Mental Attitude: Unhappy Relationships May Drive Suicidal Thoughts. Being in a relationship does not always protect people from having suicidal thoughts. A study of 382 Austrian adults found that middle-aged people who were unhappy in an existing relationship with unresolved relationship conflicts were more likely to have suicidal thoughts than those not in a present relationship. The researchers add that the greater the number of unresolved conflicts in a relationship—such as issues with communication, personal habits, sexuality, and housework—the greater the likelihood of suicidal thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, and depression. On the other hand, the study found individuals in a happy relationship had the lowest risk of suicidal thoughts. Researcher Dr. Benedikt Till explains, “Data so far clearly show that a person’s suicide risk is lower if he/she is in a relationship. However, the recent study suggests that the level of satisfaction with the relationship is also important.”
The Journal of Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention, July 2016
Health Alert: Dosing Errors Common with Liquid Medications for Children. According to laboratory experiments, four out of five parents made at least one dosing error when using either a dosing cup or an oral syringe when dispensing liquid medication to their children. Researchers asked over 2,000 parents of children age eight or younger to measure nine doses of liquid medication. The results revealed that parents gave the wrong dose 43% of the time when using a dosing cup and 16% of the time when using an oral syringe. Furthermore, more than two-thirds of the dosing errors involved overdosing. The findings are concerning as dosage for children is based on weight and too much or too little could place a child in danger. Parents need to pay more attention to measuring the correct dosages, such as pouring the liquid medication into a dosing cup, and then drawing it up into an oral syringe to double check they are administering the correct amount. Pediatrics, September 2016
Diet: Teens May Benefit from Sugary Drink Warnings. Currently, the average teen in the United States consumes a least one sugar-sweetened beverage daily, which accounts for more than twice the recommended daily serving of sugar. In a recent study, researchers observed the beverage selections of 2,000 youngsters when drinks had either no label, a label that featured calorie content, or a label that carried variations of a written warning that sugary beverages contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. The team found that 77% of kids selected a sugary drink if there was no warning label, but participants were 8% to 16% less likely to select a sugary drink that bore a warning label. The authors say the findings highlight the need for nutrition information at the point of purchase to help individuals make healthier choices. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, September 2016
Exercise: Active Teens More Likely to Get Sleep. Using data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2011-2013, researchers report that adolescents who are more physically active and who spend less time in sedentary activities are more likely to sleep more than eight hours per night. Preventing Chronic Disease, September 2016
Chiropractic: Chiropractic Patients Get Back to Work Faster. Does the type of healthcare provider you see first have an effect on how quickly you can recover from back pain following a work injury? An analysis of data from 5,511 workers injured in 2005 revealed that those who initially consulted with a doctor of chiropractic for their work-related back injury—versus a medical doctor or physical therapist—returned to work more quickly and were also less likely to experience a second episode of back pain during the following two years. Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation, September 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Preventing Dry Skin. To combat dry skin, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests the following: take a shower and shampoo your hair after swimming; use sunscreen before going outdoors; avoid using deodorant or antibacterial body washes; keep your bath or shower water warm, not hot; use a fragrance-free moisturizer as soon as you get out of the shower or bath; and turn your thermostat up a few degrees if your home feels dry. American Academy of Dermatology, September 2016
Quote: “Sometimes, as we’re stumbling along in the dark, we hit something good.” ~ Susan Ee

