 20 marathons do not have stiffer arteries or more impaired
vessel function than people of the same age who have finished five or zero marathons … It appears that you can run as many
marathons as you want and not be in danger of developing impaired blood vessel function or atherosclerosis.”
European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, June 2017
Chiropractic: Tight Hamstrings Associated with Low Back Pain. In this study, researchers matched 30 individuals suffering
from low back pain with 30 participants of the same height and weight without low back pain. The investigators then measured
the participants’ hamstring length and found that those without low back pain had significantly longer hamstrings than the
individuals with low back pain. The findings suggest that reduced hamstring length may be either a contributor or the result of
low back pain. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, June 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Dealing with Sweaty Feet. If your feet are constantly sweaty, you may suffer from a condition called
hyperhidrosis. To cope with excess sweating, the American Podiatric Medical Association suggests the following: wash your
feet daily with antibacterial soap; dry your feet well and sprinkle cornstarch, foot powder, or antifungal powder on your feet;
wear socks made of synthetic materials to help wick sweat from your feet; choose shoes made of breathable material; and keep
and extra pair of socks with you and change them during the day. American Podiatric Medical Association, May 2017
Quote: “There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.” ~ Charles Dickens

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

Mental Attitude: Loneliness May Reduce Sleep Quality. Researchers surveyed more than 2,200 young adults and found that
between 25% and 30% of the participants felt lonely sometimes, while another 5% reported they frequently felt lonely.
Furthermore, they observed that the lonelier people were 24% more likely to feel tired and have difficulty concentrating during
the day. Study author Dr. Louise Arseneault adds, “Diminished sleep quality is one of the many ways in which loneliness gets
under the skin, and our findings underscore the importance of early therapeutic approaches to target the negative thoughts and
perceptions that can make loneliness a vicious cycle.” Psychological Medicine, May 2017
Health Alert: Too Many Teens Ride with Impaired Drivers. More than one-third of Canadian high school students admit to
riding with a driver who has been drinking alcohol. The study, which involved 24,650 students, also revealed that almost 20%
of students said they’ve ridden with someone who’d recently used marijuana. Study author Dr. Leia Minaker notes the findings
are concerning because a significant proportion of motor vehicle accident deaths are related to alcohol and drug impairment.
Canadian Medical Association Journal Open, May 2017
Diet: Whole Fruits May Reduce Risk of Diabetes. An analysis of the diet and health records of thousands of people revealed
that those who ate two or more daily servings of fruits like blueberries, grapes, raisins, prunes, apples, and pears reduced their
likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes by 23%. However, the study also showed that drinking fruit juice daily increased the
risk of diabetes by 21%. The findings suggest that eating more whole fruits can help prevent the onset of diabetes.
BMJ, May 2017
Exercise: Exercise May Be Key to Better Bone Health. Previous studies indicate that fat in bone marrow leads to low bone
density. In a study involving obese mice, researchers discovered that just a few weeks of exercise resulted in both a reduction of
marrow fat and an improvement in bone quality. The findings suggest that obese individuals, who often have poor bone quality,
could derive even greater bone health benefits from exercising than their lean counterparts.
Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, May 2017
Chiropractic: Exercises Improve Neck Pain in Office Workers. Chronic computer-related neck pain is common among
office workers. In this study, researchers randomly selected 109 female office workers with chronic neck pain to perform either
progressive resistance training (PRT), fixed resistance training (FRT), or no exercise to act as a control group (CG). Those in
the exercise groups performed four exercises targeting the neck muscles with an elastic rubber band on a regular basis for six
weeks. The investigators found that outcomes (pain levels, pain threshold, and neck strength) were significantly better in the
PRT and FRT groups than in the control group both immediately after the six weeks of training and three months later. The
study suggests that women with work-related neck pain may benefit from neck exercises. Chiropractic care for neck pain often
includes specific neck exercises to help reduce pain and improve mobility and function.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Do You Know the Risks for Obesity? Obesity is associated with an increased risk for heart disease,
stroke, and high blood pressure, as well as other chronic diseases. Besides diet, there are other factors that can play a role in one
becoming obese. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute lists the following risk factors: living a sedentary lifestyle
without regular exercise, insufficient sleep, frequently becoming stressed, having family members who are obese, and having
easy access to fast food. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, May 2017
Quote: “I don’t trust anyone who doesn’t laugh.” ~ Maya Angelou

