Mental Attitude: Smiling Can Boost Your Mood.
Following a review of data from 14 studies published in the last fifty years, researchers conclude that smiling can make people feel happier, scowling can evoke angrier feelings, and frowning can result in the sensation of sadness. Lead researcher Dr. Nicholas Coles writes, “We don’t think that people can smile their way to happiness… But these findings are exciting because they provide a clue about how the mind and the body interact to shape our conscious experience of emotion. We still have a lot to learn about these facial feedback effects, but this meta-analysis put us a little closer to understanding how emotions work.”
Psychological Bulletin, April 2019
Health Alert: Type 1 Diabetics Often Not Aware of Low Blood Sugar Episodes.
Seniors who suffer from type 1 diabetes appear to have trouble avoiding low blood sugar. In this study, researchers monitored 203 type 1 diabetics over the age of 60 and observed that participants spent an average of 72 minutes a day with blood sugar levels of less than 70 mg/dL and 24 minutes a day at less than 54 mg/dL.
Endocrine Society, March 2019
Diet: Omega-3s May Help Patients with Fatty Liver.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) occurs when fat accumulates in the liver from causes other than excessive alcohol consumption. The current research suggests that, due to their anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may be an effective treatment for NAFLD early in the course of the disease.
Nutrients, April 2019
Exercise: Exercise Before Learning Something New?
The current research suggests that engaging in a session of acute exercise before learning new information improves memory encoding.
Brain Science, April 2019
Chiropractic: Spinal Manipulation’s Effect on Leg Range of Motion.
A review of data from eight random controlled trials found that a single application of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) can improve lower limb neurodynamics (length of mobility of various components of the nervous system) and the range of motion of the legs. The authors of the review recommend future research using standardized neurodynamic tests to explore technique types and evaluate the longer-term effects of spinal manipulation. The study shows yet another possible benefit of techniques commonly used by doctors of chiropractic.
Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, February 2019
Wellness/Prevention: Controlling Endometriosis Symptoms.
Endometriosis is a potentially painful condition that occurs when the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. According to the Office on Women’s Health, while there is no cure for endometriosis, there are several treatments that can minimize symptoms such as birth control medication, hormonal therapy, herbs/supplements, acupuncture, and even chiropractic care.
Office on Women’s Health, March 2019