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

Mental Attitude: Bigger Brain & Blood Flow Involved in Evolution of Human Intelligence. Australian researchers are challenging the long-held theory that human intelligence evolved from bigger brains alone. The researchers analyzed the size of two holes in the base of fossil skulls and found that while brain size increased about 350% during the course of human evolution, blood flow to the brain increased 600%. Research leader Dr. Roger Seymour explains, “We believe this is possibly related to the brain’s need to satisfy increasingly energetic connections between nerve cells that allowed the evolution of complex thinking and learning.” The finding suggest the human intelligence is not only dependent on brain size but also a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients from blood. This corresponds with present research that associates increased blood flow to the brain via exercise with improved cognition.
Open Science, August 2016
Health Alert: Excessive Alcohol Consumption Poses Dangers to Those with Atrial Fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder described as an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can elevate the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. In a new study, researcher followed more than 25,000 adults with this condition for five years and found that alcohol-related hospitalization doubled the risk of stroke. Study leader Dr. Faris Al-Khalili writes, “Doctors should ask their [atrial fibrillation] patients about alcohol use and advise patients to cut down if they are drinking more than is recommended.”
European Society of Cardiology, September 2016
Diet: Going Paleo May Benefit Your Heart. The Paleo diet is based on consuming foods eaten by early humans, such as meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit, and excluding dairy or grain products and processed food. Researchers asked eight healthy people who usually consumed a diet high in processed foods to switch to the Paleo diet for eight weeks. During the study, the researchers found that participants experienced a 35% increase in levels of interlukin-10 (IL-10), a signaling molecule secreted by immune cells. Scientists believe that higher IL-10 levels may protect blood vessels and lower one’s risk for a heart attack.
American Physiological Society, September 2016
Exercise: More Steps Equal Greater Well-Being Among Seniors. Being active can result in a greater sense of well-being for older adults. Japanese researchers analyzed data collected from 192 seniors and found that those who took the most steps per day were the participants most likely to be happy with their lives and least likely to experience depressive symptoms.
Geriatrics & Gerontology International, September 2016
Chiropractic: Risk Factors for Low Back Pain In US Workers. Researchers analyzed data from the 2010 National Health Interview Survey and found the prevalence of self-reported low back pain was 25.7% among workers in the United States (US). Additionally, they found significant associations between low back pain and psychosocial factors such as work-family imbalance, exposure to hostile work, and job insecurity. The findings suggest that employers, policymakers, and healthcare providers should take these factors into consideration when creating programs aimed at reducing low back pain and its consequences among workers.
Journal of Manipulative & Physiological Therapeutics, August 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Decision-Making Tool Could Reduce Antibiotic Use. Investigators have identified seven key predictors that could help determine if a child with a respiratory tract infection and cough requires antibiotics. The predictors include an illness of less than three days; fever of 100 F (37.7 C) or higher; a child younger than two years of age; respiratory distress; wheezing; asthma; and moderate/severe vomiting in the previous 24 hours. The researchers suggest that children with one or fewer of these predictors are at very low risk for future complications. They add that the decision-making tool could reduce antibiotic use among children with respiratory infection and cough by 10%. The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, September 2016
Quote: “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” ~ Henry David Thoreau

