WEEKLY HEALTH UPDATE
Wednesday, May 27th, 2020
Courtesy of: Micheal Ellis D.C.
Health Alert: Older Carpets Harbor Potentially Dangerous Toxins. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of chemicals that are linked to serious health risks such as impaired neurodevelopment, immune system dysfunction, hormone disruption, and cancer. In a recent study, researchers detected 40 different PFAS chemicals in carpets collected from 18 childcare centers in California, which suggests that older carpets may act as a source for PFAS in these environments. The authors of the study recommend that schools, families, and childcare centers replace their old carpeting with PFAS-free carpets to help protect children. Chemosphere, April 2020 Diet: Sugar Intake Linked to Low-Grade Inflammation. The current research suggests that high sugar intake may lead to a higher population of the type of bacteria in the gut that are associated with systemic inflammation. Nutrients, May 2020 Exercise: Can Wearing a Weighted Vest Aid Weight Loss? In a recent experiment involving 69 obese adults, those who wore a 24.3 lbs (11.02 kg) vest eight hours a day for three weeks lost an average of 3.5 lbs (1.59 kg). EClinicalMedicine, April 2020 Chiropractic: Orthopedic Surgeons Face Musculoskeletal Woes. Questionnaires completed by orthopedic surgeons and residents in Singapore revealed that neck, back, and wrist symptoms are common complaints among members of this group, particularly among those further along in their career. The study highlights the need for targeted ergonomic interventions to prevent musculoskeletal injuries among orthopedic surgeons. Doctors of chiropractic treat many work-related musculoskeletal injuries with a conservative treatment approach, which may include ergonomic training to reduce risk of re-injury. Malaysian Orthopedic Journal, March 2020 Mental Attitude: Use Self-Compassion During Difficult Times. Researchers report that the brain regions associated with threat and pain are more active in individuals who become critical of themselves when faced with rejection or disappointment. Meanwhile, the research team observed a drop in such activity among participants who practice self-compassion during trying times. Scientific Reports, April 2020 Wellness/Prevention: Smoking and Unplanned Doctor Visits. New research suggests that a diabetic smoker is 22% more likely to make at a least one unplanned medical visit over the next three years than a diabetic nonsmoker, typically for a pain-related condition. BMC Health Services Research, May 2020 Quote: “Real riches are the riches possessed inside.” ~ B. C. Forbes