Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, November 23rd, 2015

Mental Attitude: Secondhand Smoke May Cause Behavior Issues in Kids.

An analysis of data concerning more than 5,200 primary school students reveals that kids exposed to secondhand smoke while in the womb and/or at a young age have a greater risk for behavioral problems, especially emotional and conduct disorders. Study leader Dr. Isabella Annesi-Maesano wrties, "Our data indicate that passive smoking, in addition to the well-known effects on health, should also be avoided because of the behavioral disorders it may cause in children."

PLOS ONE, September 2015

Health Alert: Birds May Bring Exotic Ticks North.

The seasonal migration of some bird species may allow ticks to hitch a ride from Central and South America to the United States. Researchers found that 3% of migratory birds carried so-called neotropical ticks, which means birds likely bring more than 19 million neotropical ticks to the United States every spring. Fortunately, there is no evidence that any ticks have established permanent populations as exotic ticks can’t survive, reproduce, and spread in a Northern climate. However, some experts warn climate change may make it possible for these neotropical ticks to establish themselves in the United States in the future.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology, October 2015

Diet: Vitamin D May Helps Women Build Muscle After Menopause.

According to a new report, vitamin D supplementation can significantly increase muscle strength and reduce the loss of body muscle mass in women years after menopause. Researchers found older women who received vitamin D supplements experienced a significant increase (+25.3%) in muscle strength, while those receiving a placebo lost an average of 6.8% of their muscle mass during the course of the multi-year study. The study also revealed that those who did not receive vitamin D supplements were nearly two times more likely to experience a fall. Dr. Wulf H. Utian, the Executive Director of The North American Menopause Society adds, "While this study is unlikely to decide the debate over Vitamin D, it provides further evidence to support the use of vitamin D supplements by postmenopausal women in an effort to reduce frailty and an increased risk of falling."

The North American Menopause Society, September 2015

Exercise: Do You Want to Live longer? Start Walking More and Sitting Less.

Replacing one hour of sitting each day with walking can decrease the chance of early death among seniors by 12-14%. Researchers also note that swapping one hour of sitting each day with standing results in a 5% decrease in the risk of premature death. On average, people over the age of 70 spend around 65-80% of their waking time performing sedentary activities, so substituting some of this time with standing or light physical activity could have a positive impact on their overall health.

International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, September 2015

Chiropractic: Manual Therapies for Cancer Radiation Patients?

Radiation therapy for neck and head cancers can often result in neck pain and loss of motion. A small study involving five participants suggests that the use of manual therapies, treatments commonly performed by doctors of chiropractic, can help reduce pain and improve mobility in this class of patients without adverse outcomes.

Clinical Otolaryngology, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: What's Your Resting Heart Rate?

Even if you’re not an athlete, knowing your heart rate can help you keep tabs on your fitness level. A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats a minute. Generally, a lower heart rate at rest implies more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness.

American Heart Association, October 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, November 16th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Common Flame Retardants May Cause Attention Problems in Children.

According to a new article published in the journal Neurotoxicology and Teratology, prenatal exposure to commonly used fire retardants is associated with attention problems in young children. In the study, researchers analyzed umbilical cord blood samples for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which are commonly used as fire retardants, and found the children in the study with the highest exposure to certain PBDEs had approximately twice the number of attention problems at ages 3-7 when compared with the other children in the study with less PBDEs exposure. Senior author Dr. Julie Herbstman writes, "These findings reinforce the decision to phase-out the use of PBDEs in consumer products and support the need to develop programs for safely disposing of products containing PBDEs that are still in use."

Neurotoxicology and Teratology, October 2015

Health Alert: Antibiotic-Resistant 'Superbug' an Emerging Threat.

Health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn antibiotic-resistant bacteria are on the rise in some major American cities. CRE, or Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, are a class of common bacteria that have become resistant to some of the most widely used antibiotics. According to the CDC, experts have recorded higher-than-expected levels of this bacteria in Atlanta, Baltimore, and New York. Most CRE infections occur in hospitals, but officials from the CDC are worried that havoc could ensue if CRE starts to become transmitted outside of healthcare settings since enterobacteriaceae are so common.

Journal of the American Medical Association, October 2015

Diet: Looking for an Energy Boost?

If you feel rundown or tired, coffee isn’t the only option to perk you up. The National Sleep Foundation recommends eating magnesium-rich nuts, iron-rich spinach, eggs, or fresh fruit.

National Sleep Foundation, October 2015

Exercise: Sit-Stand Desks Promotes More Movement for Office Workers.

More and more employers are introducing sit-stand desks in their office spaces to encourage more physical activity. A new study involving 69 participants revealed that employees with sit-stand desks stand for one hour more a day at work when compared to co-workers with sit-only desks. The study also found that sit-stand desk users walked an average of six additional minutes and burned an extra 87 calories per day at work. Lead study author Dr. Lucas Carr writes, "Our findings are important because they support redesigning the traditionally sedentary office environment as a potentially cost-effective approach for fighting the obesity epidemic."

American Journal of Preventive Medicine, October 2015

Chiropractic: Smokers at Greater Risk for Sciatica.

A comprehensive literature search has identified smoking as a risk factor for sciatica, a condition often described as numbness or tingling in the leg that stems from dysfunction in the lower back. More specifically, investigators found current smokers are 1.46 times more likely to experience lumbar radicular pain or have clinically verified sciatica than those with no history of smoking. Though the risk is lower among former smokers, they are still 15% more likely to develop the condition than nonsmokers.

The American Journal of Medicine, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Asthma Prevention.

If you suffer from asthma, keeping it under control is essential for your overall health. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute suggests creating an asthma action plan that includes medications and what to do if symptoms worsen, avoiding your asthma triggers, getting regular checkups, recording symptoms and peak flow readings to share with your healthcare provider, and sticking closely to your treatment plan.

National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, October 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, November 9th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Beauty Is in Eye of the Beholder.

Some aspects of attractiveness are common and may even be programmed into our genes. However, a new study finds that individuals can have wide-ranging definitions of attractiveness. The authors of the study published in the journal Current Biology write, "We estimate that an individual's aesthetic preferences for faces agree about 50 percent, and disagree about 50 percent, with others."

Current Biology, October 2015

Health Alert: Drunk Driving Is a Serious Problem in the US!

Experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report nearly 121 million episodes of alcohol-impaired driving occur in the United States (US) each year. According to their data, nearly all (85%) incidents of drunk driving involve individuals who had been binge drinking.

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, August 2015

Diet: Don't Replace Saturated Fats with Processed Carbs.

Researchers found that when individuals replaced 5% of their saturated fat calories with healthier polyunsaturated fats, such as those found in nuts, their risk for coronary heart disease decreased by 25%. Replacing 5% of their saturated fat calories with monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, cut their risk by 15%, and substituting 5% of saturated fats with whole-grain carbohydrates led to a 9% decrease in heart disease risk. However, when consumers replaced 5% of their saturated fat calories with processed carbohydrates such as white bread or rice, the researchers found no benefits to heart health. The message of the study is to reduce saturated fat and processed foods in your diet, while increasing your intake of healthier fats and whole foods.

Journal of American College of Cardiology, September 2015

Exercise: Short, Intense Exercise Bursts Improve Teen Cardiovascular Health.

For teens, just eight-to-ten minutes of high-intensity interval exercise three times per week can significantly improve both blood vessel function and resting heart rate. University of Exeter's Dr. Alan Barker adds, "We know that activity levels drop significantly as children reach adolescence, and so far attempts to increase this to an hour a day have proved fruitless. This study indicates that, providing the intensity is high, health benefits are achievable with just 8-10 minutes of exercise."

