Health & Wellness Newsletter - January 2026
Major Breakthroughs in Fitness, Sports Medicine, and Physical Therapy
Rural veterans receive prosthetic care at a local clinic via VA’s Mobile Prosthetic and Orthotic Care (MoPOC) unit. Recent advances are making fitness and rehabilitation more accessible for disabled veterans. For example, the VA’s Mobile Prosthetic and Orthotic Care (MoPOC) program now brings prosthetic and brace services directly to rural veterans, eliminating the need for long trips to distant VA hospitals. Veterans can get fittings, repairs, and adjustments at local clinics, which has led to faster appointments and improved mobility and quality of life. A recent study in Journal of Rural Health found veterans using the MoPOC “reported not just high satisfaction…but real improvements in quality of life,” highlighting how bringing care to veterans “means better outcomes…and healthier lives”.
Another breakthrough is the launch of new adaptive fitness programs tailored to veterans with serious injuries or illnesses. Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) introduced a free online fitness and wellness program for veterans with mobility challenges such as spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis (MS), or ALS. These expert-led virtual classes – which include adaptive exercises, meditation, and breathwork – can be accessed from home and are even open to caregivers. “By removing accessibility barriers to fitness…we are helping improve mental and physical fitness, while cultivating a community of support,” noted PVA’s sports director. Such innovations in sports medicine and therapy are empowering veterans to stay active and heal, regardless of disability.
Major Updates in Nutrition and Supplementation
The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025–2030) emphasize “real food” – a balanced diet of whole foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats. In January 2026, U.S. health officials released the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025–2030, marking a significant reset of national nutrition policy. These new guidelines deliver a clear message to “eat real food” and address the country’s diet-related health crisis. They emphasize consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods – plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, dairy, and healthy fats – while sharply limiting ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and excessive refined carbs. Notably, the guidelines advise prioritizing protein at every meal and even endorse full-fat dairy in moderation, alongside cutting back on sugary drinks and alcohol. Experts have praised the focus on whole foods and plant-based proteins but raised concerns that simply urging Americans to “limit” red meat and alcohol may not go far enough given links to cancer and other risks. Overall, the updated guidance seeks to Make America “healthy again” by encouraging common-sense healthy eating rooted in modern nutrition science.
Emerging research is also shedding light on how specific nutrients impact veteran health. A new VA Million Veteran Program study reported that a high-sodium diet is linked to greater risk of Type 2 diabetes in veterans, whereas higher potassium intake appears protective. In a survey of ~200,000 veterans, those consuming the most salt had an 11% higher rate of developing diabetes, while veterans with diets rich in potassium had a 13% lower rate; notably, a combination of high sodium and low potassium was associated with a 21% higher diabetes risk. These findings suggest that cutting back on salt and eating potassium-rich foods (like fruits and vegetables) could help lower diabetes risk. On the supplementation front, nutrition may even influence mental health: one large VA study found that vitamin D supplementation was associated with a significantly reduced risk of suicide attempts and self-harm in veterans, especially among those who were vitamin D–deficient. Veterans taking vitamin D2 or D3 had nearly 50% lower risk of a suicide attempt compared to those not supplemented, with the greatest benefit seen in Black veterans and those with very low vitamin D levels. While research is ongoing, these developments underscore how smart nutrition and supplementation can directly improve veterans’ physical and mental well-being.
Veteran Administration and Military Updates
In January 2026, the Department of Veterans Affairs and lawmakers announced several initiatives to better support veterans. In Congress, Senator Jerry Moran introduced the Disabled Veterans Dignity Act, a bipartisan bill that would permanently authorize VA’s bowel and bladder care program for veterans with spinal cord injuries (SCI/D). This program reimburses family caregivers or professionals for providing critical care like catheterization and colostomy support to paralyzed or severely disabled veterans who cannot manage these functions on their own. “This care is critical to preventing severe complications and maintaining independence for veterans with SCI/D,” Sen. Moran said, noting the legislation will ensure caregivers are properly trained and promptly paid. Veterans service organizations including Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation applauded the bill, stressing that strengthened bowel/bladder care would “uphold dignity for those who have served and the families who support them”. If enacted, this policy change will improve quality of life for some of the most severely disabled veterans and their caregivers.
At the VA, leadership is focused on modernizing services and infrastructure. The VA announced it will invest an all-time high of $4.8 billion in FY2026 to modernize and repair VA health care facilities nationwide. This is the largest one-year infrastructure investment in VA’s history and will fund hundreds of upgrades – from replacing aging hospital systems (elevators, boilers, electrical) to preparing sites for the new electronic health records system. “Improved facilities, equipment and infrastructure mean better care for Veterans,” VA Secretary Doug Collins said, underscoring that this “historic investment” will help ensure safe, state-of-the-art care environments. On the personnel front, VA is also bolstering services by recruiting 300+ new counselors for its Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program to help disabled veterans achieve their vocational goals. And in military news, the Department of Defense highlighted the continued impact of telehealth and peer support on force readiness. Defense Health officials noted that expanded confidential tele-mental health services have been a “game changer for service members struggling with their mental health,” improving access to care no matter the location. Collectively, these updates – from Capitol Hill to VA hospitals – reflect a concerted effort in January 2026 to put veterans first and strengthen the support systems they rely on.
