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Bacteria Found to Eat Forever Chemicals & Even Some of Their Toxic Byproducts

The AHA! Team — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:36:09 +0000

University at Buffalo via EurekAlert! – University at Buffalo study shows that strain taken from contaminated soil breaks apart the strong carbon-fluorine bonds of PFAS, as well as some of the shorter-chain PFAS left behind In the quest to take the “forever” out of “forever chemicals,” bacteria might be our ally. Most remediation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) involves adsorbing and trapping them, but certain microbes can actually break apart the strong chemical bonds that allow these chemicals to persist for so long in the environment. Now, a University at Buffalo-led team has identified a strain of bacteria that can break down and transform at least three types of PFAS, and, perhaps even more crucially, some of the toxic byproducts of the bond-breaking process. A strain of bacteria that can break down and transform at least three types of PFAS Published in this month’s issue of Science of the Total Environment, the team’s study found that Labrys portucalensis F11 (F11) metabolized over 90% of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) following an exposure period of 100 days. PFOS is one of the most frequently detected and persistent types of PFAS and was designated hazardous by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last year. The F11 bacteria also broke down a substantial portion of two additional types of PFAS after 100 days: 58% of 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid and 21% of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate. The bond between carbon and fluorine atoms in PFAS is very strong “The bond between carbon and fluorine atoms in PFAS is very strong, so most microbes cannot use it as an energy source. The F11 bacterial strain developed the ability to chop away the fluorine and eat the carbon,” says the study’s corresponding author, Diana Aga, PhD, SUNY Distinguished Professor and Henry M. Woodburn Chair in the Department of Chemistry, within the UB College of Arts and Sciences, and director of the UB RENEW Institute. Unlike many prior studies on PFAS-degrading bacteria, Aga’s study accounted for shorter-chain breakdown products — or metabolites. In some cases, F11 even removed fluorine from these metabolites or broke them down to minute, undetectable levels. “Many previous studies have only reported the degradation of PFAS, but not the formation of metabolites. We not only accounted for PFAS byproducts but found some of them continued to be further degraded by the bacteria,” says the study’s first author, Mindula Wijayahena, a PhD student in Aga’s lab. The work was supported by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, part of the National Institutes of Health. Other collaborators include the Catholic University of Portugal, the University of Pittsburgh and the Waters Corp. Picky eaters learn to like PFAS PFAS are a group of ubiquitous chemicals widely used since the 1950s in everything from nonstick pans to fire-fighting materials. They’re far from the meal of choice for any bacterium, but some that live in contaminated soil have mutated to break down organic contaminants like PFAS so that they can use their carbon as an energy source. “If bacteria survive in a harsh, polluted environment, it’s probably because they have adapted to use surrounding chemical pollutants as a food source so they don’t starve,” Aga says. “Through evolution, some bacteria can develop effective mechanisms to use chemical contaminants to help them grow.” The bacterial strain used in this study, F11, was isolated from the soil of a contaminated industrial site in Portugal and had previously demonstrated the ability to strip fluorine from pharmaceutical contaminants. However, it had never been tested on PFAS. Collaborators from the Catholic University of Portugal placed F11 in sealed flasks with no carbon source aside from 10,000 micrograms per liter of PFAS. Following incubation periods of between 100 to 194 days, the samples were then shipped to UB, where analysis revealed that F11 had degraded some of the PFAS. The elevated levels of fluoride ions detected in these samples indicated that F11 had detached the PFAS’ fluorine atoms so that the bacteria could metabolize the carbon atoms. F11 was not only chopping PFOS into smaller pieces, but also removing the fluorine from those smaller pieces “The carbon-fluorine bond is what makes PFAS so difficult to break down, so to break them apart is a critical step. Crucially, F11 was not only chopping PFOS into smaller pieces, but also removing the fluorine from those smaller pieces,” Wijayahena says. Some of the metabolites left behind still contained fluorine, but after being exposed to PFOS for 194 days, F11 had even removed fluorine from three PFOS metabolites. “As a caveat, there could be other metabolites in these samples so miniscule that they elude current detection methods,” Aga says. Making PFAS a desirable menu item While UB researchers say their study is a good start, they caution that the F11 took 100 days to biodegrade a significant portion of the supplied PFAS, and there were no other carbon sources available for consumption. The team now plans to research how to encourage F11 to consume PFAS faster, even when there are competing energy choices that could increase their growth rate. “We want to investigate the impact of placing alternative carbon sources alongside the PFAS. However, if that carbon source is too abundant and easy to degrade, the bacteria may not need to touch the PFAS at all,” Aga says. “We need to give the F11 colonies enough food to grow, but not enough food that they lose the incentive to convert PFAS into a usable energy source.” Eventually, F11 could be deployed in PFAS-contaminated water and soil. This might involve creating conditions to grow the strain within activated sludge at a wastewater treatment plant, or even injecting the bacteria directly into the soil or groundwater of a contaminated site, a process called bioaugmentation. “In wastewater- activated sludge systems, you could accelerate removal of undesired compounds by adding a specific strain to the existing bacterial consortium in the treatment plants,” Aga says. “Bioaugmentation is a promising method that has not yet been explored for PFAS remediation in the environment.” Journal Science of The Total Environment DOI 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.178348 Method of Research To read the original article about Bacteria Found to Eat Forever Chemicals click here.

