Mental Attitude: Healthy Ambition Beneficial for Kids in the Long Run. Promoting ambition can help children become successful adults. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises the following: love and accept your child unconditionally, and keep your expectations high; don’t expect perfection, but do look for empathy, integrity, and generosity; support your child’s passions; don’t compare your child to anyone else; praise your child’s efforts, rather than just the achievement; show a child that no one wins all the time, and that they should strive to do better next time; and encourage the child to take control of his or her life, instilling confidence to deal with problems and make decisions. American Academy of Pediatrics, December 2016
Health Alert: E-Cigarettes a Threat to Young Americans’ Health. According to United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, e-cigarettes pose an emerging health threat to American youth. The Food and Drug Administration reports that in 2015, 16% of high school students said they had used e-cigarettes at least once. Dr. Murthy writes, “My concern is e-cigarettes have the potential to create a whole new generation of kids who are addicted to nicotine… If that leads to the use of other tobacco-related products, then we are going to be moving backward instead of forward.” He adds that parents and healthcare providers need to explain their concerns about e-cigarettes with youngsters, and local officials should also take action, such as including e-cigarettes in indoor smoking bans. Associated Press, December 2016
Diet: Fruits and Veggies Lower Head and Neck Cancer Risk. Chinese researchers compared the diet and lifestyle characteristics of 921 head and neck cancer patients with healthy controls and determined that the risk of such cancers fell as participants consumed a greater number of daily servings of fruits and vegetables. They note their findings are similar to previous studies conducted with subjects of European origin. Cancer Epidemiology, December 2016
Exercise: Strength Training Reduces Side Effects of Breast Cancer Surgery. This study, which included 27 breast cancer survivors who performed moderate-intensity strength workouts twice per week, revealed that weightlifting appeared to help prevent swelling in the arms and chest, which are common symptoms following the surgical treatment of breast cancer. Study author Dr. Lynn Panton adds, “At one time, women were told they shouldn’t do upper-body activities after surgery and treatment because doctors thought it could actually cause swelling to become worse… But we’re finding that strength training can really help women recover from treatment and help prevent and reduce this swelling.”
Supportive Care in Cancer, December 2016
Chiropractic: Preexisting Cervical Disk Degeneration May Not Slow Whiplash Recovery. Whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) is a common injury following motor vehicle accidents and has a wide range of prognoses. A recent study set out to determine whether preexisting cervical disk degeneration is a prognostic factor in WAD. The study involved 45 patients with advanced disk degeneration and a control group of 52 patients with little-to-no disk degeneration. After one year, the investigators observed no difference in outcome among the participants in each group, suggesting no delay in recovery among WAD patients with preexisting cervical disk degeneration. Clinical Spine Surgery, November 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Smoking to Be Banned in Public Housing. United States government officials have announced that smoking will be banned in public housing residences starting in 2017. The new rule is expected to protect more than two million public housing residents, including 760,000 children, and save $153 million a year in healthcare costs, repairs, and preventable fires. Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, November 2016
Quote: “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” ~ Lou Holtz