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

Mental Attitude: Body Acceptance Improving Among Women. Women in the United States today seem more satisfied with their weight than American females from 30 years ago. A review of more than 250 studies found that women’s dissatisfaction with body weight declined significantly between 1981 and 2012. Study author Dr. Bryan Karazsia adds, “In the past few years, we’ve seen more and more of the idea of body acceptance . . . and more media awareness [of this issue] growing from societal influences.”
American Psychological Association, August 2016
Health Alert: Injuries Increase as Trampoline Parks Expand. As indoor trampoline parks have grown in popularity, so have trampoline-related injuries to kids. According to the International Association of Trampoline Parks, the number of such parks increased in the United States from 35 to 280 between 2011 and 2014. Investigators found that emergency rooms saw an increase in the number of patients injured at trampoline parks from 581 in 2010 to nearly 7,000 in 2014. Children and teenagers accounted for most ER trips—with broken bones and sprains being the most common injuries. Lead researcher Dr. Kathryn Kasmire notes, “It’s important for parents to be aware of the risks at these parks… Supervise your kids the whole time, forbid flipping or any other ‘stunts,’ and be wary if the trampoline area is crowded.” Pediatrics, August 2016
Diet: Nut Consumption Associated with Reduced Signs of Inflammation. A new study that involved over 5,000 participants has revealed an association between greater nut intake and reduced levels of inflammation. Investigators found that those who consumed five or more servings of nuts per week had lower levels of biomarkers related to inflammation than those who seldom or never ate nuts. In addition, individuals who substituted three servings of red meat, processed meat, eggs, or refined grains per week with nuts had significantly lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers. Study author Dr. Ying Bao writes, “Population studies have consistently supported a protective role of nuts against cardiometabolic disorders such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, and we know that inflammation is a key process in the development of these diseases… Our new work suggests that nuts may exert their beneficial effects in part by reducing systemic inflammation.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2016
Exercise: Benefits of HIIT. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) consists of short bursts of vigorous exercise with periods of rest. The American Council on Exercise says HIIT offers the following benefits: a major boost to anaerobic and aerobic fitness, increases sensitivity to insulin and lowers levels of fasting insulin, helps decrease percent body fat, and it can help exercisers achieve significant results in less time. American Council on Exercise, August 2016
Chiropractic: Women with Chronic Migraines Have Altered Neck Muscle Activity. A recent study investigated neck muscle activity in women with chronic migraines. Researchers used surface electromyography to monitor the neck muscles of 31 subjects with episodic migraines, 21 with chronic migraines, and 31 healthy individuals. The results revealed that women with chronic migraines exhibited greater activity in their superficial neck extensor muscles during neck flexion than the non-headache subjects. The findings demonstrate that cervical dysfunction may play some role in the migraine headache process. Additionally, previous studies have shown treatments that improve cervical function, like chiropractic care, can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines in some patients. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, June 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Keep Kids Safe During Summer. Most kids relish outside summertime activities, but parents need to take steps to help ensure the safety of their kids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following: protect kids when they’re near water, make sure kids know how to swim, and encourage adults to learn CPR; protect children from heat-related illness, avoid letting children overheat, encourage drinking lots of fluids; protect against sunburn; use insect repellent on children when they play outside; and make sure that playground equipment is safe before use.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 2016
Quote: “Diligence is the mother of good fortune.” ~ Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra

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

Mental Attitude: Using Smartphones to Improve Mood. An international study has found that smartphone-based psychotherapeutic exercises can improve one’s mood. In the study, participants were able to choose from different psychotherapeutic exercises lasting five minutes each. For example, some subjects recalled emotional experiences, while others repeated short sentences or number sequences in a contemplative manner, or played with their facial gestures. The researcher observed participants felt more alert, calmer, and uplifted after each session. Lead researcher Dr. Marion Tegethoff adds, “These findings demonstrate the viability of smartphone-based micro-interventions for improving mood in concrete, everyday situations.” Frontiers in Psychology, July 2016
Health Alert: Breastfeeding on the Rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 81.1% of new mothers are now breastfeeding their children, up from 79% in 2011. However, almost half abandon the practice by the time their child is six months old. Additionally, less than a third continue to breastfeed through their offspring’s first birthday. Studies show that not only does longer duration breastfeeding benefit the baby (a lower risk of ear infections, for example), but it also confers long-term benefits to the mother (such as a lower risk of heart disease and circulatory diseases).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 2016
Diet: Get More Essential Fatty Acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to improve heart health and help ward off heart disease. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests these sources to ensure you’re getting these essential fatty acids: oils from soybeans, flaxseed, and canola; walnuts or walnut oil; fatty fish, including salmon, mackerel, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna; and eggs labeled as containing omega-3 fatty acids. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, August 2016
Exercise: Don’t Let Kids Be Lazy When School Is Out. Physical education experts recommend parents keep their kids active when they’re not in school. Martin Wurmlinger, a physical education teacher at a Los Angeles middle school recommends structured activities, such as creating a circuit program that covers all five areas of fitness: cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, body composition, and flexibility. Examples include pushups, abdominal crunches, jumping jacks, squats, and stretching. He adds, “I encourage students to do physical fitness activities with friends or family. That’s usually more fun and a great motivator.” University of California, Los Angeles, July 2016
Chiropractic: Dizziness May Be Caused By Dysfunction in the Neck… Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense where its various parts are in relation to one another for purposes of movement and balance. Cervicogenic dizziness is a musculoskeletal disorder in which neck pain is associated with disequilibrium; however, according to researchers, “The pathophysiology is unclear and the neurophysiological basis remains to be ascertained.” In this study, researchers examined 20 cervicogenic dizziness patients and 22 healthy controls and found the dizziness patients exhibited impaired proprioception. Previous research has demonstrated chiropractic care can improve proprioception, which may offer a viable treatment option for the cervicogenic dizziness patient.
Neurologia, July 2016
Wellness/Prevention: First Comprehensive Cancer Blood Test Within Reach. A research review of thousands of studies has allowed researchers to identify 788 biomarkers in blood that could be used to develop an early stage cancer screening test. The scientists hope that once clinical studies are completed, they will have a suite of about 50 biomarkers that can go into a clinical trial. Lead researcher, Dr. Lesley Uttley comments, “Our vision is that the screen will pick up even the small amounts of these biomarkers that might be in the blood at an early stage of the cancer, without necessarily identifying which cancer they relate to. Patients would then be referred for more specific tests that could narrow down the tumor type.” The researchers add that validation and trials will take six to eight years, but tests could be ready within three years for use in high risk groups. EBioMedicine, July 2016
Quote: “Remake the world, a little at a time, each in your own corner of the world.” ~ Rick Riordan