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Cystic Acne Treatment Through Dietary Changes & Beyond

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:11:16 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever had large, red, painful breakouts? These cystic acne breakouts can affect both men and women as young as 8 or as old 50. The face is the most common and concerning area of occurrence, but other problem areas can include the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders. Cystic acne, which is way worse than just any old pimple, is actually the most severe form of acne possible. Common medical treatment for cystic acne might work, but some have very serious side effects. A natural way to fight cystic acne is to address the gut-skin connection with the use of probiotics through food, supplements and home remedies for acne. In fact, way back in 1961, a case report found that out of 300 acne patients given a probiotic, 80 percent had clinical improvement. Read on to learn how you can naturally treat your cystic acne and have clear skin once again. What Is Cystic Acne? Also called nodulocystic acne and similar to nodular acne, cystic acne is an intense form of acne that results in large, inflamed cysts and nodules that appear on the skin. Unlike other milder forms of acne, cystic acne is noticeably painful and occurs when oil and dead skin cells build up deep down in hair follicles or pores. Cystic acne is most common during puberty for young boys, but sadly, it can continue into the adult years, especially when there is a hormonal imbalance. For adult women, it’s common to to experience cystic acne around their menstrual cycles, especially on the the jawline and chin, which are the common areas for hormonally motivated breakouts. It’s more serious than hormonal acne, which occurs with both men and women when undergoing significant hormonal changes, such as aging, pregnancy or stress. In contrast, cystic acne can happen at any age because of dietary sensitivities and an overproduction of sebum. Symptoms Acne vulgaris is the medical name for common acne. Acne conglobata, or cystic acne, is a more serious and rarer form of acne that occurs mainly in young men, but it can affect people of both sexes and various ages. When you have cystic acne, your skin’s pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It becomes cystic acne when the pore ruptures underneath the skin, which causes the inflammation to spill out into the surrounding skin tissue. This chain reaction can continue in the skin, triggering wider inflammation, spreading more acne bacteria and more breakouts. Next, your body forms a cyst around the area to stop the inflammation from spreading further. Symptoms of cystic acne include: large, red and painful breakouts on the face, chest, back, upper arms, shoulders and/or thighs nodules that appear as raised, red bumps that generally do not have whiteheads showing — they can resemble a keloid lesions that are usually felt beneath the skin before they’re seen more visible acne that produces cysts and nodules in addition to papules and pustules breakouts that are painful to the touch or even when not touched decrease in self-esteem and mood and increase in psychological distress, especially when cystic acne occurs on the face The unique appearance of a cystic acne is due to the acute damage to the oil gland causing intense inflammation and irritation, which leads to redness, swelling and soreness. Cystic acne is easy to diagnose by a dermatologist and does not require any special tests. Causes Cystic acne can be caused by or related to: Genetics Hormonal changes, including polycystic ovary syndrome High levels of humidity and sweating Pore-clogging and irritating face and body care products Some drugs and chemicals (for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, isoniazid), which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne Cystic acne often runs in families. If one or both of your parents had severe cystic acne, then you have a greater chance of having it as well. It’s most common in teenage boys and young men. It’s believed that hormones called androgens can play a part in the development of cystic acne in teens when there is an increase in androgens. This increase leads to changes in your skin that can result in clogged pores and acne. Cystic acne doesn’t only affect men, though. For women, hormone changes that trigger cystic acne can be brought on by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. Conventional Treatment Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, but over-the-counter remedies aren’t always enough to treat this form of acne. If any, benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial treatment that is most often used to treat acne and may help less severe cystic acne. Instead, many people opt to see a dermatologist in order to get diagnosed and then prescribed medications to treat cystic acne. The most effective conventional medicine for cystic acne is isotretinoin (Accutane), which actually is derived from vitamin A. While most people experience a reduction in acne lesion counts, adverse events are common, especially overly dry skin, mood issues and decreased appetite. If the cystic acne covers a lot of skin, a dermatologist may want to prescribe oral antibiotics. While these can work against the inflammation and bacteria, they don’t address the excess oil or dead skin cells. Because of antibiotic resistance, they should only be used in the short term, if at all. Topical retinoids also may be used and are related to vitamin A, but in general they’re not sufficient to address cystic