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

Mental Attitude: Parents Often Miss PTSD in Kids. Researchers followed more than 100 children aged two to ten who had experienced a road collision involving a car crash, being hit while walking, or getting knocked off their bicycle. They found that most parents of kids who still had PTSD after three years didn’t recognize their child’s symptoms. The researchers also observed that children were more likely to suffer PTSD if their parents also suffered from the condition, but even these parents had difficulty recognizing their child’s PTSD. Lead researcher Dr. Richard Meiser-Stedman adds, “This study strengthens the case for considering parental mental health, and providing support for both children and their parents in the aftermath of a trauma to reduce the long-term effects for both.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, November 2016
Health Alert: Spend Less Time on Your Smartphone Before Bed. In this study, participants who spent more screen-time on their phones, especially if they used their smartphones shortly before bedtime, experienced shorter sleep and reduced sleep quality. The authors of the study advise that reducing screen-time, particularly before bedtime, may help enhance the length and quality of sleep. Prior studies have suggested that the blue light from electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets can overstimulate the brain, making a good night’s sleep elusive. PLOS ONE, November 2016
Diet: Low Vitamin D Levels May Increase the Risk of Bladder Cancer. New research shows that bladder cells activate and respond to vitamin D, which can stimulate an immune response. Experts say this finding is important because the immune system may help prevent cancer by identifying and destroying abnormal cells before they develop into cancer. The body usually produces vitamin D through exposure to sunshine, but it’s also obtained from foods such as fatty fish, cheese, and eggs. Lead author Dr. Rosemary Bland writes, “As vitamin D is cheap and safe, its potential use in cancer prevention is exciting and could potentially impact on the lives of many people.” Society for Endocrinology, November 2016
Exercise: Can Exercise Shield Against a Week of Overindulgence? A new study suggests that exercise protects fat tissue from changes in inflammation levels and fat metabolism caused by a week of overeating. In the study, researchers found an increase in markers of inflammation after one week of overeating among people who do not normally exercise. However, the individuals in the study who participated in at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise six days per week did not experience an increase in markers of inflammation or changes in glucose tolerance or fat metabolism. The researchers conclude, “Our preliminary findings expand on existing work to support a protective role of exercise in the metabolic response of adipose tissue to brief periods of overeating.”
Integrative Biology of Exercise 7 Meeting, November 2016
Chiropractic: Childhood Exposure to Violence Linked to Chronic Physical Conditions. Researchers recently examined the associations of violence exposure with chronic physical conditions among a group of adolescents. The survey, which included 6,483 American teens, found that 24.99% of participants reported exposure to violence, and these children also had an elevated risk for back/neck pain, headaches, chronic pain, allergies, and asthma. This suggests that childhood violence exposure may be associated with chronic physical conditions that can develop early in life. Interventions and policies aimed at preventing violence and detecting and treating early-onset conditions have the potential to reduce morbidity, mortality, and health disparities early in development.
Psychosomatic Medicine, November 2016
Wellness/Prevention: How to Prevent Frequent Nosebleeds. Dry air is often a cause of frequent nosebleeds. The Seattle Children’s Hospital offers these prevention strategies: use a humidifier to help keep tissues in the nose moist, apply a dab of petroleum jelly on the center wall of the nose twice daily, blow your nose gently, and avoid ibuprofen and aspirin as these drugs can increase bleeding.
Seattle Children’s Hospital, November 2016
Quote: “Be brave to stand for what you believe in even if you stand alone.” ~ Roy T. Bennett

