WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 9-15-2025

Health Alert: Household Mold Can Trigger Lung Disease. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immunemediated
inflammatory lung disease caused by repeated inhalation of environmental antigens. In a review of
231 cases, 23% were linked to household mold exposure—often associated with water damage in bathrooms
and air conditioning units—and patients experienced noticeable improvements in lung function once the mold
source was addressed. PLOS One, July 2025
Diet: Global Fruit and Veggie Intake Still Low… Despite increases in global per capita consumption of fruit
and vegetables since 1990, inadequate produce intake continues to fall below recommended levels and
contributes to roughly 2.5 million deaths each year, mostly from cardiovascular disease.
BMC Medicine, August 2025
Exercise: Walk 7,000 Steps a Day. Following an analysis of data from 57 studies, researchers from University
of Sydney report that averaging 7,000 steps a day is associated with a 47% reduced risk of premature death, as
well as significant reductions in the risk of dementia, depression, and cardiovascular disease.
The Lancet Public Health, July 2025
Chiropractic: Hamstring Tightness and Low Back Pain. Hamstring tightness and its effect on lumbopelvic
alignment are often observed in patients with low back pain. A recent study of 100 young adults with low back
pain and hamstring tightness reported that applying manual traction to the leg throughout its range of motion
produced significant improvements in pain and mobility within just three treatments. Doctors of chiropractic are
well-versed in a variety of hands-on techniques for managing musculoskeletal disorders, including low back
pain associated with hamstring tightness. Cureus, March 2025
Mental Attitude: Widowhood Loneliness Persists Despite Adult Children. A study that monitored 5,600
older adults over several years found that losing a spouse is associated with elevated levels of social and
emotional loneliness that can continue for nearly a decade, even if adult children are highly involved in their
lives. Aging & Mental Health, July 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Four Tools for a Sharper Brain. Some degree of cognitive decline is often expected
with age; however, research suggests it may not be entirely beyond our control. In a study of more than 2,100
older adults, participants who regularly exercised, ate a healthy diet, stayed socially connected, and engaged in
brain training showed improvements on cognitive tests consistent with a younger brain age compared to their
baseline results. Journal of the American Medical Association, July 2025
Quote: “Like what you do, and then you will do your best.” ~ Katherine Johnson

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 9-8-2025

Health Alert: Many Young Vapers Potentially Making Dangerous Modifications to Their Device. A
survey of nearly 2,400 teen and young adult e-cigarette users revealed that 4 in 5 have modified their device—
such as swapping batteries, altering heating coils, and adding substances like marijuana or custom e-liquids—in
a manner that can increase the risk of burns, explosions, and exposure to harmful toxins such as heavy metals.
Scientific Reports, July 2025
Diet: Healthy Diet Slows Multimorbidity in Seniors. A study that monitored more than 2,400 older adults for
15 years found that participants who consumed an anti-inflammatory diet pattern—which may include a high
intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and unsaturated fats, and a reduced intake of sweets
and red and processed meats—were less likely to develop multiple chronic diseases than those with a less
healthy, inflammatory diet. Nature Aging, June 2025
Exercise: Faster Walking Speed Benefits Longevity. An analysis of data concerning nearly 80,000 adults
revealed that a brisk walking pace is associated with better cardiovascular health and subsequently a lower risk
of premature death. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, July 2025
Chiropractic: Managing Rotator Cuff-Related Shoulder Pain. For patients with rotator cuff-related shoulder
pain, a recent systematic review concluded that a multi-modal approach that includes manual therapies and
shoulder-specific exercises is the most effective non-invasive treatment approach for improving pain and
function. Journal of Clinical Medicine, July 2025
Mental Attitude: Heavy Grief Nearly Doubles Surviving Spouse’s Risk of Early Death. Among a group of
1,700 older adults who lost a spouse, researchers observed that intense, persistent grief is associated with an
88% increased mortality risk within a decade. The findings suggest that newly widowed adults, particularly
those with prior psychiatric vulnerability, may benefit from more comprehensive interventions to support grief
management and reduce related health risks. Frontiers in Public Health, July 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Polyphenols May Protect Against Leading Cause of Vision Loss. Polyphenols are
plant-derived compounds with potent antioxidant properties found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and
spices. Research suggests that polyphenols such as resveratrol, curcumin, quercetin, and EGCG
(epigallocatechin gallate) can inhibit several pathways involved in the progression of age-related macular
degeneration, and a polyphenol-rich diet may help protect eye health.
Molecular Nutrition and Food Research, August 2025
Quote: “For success, attitude is equally as important as ability.” ~ Walter Scott

