This week’s 1-Page Health News

Mental Attitude: Sleep Tight? Children with excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), despite little indication of short sleep from traditional measurements, were more likely to experience problems with learning, attention/hyperactivity and conduct than children without EDS. Obesity, symptoms of inattention, depression, anxiety, and asthma have been found to contribute to EDS. Penn State, May 2012

Health Alert: Obesity Projections! At current projections, 42% of the US population will be obese by 2030, with 11% categorized as severely obese. Severe obesity is defined as a body mass index over 40 or roughly 100 pounds overweight. $550 billion could be saved in the next 20 years just by keeping obesity rates at the current level! American Journal of Preventive Medicine, May 2012

Exercise: Cancer and Exercise. Physical activity is linked to lower rates of breast and colon cancer deaths. Exercise helps moderate insulin levels, reduce inflammation and possibly improve the immune response. Even though direct effects of physical activity on cancer are not definitely proven, given that physical activity is generally safe, improves quality of life for cancer patients, and has numerous other health benefits, adequate physical activity should be a standard part of cancer care. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, May 2012

Active Release: We frequently have patients referred to us from other chiropractors to treat some of the tougher problems that they can’t help. We’re always happy to work with other chiropractors’ patients, and respect the good work that these other docs do. Some of the more common conditions that other chiros refer include hip pain, sciatica, and rotator cuff problems. We use Active Release Techniques to treat the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even the nerves that may be involved in these kinds of problems. Do you know someone who needs our help?

Wellness/Prevention: Commutes Risk Health. Individuals with the longest commutes are least likely to report frequently engaging in moderate to vigorous exercise, and most likely to show risk factors for poorer cardiovascular and metabolic health. Commuting more than 10 miles to work is linked with high blood pressure. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, June 2012

Quote: “Inaction, save as a measure of recuperation between bursts of activity, is painful and dangerous to the healthy organism. Only the dying can be really idle.” ~ H. L. Mencken