Health Alert: Fatty Liver Disease May Be Linked to Stroke.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition that occurs when fat accumulates in the liver from causes other than excessive alcohol consumption, and it is associated with several poor health outcomes. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers report that NAFLD is associated with a 42% elevated risk of stroke after adjusting for known risk factors. The authors conclude, “These findings suggest that NAFLD is associated with vascular risk; further prospective research is needed to determine whether it should be incorporated into cardiovascular risk assessments.”
International Journal of Surgery, February 2026

Diet: Dietary Strategies to Lower Stomach Cancer Risk.
Researchers at the University of Southern California report that eating fewer processed and preserved foods high in salt, sugar, and nitrites—while emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and a Mediterranean-style diet rich in plant foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fish—may support stomach health and potentially lower stomach cancer risk. Additional lifestyle strategies for reducing gastric cancer risk include consuming smaller, more frequent meals; exercising regularly; maintaining a healthy weight; avoiding smoking; and limiting alcohol consumption.
University of Southern California, January 2026

Exercise: How Exercise May Aid Stroke Recovery...
A recent animal study found that when mice performed low-intensity exercise after a stroke, mitochondria production increased in muscle cells and the organelles were transported by platelets through the bloodstream to help support recovery of damaged neurons and brain tissue. The findings add to a growing body of evidence supporting the role of movement in stroke rehabilitation.
MedComm, January 2026

Chiropractic: Mid-Back Adjustments May Provide Neck Pain Relief.
An umbrella review of seven systematic reviews found that applying spinal manipulative therapy—the primary treatment provided by chiropractors—to the thoracic spine can benefit individuals with neck pain. The authors suggest that stiffness in the mid-back may impair cervical spine function and place added stress on surrounding soft tissues, and restoring mobility to the thoracic spine may help relieve this strain.
Healthcare (Basel), January 2026

Mental Attitude: Grandparenting Linked to Better Brain Health.
According to recent research, older adults who help care for their grandchildren—even on a limited basis—tend to score higher on memory and language tests than peers who are not involved in their grandchildren’s lives. The findings suggest that staying socially and mentally engaged through grandparenting may help support brain health as we age.
Psychology and Aging, January 2026

Wellness/Prevention: Should Fiber Be Listed as an Essential Nutrient?
Nutritionists from University of Otago argue that fiber should be listed as an essential nutrient citing extensive evidence that adequate intake benefits body weight, cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure, and lowers long-term risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and premature death. This designation would elevate fiber’s importance in dietary guidelines and public health policy, encouraging greater intake to support long-term health and disease prevention.
Nature Food, January 2026