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

Mental Attitude: Brain Scans May Predict Autism. A special type of imaging known as functional connectivity MRI
(FcMRI) may help doctors predict which high-risk babies may develop autism as toddlers. In this study, researchers used
FcMRI to scan different regions of the brain of 59 babies believed to be at high risk for autism spectrum disorder and with this
data, they accurately predicted nine out of the eleven babies who later developed the behavioral signs of autism. Dr. Thomas
Frazier, the chief science officer of Autism Speaks adds, “Autism has been thought to be a disorder of connections in the brain,
and the fact that the function connectivity MRI is a good predictor of autism helps confirm those suspicions.”
Science Translational Medicine, June 2017
Health Alert: Almost 15% of Americans Have Kidney Disease. Chronic kidney disease develops when the kidneys can no
longer properly filter fluid and waste products from the blood. Kevin Longino, the CEO of the National Kidney Foundation,
notes that about 96% of individuals with early kidney disease don’t know they have it and nearly 50% of those who have
severely reduced kidney function and aren’t on dialysis are unaware of they have kidney disease.
National Kidney Foundation, June 2017
Diet: Low-Fat Dairy Intake Linked to Parkinson’s Risk. Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that can cause
tremors, problems with movement, impaired balance and coordination, and muscle rigidity. An analysis of decades of data
concerning more than 120,000 men and women revealed that the risk of Parkinson’s disease was higher among those who
consumed at least three servings of low-fat dairy products per day, compared with the participants who consumed only one
daily serving. Neurology, June 2017
Exercise: Man’s Best Friend May Help Seniors Get Fit. In a new small study, researchers monitored the activity levels of 86
people age 65 and older, half of which were dog owners, for three weeks. They found that the dog owners in the study walked
an average of 22 minutes more and took 2,760 more steps per day than the non-dog owners. Lead author Dr. Philippa Dall adds,
“Over the course of a week this additional time spent walking may in itself be sufficient to meet [World Health Organization]
recommendations of at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity.” BMC Public Health, June 2017
Chiropractic: Different Back Pain Risk Factors Among Men and Women. Brazilian researchers analyzed data from a 2013
National Health Survey and found that 18.5% of the Brazilian population suffers from chronic back pain. Among men, risk
factors for chronic back pain include: 65 years or older; low education level; living in rural area; history of smoking, high salt
intake, heavy physical activity at work or home; being overweight or obese; hypertension; high cholesterol; and worse overall
health. Among women, the researchers found the following risk factors for chronic back pain: 55-64 years of age; low education
level; history of smoking, regular candy consumption, high salt intake, heavy physical activity at work or at home; overweight
or obese; hypertension, high cholesterol; and worse health assessment. Public Health Magazine (Brazil), June 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Keep Sleep Apnea in Check. Sleep apnea is a common and serious sleep disorder that causes sufferers
to stop breathing during sleep. If you suffer from this condition, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends the
following: visit your doctor regularly to make sure your treatment is working, avoid gaining weight as a healthy weight reduces
your risk of complications from sleep apnea, understand the dangers of driving or using heavy machinery if you’re tired from
sleep apnea, and see your dentist regularly if you use a mouthpiece for sleep apnea.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, June 2017
Quote: “Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” ~ Victor Borge

