Health Alert: Viral and Genetic Interaction May Contribute to Multiple Sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks nerves in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. This damage can affect many functions, including the muscles involved in breathing, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. New research suggests that people with a prior Epstein-Barr virus infection and certain genetic variations in human leukocyte antigens (HLA) may have an increased risk of developing MS. These genetic differences may allow Epstein-Barr-infected immune cells to trigger an immune response that damages the myelin sheath, the protective covering surrounding nerve fibers.
Cell, January 2026

Diet: Eat More Fruit!
A systematic review of 151 studies found that higher fruit intake is associated with a lower risk of hypertension and high triglyceride levels.
Journal of Lipid and Atherosclerosis, January 2026

Exercise: Social Seniors Are More Active.
Researchers at Texas A&M University report that older adults with strong social networks, support from family or friends, and regular social participation are more likely to stay physically active—a key factor in healthy aging. In contrast, seniors who experience loneliness or social isolation are more likely to live sedentary lifestyles, which can increase the risk of chronic disease.
Texas A&M University, January 2026

Chiropractic: The Effect of Smartphone Use on the Neck.
Neuromuscular assessments of 40 adults revealed that prolonged smartphone use is associated with increased activity in upper back muscles and altered muscle balance, contributing to changes in sagittal posture and increased strain on the tissues supporting the head, which may raise the risk of neck pain. To reduce the risk of “text neck,” individuals are advised to hold their phone at eye level and to break up prolonged device use with periodic stretching and movement to allow the muscles to rest.
Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, January 2026

Mental Attitude: Depression May Signal Early Brain Disease Risk in Seniors.
According to recent research, depressive symptoms in older adults may be an early indicator of brain changes that can precede neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. These findings suggest that mood changes later in life may sometimes reflect underlying neurological changes that develop in the years before more obvious symptoms appear.
General Psychiatry, December 2025

Wellness/Prevention: Small Daily Changes Linked to Longer and Healthier Life for Seniors.
Analysis of UK Biobank data suggests that modest daily lifestyle changes may extend longevity in older adults. An additional five minutes of nightly sleep, two minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and a half serving more vegetables per day were associated with approximately one additional year of life expectancy. Larger increases—19 more minutes of sleep, two additional minutes of exercise, and two extra daily servings of vegetables—were associated with up to four additional years of healthy life expectancy.
eClinicalMedicine, January 2026