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

Mental Attitude: PTSD May Affect Boys and Girls Differently. Researchers have discovered that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects the brains of girls and boys in different ways. Using MRI scans, researchers examined the brains of 59 children and found that among those with PTSD, girls and boys showed differences in a part of the brain involved in the experience of emotion and empathy. Compared with healthy controls, the research team observed this area of the brain appeared larger in boys with PTSD but was smaller in girls with the condition. Senior author Dr. Victor Carrion writes, “The difference we saw between the brains of boys and girls who have experienced psychological trauma is important because it may help explain differences in trauma symptoms between sexes.” Depression and Anxiety, November 2016
Health Alert: Vitamin D May Have Role in Breast Cancer Survival. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 220,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and around 40,000 will die from the disease. In a new study, researchers found that women with higher vitamin D levels at the time of breast cancer diagnosis had better overall survival odds. The research team concludes, “Our findings provide compelling observational evidence for inverse associations between vitamin D levels and risk of breast cancer progression and death.” JAMA Oncology, November 2016
Diet: Sugary, Caffeinated Drinks Compromise Sleep. Individuals who don’t get much sleep are likely drinking more sugar-sweetened and caffeinated beverages than those who tend to get adequate slumber each night. An analysis of data on nearly 19,000 American adults showed that those who regularly slept five or fewer hours a night drank 21% more sugar-sweetened, caffeinated beverages than those who slept seven to eight hours each night. Furthermore, individuals who regularly slept six hours a night consumed 11% more of the drinks than those who got more sleep. The researchers believe there may be a positive feedback loop where sugary drinks and sleep loss reinforce one another, making it more difficult for people to shake their unhealthy sugar habit. Sleep Health, November 2016
Exercise: Exercising at a Safe Speed in Smog. Researchers have identified the ideal speeds for cyclists and pedestrians to move in order to limit their inhalation of air pollution. Study author Dr. Alex Bigazzi notes, “The faster you move, the harder you breathe and the more pollution you could potentially inhale, but you also are exposed to traffic for a shorter period of time. This analysis shows where the sweet spot is.” The research team concludes that cyclists should ride between 7.5 to 12.4 miles per hour (12.07 to 19.95 km/h) on city roads and pedestrians should walk between 1.2 and 3.7 miles per hour (1.93 to 5.95 km/h).
International Journal of Sustainable Transportation, October 2016
Chiropractic: Whiplash and Vision Complaints. Individuals who suffer a whiplash associated disorder (WAD) often report problems with their vision. A recent study set out to gain a better understanding of WAD-related vision impairments and found the majority of studies in the research review revealed changes in both compensatory eye movements and smooth pursuit movements among participants with WAD, which may indicate impaired coordination between the head and eyes. The research team hopes their finding may help improve diagnostics as well as treatment strategies in the management of such WAD-related vision issues.
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, October 2016
Wellness/Prevention: What to Do if Your Sleep Is Interrupted. Parents often find their sleep interrupted by infants and young children who wake several times during the night. To improve sleep quality, the National Sleep Foundation advises the following for tired parents: split child care into shifts to allow longer periods of sleep; keep the lights turned down during middle-of-the-night diaper changes, making it easier for parents and baby to fall back to sleep; don’t have any TV or computers in your bedroom; exercise during the day to help improve sleep; and create a relaxing bedtime routine for both you and baby.
National Sleep Foundation, November 2016
Quote: “Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” ~ George Bernard Shaw

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

Mental Attitude: PTSD Common After Pregnancy Loss. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop in women after pregnancy loss. Researchers surveyed 113 women who’d recently had a miscarriage and found that 45% of women who miscarried and 18% of those who had an ectopic pregnancy (tubal pregnancy) experienced the symptoms of PTSD during a follow-up three months after their pregnancy loss. Furthermore, nearly one-third of the women said their PTSD symptoms interfered with their work life, and about 40% said it affected their relationships with friends and family. Based on these findings, the researchers recommend that women who suffer a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy be routinely screened for PTSD and receive mental health support, if necessary. BMJ Open, November 2016
Health Alert: Sports and Eye Injuries. Researchers analyzed a database of emergency room visits at more than 900 hospitals in the United States and found nearly 86,000 reports of sports-related eye injuries, with about 50% of the injuries occurring during four activities: basketball (23%), baseball and softball (14%) and air guns (12%). Despite that fact air-gun eye injuries accounted for a smaller percentage, these injuries led to 26% of cases involving vision loss. This finding confirms the importance of wearing protective eyewear while playing sports. JAMA Ophthalmology, November 2016
Diet: Too Much Salt in US Kids’ Diet. A majority of kids in the United States (US) consume more than the recommended amount of salt for their age. Researchers analyzed data on more than 2,100 children aged 6 to 18 and found their average salt intake was 3,256 milligrams (mg) a day. Currently, the recommended salt intake for children varies from 1,900 mg to 2,300 mg a day, depending on age. The researchers add that nearly half of kids’ salt intake came from the following ten foods: pizza, Mexican mixed dishes, sandwiches (including burgers), breads, cold cuts, soups, savory snacks, cheese, plain milk, and poultry. Lead author Dr. Zerleen Quader notes the best way to reduce salt intake is to feed your children a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables without added sodium or sauces and to choose no-salt-added or lower-sodium versions of packaged foods.
Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, November 2016
Exercise: Exercise May Help Maintain Hearing. In a new animal-based study, researchers found that aging sedentary mice lost structures important to the auditory system—hair cells and strial capillaries—at a much higher rate than their exercising counterparts. Study co-author Christiaan Leeuwenburgh writes, “Exercise likely releases some growth factors yet to be discovered that maintain capillary density as compared to the control animals who were not exercising… Also, exercise may release other beneficial factors, but can also attenuate and blunt negative factors, such as inflammation.” Journal of Neuroscience, November 2016
Chiropractic: Restoring Normal Neck Curve Offers Benefits. A recent study investigated the effects of improving cervical lordosis (curve) and anterior head translation (AHT) in patients with diskogenic cervical radiculopathy (neck and arm pain). In a normal spine, the head should be suspended directly over the spine. This keeps the weight of the head over the body’s center of gravity. Furthermore, the head is supported by a shock-absorbing curve formed by the vertebral bones in the neck. Loss of this natural curve and a forward movement of the head can lead to increased biomechanical stress on the neck and upper back, increasing the risk for headaches and neck pain. In the study, investigators found that improving cervical lordosis and reducing AHT positively improved outcomes among the participants. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, August 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Curbing That Chronic Cough. Frequent coughing may be a sign you’re suffering from an illness, allergies, or exposure to a lung irritant. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute suggests the following to help reduce your cough: quit smoking; figure out which allergens or irritants trigger your cough; avoid common triggers, such as cigarette smoke, mold, pollen, animal dander, or dust; eat a healthy diet; and get plenty of exercise and rest.
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, November 2016
Quote: “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?” ~ Sheryl Sandberg