American Journal of Physiology - Heart and Circulatory Physiology, September 2015

Chiropractic: Neck Pain Recurrence Low One Year After Chiropractic Care.

Previous research indicates between 60-80% of individuals with neck pain will experience a recurrent episode a year later. In a new study, Swiss researchers followed 642 neck pain patients who received chiropractic treatment and found only 11% experienced another episode of neck pain during the following year. They note patients with a history of neck pain and older individuals were the most at risk for future episodes.

Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Bike Helmets Prevent Severe Brain Injury.

A new study shows that wearing a bicycle helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious brain injury and death in the event of a collision. A medical record analysis of more than 6,200 people who suffered a brain injury in a cycling crash revealed that those who wore a bike helmet were 58% less likely to have their injury categorized as severe. The study also found that helmet users were 59% less likely to die, 61% less likely to require surgery to alleviate brain swelling, and 26% less likely to have facial fractures. The findings show the importance of bicycle helmet use, developing and enforcing stricter helmet use laws, and the creation of better helmets.

American College of Surgeons, October 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, November 2nd, 2015

Mental Attitude: "Phubbing" Bad for Relationships.

A report published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior suggests that smartphones can damage romantic relationships and lead to greater levels of depression. The research focused on "phubbing," or "partner phone snubbing," a term given to those who use or are distracted by their cellphones while in the presence of a partner. Researcher Dr. James A. Roberts writes, "What we discovered was that when someone perceived that their partner phubbed them, this created conflict and led to lower levels of reported relationship satisfaction. These lower levels of relationship satisfaction, in turn, led to lower levels of life satisfaction and, ultimately, higher levels of depression… Something as common as cellphone use can undermine the bedrock of our happiness - our relationships with our romantic partners."

Computers in Human Behavior, August 2015

Health Alert: Taller People at Greater Risk of Cancer.

The taller you are, the greater the risk you have of developing cancer. Investigators followed 5.5 million Swedish men and women for over 50 years and found that for every additional 10 cm (~3.4 inches) of height, the risk of developing cancer increased by 18% in women and 11% in men. Lead researcher Dr. Emelie Benyi comments, "It should be emphasized that our results reflect cancer incidence on a population level. As the cause of cancer is multifactorial, it is difficult to predict what impact our results have on cancer risk at the individual level." The team hopes to investigate how mortality from cancer and other causes of death are associated with height.

Annual European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology, October 2015

Diet: Higher-Protein Diet Could Help Some with Type 2 Diabetes.

A high-protein diet might benefit people with type 2 diabetes, but it may depend on whether or not they possess a particular gene related to vitamin D metabolism. In a new study, individuals with a particular gene variant that boosts blood levels of vitamin D experienced greater reductions in insulin levels and improved insulin sensitivity when they ate a higher-protein diet. The researchers note this information is not practically useful at present time since people do not know the genetics behind their personal vitamin D metabolism but it may be helpful in the future as genetic profiling becomes a more common aspect of healthcare.

Diabetologia, September 2015

Exercise: Find 30-Minutes to Workout.

Finding the time and motivation to exercise 30 minutes a day can be difficult. However, if you can devise ways to make your routine interesting and enjoyable, you may wind up looking forward to exercising. The Academy of Nutrition of Dietetics recommends: planning three 10-minute mini-workouts per day, exercising as a family, using household chores to burn extra calories, and taking a walk with a co-worker during lunch or breaks.

Academy of Nutrition of Dietetics, October 2015

Chiropractic: Migraine Sufferers Have Altered Muscle Performance.

A new study has found that individuals with chronic migraines exhibit altered neck muscle performance, take longer reach to maximum strength with some neck movements, and have higher co-activation of neck flexor muscles when bending forward at the neck. These findings add to the growing body of research that dysfunction in the neck may play some role in the presence, frequency, and intensity of migraine headaches.

Headache, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Staying Up Late Associated with Weight Gain in Teens and Young Adults.

The later a teenager or young adult goes to bed during weekdays, the more likely they are to gain weight over time. Researchers analyzed data of 3,342 teens and young adults and found that the later an individual's bedtime, the more weight they were likely to gain over a five-year period. Lead author Dr. Lauren Asarnow comments, "These results highlight adolescent bedtimes, not just total sleep time, as a potential target for weight management during the transition to adulthood."

Sleep, October 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, October 26th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Is Work Stress as Dangerous as Secondhand Smoke Exposure?

Having a high-demand job that regularly places a lot of stress on an individual can result in a similar number of poor health outcomes as can regular exposure to secondhand smoke. Study author Dr. Joel Goh writes, "Unless and until companies and governments more rigorously measure and intervene to reduce harmful workplace stressors, efforts to improve people's health - and their lives - and reduce healthcare costs will be limited in their effectiveness."

Behavioral Science & Policy Association, September 2015

Health Alert: Some High School Students Using E-Cigarettes to "Vape" Cannabis.

A new report finds that some teens are using electronic cigarettes to vaporize cannabis instead of nicotine. These adolescents are replacing nicotine solution in their e-cigarettes with cannabis products such as hash oil, dried cannabis, and wax infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) - the active ingredient in cannabis. The researchers conclude, "These findings raise concerns about the lack of e-cigarette regulations and the potential use of e-cigarettes for purposes other than vaping nicotine."

American Academy of Pediatrics, September 2015

Diet: Reducing Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Improves HDL in Children.

Researchers have found that reducing sugar-sweetened beverage intake among schoolchildren by a minimum of one serving per week can improve their HDL (good) cholesterol. They also note that high consumption of these beverages was linked to a lower intake of fruits and vegetables among the same age group. Senior author Jennifer Sacheck comments, "Importantly, not only are most sugar-sweetened beverages high in sugar and devoid of nutritional value, but they are displacing other foods and beverages that offer high nutritional quality, which are critical for children's growth and development, further exacerbating the potential harmful health effects of sugar-sweetened beverages."

The Journal of Nutrition, September 2015

Exercise: Resistance Training Can Help Fibromyalgia Patients.

Even though it seems counterintuitive to place physical stress on the muscles of patients with muscle pain, resistance training appears to have a positive effect on reducing the severity of symptoms in patients with fibromyalgia.

Arthritis Research and Therapy, September 2015

Chiropractic: Back Pain and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Among a sample of 365 nurses, researchers found 59.7% had experienced back pain during the previous year. Those who had at least one episode of back pain during the preceding twelve months were significantly more likely to suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, a disease characterized by fatigue that is not improved by bed rest. The research team notes this is the first study to demonstrate a relationship between back pain and chronic fatigue syndrome in hospital employees.

Agri, July 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Signs of Hypothyroidism.

When your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormone, it can lead to a condition known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include feeling tired, being sensitive to cold, developing a hoarse voice and slowed speech, a decrease in pulse rate, developing coarse scaly skin and thicker hair, numbness in the hands and fingers, constipation, weight gain, headaches, confusion, depression, and signs of dementia.

University of Maryland Medical Center, September 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, October 19th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Sleep Apnea May Hurt Kids’ School Performance.

Investigators have found that children with sleep-disordered breathing, such as sleep apnea, perform worse on language arts, math, and science tests than kids without such conditions. The findings come from a review of sixteen studies dealing with sleep apnea or related disorders in children and academic achievement. Lead author Dr. Barbara Galland writes, "Given the potential adverse consequences of sleep-disordered breathing on health, behavioral, and learning outcomes in children, it is important for parents and clinicians to recognize symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing."

Pediatrics, September 2015

Health Alert: Almost 50% of Adults in US Have Diabetes or Are at High Risk of Getting It.

Nearly half of all American adults have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, claims a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers say that up to 14% of adults had either diagnosed or undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in 2011-2012, and approximately 38% had diagnosed or undiagnosed prediabetes.