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

Mental Attitude: Elite High School Students at Higher Risk of Addiction. Teens at elite high schools in the United States
seem to face a greater risk of addiction as young adults. In this study, researchers followed more than 500 students from affluent
communities starting in their senior year of high school, through college, and from ages 23 to 27. Compared with the overall
population of people in their 20s, these individuals had a roughly two- to three-times greater risk for drug or alcohol addiction
during young adulthood. Study author Dr. Suniya Luthar explains, “Paradoxical though it may seem, these ostensibly privileged
youth, many of who start experimenting early and often with drinking and drugs, could well be among the groups at highest risk
for alcoholism and addiction in adulthood… This is a problem that derives from multiple levels of influence, so we’re going to
need interventions at multiple levels to tackle it.” Development and Psychopathology, May 2017
Health Alert: Teen Drivers Face Triple the Risk of a Fatal Crash. An analysis of national data found that compared with
drivers aged 30-59 years old in the United States, teen drivers are 4.5 times more likely to be involved in a crash and over three
times as likely to be in a fatal collision. The investigators say that the three main factors associated with fatal teen crashes are
distraction, not buckling up, and speeding. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, June 2017
Diet: Just Over 3% of Americans May Suffer from Food Allergies. A review of nearly three million medical records
identified more than 97,000 patients who suffered from one or more food allergies or food intolerance. The researchers found
that the most common allergy was to shellfish, such as shrimp and lobster. Other common food allergies included fruits,
vegetables, dairy, and peanuts. These food allergies can lead to potentially life-threatening reactions such as hives, anaphylaxis,
shortness of breath, wheezing, itching, swelling, or other allergic-like reactions called intolerances.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, May 2017
Exercise: Do Compression Tights Improve Running Times? Many runners think compression tights help improve their
running times, but a new study suggests otherwise. Researchers monitored runners on a treadmill on two different days, once
with compression tights and once without. They found that compression tights greatly reduced muscle vibration but did not
reduce muscle fatigue, which means they don’t help runners go farther or faster.
American College of Sports Medicine, June 2017
Chiropractic: Many Conservative Treatments Benefit Shoulder Conditions. Investigators recently performed a systematic
review of non-drug and non-surgical treatments of common shoulder conditions such as shoulder impingement syndrome,
rotator cuff-associated disorders, adhesive capsulitis, and non-specific shoulder pain. They found evidence supporting the use of
manual therapies for all four shoulder conditions; exercise, combined with manual therapy protocols for impingement syndrome
and adhesive capsulitis; and moderate evidence for the use of several passive modalities for shoulder impingement syndrome.
Chiropractors utilize many of these therapies when managing these common shoulder conditions.
Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, May 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Nail Fungus? A fungal infection of the nails may not always hurt, but it can cause unsightly nails that
itch and affect the surrounding toe or finger. The American Academy of Dermatology lists the following symptoms of a fungal
nail infection: nails that become yellow or brown; accumulation of debris underneath the nails, which can cause nails to detach
as they pull away from the nail beds; and a powdery, soft, or dry texture to the nails.
American Academy of Dermatology, May 2017
Quote: “What we achieve inwardly will change outer reality.” ~ Otto Rank