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

Mental Attitude: Loneliness Could Be Early Sign of Alzheimer’s. Subtle feelings of loneliness experienced by seniors may be an early warning sign of impending Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers examined the relationship between late-life loneliness and Alzheimer’s disease among 43 women and 36 men with no signs of dementia and found that healthy seniors with an elevated brain level of amyloid (a protein fragment has been associated with Alzheimer’s disease) were 7.5 times more likely to feel lonely than those with lower levels of amyloid build-up. The findings suggest that screening lonely seniors could lead to the earlier detection and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. JAMA Psychiatry, November 2016
Health Alert: Lack of Sleep May Widen Your Waistline. A review of eleven publishes studies revealed that sleep-deprived individuals consumed an average of 385 more calories per day than those who get enough sleep. Senior study author Dr. Gerda Pot writes, “Reduced sleep is one of the most common and potentially modifiable health risks in today’s society in which chronic sleep loss is becoming more common. More research is needed to investigate the importance of long-term, partial sleep deprivation as a risk factor for obesity and whether sleep extension could play a role in obesity prevention.”
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, November 2016
Diet: Can Diet Impact Migraines? Eating processed foods high in nitrites or monosodium glutamate (MSG) and drinking too much alcohol are potential migraine headache triggers. After performing a literature review of more than 180 studies, investigators found that eating more natural foods such as fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, and fresh meat while avoiding processed foods high in nitrites or MSG and managing caffeine consumption is an effective way to prevent such headaches.
The Journal of Head and Face Pain, October 2016
Exercise: Exercising While Pregnant Beneficial for Offspring. Exercise during pregnancy appears to protect offspring from age-related health risks. Researchers examined markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity in mice that were born to mothers that either exercised or didn’t exercise during pregnancy. They found that the offspring of mothers that exercised had better stress resistance and improved insulin sensitivity, even into adulthood, than the mice born to sedentary mothers. The researchers write, “Our findings highlight pregnancy as a sensitive period when positive lifestyle interventions could have significant and long-lasting beneficial effects on offspring metabolism and disease risk.” American Physiological Society’s, November 2016
Chiropractic: Chronic Back Pain Affects Balance. In this study, thirteen subjects with chronic, recurrent, non-specific low back pain and 13 subjects without low back pain participated in a series of experiments to measure the effect of chronic low back pain on standing balance. The investigators found that individuals with low back pain exhibit altered late brain processing of posture with altered kinematic and muscle responses, and these responses correlated with reports of pain-related fears and activity interference. The findings demonstrate that chronic back pain can negatively affect the ability of the brain to manage balance.
Neuroscience, October 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Tips for Keeping Your Baby Safe During Sleep. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following suggestions to parents to help keep their infant safe during sleep: always put your baby to sleep on his or her back until they turn a year old; keep the crib clear of any objects, such as pillows, bumper pads, toys, and blankets; when your baby falls asleep in a swing or car seat, move them to a crib as soon as possible; make sure your baby’s crib mattress is firm; don’t let your baby sleep in your bed; never let your baby sleep on a couch or chair; and if you swaddle your baby, make sure it’s not too tight and stop swaddling when your baby starts to roll over. American Academy of Pediatrics, November 2016
Quote: “A man who does not think for himself does not think at all.” ~ Oscar Wilde

