01/20/2026
DAILY HEALTH UPDATE
Tuesday, January 20th, 2026
Health Alert: Stillbirth Rate Down Slightly in 2024.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports
that stillbirths in the United States (US) fell 2% between 2023 and 2024, to 5.4 stillbirths per 1,000 pregnancies of 20
weeks gestation or longer. Experts note that although the US stillbirth rate has been cut roughly in half over the past 40
years, up to 40% of the approximately 20,000 stillbirths that occur each year may be preventable by addressing risk
factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, stress, substance use, and environmental exposures.
CNN, December 2025
Diet: Nutritional Considerations for Plant-Based Diets for Kids.
According to a meta-analysis of data concerning
more than 48,000 children, well-planned vegetarian and vegan diets can support healthy growth and improve
cardiovascular health. However, nutrient deficiencies are possible for vitamin B12, calcium, iodine, and zinc, as well as
protein and fat. It’s advised that parents considering a plant-based eating pattern for their child should consult with a
pediatrician or dietician to ensure ample intake of these key nutrients.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, December 2025
Exercise: Short, Light Exercise Boosts Kids’ Focus and Mood.
Waseda University researchers report that a quick bout
of light-intensity exercise of just 3.5 minutes can improve executive function and elevate mood in children aged 10–14
years. Scientific Reports, December 2025
Chiropractic: Postural Stability and Fall Risk in Older Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain.
Past research has shown that chronic low back pain is associated with impaired balance and postural control, increasing the risk of falls in
older adults. In this study, researchers found that seniors with chronic low back pain rely more heavily on sensory input to
maintain balance, and that deficits—such as reduced visual or tactile feedback—can further compromise postural stability.
For many older patients, chiropractic care may include therapies and exercises designed to address spinal stabilization
weaknesses and proprioceptive deficits. European Spine Journal, October 2025
Mental Attitude: How Mood Disorders May Influence Heart Disease Risk.
Brain imaging of more than 85,000 adults
showed that emotional stress linked to anxiety and depression is associated with heightened amygdala activity, which in
turn is linked to increased inflammation and reduced heart rate variability—both markers of elevated cardiovascular risk.
The study also found that individuals with both anxiety and depression face a 32% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or
heart failure compared with those who have only one of the conditions.
Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging, December 2025
Wellness/Prevention: Managing Hypertension May Reduce Dementia Risk.
Using data from the Atherosclerosis Risk
in Communities and UK Biobank studies, researchers found that white matter hyperintensity (WMH) lesions are an
independent risk factor for dementia. Because WMHs are closely linked to small-vessel damage caused by chronic high
blood pressure, the findings suggest that effective management of hypertension may help reduce dementia risk.
Annals of Neurology, November 2025
Quote: “Worry is a down payment on a problem you may never have.” ~ Joyce Meyer
For More Information on Back Pain, Neck Pain, Headaches,
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Joint Pain, and Whiplash, Go To: www.dkchiroblog.com
This information should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions
must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.
The Evidence Map of Low Back Pain Treatment Options Low back pain is extremely common and remains one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, resulting in substantial healthcare utilization and cost. Because of this broad impact, identifying and implementing effective, safe, and cost-efficien...