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

Mental Attitude: Screen Time Tied to Speech Delay. An analysis of data concerning nearly 900 young children revealed that for
each 30-minute increase in time a child spends on a smartphone, tablet, or electronic device at 18 months of age, they have a 49%
elevated risk for expressive speech delay. According the American Academy of Pediatrics, expressive language is the ability to
convey feelings and information. Of concern to the researchers is that 20% of the children in the study spent an average of 28 minutes
per day in front of a screen. Pediatric Academic Society, May 2017
Health Alert: Sunscreen Use May Cause Vitamin D Deficiency. Sunscreen is key to protecting our skin from the damaging effects
of the sun, but a new study suggests that using sunscreen could lead to vitamin D deficiency. In this study, researchers found that
using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher could reduce the body’s vitamin D-3 production by 99%. Based on the findings, the
researchers suggest that individuals should avoid sunscreen use when exposed to midday sun for up to 30 minutes twice weekly in
order to increase and maintain normal vitamin D levels. Co-author Dr. Kim Pfotenhauer adds, “People are spending less time outside
and, when they do go out, they’re typically wearing sunscreen, which essentially nullifies the body’s ability to produce vitamin D.
While we want people to protect themselves against skin cancer, there are healthy, moderate levels of unprotected sun exposure that
can be very helpful in boosting vitamin D.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, May 2017
Diet: A Specific Antioxidant May Help the Arteries of Diabetics. The antioxidant called resveratrol—which is found in red wine,
peanuts, and berries—may improve the health of blood vessels in people with type 2 diabetes. According to the results of a new study,
researchers have found that resveratrol supplements lessened artery stiffness in some diabetic individuals. Among a group of patients
who each had an exceptionally stiff aorta at the start of the study, researchers found that 100mg daily doses of resveratrol reduced
stiffness nearly 5% in just two weeks. Increasing the dose to 300mg per day for the next two weeks reduced stiffness by 9%.
American Heart Association, May 2017
Exercise: Avoid These Common Exercise Errors. To reach your exercise goals, the American College of Sports Medicine
recommends avoiding these seven mistakes: failing to keep a journal to monitor your progress, losing track of your goals, strengthtraining
the same muscles on consecutive days, breathing incorrectly during exercise, not eating enough protein, getting distracted
during your workout, and ignoring flexibility and balance training. American College of Sports Medicine, May 2017
Chiropractic: Myofascial Release Protocol Reduces Chronic Low Back Pain. Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on technique
that involves applying gentle sustained pressure to myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. A
study recently investigated the effects of MFR on pain and disability in patients suffering from chronic low back pain (CLBP). The
study included 54 participants with nonspecific CLBP who either received four sessions of myofascial treatment lasting 40 minutes or
a sham treatment (similar to taking a placebo in a drug trial). The researchers found that participants in the myofascial group reported
significant improvements in pain and disability compared with those in the sham group. Myofascial release is often utilized by
chiropractors to manage many musculoskeletal conditions. Spine, May 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Dropping Weight Can Save Your Knees. Losing a few extra pounds may take a load off your knees.
Researchers collected data on 640 obese and overweight people who had mild osteoarthritis or were at risk of it. Investigators found
that obese and overweight people who lost 5% or more of their weight over four years experienced less degeneration of their knee
cartilage compared with individuals whose weight remained stable. Furthermore, patients who lost 10% of their body weight
experienced even slower cartilage degeneration. Radiology, May 2017
Quote: “Life changes in the instant. The ordinary instant.” ~ Joan Didion