acne. They can also make your skin red and peel — plus make it very vulnerable to sunburn. Another prescription medication is spironolactone (Aldactone), a diuretic that usually is used for edema as well as high blood pressure. It’s also used for acne but mostly just women who have acne around their jawline. Its side effects can be serious and should not be taken if planning to become pregnant. Natural Remedies 1. Avoid these foods Conventional Dairy: Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, conventional dairy products can be hard on the digestive system. Many people see an improvement in their acne when they cut down or eliminate dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream. If you want to check if dairy is a culprit, try eliminating it from your diet for two weeks to see if your cystic acne improves. If it does, then you know that dairy is not agreeing with you. You can choose to remain dairy-free, or you can slowly reintroduce dairy back into your diet. Choosing better-quality dairy can be helpful as well. Sugar: Sugar and other high-glycemic foods (like breads and pasta) can make inflammation in your body worse. The more inflammation you have, the worse your cystic acne will be. Try natural sweeteners instead. Consuming excess amounts of sugar and grain products can also feed yeast and candida in the body, increasing the presence of acne on the skin. Caffeine and chocolate: Many experts like to say that there is no link between caffeine and chocolate consumption and breakouts. However, there is no doubt that caffeine consumption has a direct impact on your hormonal balance. In particular, caffeine overdose can raise the stress hormone known as cortisol, which can cause cortisol face. By reducing or eliminating various sources of caffeine, like coffee, tea and chocolate, you can help keep your hormones in better balance and clear up your cystic acne. Low-fiber, highly processed foods: Consuming foods that are low in fiber and highly processed has a direct negative effect on your gut health, which negatively impacts skin health. When you consume processed meat products like cold cuts, breakfast cereals and microwave meals, an unhealthy shift occurs in your inner microbial colonies. This sets off inflammation throughout your entire body, which can bring on a cystic acne flare-up or make any current acne even worse. Fried and fast foods: These foods are also highly processed and low in fiber. Additionally, they contain a number of ingredients that cause inflammation, including hydrogenated oils, sodium, chemicals, flavorings and sugar. 2. Eat these foods Probiotic-rich foods: The healthier your gut is, the better your balance of good versus bad bacteria. When you consume probiotic-rich foods like kefir and cultured vegetables, the probiotics line your gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier that prevents inflammation that can trigger acne. One Korean study of 56 acne patients found that drinking a Lactobacillus-fermented dairy beverage effectively reduced their total acne lesion count and decreased oil production over 12 weeks. High-zinc foods: People with acne tend to be low in zinc so you definitely want to increase your dietary intake of zinc by consuming things like grass-fed beef, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and cashews to prevent a zinc deficiency. Zinc also supports a healthy digestive tract, which improves skin health. Vitamin A-rich foods: Foods high in vitamin A, like kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots, fight infection and speed healing, two things you definitely need when you’re trying to get rid of cystic acne. Fiber-rich foods: Consuming high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and oatmeal encourages colon cleansing as well as the growth of good bacteria in the gut, both of which can help eliminate cystic acne. High-quality protein foods: Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, wild-caught fish and free-range eggs are high in protein and nutrients and help balance blood sugar, a key component in the fight against cystic acne. Liver-supportive foods: Since hormones are processed in the liver, eating liver-supportive foods can help clear up acne. Eat more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower as well as leafy greens and high-fiber fruits, such as pears and apple, for improved liver function. 3. Consider taking these supplements Probiotics (10,000 IU to 50,000 IU daily, typically two to three capsules twice daily) — Taking probiotics can boost your immunity and help your internal fight against cystic acne. You can also use probiotic skin care products, which can provide a protective external shield. Studies show that probiotics may help prevent skin eruptions. Omega-3 fatty acids (1,000 milligrams of fish oil/cod liver oil daily or 3,000 milligrams of flaxseed or chia seed oil) — Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation and support hormone balance. One scientific study specifically found that after 10 weeks of omega-3 fatty acid or GLA supplementation, inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions decreased significantly. Zinc (25–30 milligrams twice daily) — Research suggests that people with acne have lower blood and skin levels of zinc. Taking zinc by mouth may help reduce acne. Vitex (160 milligrams of Vitex/chasteberry) — This herbal remedy is specifically recommended for hormonally induced acne. Guggul or guggulsterone (25 milligrams twice daily) — Guggul is made from the sap of a tree native to India. For individuals suffering from cystic acne, a controlled clinical trial found that guggul