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

Mental Attitude: The Brains of Preterm Babies Benefit from Breast Milk. Premature infants who are fed breast milk within their first 28 days of life have better brain development than those without access to breast milk. Investigators followed 180 preterm infants from birth to seven years old and found a link between increased breast milk consumption during NICU hospitalization and larger deep nuclear gray matter volume at full term and better IQs, academic achievements, memory, and motor function by age seven. Lead author Dr. Mandy Brown Belfort adds, “Our data support current recommendations for using mother’s milk to feed preterm babies during their neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization.” Brigham and Women’s Hospital, July 2016
Health Alert: Many Women Weigh Too Much Before Pregnancy. United States health officials say that more women are starting their pregnancies heavier than ever before. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 50% of women who became pregnant in 2014 were either overweight or obese when they conceived. The findings are concerning as two complications of being overweight or obese before and during pregnancy are high blood pressure and gestational diabetes. Dr. Siobhan Dolan, a medical adviser to the March of Dimes advises all women to see a doctor before becoming pregnant to help “become as healthy as you can prior to pregnancy. A lot of being healthy before pregnancy is prevention, and a healthy weight is part of prevention.”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, August 2016
Diet: Looking for More Energy? Making nutritious and healthy food choices can help you power through the busiest days. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests the following to improve your diet: eat every three to four hours to boost metabolism and to keep from becoming too hungry; watch portion sizes and avoid overeating; eat a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, fruit, low-fat or fat-free dairy, and healthy fats; avoid foods such as sodas, energy drinks, and coffee loaded with sugar that can make energy levels sag; and drink plenty of fluids, such water or tea without sugar.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, August 2016
Exercise: Exercise Therapy for Hip Arthritis. A recent study investigated the effectiveness and safety of Tübingen exercise therapy for improving hip muscle strength among 120 hip osteoarthritis sufferers. This type of exercise focuses on movements to strengthen muscles and improve body awareness, balance, and flexibility. After a twelve-week program that included both group sessions and home exercise, participants experienced a significant positive effect on hip muscle strength. Overall, the researchers report they found the program to be feasible and safe with no reports of therapy-related adverse events. Modern Rheumatology, August 2016
Chiropractic: Manual Therapies Help Seniors with Cervicogenic Headaches. In this study, researchers compared the effects of manual therapies, such as those delivered in a chiropractic setting, with usual care in the treatment of older adults whose headaches are the result of cervical dysfunction. Participants in the manual therapy group reported significant reductions in headache frequency following their eleven session treatment plan, which did not occur in patients in the usual care group. Additionally, these benefits persisted up to nine months later when the study’s final follow-up occurred. Those in the manual therapy group also experienced reductions in headache intensity and duration, as well as improved cervical range of motion and quality of life scores.
Spine Journal, August 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Use Your Neti Pot Safely. A Neti pot can be extremely helpful for clearing clogged sinuses as well as offering relief from uncomfortable nasal congestion. The Food and Drug Administration offers these guidelines for proper use: wash and dry your hands before use, thoroughly clean the Neti pot and dry before each use, use clean water (distilled, filtered, or boiled) to create the saline rinse solution, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Food and Drug Administration, August 2016
Quote: “No man chooses evil because it is evil; he only mistakes it for happiness, the good he seeks.” ~ Mary Shelley