Joseph T. Megna, D.C.
(707) 226-5200
DRJOEMEGNA

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 9-1-2025

Health Alert: Three Lifestyle Traits for Better Metabolic Health. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of
conditions—obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, impaired metabolic function, and excessive
waist circumference—that occur together and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. An
analysis of data from 52,516 adults found that walking for at least one hour a day, regularly eating breakfast,
and avoiding eating within two hours before bedtime were each associated with a 12% to 26% lower risk of
metabolic syndrome. Preventative Medicine Reports, August 2025
Diet: Eggs Likely Won’t Raise Cholesterol Levels. University of South Australia researchers report that
although eggs are high in cholesterol, eating two per day does not raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or bad)
cholesterol levels. In contrast, a high intake of saturated fat does increase LDL cholesterol.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2025
Exercise: Physical Activity May Protect Against Musculoskeletal Pain. Using data from the Copenhagen
City Heart Study, researchers found that engaging in higher levels of leisure time physical activity is associated
with both a lower risk for persistent musculoskeletal pain and pain in multiple body sites.
Scientific Reports, July 2025
Chiropractic: Hip Mobility May Contribute to Back-Related Disability. In a study of 1,239 chronic low
back pain patients, researchers found that those with limited hip mobility reported greater back-related
disability—even when lower back mobility was unaffected. The findings underscore the importance of a
holistic approach to managing musculoskeletal disorders, as factors beyond the area of chief complaint may
contribute to the condition and must be addressed for optimal outcomes. European Spine Journal, June 2025
Mental Attitude: Playing an Instrument May Keep the Brain Young. According to a recent study,
individuals who play an instrument have more youthful brains and are better at understanding speech in noisy
environments than their non-musician peers. The finding suggests that playing an instrument helps the brain
better adapt to aging. PLOS, July 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Malnutrition Dramatically Increases Sarcopenia Risk. Sarcopenia is a condition
characterized by the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass, affecting approximately 12% of older adults. A
study that included 1,344 elderly adults found that more than 40% either had confirmed sarcopenia or likely had
sarcopenia. Further analysis revealed that malnutrition nearly triples the risk of sarcopenia while a diet featuring
animal protein, fruit, vegetables, and dairy products lowers the risk. Health Science Reports, July 2025
Quote: “Fear of failure must never be a reason not to try something.” ~ Frederick W. Smith