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

Mental Attitude: Pet Dogs Help Children Feel Less Stressed. Pet dogs can provide valuable social support for kids when they’re
stressed. Researchers randomly assigned children to experience stressors, such as public speaking or a mental task, with either their
dog or a parent present for social support, or no one at all. They found that children who had their pet dog with them reported feeling
less stressed compared with having a parent for social support or having no social support. Furthermore, saliva tests revealed reduced
cortisol levels among children who spent more time with their dog. Social Development, May 2017
Health Alert: Nearly 30% of Prescription Drugs Have Safety Issues After FDA Approval. Safety issues emerge with nearly a
third of prescription drugs after they’ve been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). An analysis of data
on drugs approved by the FDA between 2001 and 2010 found that 32% of drugs had safety issues after approval. More specifically, of
the 222 drugs approved during the study period, three were withdrawn, 61 received boxed warnings, and 59 prompted safety
communications. The medications that were most likely to have post-approval safety issues included biologics, psychiatric drugs, and
medicines approved through the FDA’s accelerated approval process. JAMA, May 2017
Diet: Too Much Salt in a Teen’s Diet Can Lead to Unhealthy Changes to Blood Vessels. A study that involved 775 teenaged
participants measured the elasticity of a major artery located in the upper arm as well as the speed that blood traveled in major arteries
in the neck and groin. After analyzing the amount of sodium consumed on self-reported diet records, the researchers found that the
adolescents who consumed the most salt had measurable changes in their blood vessels linked to early signs of cardiovascular disease
in adults. The findings suggest that adolescents who consume too much salt may place themselves at higher risk for future a heart
attack or stroke. Pediatric Academic Society, May 2017
Exercise: Running Can Reduce Cellular Aging. Telomeres are the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, which are
considered a marker of biological age. As we age, telomere length usually shortens. In this study, researchers analyzed data
concerning 5,823 adults who were a part of the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that those
who ran for 30 to 40 minutes a day, five days a week had telomere lengths more akin to people up to nine years their junior. Lead
researcher Dr. Larry Tucker adds, “If you want to see a real difference in slowing your biological ageing, it appears a little exercise
won’t cut it. You have to work out regularly at high levels. We know that regular physical activity helps to reduce mortality and
prolong life, and now we know part of that advantage may be due to preservation of telomeres.” Preventive Medicine, May 2017
Chiropractic: Chronic Pain Affects Quality of Life. Chronic pain can result in significant clinical and social consequences. A recent
study set out to investigate the influence of chronic pain on health-related quality of life, work productivity, depression, and anxiety
among individuals in a community setting. The researchers found that roughly a third of those with either multisite pain or neuropathic
pain reported depressive symptoms. Furthermore, those suffering from either chronic multisite or neuropathic pain reported their
condition significant interferences with their daily activities and physical function, as well as their performance at work. The findings
confirm that chronic pain is a multifaceted health condition that requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. Chiropractic care
focuses on improving quality of life and function among sufferers with these types of conditions. Family Practice, April 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Coping with a Stomach Virus. A gastrointestinal virus can cause your stomach to become sensitive to many
foods, which can lead to nausea or a general worsening of symptoms. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests the
following easy-on-your-tummy foods: bananas, rice, plain potatoes, plain applesauce, plain dry toast, saltine crackers, and clear broth.
American Academy of Family Physicians, May 2017
Quote: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” ~ Charles R. Swindoll

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

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.

Mental Attitude: Music May Soothe Post-Op Pain. Patients recovering from major surgery often struggle with pain and
anxiety. In this study, 30 post-surgical patients participated in a 30-minute music therapy session within 72 hours of their
operation that included singing, rhythmic drumming, and live music. Researchers found that those who participated in the music
sessions experienced less subsequent pain than patients who received usual care. The findings suggest that music therapy could
be helpful in reducing pain and medication use among post-op patients. American Journal of Orthopedics, April 2017
Health Alert: Could Gray Hair Mean a Higher Risk for Heart Disease? Atherosclerosis (the narrowing of the arteries due
to the build-up of cholesterol and other substances on arterial walls) and graying hair have similar causes: the damaged DNA
that comes with aging, increased oxidative stress, and the aging of cells. An observational study that included 545 adult men
found that those with coronary heart disease had greater hair whitening and increased levels of coronary artery calcification than
their healthier counterparts. European Society of Cardiology, April 2017
Diet: How to Correctly Store Cooking Oils. Heart-healthy cooking oils—such as olive, walnut, or avocado oil—have become
popular in the kitchen as people seek to cook healthier dishes; however, you must be careful how you store such oils. The
Cleveland Clinic offers these recommendations to ensure that you’re cooking with the best oil: over time, exposure to light or
heat can affect the taste of oil, so store it in a cool, dark place; if your oil begins to taste a bit off, replace with a fresh bottle;
grapeseed and walnut oils should be stored in the refrigerator, as they can become rancid quickly; most other oils can be
refrigerated; and though refrigerated oils may appear cloudy, that effect disappears when they reach room temperature.
The Cleveland Clinic, April 2017
Exercise: Carbs Help with Recovery After Intense Workout. Current evidence strongly suggests that moderate to intense
physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and various forms of cancer, and it may even improve
longevity overall. However, prolonged, intense physical exercise can have negative effects on the immune system. A new study
finds that consuming carbs (such as a banana, for example) during or immediately after exercise reduces exercise-related
immunodepression and helps the body to recover, particularly for those who undertake high-intensity activity for sessions of 90
minutes or more. Journal of Applied Physiology, March 2017
Chiropractic: How Often Do Children Have Back Pain? Spinal pain is a common condition among children and adolescents.
In this study, researchers monitored school children ages eight to fifteen for three years and found 55% experienced one or more
episodes of back pain during that time. Though most children had only a few short-lasting episodes of spinal pain, more than
one out of five children had three or more episodes during each study year, and 17% of all episodes lasted for more than a
month. The investigators note the study demonstrates that spinal pain is a substantial problem among children, and further
research is needed to determine preventive measures and management. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate and treat children
with musculoskeletal pain. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, March 2017
Wellness/Prevention: A Clean Bedroom Can Aid Sleep. An organized and comfortable bedroom can help you reduce stress
and help you to sleep more soundly. The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following to help organize your room:
remove all electronics, including the TV; use light bulbs that are 60 watts or less; make sure curtains black out sunlight; check
your mattress for signs of wear; consider replacing the mattress if you wake with pain; replace worn sheets, and check that
pillows are soft, fluffy, and supportive; keep your bedroom cool by using a fan; and de-clutter your room by clearing out
unneeded furniture. National Sleep Foundation, April 2017
Quote: “Life begins on the other side of despair.” ~ Jean-Paul Sartre
I found that Dr. Joe Megna is one of the best chiropractors I have found in the Napa region.