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

Mental Attitude: Stressed Dads May Affect Their Kids’ Development. When fathers are stressed out about parenting, it may take a toll on their children’s development. In a study that included 730 families, researchers found that sons were more likely to have poorer language skills at age three when their fathers had high levels of stress associated with parenting. Furthermore, both boys and girls of stressed fathers usually scored lower on tests of cognition. Dr. Michael Yogman, chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health adds, “This new study supports a wealth of research showing that fathers play an important role in their children’s cognitive and behavioral development.”
Infant and Child Development and Early Childhood Research Quarterly, July 2016
Health Alert: Americans Are Heavier Than 20 Years Ago. According to a new report, the average American has put on about fifteen pounds (~6.8 kg) since the late 1980s and early 1990s. The authors of the report speculate the reasons behind the increase in weight are most likely related to tendencies toward less exercise and more access to high calorie foods. Dr. Anthony Comuzzie, an obesity researcher and scientist with the department of genetics at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute in San Antonio, says that the study reveals that Americans are still gaining weight at “a fairly rapid rate, and such an increase does not bode well for the overall health of the nation. The findings suggest there will likely be an associated increase in chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease in the coming years.” National Center for Health Statistics Report, August 2016
Diet: Omega-3s Helpful After a Heart Attack. A heart attack can result in damage to the heart, which raises the risk of further heart-related problems. A new study suggests that this risk may be reduced with a daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids. In the study, 360 heart attack patients either took four grams of omega-3 fatty acids or a placebo for six months following their heart attack. The researchers found that participants who took omega-3 fatty acids experienced a 5.6% reduction in scarring of non-damaged heart muscle, as well as a 5.8% reduction in the left ventricular end-systolic volume index, which is an indicator of a patient’s outcome following a heart attack. Senior author Dr. Raymond Y. Kwong explains, “Our findings show that omega-3 fatty acids are a safe and effective treatment in improving cardiac remodeling, so it may be promising in reducing the incidence of heart failure or death, which are still major healthcare burdens to patients who suffer a heart attack.” Circulation, July 2016
Exercise: Improves the Working Memory of Stroke Patients. In this study, researchers found that post-stroke patients who engaged in moderate exercise for just 15 minutes experienced enhanced activity in their brain’s prefrontal cortex, resulting in improved working memory performance. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, August 2016
Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Pain Reduced By An Activity-Based Work Environment. A recent study investigated the effect of an activity-based work (ABW) office environment on physical activity and sedentary behavior, work ability, and musculoskeletal discomfort. ABW is based on the premise that employees do not have an assigned workstation; instead, they are provided with a variety of predetermined activity areas that allow them to learn, focus, collaborate, and socialize. In the study, 88 office workers trialed ABW for four weeks, and at the end of the study, the researchers reported the workers spent less time sitting and more time standing and walking. The participants also reported less back pain following the four-week trial than they had in their more traditional work environment. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, July 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Check Those Moles. If you have a lot of moles on your body, you need to check your skin often for changes and warning signs associated with skin cancer. To accomplish this, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following: regularly inspect your skin, evaluate all of your moles; look for changes or unusual looking moles; see a dermatologist if any moles bleed, itch, or change; avoid sunbathing or use of a tanning bed; apply sunscreen when outdoors to help prevent sunburn; and see a dermatologist if you have 100 or more moles. American Academy of Dermatology, August 2016
Quote: “Fortune crowns the bold before the worthy.” ~ Agona Apell

