Mental Attitude: Too Much TV/Social Media Increases Depression Risk for Teens.
New research that looked at the mental health status of 4,000 Canadian teenagers suggests that adolescents who spend an above-average amount of time on either social media or watching TV are more likely to experience depressive symptoms.
JAMA Pediatrics, July 2019
Health Alert: Improving Good Cholesterol Levels May Reduce Diabetes Risk.
When it comes to reducing the risk for type 2 diabetes, the results of a new study suggest that individuals should also pay attention to their high-density lipoprotein (HDL or the “good” cholesterol) levels. In particular, a review of five years of data concerning 5 million adults found that individuals with low HDL cholesterol readings had up to a 20% increased risk for type 2 diabetes.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, August 2019
Diet: Tart Cherry Juice Is Good for the Brain.
According to a new study involving 34 seniors, participants who drank 16oz of tart cherry juice daily for twelve weeks experienced improvements related to both cognitive function and subjective memory. Lead author Dr. Sheau Ching Chai writes, “The potential beneficial effects of tart cherries may be related to the bioactive compounds they possess, which include polyphenols, anthocyanins and melanin. They may also be related to tart cherry’s potential blood-pressure lowering effects, outlined in a previous study we conducted in the same population, as blood pressure can influence blood flow to the brain.”
Food & Function, July 2019
Exercise: Kids with More Friends Are More Active.
Among a sample of about 200 Canadian middle-school students, researchers observed that kids with more friends tended to be more physically active.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, August 2019
Chiropractic: Headache and Low Back Pain Linked?
A review of data from several studies, including one that included over 400,000 participants, found that individuals with persistent low back pain have an elevated risk for primary headache disorders. Both conditions are commonly treated in chiropractic offices, often with spinal manipulation, exercises, and nutritional recommendations.
Journal of Headache and Pain, July 2019
Wellness/Prevention: Relaxation Techniques to Reduce Stress.
Stress is a normal part of life, but long-term stress can lead to digestive issue, headaches, sleep disorders, and other health issues. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that relaxation techniques can help release tension and reduce stress. Recommended relaxation techniques include the following: deep breathing, guided imagery, progressive relaxation, meditation, and yoga.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, July 2019