supplements outperformed 500 milligrams of tetracycline. It’s also been shown to be effective for nodulocystic acne, a similar form of acne that usually targets the face, chest and back. 4. Consider essential oils Essential oils like tea tree and lavender can help fight cystic acne. The best way to use essential oils for acne is to apply two to three drops topically to the area of concern. Tea tree and lavender essential oils are safe for neat (direct) application, but they can also be combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil if you have sensitive skin. A scientific review of the efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action in regard to the treatment of acne with tea tree oil states that tea tree products reduce lesion numbers in patients with acne, have tolerability levels that are similar to other topical treatments, and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that are associated with the treatment of acne. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight when treating acne with essential oils. The UV rays can make your skin more sensitive and may lead to skin irritations or redness. If using any of these essential oils causes skin irritation, discontinue use of that oil. Skin Care Tips 1. No popping Whatever you...

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Seafood Problem: Surprising Dangers of Excessive Consumption

The AHA! Team — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:08:42 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – While seafood is well-known for its various health benefits, such as its rich omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, there are risks associated with its consumption that may not be widely recognized. Recent research published in Exposure and Health reveals a significant concern: underestimating exposure to PFAS through seafood. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals found in various consumer products – and apparently in your seafood. This discovery highlights the need for further investigation and awareness regarding the potential health risks associated with high-seafood diets. Researchers’ startling discovery of PFAS in seafood The study aimed to assess seafood consumption patterns among New Hampshire residents and the associated PFAS exposure. The researchers conducted a population-based survey involving 1,829 adults and children aged 2-11 in June 2021. The survey collected data on seafood consumption frequency, portion sizes, types, and sources. After determining the most commonly consumed seafood species, the researchers purchased these species from a seafood market in Portsmouth, NH. They then analyzed the purchased seafood for 26 different PFAS compounds to quantify their presence. The researchers calculated hazard quotients for PFAS compounds with available health guidance values to assess the potential health risk posed by seafood consumption. Key findings from the study include: Among adults, 95% reported consuming seafood within the last year, with shrimp, haddock, salmon, and canned tuna being the most frequently consumed types. Based on consumption frequencies and meal sizes, the researchers estimated daily seafood consumption rates for adults (median: 33.9 g/day) and children (median: 5.0 g/day), which were somewhat higher than national estimates for the Northeastern US. PFAS were detected in shrimp and lobster purchased from the local market, with median concentrations ranging from below the detection limit to 1.74 ng/g for shrimp and 3.30 ng/g for lobster. Hazard quotients suggested that high seafood consumers may be exposed to PFAS concentrations that potentially pose a health risk. Is your favorite seafood safe from PFAS contamination? The plight of shellfish living along the seafloor is tragic as they become the unwitting carriers of higher PFAS levels. These contaminants are then ingested by larger fish like salmon and tuna, endangering our favorite seafood choices. The presence of PFAS in our seafood not only raises alarm about its safety but also serves as a stark reminder of the broader issue of environmental contamination. It’s a call to action for stronger regulations to shield our food supply from harmful chemicals, urging us to advocate for sustainable fishing practices and rigorous monitoring of seafood safety standards to safeguard public health. Protect your health by minimizing PFAS exposure In the battle to minimize exposure to PFAS, it’s crucial to recognize that while it may be impossible to completely eliminate these chemicals from seafood and consumer products, there’s hope for change. Public health guidelines need to be revamped to reduce PFAS exposure, especially in coastal areas like New England, where industries have contaminated countless fish with these “forever chemicals.” While avoiding seafood altogether is an option, it would leave a significant gap in essential lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for human health. As a consumer, you can take steps to minimize PFAS exposure. For instance, avoid freshwater fish, especially those caught in or near urban areas where PFAS are prevalent. Additionally, opt for alternatives to nonstick cookware, as they often contain PFAS. Transitioning to ceramic pots and pans can significantly reduce PFAS exposure while still allowing for efficient cooking. While it may not be practical to create your own backyard pond stocked with untainted fish, you have the power to make informed choices that protect your health and the environment. Sources for this article include: Link.springer.com Medicalxpress.com To read the original article click here.