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

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Mental Attitude: Going to Church Lowers Suicide Risk Among Women. According to a new study, after reviewing 15 years of data concerning 89,708 women, those who attended a religious service one or more times per week had a five times lower risk of suicide than women who never attended service. The authors of the study conclude, “Our results do not imply that healthcare providers should prescribe attendance at religious services. However, for patients who are already religious, service attendance might be encouraged as a form of meaningful social participation. Religion and spirituality may be an underappreciated resource that psychiatrists and clinicians could explore with their patients, as appropriate.”
JAMA Psychiatry, June 2016
Health Alert: Men Have a Greater Risk of Cardiac Arrest. Researchers examined data on more than 5,200 men and women, aged 28 to 62, who took part in the long-running Framingham Heart Study and found that about one in nine men will suffer a cardiac arrest before the age of 70, compared with about one in thirty women. Lead researcher Dr. Donald Lloyd-Jones comments, “We need to get more serious about screening men for risk factors for cardiac arrest.”
Journal of the American Heart Association, June 2016
Diet: Only a Third of Men Eat Five or More Servings of Fruits and Veggies Each Day! Even though produce consumption has slightly improved over the past 20 years, a team of Swedish researchers reports that two-thirds of men still consume fewer than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. British Journal of Nutrition, July 2016
Exercise: Benefits of Running. Jogging or running is a popular form of physical activity worldwide. It is an appealing exercise because it doesn’t cost a lot to do and you can run at any time that suits you. Regular running or jogging can also make you happier, help you get fit, strengthen your knees and joints, keep you sharper as you age, reduce your risk of cancer, and add years to your life. Runner’s World, June 2016
Chiropractic: Lumbar Mobility Affected By Chronic Pain Among Seniors. In a recent study, researchers compared the mobility of 108 older adults, of whom 54 suffered from chronic low back pain. The investigators found that the older adults with chronic low back pain had more lumbar mobility impairments. This is of concern as loss of mobility can increase a senior’s risk for experiencing a serious fall, which can greatly impact both their quality of life and independence.
Pain Medicine, June 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Higher Drinking Age Could Lower Illness Rates. Raising the minimum drinking age may have more benefits than just lowering drunk driving rates. Researchers analyzed data on American adults who turned 18 years old between 1967 and 1990. The team examined if young people who were legally able to drink before their 21st birthday had a higher risk of death from an alcohol-related disease than people who couldn’t legally drink until they turned 21. They found that, among individuals who did not attend college, those who entered adulthood in areas with minimum legal drinking age of 21 had a lower risk of death from chronic alcohol-related health issues, such as liver disease and certain cancers, over the course of their lifetime. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, June 2016
Quote: “I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.” ~ Helen Keller

