WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE
Tuesday, January 7th, 2020
Courtesy of: Michael Ellis D.C.
Health Alert: Secondhand Smoke Puts Kids at Risk for Heart Disease. Using ultrasound, researchers examined 298 children aged 8 to 18 and observed that the kids exposed to secondhand smoke at home had increased stiffness of the abdominal aorta. First author Dr. Michelle Harbin notes, “This paper provides insight that secondhand smoking may predispose young children and adolescents to increased abdominal aorta stiffness… Stiffness in this particular artery has been previously reported to exhibit increased susceptibility to atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of plaques that can restrict blood flow.” Pediatric Research, December 2019 Diet: Fish Oil May Fight Inflammation. In a recent study, researchers observed that consuming an omega-3 fatty acid supplement led to a 24-hour-long increase in anti-inflammatory molecules in the bloodstream. Circulation Research, December 2019 Exercise: Try Working Out to Fast Tempo Music. New research suggests that listening to music with a fast tempo during exercise may delay the onset of neuromuscular fatigue. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, December 2019 Chiropractic: Lowering the Risk for Postpartum Low Back Pain. Low back pain affects roughly 12% of all new mothers. An analysis of lifestyle data concerning 1,807 women who had recently given birth revealed an association between higher prenatal physical activity levels and up to a 45% reduced risk for postpartum low back pain. Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health, November 2019 Mental Attitude: Brains of Kids Born to Depressed Parents Are Different. An analysis of brain imaging data of more than 7,000 boys and girls revealed that a brain structure called the right putamen—which is linked to several functions, including the experience of pleasure—was smaller in children with a parent who had depression compared to children of parents without a history of depression. The research team notes that understanding differences in the brains of children with a family history of depression may help identify those at greatest risk for developing the condition and could lead to improved treatment options. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, December 2019 Wellness/Prevention: Staying Safe When Winter Hiking. Going for a hike during cold weather is a great way to stay active, but it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. The North Country Trail Association offers these winter hiking safety tips: always make sure someone knows where you are going; bring lights, a map, and other safety items; don't forget food, water, and a first aid kit; always wear proper footwear and dress in layers; and keep extra dry, warm clothes in your backpack. North Country Trail Association, December 2019 Quote: “A decision made in anger is never sound.” ~ Ford Frick