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

Mental Attitude: Menopause “Brain Fog” Is Real. Women commonly complain of forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and thinking clearly when going through menopause. Researchers often refer to this as “brain fog.” In a new study, investigators used standard tests to gauge memory skills, along with functional MRI scans to track brain activity, in 200 men and women as they performed memory-focused tasks. The researchers found that women with lower levels of estradiol—a form of estrogen produced by the ovaries that naturally lowers during menopause—performed worse on tests involving memory.
Journal of Neuroscience, October 2016
Health Alert: Can High Cholesterol Cause Arthritis? High cholesterol may harm more than just the cardiovascular system. Using mice, researchers have found that high cholesterol levels trigger mitochondrial oxidative stress on cartilage cells, causing the cells to die, ultimately resulting in the development of osteoarthritis. The research team also found that the development of osteoarthritis slowed when the mice received treatment to lower their cholesterol levels. Dr. Thoru Pederson, the Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal comments, “Just when we thought all the angles on osteoarthritis had been uncovered, a new lead like this comes along.” The FASEB Journal, October 2016
Diet: Are You Getting Enough Iron? Iron is an essential nutrient for optimal health. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends the following dietary sources: lean cuts of pork, beef, chicken, turkey and fish; pinto and kidney beans, soybeans, and lentils; breakfast cereals fortified with iron; rice enriched with iron; spinach and other vegetables that are dark green and leafy; and iron-enriched breads that contain whole grains. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, October 2016
Exercise: Exercise Can Help Those with Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, type 1 diabetics need to take insulin by injection or via a small tube inserted under the skin and attached to an insulin pump. In a new small study involving six type-1 diabetics, investigators found that aerobic workouts led to better blood sugar control, less insulin use, and fewer high blood sugar events. Cell Transplantation, October 2016
Chiropractic: Musculoskeletal Pain Common Among Cancer Surgeons. A survey of 176 oncology surgeons reveals that fatigue, discomfort, stiffness, and back pain are commonly reported by such practitioners. Furthermore, nearly 20% of the surgeons surveyed reported occupational injuries that required treatment. The researchers conclude that changes to workplace ergonomics and surgery duration should be considered to aid in reducing such symptoms.
Journal of American College Surgeons, September 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Prevent Raking Injuries. Raking leaves can often leave you with an aching back. Each year, over 76,000 Americans injure themselves while raking leaves or using other manual garden tools. University of Pennsylvania researchers advise the following to help prevent injury: warm up and cool down before doing yardwork by performing trunk rotations and shoulder and wrist stretches; clear away debris to avoid falling; use a rake of appropriate size for your height and strength; wear gloves to avoid blisters; be sure to wear shoes that are skid-resistant so you don’t slip and fall; avoid twisting motions, and don’t throw leaves over your shoulder; ease strain on your back muscles by raking towards you; bend at the knees with your back straight to pick up leaves or bags; and take breaks as raking is an aerobic activity. Penn Medicine, October 2016
Quote: “The language of friendship is not words, but meanings.” ~ Henry David Thoreau