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

Mental Attitude: Depression Strikes Nearly 3 Million Teens Yearly. According to a new government report, almost three million American teens experienced a major bout of depression in 2014. Dr. Paolo del Vecchio, the Director of the Center for Mental Health Services at the United State (US) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration adds, “Adolescence is a critical time in a person’s development, and battling with depression can be devastating for teens unless they receive effective treatment… Effective treatment is available, but parents, teachers and all concerned members of the community must work to assure that adolescents in need get help.”
US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, July 2016
Health Alert: Do Migraines Increase Risk of Cardiovascular Disease? An analysis of data collected from 115,541 women enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study II indicates that migraines may be an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The researchers found that women with a history of migraines had a greater risk for major cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, strokes, and angina/coronary revascularization procedures compared to women who did not have migraines. The research team adds, “These results further add to the evidence that migraine should be considered an important risk marker for cardiovascular disease, at least in women… Given the high prevalence of migraine in the general population, an urgent need exists to understand the biological processes involved and to provide preventive solutions for patients.”
British Journal of Medicine, May 2016
Diet: American Teens Report Drinking Fewer Soft Drinks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that teens in the United States (US) have reduced their soda consumption by almost a third in just two years. Experts from the CDC speculate that much of this reduction may be the result of a recent ban on the sale of sugary drinks in school vending machines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, June 2016
Exercise: Improves Blood Flow to the Brain! Using MRI, researchers observed that more aerobically fit children have greater blood flow to the hippocampus—a part of the brain that’s important for learning and memory. This adds to an ever growing body of research linking improved physical fitness to better cognitive function.
Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, July 2016
Chiropractic: Spinal Manipulations Reduce Myofascial Pain Sensitivity. A study that included 26 participants recently assessed effects of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) on myofascial pain sensitivity. Investigators found that participants who received two consecutive SMT interventions 30 minutes apart experienced significant decreases in the pressure sensitivity of the associated myofascial tissues. The finding suggest the effects of SMT may have a dose-response relationship on the tissues that support and protect muscles and bones. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, June 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Removing Mold & Mildew. Mold and mildew build-up in the home can lead to a number of poor health outcomes. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Administration offer the following suggestions for eliminating mold and mildew from your home: wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves while cleaning; make sure to have adequate ventilation; thoroughly clean an affected area before using disinfectant; and if you develop a reaction while cleaning, hire a professional. Federal Emergency Management Administration, June 2016
Quote: “Do not bite at the bait of pleasure till you know there is no hook beneath it.” ~ Thomas Jefferson

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

Mental Attitude: Declining Brain Health Linked to Increased Risk of Critical Illness. Mayo Clinic researchers report that
seniors with mild cognitive impairment are 50% more likely to be admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) to treat a serious
illness than their peers with no apparent signs of cognitive decline. Critical Care Medicine, July 2016
Health Alert: Is Modern Lifestyle to Blame for the Obesity Epidemic? When it comes to the obesity epidemic, is nature to
blame… or nurture? An analysis of data from nearly 8,800 adults participating in a nationwide health and retirement study
revealed that participants were more likely to pack on more pounds if they were born later in the 20th century, regardless of
whether they had a high genetic risk for obesity. The researchers suggest that modern conveniences may be to blame as they
have allowed people to become more and more sedentary. The Obesity Society’s Dr. Anthony Comuzzie explains, “When was
the last time you got out of the car and opened your own garage, or got off the couch to change the TV channel?… People have
more money to spend on easily available fast food, and they are less likely to engage in physical activity. It’s a double-edged
sword.” Journal of the American Medical Association, July 2016
Diet: Is Pasta Good for Your Diet? Many people have shunned pasta in recent years because of concerns that it’s fattening.
However, new research suggests that pasta, specifically noodles, may actually aid in weight loss. Italian researchers found that
moderate pasta consumption appears to be linked to a lower incidence of both general and abdominal obesity. Lead researcher
Dr. George Pounis writes, “We have seen that consumption of pasta, contrary to what many think, is not associated with an
increase in body weight, rather the opposite.” Nutrition and Diabetes, July 2016
Exercise: Exercise During Pregnancy Offers Benefits. According to new research, women who exercise during pregnancy
are less likely to require a caesarian section than women who refrain from exercise. Furthermore, exercise does not appear to
increase the risk of preterm birth. The researchers also found exercise results in a lower incidence of gestational diabetes and
lower rates of high blood pressure during pregnancy. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, June 2016
Chiropractic: Spinal Manipulative Therapy & Home Exercise Beneficial to Those with Chronic Neck Pain. Chronic neck
pain is a common and disabling condition among older adults, but little is known regarding the cost-effectiveness of commonly
used treatments. A recent study investigated the cost-effectiveness of spinal manipulative therapy, supervised exercise, and
home exercise among a group of 241 older adults with chronic mechanical neck pain. The investigators found that spinal
manipulation combined with home exercise resulted in better clinical outcomes and lower costs than either supervised exercise
combined with home exercise or home exercise alone. The study demonstrates the benefit of utilizing spinal manipulative
therapy in the management of chronic neck pain. The Spine Journal, June 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Keep Your Child’s Sandbox Safe. For decades, children have played in sandboxes. But while these
play areas allow kids to express their creativity and enjoy the outdoors, sandboxes can also harbor germs. To help keep your
child’s sandbox safer, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests: use only natural river or beach sand, cover the sandbox
when not in use to keep animals and insects out, let wet sand dry completely before covering, rake sand regularly to get rid of
clumps and debris, and keep pets out of the sandbox. American Academy of Pediatrics, June 2016
Quote: “We are afraid of losing what we have, whether it’s our life or our possessions and property. But this fear evaporates
when we understand that our life stories and the history of the world were written by the same hand.” ~ Paulo Coelho