Journal of the American Medical Association, September 2015

Diet: Eat More Nutrient-Rich Foods.

Taste is an important part of what makes food appealing, but opting for nutrient-rich foods is essential to give your body the fuel it needs to perform its best. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests these nutrient-rich food choices: whole grains, a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables, lean protein such as fish, skinless poultry, beans, and low-fat dairy.

American Academy of Family Physicians, September 2015

Exercise: Male Teens Who Exercise Think Better When They Grow Up.

Using over thirty years of data from the Amsterdam Growth and Health Longitudinal Study, researchers found a significant association between greater teenage physical fitness levels among males and better cognitive function two decades later. According to the research team, "The results suggest a stimulating effect of adolescent physical activity in males on executive functions in adulthood, emphasizing the importance of an active lifestyle amongst adolescent males."

Journal of Physical Activity & Health, September 2015

Chiropractic: Chiropractic Rated High for Treatment of Dizziness and Balance Issues.

Past research shows that about 30% of older adults experience dizziness and balance problems. A new study examining the types of treatment sought by patients with balance and dizziness complaints and the success of those treatments revealed that only 4.7% utilized chiropractic care. However, those patients who did see a chiropractor reported the highest treatment success rate for their dizziness and balance issues. The authors speculate that most dizziness and balance problems in older individuals may be caused by dysfunction in the neck that can be successfully addressed by chiropractic care.

Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Vitamin D May Prevent Macular Degeneration in Some Women.

Women who are deficient in vitamin D may be up to 6.7 times more likely to develop age-related macular degeneration (AMD) than women without who have healthy vitamin D levels. AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness, and it affects more than ten million Americans. The study's lead author, Dr. Amy Millen writes, "Most people have heard that you should eat carrots to help your vision. However, there appear to be many other ways that adequate nutrition can support eye health. Having adequate vitamin D status may be one of them."

JAMA Ophthalmology, August 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, October 12th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Mental Health Care Is Vital But Often Tough to Get.

A survey shows that most Americans believe mental health care is important, but they often think it is expensive and hard to obtain. Dr. Christine Moutier, chief medical officer of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention writes, "Progress is being made in how Americans view mental health and the important role it plays in our everyday lives. People see the connection between mental health and overall well-being, our ability to function at work and at home, and how we view the world around us. Respondents want to help a loved one by connecting them to the right mental health treatment and support."

Anxiety and Depression Association of America, September 2015

Health Alert: Cold Weather May Increase Stroke Risk for Some.

The onset of cold weather may actually pose health risks for some individuals with a heart condition. A new study found colder weather can increase the risk of stroke for people with atrial fibrillation by as much as 20% when compared with their risk during the warmer months. Atrial fibrillation is a common condition in which the heart beats irregularly that affects about 9% of elderly individuals in the United States.

European Society of Cardiology, August 2015

Diet: Kids Eat Too Much Salt!

Experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say 90% of school children eat too much salt on a daily basis and one in six kids has hypertension. The CDC recommends the following strategies to help reduce your child's salt intake: try different herbs and spices in place of salt, use "low sodium" or "no salt added" ingredients, eat more fruits and vegetables, and eat fewer processed foods.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, September 2015

Exercise: Bike-Related Injuries Are Up Among Older Americans.

Between 1998 and 2013, bicycle injuries among those over 45 years of age jumped 81% and hospital admissions increased 66%. Lead researcher Dr. Benjamin Breyer writes, "As cyclists in the [United States] shift to an older demographic, greater attention is needed in injury prevention measures through improved infrastructure, such as bike lanes, use of personal protective equipment, such as helmets, as well as improved rider and motorist education."

Journal of the American Medical Association, September 2015

Chiropractic: Neck Pain and Episodic Migraines.

Nearly 500 migraine headache sufferers were asked to track the presence of neck pain in relation to a headache episode to determine if it preceded the migraine or occurred at its onset. The researchers found 69.4% of participants reported neck pain either before or during a migraine episode. Of those, almost half had neck pain in the hours before their headache manifested. This suggests cervical dysfunction may play some role in the development of migraine headaches.

Journal of Headache and Pain, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Interventions to Help Reduce Sitting Time.

Previous studies have shown a link between time spent sitting and cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and early death, even among those who regularly exercise. An analysis of 26 published studies found the most effective interventions for reducing sitting time were promoting sit-stand desks, encouraging people to keep a record of how much time they spend sitting each day, setting individual goals for limiting sitting time, using alarms to encourage people to get up and move around, and educating people on the health consequences of sitting too much.

Health Psychology Review, September 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, October 5th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Obesity May Be “Hardwired” in the Brain.

Using MRI scans to investigate how the brains of nearly 80 individuals responded to pictures of food, researchers from the University of Granada in Spain and Monash University in Australia claim at least some people become obese because of the way food cravings are processed in the brain. The researchers found that a food craving activates a different brain network in obese individuals than in those who are not overweight. They conclude that the risk of obesity may be tied to the brain, which may explain why some people have difficulty losing weight and staying on diets.

European College of Neuropsychopharmacology's Annual Conference, September 2015

Health Alert: More School Athletes Using Chewing Tobacco.

While high school athletes may be getting the message that cigarettes are bad for their health, it appears many don’t see the dangers involved with smokeless tobacco. Between 2001 and 2013, high school athletes use of chew, moist snuff, or dip increased 10% to 11%, while no change was noted among non-athletes. According to their findings, young athletes are almost 80% more likely to use smokeless tobacco products than those who do not participate in organized sports. Health officials believe tobacco-free policies that ban all tobacco use by players, coaches, referees, and fans on school campuses and at all public recreational facilities may help make smokeless tobacco use less acceptable and reduce its use among student athletes.

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, September 2015

Diet: Saturated Fats May Increase Inflammation.

High levels of saturated fat in the blood may cause a person to be more prone to inflammation and tissue damage. Investigators examined mice with unusually high levels of saturated fat in their blood to see if they were more prone to tissue damage than mice in a control group. The results led investigators to conclude that maintaining high levels of saturated fats by constantly snacking on cakes, biscuits, and pastries may cause monocytes (a type of white blood cell) to migrate out of the blood and into surrounding tissues, leading to an inflammatory response and possible tissue damage. The results support the view that excessive consumption of saturated fat can be detrimental to your health.

Cell Reports, September 2015

Exercise: Seniors with Low Muscle Mass Have Increased Risk for Metabolic Syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is the clustering of at least three of the following five risk factors: elevated fasting glucose, excess waist circumference, elevated blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, and abnormal cholesterol levels. This syndrome is known to increase an individual's risk for both cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Korean researchers have found that men and women with low muscle mass have a greater risk for metabolic syndrome, even if they have a healthy body mass index. This study underscores the importance of remaining physically active into old age in order to maintain a healthy muscle mass.

Journal of Bone Metabolism, August 2015

Chiropractic: Half of Adults in the US Have Seen a Chiropractor!

A new survey by Gallup finds that half of adults in the United States have visited a doctor of chiropractic and roughly one in seven did so during the previous year.

Gallup, September 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Check Your Weight Regularly.

Weighing yourself regularly is an important part of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. The Obesity Action Coalition recommends weighing yourself once per week using the same scale, weighing yourself at the same time and day of the week, logging your weight each week, and avoiding weighing yourself more than once per week as weight fluctuates daily.

Obesity Action Coalition, September 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, September 28th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Poor Mental Skills Associated with Increased Cardiovascular Disease Risk.