Mental Attitude: A Lonely Heart May Worsen Cold Symptoms. Being lonely may mean more misery when you’re sick.
Investigators tracked the mental and physical health of 159 volunteers and found that people who said they had less social
support had cold symptoms that were more severe than individuals who felt more socially connected. Researcher Dr. Angie
LeRoy advises people to do what you can to get more socially active because “[if] you build those networks—consistently
working on them and your relationships—when you do fall ill, it may not feel so bad.” Health Psychology, March 2017
Health Alert: US Pedestrian Deaths Are a Growing Problem. According to a new Governors Highway Safety Association
report, 15% of all motor vehicle collision-related deaths in 2016 were pedestrians, which is up from 11% just a decade ago.
Factors that may possibly play a role in this increase include increased smartphone use, which can lead to distraction; improved
safety features in cars, which may reduce the risk of serious injury to occupants but offer no benefit to pedestrians stuck by
vehicles; and an increase in Americans walking for health, environmental, or economic reasons.
Governors Highway Safety Association, March 2017
Diet: Make Fruit and Veggies More Appetizing. We all know how important it is to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, but it is
often difficult to convince ourselves or our children to eat them. To help make fruits and vegetables more flavorful and
appealing, the American Heart Association suggests the following: roast vegetables at high temperatures to caramelize them and
make them naturally sweeter; throw fruit on the grill for a richer, sweeter flavor; and lightly sauté veggies until crisp, not soggy.
American Heart Association, April 2017
Exercise: Why Doesn’t Exercise Work as Well for Some People? Physical activity is key in the prevention of obesity and
associated health conditions, but some people obtain greater rewards from exercise than others. In a new study that involved 31
women, researchers found that those who had high levels of the protein selenoprotein P in their blood before partaking in an
eight-week exercise program demonstrated a lower maximal oxygen intake after the study than those with lower initial blood
levels of selenoprotein P. Investigators say that further research is needed to gain a more detailed understating of how
selenoprotein P impacts physical activity, but they hope the study will lead to ways to reduce selenoprotein P production to aid
in improving exercise endurance. Nature Medicine, March 2017
Chiropractic: Many People Choose Manual Therapies for Headaches. Utilizing data from 35 published studies, a new
report finds that about a third (32.3%) of headache patients utilize manual therapies to help manage their condition. The report
notes the most common reasons headache patients seek out manual therapies include pain relief, perceived safety, and
dissatisfaction with drug-based treatment options. Chiropractors have long used manual therapies such as spinal manipulation to
effectively treat headache sufferers. BMC Neurology, March 2017
Wellness/Prevention: Protect Your Child’s Body Image. What you say can affect your children, even if you don’t think they
are listening—so when talking about body image, remember to have a positive attitude. The United States (US) Department of
Health and Human Services suggests the following: avoid speaking negatively about food, weight, body shape, and body size;
provide a wide variety of healthy meals and snacks, and let your child make decisions about what to eat; praise your child for
values, accomplishments, efforts, and talents; communicate openly and frequently; limit TV time, but watch it together so you
can discuss the images you see; become active at your child’s school; and support policies that oppose discrimination, teasing,
and harassment. US Department of Health and Human Services, April 2017
Quote: “While there’s life, there’s hope.” ~ Marcus Tullius Cicero

