DAILY HEALTH UPDATE: Thursday, May 22, 2014 Dr. Jeff Allyn, Berkley Chiropractic Clinic

“Sacrifice is a part of life. It's supposed to be. It's not something to regret. It's something to aspire to.” ~ Mitch Albom

Mental Attitude: Single Motherhood Doesn't Affect Happiness. Despite having to deal with numerous difficulties including financial problems, lack of partner support, and social disapproval, a new study finds that being a single mother does not lead to a decline in a woman's happiness. In some case, the researchers note that being a single parent may even make a woman happier than if she had not given birth or chose to raise her child with a partner. Study co-author Monika Mynarska writes, "Despite all of the difficulties and problems -- or maybe because of them -- the children are moved to the absolute center of the woman's universe and they are the brightest aspect of their lives." Journal of Happiness Studies, April 2014

Health Alert: Smoking, Drinking Combo Increases Risk of Esophageal Cancer. A new study suggests that individuals who both smoke and drink are nearly twice as likely to develop esophageal cancer compared with those who only participate in one of these unhealthy habits. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 18,000 Americans are diagnosed with esophageal cancer each year with over 95% dying from the disease within five years of diagnosis. The authors of the study urge physicians to focus their attention on patients who both smoke and consume alcohol to help control the burden of esophageal cancer.  The American Journal of Gastroenterology, April 2014

Diet: Statin Users Eat More Unhealthy Food. Investigators have found that many Americans who take statins, drugs intended to lower cholesterol levels, seem to think they can eat plenty of unhealthy food without consequences. Today's statin users now consume 9.6% more calories and 14.4% more fat than statin users from just a decade ago. Study author Dr. Takehiro Sugiyama adds, "Statins are used by about one-sixth of adults. We may need to re-emphasize the importance of dietary modification for those who are taking these medications, now that obesity and diabetes are important problems in society." JAMA Internal Medicine, April 2014

Exercise: Exercise May Prevent Brain Damage Caused by Neurodegenerative Disease. According to a past animal study, regular exercise can help prevent brain damage associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers found that exercise allows the brain to rapidly produce chemicals that prevent inflammation, which previous research has shown can damage the brain. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, August 2011

Chiropractic: Options for Bell’s Palsy Patients. A case study involving a 40-year-old male Bell's Palsy patient suggest chiropractic care can dramatically improve symptoms related to this medical condition. The patient complained of facial paralysis to the left side of his face, including the inability to close his left eye. His treatment included skilled spinal manipulation and low level laser therapy. After his first visit, he reported a 70-80% symptom improvement and following his second visit, the patient was fully able to control movement on the left side of his face. Future studies are needed but the results provide hope to patients searching for non-pharmacological relief. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, December 2013

Wellness/Prevention: Smoke-Free Laws Help Prevent COPD Hospitalizations. Individuals who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are 22% less likely to be hospitalized with breathing problems if they live in cities and towns with laws that prohibit smoking in public spaces such as bars, restaurants, and offices. Dr. Norman Edelman, a senior medical advisor for the American Lung Association writes, "Since COPD is such a prevalent disease and it costs so much in terms of care and hospitalization, this is a potentially important finding." American Journal of Public Health, April 2014

For More Information on Back Pain, Neck Pain, Headaches, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and Whiplash, and To Sign Up For Our Daily Health Update Emails, Go To:www.DrJeffAllynBlog.com or our website at:www.berkleychiropracticclinic.com 

(This information is brought to you in conjunction with www.Chiro-Trust.org, it is solely advisory and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.)