Chiropractic: High Force / High Repetition Jobs Can Nearly Triple a Worker’s CTS Risk!
Previous research indicates that repetitive motions performed at work can increase an individual’s risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). An evaluation of data from six different studies found that workers who perform jobs involving high repetition in addition to high forces are as much as 2.95 times more likely to develop CTS than those whose job activities include neither.
Diet: Vitamin C Associated with Lower Cataract Risk.
An analysis of data from twenty published studies indicates that increased vitamin C intake is associated with a reduced risk for developing nuclear cataracts and posterior subcapsular cataracts. Study participants with the highest intake levels were nearly 20% less likely to develop cataracts compared with those who consumed the least vitamin C. The authors of the analysis note advise that “[vitamin] C intake should be advocated for the primary prevention of cataract.”
Wellness/Prevention: Eat More Carrots to Reduce Diabetes Risk!
A diet rich in alpha-carotene and beta-carotene can reduce a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 22%. The most common source of carotenes in the American diet is carrots; however, pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potato, spinach, and broccoli are also great food sources of alpha-carotene and/or beta-carotene.
Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases, December 2014
Chiropractic: Back Pain Is #1 Ailment Among Golfers!
Those who want to keep their golf game strong should focus on maintaining a healthy back. A recent study noted that low back pain accounts for 54% of all golf-related ailments.
One of the most common questions we get from patients is: “What’s the best sleeping position?” Considering you spend nearly one-third of your life sleeping, this is an important question to ask! Top researchers have found one of the best positions to sleep is on your side with your head supported, shoulders centered, and a pillow between your legs. This allows for the best alignment of your spine and reduces the pressure on your neck, low back, hips, and legs – all of which leads to a more restful night of sleep.
Why it Matters:
Sleeping is the time where your body can maximize rest and recovery. Not only can a lack of sleep cause grogginess the next day, but chronic sleep issues can lead to depression, insomnia, and even make aches and pains worse! If you have ever woken up with a “crick” in your neck, you know how taxing an awkward sleeping position can be on your spine. Maintaining a neutral position and keeping your spine in alignment overnight is an essential part of waking up energized and ready to conquer the day.
Chronic sleep disturbances have been linked to depression and many common pain syndromes.
Maintaining proper spinal alignment at night can decrease your aches and pains.
Sleeping on your side with your head and legs supported is the best sleep position for your spine.
Next Steps:
Tonight, when you lie in bed, take a look and make sure your nose and belly button are in alignment. If they are, it’s a good sign your spine is in both an optimal and comfortable sleep posture. Then, take a small pillow and place it between your knees to give your legs and hips that proper added support. Following these quick tips will help you get into the best position to have a great night’s sleep.
Exercise: Light Activity Good for Seniors’ Hearts.
Light physical activity appears to benefit older adults’ hearts even if they suffer from mobility issues. Research involving almost 1,200 elderly adults with limited mobility revealed that those who fit some movement into their day, such as light housework or slow walking, had a lower risk of suffering a heart attack over the following ten years. Senior researcher Dr. Thomas Buford adds, “I think this and other studies are showing us it’s never too late for people to benefit from physical activity.”
Journal of the American Heart Association, February 2015
Diet: Unhealthy Foods on the Rise in Developing Nations.
While citizens in wealthier nations may be eating healthier foods, developing nations are consuming more processed meats and sugar-sweetened drinks than ever before. Senior study author Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian warns, “There is a particularly urgent need to focus on improving diet quality among poorer populations. If we do nothing, under-nutrition will be rapidly eclipsed by obesity and non-communicable diseases, as is already being seen in India, China, and other middle-income countries.”
Wellness/Prevention: Lowering Diabetes Risk Among Pre-Diabetics.
University of Michigan Medical School researchers have found that healthy weight-loss strategies can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes among prediabetics by as much as 28% over a three-year period.
Chiropractic: Prevention Is Key to Avoid Back Pain.
The American Chiropractic Association offers these suggestions to help protect your back and improve your spinal health: maintain a healthy diet and weight, exercise regularly, maintain proper posture, avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest, quit smoking, and use good body mechanics when lifting.
Diet: Experts Say a Little Fat & Sugar OK for Kids if Diet Is Healthy.
Children’s eating habits are a growing concern due to the high prevalence of childhood obesity in the United States and other Western countries. A leading group of pediatricians suggests that a little sugar and fat is okay in a child’s diet if it helps them eat more fruits and vegetables. Researcher Dr. Robert Murray comments, “Think of sweeteners, fat, salt, and spices as ways to make nutrient-rich foods more palatable to children.”