People with poor thinking skills related to planning, problem-solving, and reasoning may be at a greater risk for either a heart attack or stroke. Researchers analyzed data concerning 3,926 individuals with an average age of 75 who had no history of heart attack, stroke, or dementia. They found that individuals with low scores on tests measuring executive function were 85% more likely to have a heart attack and 51% more likely to suffer a stroke than their peers with high executive function scores during the following three years. Lead researcher Dr. Benham Sabayan adds, "These results show that heart and brain function are more closely related than appearances would suggest… While these results might not have immediate clinical translation, they emphasize that assessment of cognitive function should be part of the evaluation of future cardiovascular risk."

Neurology, August 2015

Health Alert: Traffic Air Pollution Increases Lung Cancer Risk.

Regular exposure to automobile air pollution can increase an individual's risk for lung cancer. Researchers examined data collected from 36 studies regarding professional drivers and found that occupational exposure to air pollution can increase lung cancer risk by 27% and the risk of dying from the disease by 14%.

Thoracic Cancer, May 2015

Diet: Spicy Foods May Extend Lifespan.

Consuming spicy foods on a regular basis may lower an individual's risk for premature death from cancer, ischemic heart disease, and respiratory disease. Researchers found that participants who ate spicy foods three to seven days a week were 14% less likely to have died during the seven-year study than participants who ate spicy foods less than once a week.

British Medical Journal, August 2015

Exercise: Exercise Helps Patients with Vascular Dementia.

University of British Columbia researchers report that patients with vascular dementia can improve their memory by simply going for walks on a regular basis. In the study, patients with vascular dementia who walked three times a week at a moderately brisk pace performed better on memory and attention tests than those who did not exercise. Furthermore, those who walked also lost weight and lowered their blood pressure.

Alzheimer's Association International Conference, July 2015

Chiropractic: Teen Athletes Get Fewer Musculoskeletal Injuries!

Compared with non-athletic adolescents, teen athletes are less likely to experience neck and back pain. Researchers polled 1,865 participants at the 2012 Quebec summer games and 707 non-athletes from local schools. Not only are teen athletes significantly less likely to report neck pain, upper back pain, and lower back pain but when they do, they are also less likely to miss school because of it.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, August 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Online Program Can Improve Hand Washing.

An online program that encourages people to wash their hands has been found to reduce the spread of cold and flu viruses within families. The free program, called PRIMIT, offers four weekly sessions that provide simple steps to help participants avoid catching and passing on viruses, monitor users' hand washing habits, and provide feedback. The study included more than 20,000 people who were randomly assigned to use PRIMIT or to a control group that did not visit the website. During the sixteen-week program, 51% of people in the PRIMIT group had at least one respiratory infection, compared with 59% in the control group. Study author Dr. Paul Little notes, "A simple, cheap internet program to encourage hand washing can reduce the risk of infection by around 14 percent."

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, September 21st, 2015

Mental Attitude: Childhood Trauma Can Worsen Bipolar Disorder Symptoms.

Researchers from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City report the presence of childhood trauma – including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and emotional and physical neglect – has been associated with a more severe clinical presentation among patients with bipolar disease.

Psychiatry Research, August 2015

Health Alert: Septic Tanks May Allow Human Waste into Nearby Waterways.

A new study suggests that septic tanks don’t prevent fecal bacteria from seeping into nearby rivers and lakes. Researchers analyzed 64 river systems and found bacterial concentrations were highest where there were higher numbers of septic systems in the watershed area. Previously, experts thought soil worked as a natural treatment system that could filter human sewage. Dr. Joan Rose, an international expert in water microbiology, water quality, and public health safety adds that the study "has important implications on the understanding of relationships between land use, water quality, and human health as we go forward."

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, August 2015

Diet: Spinach Extract May Help Curb Hunger.

Men with above-average blood pressure may want to consider eating more spinach. A study involving thirty men revealed that consuming a spinach extract containing thylakoids reduced cravings for saltier foods over the following two hours. Co-author Dr. Frank L. Greenway summarizes, "The reduction in hunger and the desire for salty food that we saw in this study might make thylakoids particularly useful for [males] with high blood pressure and associated weight problems."

Journal of the American College of Nutrition, June 2015

Exercise: Could a New Molecule Mimic Exercise?

Scientists have developed a molecule called "compound 14" that may one day help type 2 diabetics and obese patients reduce blood glucose levels and improve glucose tolerance. In a study on mice, researchers observed that compound 14 mimics the effect of exercise by causing cells to "think" they have run out of energy, thereby causing them to increase glucose uptake and metabolism. Obese mice that consumed the molecule for seven days lost weight and had more normal blood sugar readings than obese mice that just ate their normal diet.

Chemistry & Biology, July 2015

Chiropractic: Specific Chiropractic Technique Helps Stenosis Pain and Disability.

A study involving thirty patients with lumbar spinal stenosis found that flexion-distraction is an effective intervention for reducing both the pain and disability associated with this condition. In the study, half of the patients underwent a course of physical therapy while the other half received flexion-distraction treatments three times a week for six weeks. While both groups reported improvements in pain and disability, the results were more significant in the flexion-distraction group.

Journal of Physical Therapy Science, June 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Urine Test Could Catch Pancreatic Cancer Sooner.

Researchers have uncovered a biomarker for pancreatic cancer that can be detected in urine samples. The discovery may pave the way for a low-cost, noninvasive test that could detect the disease in its earlier stages. Currently, early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is uncommon, with approximately 80% of patients being diagnosed at later stages. Lead researcher Dr. Tatjana Crnogorac-Jurcevic explains, "We've always been keen to develop a diagnostic test in urine as it has several advantages over using blood. It's an inert and far less complex fluid than blood and can be repeatedly and noninvasively tested... This is a biomarker panel with good specificity and sensitivity and we're hopeful that a simple, inexpensive test can be developed and be in clinical use within the next few years."

Clinical Cancer Research, August 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, September 14th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Peers and Parents Influence Teen Alcohol and Tobacco Use.
Among a sample of 2,490 German students, researchers found that peer smoking, peer drinking, and parental drinking were all associated with a 200% greater risk that a teen would experiment with and or regularly use cigarettes and alcohol.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence, July 2015

Health Alert: Nicotine in E-Cigarettes Poses Danger to Kids.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the increasing popularity of electronic cigarettes has led to an increase in cases of nicotine poisoning by young children. Experts say that a nicotine overdose can cause anxiety, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, loss of consciousness, or even death. To keep all sources of nicotine out of children's reach, the Food and Drug Administration proposes adding warning labels and child-resistant packaging to liquid nicotine products. Dr. Jonathan Foulds, a professor of public health sciences at Penn State College of Medicine adds, "Simply put, nicotine is a poison and consumers need to take responsibility for keeping it away from children, whether it is in a childproof container or not."
Penn State University, July 2015

Diet: Binge Eating Can Cause a Number of Health Problems.
Eating large amounts of food very quickly and having no control over this behavior is known as binge eating. Potential risks of binge eating include depression, increased stress, increased suicidal thoughts, difficulty sleeping, headaches, joint problems, digestive problems, muscle pain, weight gain, and issues with menstruation.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney, August 2015

Exercise: Many Free Fitness Apps Don’t Meet Recommended Guidelines.
If you are looking for a smartphone app to help improve your exercise regimen, it may be harder than you think. Researchers found that only one of thirty popular free fitness apps meets the majority of physical activity guidelines from the American College of Sports Medicine. The top-rated app in the study was the Sworkit Lite Personal Workout Trainer App. The rating was based on evaluating adherence to specific medical guidelines regarding safety, warm-ups, cool–downs, stretching, intensity, frequency, and progression. Lead author Dr. François Modave writes, "While apps have great potential to give more people access to workouts that could help them achieve a healthy weight and fitness level, we found that the vast majority of apps are not as safe as they could be and do not give users the type of well-rounded workouts known to be most effective."
Journal of Medical Internet Research, July 2015