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 8-25-2025

Health Alert: Type 2 Diabetics at Elevated Fall Risk. Examinations of 66 type 2 diabetics and 66 age-matched
non-diabetic adults revealed that diabetics are more likely to exhibit proprioception errors and postural instability in
the lower extremities, which can increase the risk for serious falls. The research team notes the type 2 diabetics with
poor glycemic control and/or peripheral neuropathy experienced the greatest sensorimotor deficits.
Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, June 2025
Diet: Lower-Sodium DASH Diet Can Help Manage High Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics. The DASH diet
(Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is an eating plan rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins,
and low-fat dairy designed to lower blood pressure and promote heart health. A recent study found that a lowsodium
version of the DASH diet to accommodate diabetes and kidney disease concerns reduced systolic blood
pressure in hypertensive type 2 diabetics by 5 mmHg—a reduction associated with meaningful decreases in stroke,
cardiovascular events, and heart failure risk. JAMA Internal Medicine, June 2025
Exercise: Tips for Safer Outdoor Workouts. While exercise outdoors has been shown to provide both physical
and mental health benefits, it’s not without risk. To more safely engage in physical activity on the streets or in more
natural settings, experts recommend gradually increasing duration and intensity, stretching, wearing proper footwear,
staying visible, paying attention, and listening to your body. Health & Wellness Journal, June 2025
Chiropractic: Trends in Modifiable Risk Factors for Low Back Pain. Over the last 30 years, the burden of low
back pain attributed to smoking has declined and has nearly been eclipsed by poor metabolic health. However,
occupational exposures continue to be a leading cause of low back pain-related disability.
Arthritis Care & Research (Hoboken), March 2025
Mental Attitude: Teen Night Owls More Likely to Be Impulsive. Among 210 teenagers, researchers found that
those who preferred late bedtimes were more likely to display impulsive and self-destructive behaviors. Since these
traits are linked to a higher risk of substance abuse, the findings suggest that encouraging healthier sleep habits in
adolescents may help reduce alcohol and drug use in this population.
American Academy of Sleep Medicine, June 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Fitness Trackers May Be Less Accurate for Some Body Types. Researchers at
Northwestern University report that calorie-burn estimates are often less accurate for overweight and obese
individuals due to differences in gait and body mechanics. The good news: with a few adjustments, app and device
makers can update their algorithms to better reflect the energy expenditure of a more diverse user base.
Scientific Reports, June 2025
Quote: “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, the mind can achieve.” ~ Jake LaMotta

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 8-18-2025

Health Alert: Only About 1 in 5 Middle-Aged Women Have a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle. The American Heart
Association’s Life’s Essential 8 is a set of health-related behaviors and clinical measures—including not smoking,
good sleep hygiene, maintaining a healthy weight, a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and healthy levels of
blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure—that are linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. An
analysis of data concerning nearly 3,000 middle-aged women revealed that only 21% routinely meet the Essential 8
criteria, suggesting there is ample opportunity to improve the cardiovascular health of women at midlife.
Menopause, July 2025
Diet: Is the Mediterranean Diet Linked to Lower Risk of Mood Disorders? The Mediterranean diet is an eating
pattern focused on fruit, vegetables, nuts, fish, olive oil, and whole grains while avoiding red and processed meats,
dairy, saturated fats, and refined sugars. Questionnaires completed by 400 older adults revealed that greater
adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower risk of depression and anxiety.
Aging & Mental Health, June 2025
Exercise: Overall Fitness May Preserve Cognitive Abilities. A systematic review that included 19 studies
concluded that overall physical fitness may delay or even prevent the onset of mild-cognitive impairment. The
findings add to a growing body of research linking physical and cognitive health.
European Review of Aging and Physical Activity, June 2025
Chiropractic: Lifestyle Risk Factors for Low Back Pain in Teens. A comparison of 80 adolescents with low back
pain and 80 without revealed that physical inactivity, poor posture while completing homework, and prolonged
computer use are each associated with an elevated risk for low back pain.
Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, June 2025
Mental Attitude: Positive Outlook May Protect Cognitive Health. Assessments completed by more than 10,000
middle-aged and older adults revealed that greater feelings of autonomy, purpose, and life satisfaction are linked
with better memory recall over a 16-year time frame. Aging & Mental Health, June 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Keep Middle-Age Spread at Bay. Between their 20s and 40s, the average American may
gain between 10-25 lbs. due to factors such as slowing metabolism, unchanged appetite, and declining muscle
mass—a phenomenon known as middle-age spread. To counter this trend, the National Institutes of Health
recommends the following: eat a nutrient-dense diet, avoid snacking, stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol
consumption, don’t smoke, get sufficient sleep, and stay active. National Institutes of Health, June 2025
Quote: “Being aware of your fear is smart. Overcoming it is the mark of a successful person.” ~ Seth Godin