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Toxic PFAS Detected: Band-Aid and Other Brands Under Scrutiny

The AHA! Team — Thu, 09 May 2024 20:06:31 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Prepare for an eye-opening insight into the world of first aid. The very bandages we depend on to heal wounds may harbor a concerning (toxic) secret. Recent investigations have brought Band-Aid and other leading brands under scrutiny, revealing the presence of toxic PFAS chemicals. PFAS, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have been used for decades in commercial products for their stain-resistant, oil-resistant, grease-resistant, and water-resistant properties. These synthetic compounds, which have been present in consumer products since the 1950s, raise significant questions about potential health implications. PFAS are in more than two dozen commonly used bandages The bandage analysis was conducted at a lab certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the findings, 26 out of 40 tested bandages showed organic fluorine levels above 10 parts per million (ppm). Furthermore, among bandages marketed for black and brown skin tones, 63% exhibited traces of PFAS “forever chemicals,” with 10 out of 16 tested bandages surpassing the 10 ppm threshold. The detected ranges of organic fluorine, serving as an indicator for PFAS, varied from 11 ppm to 328 ppm. Bandages containing PFAS are problematic because they are placed on top of open wounds, which allows for direct entry into the bloodstream. However, bandage makers have not taken steps to remove PFAS from bandages in response to calls for materials without PFAS. Organic fluorine is a threat to the body’s immune system The presence of organic fluorine in the referenced bandages signals the existence of “forever chemicals,” scientifically proven to diminish immune system function and impair cognitive abilities. Furthermore, these chemicals disrupt the body’s endocrine system, leading to unhealthy hormonal responses, and are linked to reduced fertility and increased cancer risk. Researchers from North Carolina State University’s Center for Environmental & Health Effects of PFAS highlight fluoropolymers as a common type of PFAS contributing to bandage toxicity. PFAS can also be found in other consumer products such as dental floss, fast food packaging, deodorant, and contact lenses. Notably, 3M, the manufacturer of Sticky Notes, has announced plans to discontinue the use of PFAS in its products by the end of next year. Scientists are not completely clear as to whether topical exposure to PFAS is at the same risk level as other forms of exposure. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has determined topical PFAS exposure is as dangerous as ingestion through water or food. According to Mamavation, PFAS have been found in popular bandages such as the aforementioned Band-Aid and those made by CVS Health and Equate. However, there are some bandages on the market, including those made by Tru Colour and 3M, that do not contain organic fluorine. Of the 18 brands analyzed, 65% contained harmful chemicals. Aside from the aforementioned Band-Aid brand bandages, the following brands’ bandages also contain organic fluorine: Equate First Honey Manuka CVS Health Care Science Curad Assorted Rite Aid First UP & UP Solimo (Amazon) Bypass the bandage brands listed above in favor of safer and healthier brands, including: Dry See Thin Dealmed Flexible Browndages Rite Aid Smart-Flex Sterile bandages Each of these safer bandages has fewer than 100 ppm of organic fluorine, meaning they pose minimal threat to human health. The cream of the crop with zero organic fluorine includes 3M Micropore, FEBU organic bamboo, Tru Colour, Trutone, Welly, and Patch Bamboo. Sources for this article include: Childrenshealthdefense.org Mamavation.com To read the original article click here.