Chiropractic: Eye Surgeons Get Neck Pain Too!
Musculoskeletal injuries can affect workers in many industries, even skilled surgeons. A new study published in the journal Current Opinion in Ophthalmology notes that ophthalmic plastic surgeons are at a high risk for cervical musculoskeletal disorders due to the amount of time they spend working in awkward, prolonged, static, and asymmetric postures. Additionally, wearing equipment on the head such as head lamps and magnifying devices can increase the weight of the head up to 40%, placing extra strain on the neck. Because 10% of cervical injuries in the profession will end a career, the authors of the study recommend that ophthalmic plastic surgeons take neck pain seriously and seek professional help when needed.
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology, July 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Self-Monitoring of Blood Sugar Good for Diabetics.
A small study reveals that personalized blood sugar self-monitoring benefits individuals with type 2 diabetes, even if they’re not taking insulin. The study included eleven type 2 diabetics who were taught to react to their blood sugar level reading in a number of ways, such as eating a healthy snack or going for a walk. By testing their blood sugar levels twice a day and adapting their behavior accordingly, the participants were able to maintain healthier blood sugar levels.
American Association of Diabetes Educators, August 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, September 7th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Deep-Voiced Politicians May Have an Advantage at the Polls.

If they want to get more votes, both male and female politicians may want to practice speaking with a deeper voice. Researchers surveyed 800 adults regarding hypothetical candidates and found that deeper-voiced candidates garnered 60% to 76% of the votes. Study co-author Dr. Casey Klofstad writes, "We think of ourselves as rational beings, but our research shows that we also make thin impressionistic judgments based on very subtle signals that we may or may not be aware of."

PLOS ONE, August 2015

Health Alert: Bigger Families Mean More Sickness.

Being part of a big family boosts the risk of passing on viral infections that cause colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. In a recent study, researchers found viral infections were present in childless households an average of three to four weeks a year. In homes with one child, viral infections were present for 18 weeks a year and the number jumped to 45 weeks a year in homes with six children. Study co-author Dr. Carrie Byington writes, "A lot families go through wave after wave of illness. In fact, some of the kids we monitored had symptoms for 20 to 25 weeks in a row… This study helps us to understand what is normal in young children, and can help us determine when illness should be a cause for concern."

Clinical Infectious Diseases, August 2015

Diet: Meat Intake May Influence a Man’s Fertility.

A new study concerning couples undergoing vitro fertilization treatment has found that males who consume a lot of processed meats have lower fertilization rates than men whose diet contains few, if any, processed meats. Researcher Dr. Natan Bar-Chama writes, "Decreasing processed-meat consumption can now be added to the list of recommendations -- such as to stop smoking, decrease alcohol consumption and lose weight -- that we can offer to men prior to fertility treatments to optimize outcomes."

Fertility & Sterility, August 2015

Exercise: Even a Little Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity Benefits Those Over 60.

An analysis of published research suggests that just a little moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every week can curb the risk of early death among those over the age of 60. Though current recommendations call for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, the data suggests that performing as little as half of the recommended amount can provide health benefits for older adults. The authors conclude, "Based on these results, we believe that the target for physical activity in the current recommendations might be too high for older adults and may discourage some of them... The fact that any effort will be worthwhile may help convince those 60% of participants over 60 years of age, who do not practice any regular physical activity, to become active."

British Journal of Sports Medicine. August 2015

Chiropractic: Should You See a Chiropractor First?

Swiss researchers contacted 719 patients who initially visited either a doctor of chiropractic (DC) or medical doctor (MD) for either spinal, hip, or shoulder pain. The patients who sought care from a DC first reported higher scores for both satisfaction with the care they received as well as the outcome of care. The researchers add that the total costs associated with patients who sought chiropractic care were four-times lower than those who sought medical care first.

Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, August 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Signs of Heat Stroke.

Heat stroke occurs when the body’s heat-regulating system fails to work properly due to high temperature. Potential heat stroke symptoms include having a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher, confusion, irritability, becoming red or flushed, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, headache, rapid heart rate, seizures, and becoming comatose.

Mayo Clinic, August 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, August 31st, 2015

Mental Attitude: Hormones May Lead Financial Traders to Take Bigger Risks. The stressful and competitive environment of the financial world may boost levels of the hormones cortisol and testosterone in financial traders, leading them to invest in riskier assets. In a simulation, male participants who were given doses of cortisol shifted investments towards riskier assets and those given testosterone experienced increased levels of optimism about the future prospects of their choice. The researchers conclude, "Our results suggest that changes in both cortisol and testosterone could play a destabilizing role in financial markets through increased risk taking behavior, acting via different behavioral pathways." Scientific Reports, July 2015 Health Alert: Children May Be Affected By Early Antibiotic Use. According to the findings of a new animal study, multiple courses of antibiotics during early childhood can lead to weight gain, increased bone growth, and altered gut flora. The researchers write that their findings highlight the potential negative impact repeated antibiotic exposure in early life may have on development. Nature Communications, June 2015 Diet: Eating Uncommon Foods May Promote a Healthier Lifestyle. A new report finds that adventurous eaters weigh less and appear healthier than more conservative diners. The findings are the result of a survey the showed that women who ate the widest variety of uncommon foods - including seitan, beef tongue, kimchi, rabbit, and polenta - also rated themselves as healthier eaters, more physically active, and more concerned with the healthfulness of their food when compared with less adventurous eaters. Study co-author Dr. Brian Wansink adds, "These findings are important to dieters because they show that promoting adventurous eating may provide a way for people - especially women - to lose or maintain weight without feeling restricted by a strict diet." Obesity, July 2015 Exercise: Physical Exercise May Reduce Binge Eating. While it makes sense that dietary interventions should reduce binge eating behavior, a new study published in the journal Appetite points to physical exercise as a better strategy. Researchers tracked 180 women for six months and found that those who participated in a physical activity intervention experienced greater reductions in binge eating symptoms than those who received training on making better dietary choices. If these results are confirmed with a larger-scale study, it could lead to new treatment options for people with binge eating behavior. Appetite, July 2015 Chiropractic: Manual Therapies Help TMD Patients. For patients with a temporomandibular joint disorder, manual therapies may be the most effective conservative treatment option. A systemic review of eight published studies indicates that manual therapies had the greatest effect on improving both function and pain associated with temporomandibular joint disorders. This adds to the growing body of research supporting the efficacy of manual therapies, treatments commonly performed by doctors of chiropractic, for the care of TMD patients. Manual Therapy, June 2015 Wellness/Prevention: Keep Kid Safe While Outdoors. Keeping children safe while they exercise and play outside is very important. The eXtension Foundation recommends the following guidelines: never allow kids to play unsupervised; explain to children not to play near a street or driveway; tell children to ask an adult for help when any object rolls into the street; and remove sharp objects, lawn equipment, animal waste, branches, and garbage from outdoor play areas. eXtension Foundation, July 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, August 24th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Atrial Fibrillation May Increase Dementia Risk.

After analyzing data regarding 332,665 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database, researchers report that a diagnosis of AF may increase an individual's risk for dementia by up to 42%, even after adjusting for age, gender, and medication use.

International Journal of Cardiology, July 2015

Health Alert: National Program to Address Sepsis Is Needed!

Sepsis is a condition that occurs when an infection enters the bloodstream, resulting in an inflammatory response throughout the body. Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center report that during a two-year period in California, 240,198 patients were readmitted to hospitals for sepsis (almost as many as heart attack and heart failure combined) leading to $500 million dollars in additional healthcare costs. Experts suggest a national program aimed at improving discharge practices, follow-up care, and instructions for patients on how to properly take their medications will go a long way to reduce sepsis-related complications.