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 8-11-2025

Health Alert: In Utero Toxin Exposure Linked to Lower Birthweight. Mycoestrogens are naturally occurring,
estrogen-like compounds produced by certain fungi that may be ingested through contaminated cereals and grains. In
a recent study, researchers observed that exposure to the mycoestrogen zearalenone among expectant mothers who
also carry a gene variant called ABCG2 Q141K resulted in an increased risk of low birthweight. The findings
highlight how genetics and environmental exposures may jointly affect fetal development.
Environmental Health Perspectives, March 2025
Diet: Low-Fiber Diet May Lead to Unstable Plaques in Arteries. An analysis of data concerning more than
24,000 adults revealed an association between low-fiber intake and an increased risk of unstable plaque in the
coronary arteries, which is linked to an elevated risk of heart attack. Cardiovascular Research, June 2025
Exercise: Everyday Biking May Promote Healthy Brain Aging. Using data from the UK Biobank study,
researchers report that adults who primarily travel by bicycle have a 19% lower risk of dementia and a 22% lower
risk of Alzheimer’s disease—with the greatest risk reduction in those with genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s. The
research team hypothesizes that the combination of physical activity and balance requirements required to cycle may
stimulate the brain more than other forms of transportation like walking, driving, or using public transportation.
JAMA Network Open, June 2025
Chiropractic: Forward Head Posture Makes Balancing More Taxing on the Brain. Forward head posture is a
postural misalignment in which the head protrudes in front of the body’s center of gravity, increasing strain on the
neck and upper back muscles. Examinations of 64 adults under age 25 revealed the brain must expend more cortical
resources to maintain stability when forward head posture is present—especially during more physically demanding
balance tasks. Scientific Reports, July 2025
Mental Attitude: Sedentary Behavior Linked to Depression in Older Teens. A systematic review that included
25 studies revealed a link between more time spent engaged in sedentary behaviors and up to a 69% increased risk of
depression in late adolescents. BMC Public Health, July 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Early Pregnancy Blood Test May Predict Preeclampsia Risk. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy
complication characterized by high blood pressure that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. According
to a recent study, blood samples collected during early pregnancy may show signs of cell-free RNA that indicate an
increased risk of preeclampsia up to 18 weeks in advance. The finding may pave the way for a blood test to identify
expectant mothers at risk for the condition. Human Reproduction, June 2025
Quote: “Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”
~ John Quincy Adams

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 8-4-2025

Health Alert: Women Who Work Night Shift May Be at Elevated Risk of Asthma. Using data from the UK
Biobank study, researchers report that women who routinely work nights have a 50% increased risk of asthma.
Interestingly, the risk is even greater for postmenopausal women not on hormone replacement therapy, suggesting
the underlying cause may be hormonal in nature. The research team did not observe a link between night shifts and
asthma in men. ERJ Open Research, June 2025
Diet: Ultra-Processed Food Intake in Early Adulthood May Raise Diabetes Risk. Altered glucose homeostasis
refers to a disruption in the body’s ability to maintain stable blood sugar levels, often involving impaired insulin
production, insulin resistance, or abnormal glucose metabolism—which can set the stage for type 2 diabetes. An
analysis of data from the Meta-AIR study revealed that a high intake of ultra-processed foods is associated with
altered glucose homeostasis in early adulthood. The findings are especially alarming as ultra-processed foods
account for the majority of calories in the average young adult’s diet. Research Square, July 2025
Exercise: Fitness May Protect Against Depression. An analysis of data pooled from national cohort studies in the
United States and United Kingdom revealed that depression affects about 22% of the population, and higher
cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with a reduced risk for the mood disorder. BMC Medicine, July 2025
Chiropractic: Buttock Pain May Be a Symptom of Lumbar Disk Herniation. Examinations of 321 disk
herniation patients revealed that buttock pain is a common and independent symptom affecting three out of four such
individuals—particularly those with contained herniations and an intact annulus.
Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, March 2025
Mental Attitude: Frequent Nightmares May Increase Risk of Premature Death. Telomeres are protective DNA
sequences at the ends of chromosomes that shorten with each cell division, acting as a biological clock that
contributes to cellular and overall aging. A recent study found that individuals who experience recurring nightmares
show accelerated telomere shortening, likely driven by elevated cortisol levels released in response to stressinducing
dreams. This faster cellular aging is linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases at younger ages and may
increase the likelihood of premature death. European Academy of Neurology, June 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Locomotive Syndrome Linked to Metabolic Syndrome. Locomotive syndrome is a
condition characterized by reduced mobility due to impaired musculoskeletal function. A study that included 4,301
middle-aged and older adults revealed that locomotive syndrome raises the risk of metabolic syndrome by up to
34%. The findings suggest that efforts to reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders may also benefit the
metabolic health of the population. Preventative Medicine, June 2025
Quote: “Unhappiness is not knowing what we want and killing ourselves to get it.” ~ Don Herold