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

Mental Attitude: PTSD May Be a Systemic Disorder. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) normally stems from witnessing
a shocking, dangerous, or life-threatening event. Researchers recently conducted an analysis of nearly 300 Australian military
veterans from the Vietnam War era and found those with a history of PTSD were much more likely to experience sleep
disorders, gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular diseases, and numerous other health conditions. Based on the findings the
researchers conclude that, “The higher frequency of comorbid physical conditions suggests that PTSD be conceptualized not as
a purely mental disorder, but rather as a systemic disorder. Integrated healthcare strategies directed at the psychological and
physical health of patients with PTSD, as well as rigorous control of risk factors, are likely to improve their quality of life and
their survival.” Medical Journal of Australia, March 2017
Health Alert: Don’t Watch TV During Meals. Switching off your TV during meal time may help keep you slim. Researchers
analyzed data on nearly 13,000 adults and found that those who said they never watched TV or videos during family meals were
much less likely to be obese than those who always watched something during mealtime. Additionally, respondents whose
family meals were all home-cooked were less likely to be obese than those who ate only some or no home-cooked meals. Study
lead author Dr. Rachel Tumin explains, “This highlights the importance of thinking critically about what is going on during
those meals, and whether there might be opportunities to turn the TV off or do more of your own food preparation.”
Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, March 2017
Diet: Fruits and Veggies Are Good for the Aging Brain. Seniors who consume more than five servings of fruits and
vegetables per day may experience both a delay in age-related cognitive decline and a lower risk for neurodegenerative diseases
when compared with their peers who consume fewer servings of produce per day.
Advances in Hygiene and Experimental Medicine, April 2017
Exercise: Can Too Much Exercise Be a Bad Thing? While several studies have demonstrated that lack of physical activity
can increase the risk of mental health problems, those who exercise in excess may also experience mental health symptoms such
as irritability, depression, apathy, difficulty concentrating, and loss of self-esteem. American Council on Exercise, April 2017
Chiropractic: Neck Pain Is a Major Problem in the Dental Field… An analysis of health questionnaires completed by
dentists, dental assistants, and dental technicians reveals that neck pain is a surprisingly common complaint in dental offices.
While nearly 76% of the dentists, almost 91% of dental assistants, and 40% of dental technicians experience cervical
discomfort, only 40% of those surveyed have sought care for their symptoms. The authors of the analysis conclude,
“Considering the fact that the said discomforts affect performing both professional and everyday activities, its prevention is
necessary in order to avoid the consequences they carry.” Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, March 2017
Wellness/Prevention: A Good Night’s Sleep May Save Your Life. Good sleep quality for men may mean the difference
between life and death. In this study, researchers analyzed long-term data on more than 823,000 men in the United States and
found that men under the age of 65 who slept just three to five hours per night were 55% more likely to develop fatal prostate
cancer than those who slept seven hours nightly. Study author Dr. Susan Gapstur adds, “If confirmed in other studies, these
findings would contribute to evidence suggesting the importance of obtaining adequate sleep for better health.”
American Association for Cancer Research, April 2017
Quote: “Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there
seemed to be no hope at all.” ~ Dale Carnegie

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