Critical Care Medicine, June 2015

Diet: Food Supply Driving Global Obesity Epidemic.

Is the global obesity epidemic simply due to the oversupply of processed foods? Researcher Dr. Stefanie Vandevijvere writes "Much of the increase in available calories over the decades has come from ultra-processed food products, which are highly palatable, relatively inexpensive, and widely advertised, making overconsumption of calories very easy."

World Health Organization, June 2015

Exercise: Extracurricular Sports Improves Kids' Academics.

Participating in extracurricular sports may help children develop the discipline they need to excel in school. Researchers note that both a child’s attention span and level of self-control can be positively associated with their participation in organized, after-school sports. Study leader Dr. Linda Pagani adds, "There is something specific to the sporting environment – perhaps the unique sense of belonging to a team, to a special group with a common goal – that appears to help kids understand the importance of respecting the rules and honoring responsibilities." She hopes these findings will lead to improved access to parks and playgrounds where children can engage in sporting activities.

American Journal of Health Promotion, July 2015

Chiropractic: What Factors May Increase a Patient's Risk for Another Back Pain Episode?

Researchers conducted MRI scans on 76 patients who had an episode of back pain within the previous three months and followed them for a year in an effort to identify any factors that may indicate whether or not a patient may experience future back pain episodes. After comparing the MRI findings and case history of each patient who had a recurrent back pain episode with those who did not, the researchers found that patients with disk degeneration were 89% more likely to have another episode of back pain within the next twelve months when compared with patients without MRI-confirmed disk generation. For patients with a bulging disk, the risk for a recurrent episode was 84% greater than those without a disk bulge. They also found that each previous episode of back pain increases a patient's risk for a future episode by 4%.

Spine Journal, July 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Maintain a Healthy Weight to Lower Breast Cancer Risk.

Using thirteen years of data concerning 67,142 postmenopausal women, researchers note that obese women (body mass index > 35) have an 86% greater risk of being diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. This news is especially troubling as two-thirds of women in the United States are either overweight or obese.

JAMA Oncology, July 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, August 17th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Major Depression Associated with a Smaller Hippocampus.

A large international study has found that individuals with major depression have a significantly smaller hippocampus (an area of the brain associated with regulating emotions) than those without depression. Dr. Jim Lagopoulos, an associate professor at Brain and Mind Research Institute, says these findings reveal new information about our brain structures and the mechanisms that might underlie depression.

Molecular Psychiatry, June 2015

Health Alert: Smoking's Cost on Society Is Falling!

After adjusting for inflation, the total cost of smoking (healthcare, lost productivity from illness, and lost productivity from premature mortality) in the State of California has fallen 13% since 1999. Experts suggest the state's early adoption of tobacco control strategies has contributed to both the lower number of present day smokers in the state and the reduced intensity of cigarette use among current smokers. Researcher Dr. Wendy Max notes, "The California tobacco control program has been very effective but there remains work to be done, especially in light of the changing landscape of tobacco products."

Nicotine and Tobacco Research, July 2015

Diet: BBQ Grill Brush Wires Can Cause Big Health Woes.

Summer is a great time to cook on the grill; however, using a rusty old grill brush to clean the barbecue can potentially be dangerous. Health experts from the Warren Alpert School of Medicine at Brown University warn that wire bristles from grill brushes can snap off, land on the grate, and can eventually find their way into grilled meats. If swallowed, these bristles can damage a person’s throat and digestive tract. Experts recommend that people who grill toss out their wire brush in favor of a safer options such as bristle-free brushes made of metal coil or brushes with nylon bristles.

Brown University, July 2015

Exercise: You Probably Still Need to Exercise, Even if You Have a Busy Job.

According to a new study, having a busy job may not provide enough exercise to meet the current physical activity recommendations to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD). The small study followed 83 employees working in six occupation groups during a typical work week. Employees wore a pedometer to record steps and energy expenditure. The researchers found that only 6% of the participants reached the recommended amount of 10,000 steps per day during working hours, while 30% were described as "sedentary" (achieving less than 5,000 steps per day).

EuroPrevent Congress, July 2015

Chiropractic: Can Migraines Be Caused By a Neck Problem?

For some patients with migraine headaches, treatments aimed at alleviating nerve compression in the neck may lead to reduced headache severity and frequency, or even lasting relief. This adds to a growing body of research that some patients with migraine headaches may benefit from treatments intended to improve cervical function, such as chiropractic care.

Eplasty, June 2015

Wellness/Prevention: CPR & AED Training Mandatory For High School Graduation?

Experts recommend that both a working knowledge of CPR and the use of an automated electronic defibrillator (AED) should become a graduation requirement for middle and high school students. According to physicians from the Institute of Medicine, less than 6% of the 395,000 Americans who suffer cardiac arrest outside a hospital each year will survive. Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City notes, "By teaching laypersons in public settings the proper use of such devices, we may be able to effectively increase survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest."

National Academy of Sciences, June 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, August 10th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Sepsis May Increase Dementia Risk.

Using data on nearly 12,000 patients from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000, researchers found that a previous diagnosis of sepsis increases dementia risk 2.27 times among females and 3.17 times among males.

Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, July 2015

Health Alert: Many Americans Wait Too Long to Get Healthcare.

A new report notes that some people must wait several months before receiving the healthcare services they need, potentially endangering their health. Experts from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) add that poor management of human resources in healthcare institutions is one of the main reasons patients are unable to get faster care. Three strategies offered by experts at the IOM include: better monitoring of staff resources to meet demand, focusing on patient preferences when scheduling appointments, and providing alternatives to office visits with a doctor, such as telephone consultations with non-physician clinicians.

Institute of Medicine, June 2015

Diet: Sugary Drink Consumption Contributing to Over 180,000 Worldwide Deaths Annually.

Sugary drink consumption in the United States (US) has increased dramatically over the last three decades. Currently, around 50% of the population drinks these types of beverages on a daily basis. Researchers report that in 2010, sugary drink consumption was responsible for around 184,450 deaths worldwide, with 133,000 deaths from diabetes, 45,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease, and 6,450 deaths from cancer. Senior author Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian adds, "Many countries in the world have a significant number of deaths occurring from a single dietary factor: sugar-sweetened beverages. It should be a global priority to substantially reduce or eliminate sugar-sweetened beverages from the diet. There are no health benefits from sugar-sweetened beverages, and the potential impact of reducing consumption is saving tens of thousands of deaths each year."

Circulation, June 2015

Exercise: Drink Water Responsibly When Exercising to Avoid Health Risks.

Experts say that keeping hydrated during exercise is important, but drinking too much water can be hazardous and in some case, can even result in death. Newly published guidelines recommend that drinking when thirsty is the healthiest way for athletes to keep hydrated, reducing the risk of exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH). Excess water intake can lead to EAH, whereby the kidneys are unable to excrete the excess water in the body completely. As a result, the sodium in the body becomes diluted, causing dangerous swelling in cells.

Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, July 2015

Chiropractic: Overuse Injuries Common Among High School Girls.

Compared with young male athletes, young females appear to face a far greater risk for repetitive motion injuries. Researchers observed that the highest overuse injury rate was among girls who ran track, followed by girls who played field hockey and lacrosse. Overall, investigators found that the most overuse injuries involved the lower leg followed by knee and shoulder injuries. The researchers advised that all high school athletes play more than just a single sport, and parents should encourage their children to get the rest and foods they need to stay healthy.

Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, June 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is important for strong and healthy bones, making sure your muscles, heart, lungs, and brain work well and that your body can fight infection. To ensure that you're getting enough vitamin D, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics advises the following: get some sun, but avoid sunburn; eat vitamin D-fortified foods such as milk, cereals, and some forms of orange juice and cheese; eat naturally vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, mushrooms, cheese, beef liver, and egg yolks; and take a vitamin D supplement.