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 7-28-2025

Health Alert: About One-in-Nine Seniors Suffer a Fall Each Year. Among a group of nearly 3,000 older adults,
researchers observed that 12% had experienced at least one fall during the previous year, and one-in-seven fall
episodes resulted in a fracture, most often the wrist, knee, or hip. A review of mortality data revealed falls are
associated with a 65% increased risk of death within the following five years.
Chinese Journal of Epidemiology, June 2025
Diet: Tea and Dark Chocolate May Help Lower Blood Pressure. Flavanols are natural compounds found in fruit,
tea, and chocolate that help plants defend against pests, fungal infections, and ultraviolet radiation. A meta-analysis
of data from 145 randomized clinical trials revealed that a high intake of flavanols is associated with enhanced
endothelial function, benefiting blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, May 2025
Exercise: Women’s Physical Activity is More Consistent Than Men’s. An analysis of six months of data
collected from nearly 600 adults revealed that women have less variability in their physical activity levels than men.
Interestingly, the data also show that menstrual cycles do not significantly affect a woman’s physical activity levels,
contrary to long-standing assumptions. Journal of Medical Internet Research, May 2025
Chiropractic: Hunched Posture Raises Neck Pain Risk in Low Back Pain Patients. Compared with a normal
seated posture, working at a desk in a hunched posture for just 30 minutes significantly increased fatigue in the
sternocleidomastoid neck muscle among individuals with chronic low back pain, potentially raising their risk of
developing co-occurring neck pain. Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, February 2025
Mental Attitude: Early-Life Risk Factors for Dementia. Using data from the UK Biobank study, researchers
report that several early-life factors are associated with an increased risk of dementia, including maternal smoking
during the perinatal period, below-average height at age ten, low or high birth weight, and childhood physical
neglect. Journal of Affective Disorders, June 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Affordable Blood Test May Detect Alzheimer’s Early. Researchers at the University of
Southern California have developed a low-cost blood test that detects five proteins associated with Alzheimer’s
disease. In a study involving 63 participants, the test accurately distinguished individuals with Alzheimer’s from
those without the condition. With further refinement and validation, the test could improve early screening—
potentially identifying the disease before symptoms appear—allowing for earlier intervention and preventative
strategies. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, May 2025
Quote: “As long as you don’t forgive, who and whatever it is will occupy rent-free space in your mind.”
~ Isabelle Holland
Joseph T. Megna, D.C.
(707) 226-5200
DRJOEMEGNA