Mental Health and Resilience Developments
Family, community, and holistic care approaches are central to building veterans’ mental health and resilience. Important strides were made this month in understanding and improving veterans’ mental health. A notable VA research breakthrough found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) – a noninvasive brain stimulation therapy – can significantly alleviate PTSD symptoms. In one of the largest studies to date, VA researchers treated 756 veterans suffering PTSD (many with co-occurring depression) using three different FDA-approved TMS protocols. The results were very encouraging: all three methods produced meaningful improvements, with nearly half of treated veterans achieving full remission from PTSD symptoms. This confirms that TMS, which uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions, is an effective treatment option for PTSD across multiple techniques. It offers a promising, drug-free therapy to veterans who haven’t found relief with traditional counseling or medications. As VA clinicians expand access to TMS, more veterans may find hope in this innovative approach to healing invisible wounds.
Beyond clinical treatments, there is a growing emphasis on holistic and community-based strategies to bolster resilience. The VA Whole Health program, for example, encourages veterans to identify their “Mission, Aspiration, Purpose” after military service and set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic, Timed) for their well-being. This approach recognizes that finding meaning, staying connected, and caring for mind and body are key to mental health. Veterans are also benefiting from expanded telehealth counseling and peer support networks. The Military Health System reported that easy access to tele-mental health services has greatly improved outcomes, letting service members and veterans get help promptly and privately, which is “a huge difference” for those battling issues like PTSD, anxiety, or depression. Meanwhile, veteran-led peer groups and online communities continue to encourage open conversation about mental health challenges, reducing stigma and reminding vets that they are never alone. Overall, January 2026 has seen a strong push toward comprehensive mental wellness – combining cutting-edge treatments like TMS with personal goal-setting, telehealth access, and peer camaraderie – to help veterans build lasting resilience.
Policy and Benefits Updates for Disabled Veterans
January brought several important policy changes and benefits updates aimed at supporting disabled veterans. First, veterans received a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in their VA disability compensation rates effective January 1, 2026. This increase – which mirrors the Social Security COLA – raises monthly disability payments (as well as dependency and indemnity compensation and clothing allowances) by 2.8% across the board. Disabled veterans will see the higher payments in their January disbursements, helping their benefits keep pace with inflation. In addition, a major expansion of ABLE savings accounts took effect this month that can benefit veterans with disabilities. As of Jan. 1, 2026, individuals who developed a qualifying disability before age 46 are now eligible to open tax-advantaged ABLE accounts (up from the previous age cutoff of 26). This change – made possible by the federal ABLE Age Adjustment Act – means many veterans who became disabled later in life (for instance, due to service injuries after age 26) can now save up to $19,000 per year in an ABLE account, tax-free, without jeopardizing eligibility for VA and other benefits. It’s a significant step toward greater financial independence: savings in ABLE accounts do not count against VA disability or other means-tested programs, and funds can be used for a wide range of expenses from housing and transportation to health care. Advocates hail this expanded eligibility as “usher[ing] in an era of greater financial security for more…living with disabilities”.
Other benefit policies were updated to better serve disabled vets. The VA implemented a new rule limiting apportionment of VA disability payments, which took effect in January. In the past, dependents could request that VA split a veteran’s compensation (apportionment) due to financial need – a process that often led to long, complex disputes. Under the new ruling, VA will no longer grant most “need-based” apportionments, deferring such matters to state family courts that are better equipped to handle financial support arrangements. VA will continue to apportion benefits only in special cases (e.g. if a veteran is incarcerated or institutionalized and unable to support dependents). This change reduces administrative burden and potential conflicts, ensuring disabled veterans receive their full VA payments unless a court decides otherwise. Additionally, the VA has increased certain housing and caregiver support benefits. Notably, the maximum grants for the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) program were raised to offset rising construction and material costs. Severely disabled veterans eligible for SAH grants will now have more funding available to modify or build homes suited to their needs – helping them achieve a barrier-free living environment. And starting this month, VA’s caregiver support program (Program of Comprehensive Assistance) expanded eligibility to include veterans of all service eras (ending the previous phase-in by war era), meaning more caregivers of disabled vets can receive stipends and training. From monetary compensation adjustments to savings programs and family support rules, these policy updates in January 2026 are all geared toward enhancing the financial stability and quality of life of disabled veterans.