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, July 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, August 3rd, 2015

Mental Attitude: Childhood Trauma May Result in Migraines Later in Life. Canadian researchers say that witnessing domestic violence during childhood may raise an individual's risk for developing migraines in adulthood. The study which included nearly 23,000 men and women found that boys and girls who had witnessed parental domestic violence had a 52-64% greater risk for migraines after age 18 when compared with those with no such history. Headache, June 2015 Health Alert: Is Codeine Safe for Kids? Due to the potential for serious complications such as slowed or difficult breathing, experts at the Food and Drug Administration are investigating whether it is safe for children to consume medicines containing codeine to treat cough and colds. Codeine is converted into morphine in the body, but some individuals process codeine more quickly than normal, which leads to high morphine levels in the blood that can lead to breathing problems. In the meantime, parents are advised to stop giving their child codeine-containing medicines and to seek medical care if they notice any warning signs of slow or shallow breathing, difficult or noisy breathing, confusion, or unusual sleepiness. Medscape Medical News, July 2015 Diet: Restaurant Meals May Be as Bad for Your Waistline as Fast Food. A new study finds that when Americans dine out, whether at a full-service or fast-foot outlet, they consume nearly 200 more calories than when they eat at home. The investigators also found that restaurant goers consume more fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium than those who eat meals prepared at home. Lead investigator Dr. Ruopeng An writes, "These findings reveal that eating at a full-service restaurant is not necessarily healthier than eating at a fast-food outlet… My advice to those hoping to consume a healthy diet and not overeat is that it is healthier to prepare your own foods, and to avoid eating outside the home whenever possible." European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, July 2015 Exercise: Leg Strengthening. Are you looking for a new way to work your legs? Try the Flamingo Balance. To perform this exercise, hold a dumbbell in your right hand while standing with the left hand on your hip. Lean forward while lifting your left leg/foot behind you up to the level of your hip. Now, bring your right arm in front of you and perform a quarter squat on your right leg. Perform a bicep curl by turning the palm to face the ceiling. Touch your left toe down and repeat this exercise at least twelve times before switching to the opposite side. MD Health, July 2015 Chiropractic: Spinal Manipulation Helps Patients with Thoracic Spinal Pain! A review of the existing literature related to the non-invasive, non-drug treatment of thoracic spinal pain found that spinal manipulation, a treatment performed by doctors of the chiropractic, is the only treatment with critically appraised and relevant research demonstrating that it results in statistically significant reductions in thoracic spinal pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, July 2015 Wellness/Prevention: Weight Loss Plus Vitamin D Reduces Inflammation. Chronic inflammation is known to contribute to the onset of several diseases, including cancer. Weight loss is known to help reduce inflammation levels in the body and thus reduce the risk of such diseases. Researchers have found that weight loss, when combined with vitamin D supplementation, has even a greater effect on reducing chronic inflammation than just weight reduction alone. Lead author Dr. Catherine Duggan writes, "Weight loss reduces inflammation, and thus represents another mechanism for reducing cancer risk. If ensuring that vitamin D levels are replete, or at an optimum level, can decrease inflammation over and above that of weight loss alone, that can be an important addition to the tools people can use to reduce their cancer risk." Cancer Prevention Research, July 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, July 27th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Does Smoking Affect Voting Behavior?

Individuals who smoke cigarettes appear to be less likely to vote than nonsmokers. The authors of a new study surveyed 11,626 people and found that 17% of those polled were smokers, and daily smokers were 60% less likely to vote than nonsmokers. Lead author Dr. Karen Albright writes, "On one hand, the result is intuitive. We know from previous research that smokers are an increasingly marginalized population, involved in fewer organizations and activities and with less interpersonal trust than nonsmokers. But what our research suggests is that this marginalization may also extend beyond the interpersonal level to attitudes toward political systems and institutions."

Nicotine & Tobacco Research, May 2015

Health Alert: Dementia May Increase Health Risks Among Hospitalized COPD Patients.

Taiwanese researchers examined data on one million individuals collected between 2000 and 2010 and found that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and dementia have an elevated risk for acute respiratory dysfunction, severe sepsis, and hospital mortality. More specifically, they found that patients with both conditions were 1.38 times more at risk for severe sepsis, 1.39 times more at risk for acute respiratory dysfunction, and 1.69 times more at risk of dying during their hospital stay.

Medicine, June 2015

Diet: High-Fiber Diet May Reduce Type 2 Diabetes Risk.

Eating a fiber-rich diet may lower one's risk for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. The authors of a new study found that those whose diets contain more than 26 grams of fiber each day are 18% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who consume less than 19 grams of fiber per day. When researchers focused on types of fiber, they discovered that people who consume higher amounts of cereal and vegetable fiber are 16-19% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with fiber-poor diets. Interestingly, the researchers found that fruit fiber consumption was not associated with reduced diabetes risk. Study author Dr. Dagfinn Aune concludes, "Taken together, our results indicate that individuals with diets rich in fiber, in particular cereal fiber, may be at lower risk of type 2 diabetes."

Diabetologia, May 2015

Exercise: Avoid Overuse Injuries.

Performing the same exercises day after day can lead to an overuse injury. The Mayo Clinic recommends the following to avoid such injuries: engage in a variety of exercises, don’t do too many exercises in one day, warm up before and cool down after a workout, wear appropriate shoes, and use good form and technique.

Mayo Clinic, June 2015

Chiropractic: Resolution of Daily Cervicogenic Headaches.

A 13-year-old patient with a complaint of daily headaches presented for a trial of chiropractic care. His doctor of chiropractic utilized spinal manipulation to treat cervical and thoracic spinal joint fixations, which a thorough examination had revealed to be the possible underlying cause of the adolescent's chief complaint. The patient reported his headaches resolved during the course of treatment, which consisted of eight visits over two months. This case documents the potential benefits of chiropractic care in the management of headaches in adolescents.

Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, April 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Limited Evidence for Mammograms for Women in Their 40s.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer says that there is limited evidence to support preventative breast cancer screening for women in their 40s. However, they add that for women aged 50 to 75, the research shows that routine mammograms reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer. The revised guidelines recommend routine screening start at age 50 and be done every two years. The expert panel advises that women in their 40s should discuss the pros and cons of mammography screening with their doctor and then make an informed decision.

New England Journal of Medicine, June 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, July 20th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Bullied Teens at Risk for Depression Later in Life.

Teens who are bullied appear to be at a higher risk for depression when they reach early adulthood when compared with their peers who were not bullied during adolescence. The study involved 4,000 teens and found that teenagers who were frequently bullied at age 13 were twice as likely to be depressed at age 18. Of the 4,000 teens involved in the study, 700 reported being bullied more than once a week.

BMJ, June 2015

Health Alert: Poorly Controlled Diabetes Results in Longer Hospital Stays.

Two new studies presented at the 75th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association state that diabetics who fail to control their blood sugar levels tend to have longer and more costly hospital stays. According to researchers, hospital stays for diabetics with poor blood sugar control can last an average of three days longer at a total cost nearly $2,500 greater than diabetics who do a better job at managing their blood sugar levels.

Scripps Health, June 2015

Diet: BPA in Canned Foods Less Common.

A new report claims that up to 30% of canned foods contain the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) in their linings. According to previously published research, BPA exposure may be associated with abnormal fetal development, obesity, and reproductive health issues, among other health problems. The good news is that fewer food manufacturers are using BPA to line the inside of their cans when compared with the available historical data. Renee Sharp, a Director of Research at the Environmental Working Group adds, "Definitely the trend is moving away from BPA, but there is a long way to go."