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

Mental Attitude: Use Meditation to Relax. Regular meditation can help relax both the mind and the body. The Mayo Clinic offers these suggestions: concentrate on breathing deeply and slowly, focus on relaxing every area of your body, repeat a mantra or prayer, meditate as you walk, read something that’s personally meaningful, listen to soothing music, and focus your thoughts and gratitude on a particular person, pet, or object. Mayo Clinic, June 2016
Health Alert: Donated Blood Won’t Transmit Neurodegenerative Disorders. A new study finds no credible evidence that degenerative brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, can be transmitted via donated blood. Researchers tracked data on more than 40,000 patients who received blood transfusions between 1968 and 2012 from people who were later diagnosed with any form of dementia or Parkinson’s disease and found they had exactly the same chance of developing a neurodegenerative disorder as those who received blood from people who did not go on to develop a neurodegenerative disorder. Annals of Internal Medicine, June 2016
Diet: Eat Healthy to Stay Mobile as You Age. Healthy eating may help reduce the risk of physical disability among women as they grow older. An analysis of data from almost 55,000 women who had their physical function assessed every four years from 1992 to 2008 revealed that those who ate healthier diets were less likely to develop mobility problems than those with less healthy diets. Furthermore, researchers linked the high consumption of fruits and vegetables and the low consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, trans fats, and salt with a decreased risk of physical impairment. Journal of Nutrition, July 2016
Exercise: Just Walk. Walking is an inexpensive and simple exercise that has been shown to offer numerous health benefits for bones, muscles, and joints. Dr. Carolyn Hettrich, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports, “Sometimes the hardest part of working out is getting started… Walking requires minimal preparation, but yields significant benefits. Establish a routine by incorporating at least 30 minutes a day for five days a week.”
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, June 2016
Chiropractic: Take Breaks from Smartphone Use Every 20 Minutes. Smartphones have become ubiquitous, and people seem to be interacting with their electronic devices at every opportunity. In this study, researchers asked participants to sit and use their smartphones for varying lengths of time while they measured the muscle activity in their neck and shoulders, as well as whether or not they felt any pain. They found that participants experienced significant fatigue in the muscles the neck and upper back when they used their phones for more than twenty minutes. Additionally, the longer participants used their phone, the greater their risk for developing neck and/or shoulder pain. The researchers conclude it would be appropriate to recommend taking a break every twenty minutes to allow the muscles in the neck and shoulders to relax before resuming smartphone use.
Journal of Physical Therapy Science, June 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Minimize Jet Lag. It is often difficult to adjust to a new time zone while traveling, but the transition can be easier with a little prep work. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends the following: make sure you are well rested before leaving, avoid consuming alcohol, eat healthy well-balanced meals, avoid overeating, get regular exercise, and go to sleep and wake up based on the new time zone as quickly as possible.
American Academy of Family Physicians, June 2016
Quote: “Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

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