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

Mental Attitude: Work Ethic Remains Unchanged. Contrary to popular belief, baby boomers don’t have a stronger work ethic than their children or grandchildren. Using 105 different measures, including hours worked and commitment to family and work, investigators found no significant difference in work ethic between baby boomers (born between 1946 and 1964), generation X (1965 to 1980), and millennials (1981 to 1999). The findings suggest that human resource departments should not worry about the work ethic of younger employees. Journal of Business and Psychology, October 2016
Health Alert: High Blood Pressure May Elevate Dementia Risk. The American Heart Association (AHA) warns that high blood pressure (hypertension)—especially during middle age—may open the door to dementia. While the precise mechanism is not yet known, researchers speculate that hypertension damages blood vessels in the brain, impairing its ability to control blood flow, which is essential for normal brain function. Researcher Dr. Costantino Iadecola comments, “People with high blood pressure tend to have more dementia… Although scientifically we don’t have evidence, treating blood pressure is going to be important. It not only saves the brain, but also the heart and the kidney. So in the absence of evidence, the best thing to do is to control blood pressure.” Hypertension, October 2016
Diet: To Sauté or Not to Sauté? Sautéing is a healthy and simple way to prepare your vegetables. The American Heart Association gives the following tips on how to do it: add a tablespoon or two of broth or water to a skillet and place over medium heat; wait for the water or broth to begin to bubble; add sliced vegetables to the skillet; and cook them for five minutes, stirring continuously and adding extra liquid if needed. American Heart Association, October 2016
Exercise: Can Minimalist Shoes Be Good for Your Feet? Running in a minimalist shoe may be good for increasing foot strength. Researchers compared the effects of wearing traditional running shoes to a minimalist shoe with five separate toes and minimal to no cushioning or support. After a six-month running program, those wearing the minimalist shoes experienced an increase in mean volume of the forefoot and rearfoot of 11.9% and 6.6%, respectively, while those wearing traditional running shoes experienced no such gains. The findings suggest that transitioning to this type of shoe may help strengthen the muscular components of the foot core system, indicating its potential application in a rehabilitation program for injured and weak foot muscles. Hong Kong Polytechnic University, September 2016
Chiropractic: Pediatric Neck Pain Safely and Effectively Treated with Chiropractic Care. Spinal pain in the pediatric population is a significant health issue that is becoming more common A recent analysis involving 50 pediatric neck pain patients found that the average duration of chiropractic care was five visits over 19 days with significant improvement recorded in 96% of cases and no documented adverse effects. The findings support the use of chiropractic manipulation in the management of neck pain in the pediatric population. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, September 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Keeping Dust Mites Out of Your Bed. If you wake up sneezing and sniffling, you may have dust mites in your bed. The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following to prevent dust mites: run a dehumidifier in your bedroom, as dust mites thrive in humid conditions; buy dust-proof covers for your pillows and mattress; wash bedding in very hot water and dry it in the hot cycle every week; and dust and vacuum your bedroom weekly.
National Sleep Foundation, October 2016
Quote: “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” ~ Lou Holtz