Environmental Working Group, June 2015

Exercise: Certain Physical Activities Associated with Better Sleep.

Participating in activities such as walking, aerobics, calisthenics, running, weight training, yoga, and Pilates may improve your sleeping habits. Researcher leader Dr. Michael Grandner adds, "Although previous research has shown that lack of exercise is associated with poor sleep, the results of this study were surprising. Not only does this study show that those who get exercise simply by walking are more likely to have better sleep habits, but these effects are even stronger for more purposeful activities, such as running and yoga, and even gardening and golf."

Associated Professional Sleep Societies, June 2015

Chiropractic: Back Pain Associated with Knee Pain.

According to researchers at the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran, patients with knee complaints are significantly more likely to also have a history of lower back pain. Though the researchers were unable to conclude whether or not the relationship between back pain and knee pain is causative in either direction or if both may be secondary to another issue, they do recommend that doctors consider a patient's back pain history when assessing and managing knee pain complaints.

The Journal of the Pakistani Medical Association, June 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Bug Bites & Bee Stings.

While most insect bites aren’t serious, experts advise going to the emergency room if you or your child develop the following ailments after a bite or sting: difficulty breathing, a feeling that your throat is closing, swelling lips, swelling tongue or face, chest pain, racing heartbeat, dizziness, headache, or vomiting. Also, beware of a red rash that looks like a bullseye target or a fever with a spreading red or black spotty rash. Dr. Margaret Parsons, an associate clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California writes, "Although most bug bites and stings do not turn into a severe or even fatal illness like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, it's important to pay attention to your symptoms."

American Academy of Dermatology, May 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, July 13th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Repeat Head Injuries Affect Brain Structure.

A young adult who has previously experienced two or more mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) may have structural changes in his or her brain that could signal a greater risk for dementia later in life. Compared to healthy controls without a history of head injuries, MRI scans of young adults who suffered two or more mTBIs indicate reduced cortical thickness in the areas of the brain associated with visual memories, language comprehension, emotion association, motor control, self-awareness, cognitive functioning, interpersonal experience, contemplating distance, recognition of known faces, and accessing word meaning while reading. Previous research has associated cortical thinning with increased dementia risk.

Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, May 2015

Health Alert: Smartphones May Interfere with Pacemakers.

Though the risk is small, experts in association with the European Society of Cardiology advise patients with pacemakers and other cardiac devices to avoid storing their smartphones in pockets directly over their chest and to hold their phones over their right ear when making a call.

European Society of Cardiology, June 2015

Diet: Western Diet May Be Deadly for Prostate Cancer Patients.

A diet high in red meats, processed meats, refined grains, and high-fat dairy products (often referred to as the Western diet) may increase the risk of early death for people with prostate cancer. During a 14-year study, researchers found that those who ate a predominantly Western diet were 67% more likely to die from any cause than those who ate a more heart-healthy diet. Senior author Dr. Jorge Chavarro adds, "There is currently very little evidence to counsel men living with prostate cancer on how they can modify their lifestyle to improve survival. Our results suggest that a heart-healthy diet may benefit these men by specifically reducing their chances of dying of prostate cancer."

Cancer Prevention Research, June 2015

Exercise: Music Strategy Encourages Patients to Exercise More.

Cardiac rehabilitation patients who listened to a music device equipped with tempo-pace synchronization exercised over 100 minutes more per week than fellow patients who did not have the benefit of such technology. Tempo-pace synchronization helps cue individuals to take their next step and thus helps regulate, maintain, and reinforce the prescribed exercise speed or pace. Senior scientist Dr. David Alter writes, "If this average increase of exercise was sustained for an average 65-year-old male patient, it would correlate with a projected life-expectancy increase of two and a half years."

Sports Medicine, May 2015

Chiropractic: Manual Therapies Help TMD Patients.

An analysis of eight published studies concludes that manual therapies are an effective treatment for patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). In particular, the report notes the efficacy of myofascial release and massage on the masticatory muscles as well as spinal manipulative therapy and mobilization applied to the upper cervical spine. Such treatments are commonly performed by doctors of chiropractic.

Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, June 2015

Wellness/Prevention: Tough Alcohol Laws Reduce Teen Drinking.

Teen drinking rates drop when state alcohol laws get tougher. Researchers developed a scoring system to assess strong alcohol-related policies and found that for every ten additional percentage points earned for strong alcohol-related state laws, teens in that state had an 8% lower risk of drinking and 7% lower risk of binge drinking. Co-author Dr. Timothy Naimi adds, "A large proportion of the adverse effects of alcohol do not occur only to the person consuming alcohol but to other people in society. Part of the duty of society is to regulate dangerous products, not just adverse effects for kids but also for adults who don't drink alcohol."

Pediatrics, July 2015

Weekly Health Update For The Week Of Monday, July 6th, 2015

Mental Attitude: Protect Your Brain with Tai Chi.

With a growing senior population, age-related cognitive decline has become a major public health issue. A review of nine studies that included 632 participants found that regularly performing Tai Chi appears to have a protective effect against age-related cognitive decline. According to researchers, Tai Chi practitioners fared better than members of a control group on a variety of outcome assessments that measured memory, rate of learning, short-term verbal recall, spatial processing, visual attention, task switching, and reaction time.

American Journal of Preventative Medicine, July 2015

Health Alert: Can Noisy Neighborhoods Cause Weight Gain?

Swedish scientists say their research indicates that noise from traffic, trains, and planes may play some role in the obesity epidemic. In their study published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, they note that an individual's risk for a larger waist size increases 25% if they are exposed to either traffic, train, or plane noise on a routine basis, and their risk increases to 50% if they are regularly exposed to all three sources! It is believed that traffic noise may increase the levels of cortisol in the body, the stress hormone that has been observed to stimulate the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area. Lead researcher Dr. Charlotta Eriksson adds, "Traffic noise should be recognized as an important environmental health hazard that needs to be taken into consideration in urban planning."

Occupational & Environmental Medicine, May 2015

Diet: Drinking Water Helps Kids Think.

Could the simple act of drinking water give your child the edge he or she needs to perform better at school than their peers? According to a study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, the answer may be yes. The study involved 63 third graders who performed a variety of tests designed to measure their executive function skills over a three-day period. The researchers kept track of each child's food and beverage intake and found that those who consumed the most water were best able to stay on task when presented with difficulties and distractions.

Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, June 2015

Exercise: Swim!

Swimming is a great exercise that burns calories, is easy on the joints, helps manage weight, and builds both muscular strength and endurance. It also improves cardiovascular fitness, cools you off, refreshes you on hot summer days, and is an activity you can perform safely into old age.

MedicineNet, May 2015

Chiropractic: Possible Benefits for Those with Fibromyalgia.

A new study reveals the benefit of chiropractic treatment in the management of fibromyalgia. During a three-month study, 120 women with severe fibromyalgia received treatment that included education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an exercise component. One half of the group also received chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine during this time. Outcome assessments showed the group who also received chiropractic care experienced greater overall improvement when compared with the group who did not receive spinal manipulative therapy. The researchers conclude that adding chiropractic care to current treatment plans for fibromyalgia patients may improve their overall results.

Rheumatology International, July 2015

Wellness/Prevention: A Healthy Lifestyle Can Prevent Over a Third of Female Colon Cancers.

After analyzing decades of health and lifestyle data concerning over 200,000 female nurses, researchers claim that living a healthy lifestyle may prevent up to 37% of colon cancer cases among women. Lifestyle factors that may have a protective effect against the development of the disease include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, no/moderate alcohol consumption, not smoking, taking a daily multivitamin, and consuming over 700 mg of calcium per day.

Cancer Causes & Control, June 2015