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 7-21-2025

Health Alert: Broken Heart Syndrome More Common in Women, More Fatal to Men. Takotsubo
cardiomyopathy, also known as stress-induced or “broken heart” syndrome, is a temporary heart condition
characterized by sudden weakening of the left ventricle, often triggered by intense emotional or physical stress. It’s
estimated that between 6,000 and 7,000 people are diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy each year. While 83%
of broken heart syndrome cases occur in female patients, the risk of death from the condition is more than doubled in
men (11% vs 5%). American Heart Association, May 2025
Diet: Try Matcha? Matcha is a powdered green tea that contains less caffeine than coffee but is rich in antioxidants
and L-theanine—a compound that may reduce caffeine-related jitters and promote relaxation. Because it offers
similar cardiovascular benefits to coffee but with a gentler stimulant effect, matcha may be a preferred choice for
individuals sensitive to caffeine. The Conversation, May 2025
Exercise: Lifting Weights Benefits Future Moms. A systematic review of nine clinical trials found that strength
training during pregnancy may help mitigate excessive weight gain, alleviate low back and sciatic pain, and improve
both mental and physical health in expectant mothers. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, July 2025
Chiropractic: Low Back Pain Trends Attributable to High Body Mass Index. Past research has established high
body mass index (BMI) as a significant risk factor for low back pain. Drawing on data from the Global Burden of
Disease study, researchers reported a 171% increase in disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs)—a metric that reflects
years lost to illness, disability, or premature death—attributable to obesity-related low back pain between 1990 and
2021. This substantial rise highlights the growing public health burden of obesity and its contribution to chronic
musculoskeletal conditions. Frontiers in Nutrition, January 2025
Mental Attitude: Hearing Loss May Contribute to Dementia. Following an analysis of data from 49 studies,
researchers report that even mild hearing loss in both ears raises the risk of dementia by 32%, and the risk rises to
66% in more severe cases. It’s suspected the risk may be a combination of pathological processes common to
hearing loss and dementia, as well as factors like social withdrawal. Aging & Mental Health, June 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Are Half of Dementia Cases Preventable? Nearly half of dementia cases may be
preventable by addressing modifiable risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking. Yet, most
research and interventions tend to focus on midlife, despite the fact that many of these risk factors emerge much
earlier. Experts emphasize that promoting healthier lifestyle habits across the entire lifespan—not just in middle
age—could significantly enhance brain health and reduce the overall incidence of cognitive decline and dementia.
The Conversation, May 2025
Quote: “Doubt is the origin of wisdom.” ~ René Descartes

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

WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE from your Rio Vista Chiropractor, 7-14-2025

Health Alert: Remnant Cholesterol Linked to Cardiovascular Disease. Using data from the Shanghai Suburban
Adult Cohort and Biobank study, researchers report that high levels of remnant cholesterol—the cholesterol found in
leftover blood particles after fat is processed—are associated with a 32% increased risk of cardiovascular disease
over a five-year period, independent of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad” cholesterol) levels. Elevated remnant
cholesterol is commonly linked to high triglycerides, insulin resistance, obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.
Chinese Journal of Epidemiology, June 2025
Diet: Ultra-Processed Foods and Diabetes. Ultra-processed foods are food products that include added sugars, fats,
and salt to enhance flavor and prolong shelf life. An analysis of data from the 2001-2018 National Health and
Nutrition Examination Survey revealed that ultra-processed foods account for more than 50% of total caloric intake
in individuals with either pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes, and for one-in-five such individuals, ultra-processed foods
account for 75% of their daily calories. Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism, July 2025
Exercise: What Is Grip Strength? Grip strength is commonly used in scientific studies as a proxy for overall
muscular fitness, much like body mass index (BMI) utilizes height and weight to provide a general indication of
body fat. While grip strength doesn’t capture the full picture of an individual’s health, it has been associated with a
lower risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression.
The Conversation, May 2025
Chiropractic: Low Back Pain and Hip Asymmetries. Examinations of 93 middle-aged and older adults revealed
that those with low back pain were more likely to exhibit asymmetries between their hips, suggesting altered
biomechanics. Prior research has shown that hip and low back dysfunction often co-occur, with impairment in one
region potentially increasing the risk of issues in the other. North American Spine Society Journal, March 2025
Mental Attitude: Quieter Classrooms May Help Calm Kids. According to a recent study, installing soundabsorbing
ceilings in preschool classrooms reduces noise and helps calm children, which may support early language
development and emotional regulation. Acoustical Society of America, May 2025
Wellness/Prevention: A Less Invasive Option for Prostate Cancer Treatment? Researchers from the University
of California, Los Angeles report that combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with focal therapy—such as
ultrasound, cryotherapy, or laser ablation—to identify and target only the cancerous portion of the prostate can
reduce the need for more invasive treatments like surgery or radiation, while significantly lowering the risk of side
effects such as urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and bowel problems. Journal of Urology, May 2025
Quote: “Kind words do not cost much. Yet they accomplish much.” ~ Blaise Pascal

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

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