Training Tips and Practical Fitness Guidance
Staying fit and active post-service is possible for veterans of all ability levels – it just takes smart strategy and consistency. Experts advise beginning the new year by setting realistic fitness goals that fit your current health status and lifestyle. After the structured regimen of military life, it’s important to establish a routine on your own: schedule regular workout times (morning, lunchtime, or evening – whatever works) and treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Start small and build up gradually. For example, if you used to run 5 miles a day in the service but haven’t exercised recently, aim for 1 mile at first and slowly increase distance. Setting achievable short-term targets helps maintain motivation and prevents burnout. Consistency is key – a moderate workout you stick with beats an extreme plan you abandon.
Next, mix up your exercise activities to find what you enjoy and to benefit your whole body. Many veterans discover they need to adapt their fitness routines due to injuries or disabilities, and that’s okay. Try exploring different forms of exercise: Strength training (with free weights or machines) helps maintain muscle and bone density, while low-impact cardio like swimming or cycling builds endurance and heart health. Activities such as yoga or Pilates can improve flexibility, balance, and even mental well-being, which is especially helpful if you have chronic pain or mobility limitations. Even team sports or adaptive sports (wheelchair basketball, cycling, etc.) are great options – they provide a workout and camaraderie. The key is to engage in activities you truly enjoy and to listen to your body’s signals. Take rest days and modify exercises as needed to avoid injury. Remember, your post-service fitness journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
Lastly, support your fitness with healthy nutrition, recovery, and community. Proper nutrition and hydration fuel your progress: focus on lean proteins (for muscle repair), plenty of fruits and vegetables (vitamins and antioxidants), and complex carbs like whole grains for energy. Staying well-hydrated and avoiding excess junk food, sugary drinks, and alcohol will help your body perform and recover better. Also, don’t neglect your mental health – managing stress and sleep is crucial to meeting your fitness goals. Practices like mindfulness or meditation can reduce anxiety and improve focus, and of course exercise itself is a proven mood-booster. If you’re struggling with motivation, try partnering up or joining a group. Staying connected with fellow veterans in fitness activities can provide accountability and moral support. There are many veteran-specific programs to tap into as well: VA’s MOVE! program offers coaching on exercise and weight management, and VA Adaptive Sports programs provide training and competition opportunities for veterans with disabilities. Organizations like Team Red, White & Blue and local veterans’ YMCA programs hold group workouts and wellness events that build a sense of belonging. In summary, by setting smart goals, keeping a routine, varying your workouts, eating right, and leaning on the veteran community, you can maintain physical fitness and rebuild strength at your own pace. Every bit of progress – no matter how small – is a victory for your health.
Resources and Tools for Health and Wellbeing
An array of free tools and resources are available this year to help veterans improve their health and wellness. On the technology side, VA’s mobile apps can be great self-care companions. One example is the Live Whole Health app, which lets veterans practice mindfulness, set personal health goals, and track their progress toward those goals right from their smartphone. This app is part of VA’s Whole Health initiative and includes features like guided meditations, breathing exercises, and journals to support both physical and mental health in daily life. Another highly recommended tool is the PTSD Coach mobile app, developed by the VA’s National Center for PTSD. PTSD Coach provides reliable, research-backed strategies to manage stress and trauma symptoms on the go. The app includes self-assessments, a customizable “toolbox” of coping skills (for anger, sleep problems, anxiety, etc.), and direct links to support resources. It has already been downloaded over a million times and is praised for putting effective techniques literally in veterans’ pockets. Importantly, VA apps like these are free and secure; they never replace professional care, but they’re excellent supplements to therapy or can be a helpful first step for someone reluctant to seek counseling.
Veterans can also draw inspiration and knowledge from community content like podcasts and reading material. For instance, The Veterans Outlook is a podcast series that features open and honest discussions on veterans’ mental health and wellness. Hosted by a veteran, it offers peer support by sharing real stories of overcoming adversity, managing PTSD, finding faith or purpose, and building resilience in civilian life. Listening to fellow veterans candidly talk about their struggles and growth can foster camaraderie and remind listeners that they are not alone on their journey. Many veterans have also published memoirs and guides about their recovery experiences – these books can be both motivational and practical. Whether it’s a former service member writing about battling depression or a combat medic-turned-fitness coach sharing adaptive workout plans, veteran-authored content often resonates through shared experience. Additionally, don’t overlook the rich trove of online veteran resources. VA’s Make the Connection website, for example, offers a library of video testimonials and articles on health topics (from overcoming substance abuse to navigating VA benefits) – a valuable tool for finding relatable stories and professional guidance. Meanwhile, the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, press 1) remains a critical 24/7 resource for any veteran in emotional crisis, and many newer veteran non-profits offer text or chat support lines as well. In short, whether you prefer a smartphone app, a podcast during your commute, or an informative book or website, there are more tools than ever to empower veterans to take charge of their health. These resources, combined with support from the VA and veteran community, can make 2026 a year of positive steps toward wellness for you and your fellow veterans.
This newsletter is compiled from reputable sources including VA News releases, academic research, government publications, and veteran service organizations. All information is up-to-date as of January 2026.