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

Mental Attitude: Traffic Pollution Increases Parkinson’s Risk. Taiwanese researchers report that among a sample of over 55,000 adults, those exposed to the greatest amounts of traffic-related air pollution had a 17-36% greater risk for developing Parkinson’s disease than those with the least air pollution exposure. Environment International, November 2016
Health Alert: Batteries in E-Cigarettes May Explode. A new report claims that e-cigarette devices are randomly and unexpectedly exploding, burning and maiming users as well as bystanders. It’s believed the explosions are caused by the powerful lithium-ion batteries that charge the heating coil used to help create inhalable vapor. In some of the devices, these batteries are overheating, causing either a fire or an explosion. New England Journal of Medicine, October 2016
Diet: Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help Prevent Lupus? Michigan State University researchers have found that an essential fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can stop a known trigger of lupus—a systemic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the body’s skin, joints, and organs. It is considered a genetic disease and can be triggered by inhaling crystalline silica toxicants or other environmental factors, such as sun exposure. The researchers discovered that DHA blocked the activation of lupus 96% of the time when it was triggered by crystalline silica. DHA can be found in fatty, cold-water fish and is produced by the algae that fish eat and store in their bodies. Fish oil supplements can also supply this essential fatty acid. Lead researcher Dr. James Pestka adds, “What we do know is this study is a clear indication that eating DHA can prevent this one type of environmental triggering of lupus.” PLOS ONE, August 2016
Exercise: Don’t Forget to Stretch Before and After Exercise. Do you take the time to stretch? Do you know how to properly stretch before and after a workout? The American Council on Exercise offers these stretching recommendations: breathe in deeply, then slowly exhale as you stretch the desired muscle to tension; hold the stretch for up to 30 seconds, then relax and repeat the stretch a few more times; when holding a stretch, move as little as possible, which can help prevent you from injuring yourself; don’t stretch a muscle that isn’t properly warmed up; and don’t stretch a muscle to the point that it becomes painful.
American Council on Exercise, October 2016
Chiropractic: Low Back Pain Common in Children. A new study recently investigated the prevalence of and risk factors associated with non-specific low back pain in children. The study included 444 students with an average age of about 15 years, and the results revealed that non-specific low back pain affected 22.3% of participants, leading to school absenteeism in 13% of cases. The investigators also found the following risk factors associated with low back pain in teens: number of hours spent on computer games, improperly worn backpacks, being overweight, and shoulder imbalance.
Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, September 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Prevent Corns and Calluses. Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop when your skin attempts to protects itself from increased friction and pressure. Choosing the right shoes can help prevent the development of uncomfortable corns and calluses on your feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends the following prevention tips: make sure you only wear shoes that fit properly; consult your podiatrist if you have a foot deformity or problem that requires special shoes; and wear gel pad inserts inside your shoes to ease pressure points.
American Podiatric Medical Association, October 2016
Quote: “Do your own thing on your own terms and get what you came here for.” ~ Oliver James

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

Mental Attitude: Anger Plus Heavy Exertion May Result in a Heart Attack. Intense anger along with heavy physical exertion may be a trigger for a first heart attack among some people. According to a study that involved more than 12,000 men and women, both intense activity and intense emotions double one’s heart attack risk over the following hour, and the risk increases about threefold when individuals are upset and exert themselves at the same time. Circulation, October 2016
Health Alert: Obesity Linked to Liver Cancer. Having a large waistline, a high body mass index (BMI), and type 2 diabetes may raise the risk of liver cancer. Researchers examined data on 1.57 million adults and found that individuals with type 2 diabetes were 2.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with liver cancer than the general population. The researchers also found the risk of liver cancer increases 8% for every two inches (5.08 cm) added to the waistline and the risk is also increased for those with a higher BMI. They conclude these findings provide substantial support for adding liver cancer to the list of obesity-associated cancers. Cancer Research, October 2016
Diet: A Specific Amino Acid Improves Immune Response Against Cancer. An amino acid called L-arginine may help fight cancer. In a new study, researchers found that L-arginine, an amino acid that is consumed through diet, boosts the activity of T cells—immune cells that play a crucial role in the defense against viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells. The investigators found that when levels of L-arginine increased, T-cells survived longer and were more effective at fighting tumors. They conclude that their finding may lead to improved cellular immunotherapies. Cell, October 2016
Exercise: Exercising at Work. Taking advantage of a workplace gym is a great way to get active. The American Council on Exercise suggests the following to get the most out of a workplace gym: schedule exercise on your daily calendar; pack daily workout clothes and get to work early, if necessary; bring toiletries if the gym has showers; ask a co-worker to exercise with you; and keep a clean shirt or fresh change of work clothes at your desk in case you need them.
American Council on Exercise, October 2016
Chiropractic: Patients with Modic Changes Respond to Spinal Manipulation. Modic change is a term used to describe alterations to the vertebral endplate and body related to spinal degeneration. In a recent study, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and outcome data from 44 patients with a cervical disk herniation to evaluate their response to spinal manipulative therapy (SMT). The researchers found that even though patients with modic changes reported higher pain and disability than those without signs of degeneration, they still benefited from a course of SMT. The findings support the use spinal manipulation in the management of patients with degenerative changes in the spine.
Journal of Manipulation and Therapeutics, September 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Smartphone App Could Be Used to Test for Atrial Fibrillation. Researchers tested more than 13,000 adults in Hong Kong for atrial fibrillation (AF) between May 2014 and April 2015 with a smartphone app combined with a hand-held wireless heart rate monitor and detected 101 cases of AF that had not been previously diagnosed. Experts report that AF is linked with a heightened risk of stroke, heart failure, and death, and its prevalence is increasing among those over the age of 65. Heart, October 2016
Quote: “We don’t receive wisdom; we must discover it for ourselves after a journey that no one can take for us or spare us.”
~ Marcel Proust

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

Mental Attitude: Chatting Before Bedtime… The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following for enjoying a bedtime conversation with your partner without it affecting your sleep quality: talk about the events of the day or lighthearted topics; avoid emotional conversation that can work you up; put off disagreements until the next day; and don’t worry if you don’t feel like talking as sometimes just lying quietly and cuddling can aid in falling asleep. National Sleep Foundation, September 2016
Health Alert: “Smoke Waves” Threaten the Western United States. Persistent smoke waves from wildfires may increase in the future. Investigators examined levels of fine particulate matter in 16 Western states from 2004 to 2009 and estimated that incidents of two or more days of high pollution from wildfires will grow by 57% in frequency and 31% in intensity over the next 40 years. As a result, the smoke-wave season will likely lengthen by about 15 days in nearly two-thirds of the regions assessed. Study author Dr. Jia Coco Liu adds, “More people in the Western [United States] are likely to experience high-pollution episodes from wildfires, and the pollution episodes are likely to be more frequent, last longer, and be more intense.” Climatic Change, July 2016
Diet: Diet Can Assist in the Healing Process. Your body requires essential nutrients and calories to help heal itself, so the food you eat plays a significant role in healing. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends the following to help aid in recovery: eat enough calories and make sure you consume a balanced intake of protein, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and grains; drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, and opt for low-fat milk, water, tea, 100% fruit juice, and other unsweetened beverages in place of sugary drinks; consult with a registered dietitian if you have wounds that require special care and dietary needs; and control diabetes to help promote better wound healing. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, September 2016
Exercise: Regular Exercise Can Reduce Healthcare Costs. Researchers reviewed data on more than 26,000 Americans and found that the average adult with heart disease who exercised on a regular basis saved about $2,500 in healthcare costs in 2012. The researchers estimate that if just 20% of physically inactive heart disease patients exercised regularly, it could save the United States billions of dollars a year in healthcare costs. They also estimate that healthy individuals without heart problems who met recommended exercises guidelines saved about $500 per year in healthcare costs in 2012. Study author Dr. Khurram Nasir notes, “The message to the patient is clear: There is no better pill in reducing the risk of disease and healthcare costs than optimizing physical activity.” Journal of the American Heart Association, September 2016
Chiropractic: Restoring Normal Cervical Curvature Reduces Common Cause of Neck Pain. A study involving 40 patients examined the benefits of restoring cervical lordosis (normal neck curvature) and reducing anterior head translation (forward neck posture) in individuals with diskogenic cervical radiculopathy. Cervical diskogenic pain originates from a damaged intervertebral disk and can lead to arm pain due to nerve irritation or compression. In the study, researchers found that implementing a program to improve cervical curvature and head posture improved neck and arm pain in those with this condition. Restoring cervical lordosis and improving posture is a common treatment approach of chiropractors when managing such neck pain.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, August 2016
Wellness/Prevention: Diabetes Can Be Tough on Skin. Skin problems are common among individuals with diabetes, but a daily preventative skin-care routine can offer some protection. The American Diabetes Association recommends the following to protect your skin if you have diabetes: control your blood sugar; moisturize skin well; keep bath/shower lukewarm instead of hot; clean and care for any cuts or scrapes promptly; follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on use of antibiotic ointment; increase the humidity in your home during the dry months; use a mild shampoo and soap; check and care for your feet every day; and talk to your healthcare provider about any skin care concerns. American Diabetes Association, September 2016
Quote: “You can’t go back and make a new start, but you can start right now and make a brand new ending.” ~ James R. Sherman

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