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60% Of Sunscreens Would Fail Federal Safety Tests!

The AHA! Team — Mon, 06 May 2024 18:43:37 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – Here in South Florida, spring break is in full swing. Temperatures are in the mid-to-high-80s, and tourists are flocking to our beautiful, sunny beaches. Of course, that also means it’s prime time for sunscreen companies to kick up their marketing efforts in an attempt to whip up more fear over the sun. They want to scare you into thinking that each time the sun strikes your unprotected skin, you risk malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. If you’re a regular reader, you know that I’ve been vocal about Big Retail’s money grab and how they put out misinformation because they profit each time you slather on their toxic sunscreens. But here’s what they’re not telling you… Two-thirds of all sunscreens on the market wouldn’t even pass the safety tests proposed by the FDA.1 According to a study by the Environmental Working Group, the nonprofit organization found that more than 60% of the products evaluated either didn’t offer adequate sun protection or they contained potentially harmful chemicals. And worse yet, these harmful chemicals that you apply topically are being absorbed into your blood. A recent clinical trial funded by the FDA and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association confirms this. Researchers studied the effects of the active ingredients in four popular sunscreens applied topically and found that the chemicals were absorbed into the bloodstream. And at higher concentrations than an established FDA threshold. Yet the FDA continues to tell us that sunscreen is safe, despite the toxic chemicals. Sunscreen delivers chemicals and known carcinogens onto your skin and into your bloodstream — chemicals that are banned in other countries. One of the main chemicals used in sunscreens to filter out UVB light is octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC). This toxic compound can be found in the vast majority of sunscreens on the market, even though studies found it can kill mouse cells — even at extremely low doses. Other harmful chemicals include benzophenone and avobenzone. These attack the cells in your body, causing premature aging. They are also estrogen mimics that can create hormonal imbalances, cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, and are known to promote the onset of breast cancer.2 Additional chemicals commonly found in sunscreen that you should avoid include: Parabens. A well-known endocrine disruptor, parabens mimic estrogen, upset hormonal balance, and cause reproductive cancers in men and women. PABA (may be listed as octyl-dimethyl or padimate-O). Para-aminobenzoic acid attacks DNA and causes genetic mutation when exposed to sunlight. Mineral oil, paraffin, and petrolatum. These agents coat your skin like plastic. This clogs pores, traps toxins, slows skin cell growth, and disrupts normal hormone function. They’re also possible carcinogens. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Sometimes listed as “from coconut” or “coconut-derived,” when combined with other chemicals, it becomes nitrosamine, a powerful cancer-causing agent. SLS penetrates your skin’s moisture barrier, allowing other dangerous chemicals to enter your bloodstream. Phenol carbolic acid. Animal studies show this is toxic at even low doses. It can cause circulatory collapse, paralysis, convulsions, coma, and death from respiratory failure. Acrylamide. Animal studies show it can cause breast cancer, testicular cancer, and reduce sperm count. Propylene glycol. A major component of antifreeze, this common skincare additive, can lead to dermatitis, as well as kidney and liver abnormalities. PEG, polysorbates, laureth, ethoxylated alcohol. These are potent carcinogens containing dioxane. Short-term exposure to this forever chemical causes eye, nose, and throat irritation, while long-term exposure to leads to kidney and liver damage, as well as cancer. How to build a safe sun barrier using 2 natural ingredients I recommend natural compounds that allow you to have fun in the sun without burning. If you’re planning a summer beach vacation, now is the time to start supplementing! Take tocotrienols, your sun-protection powerhouse: Vitamin E is actually eight vitamins in one — four tocopherols and four tocotrienols. Research shows that tocotrienols are the real powerhouse. Studies reveal consuming tocotrienols halts sun damage that may have been triggered during the day and reduce the likelihood of any skin cancer cells forming.3 One study found that the more tocotrienols you have in your diet, the more it accumulates in your skin. That means you’re constantly building up your own personal natural sunscreen.4 Most people can’t get enough tocotrienols in their diet, so I recommend supplementing with 50 mg of tocotrienols twice a day. Like all fat-soluble vitamins, take them with a meal. And make sure you get supplements that contain natural vitamin E — not its synthetic form. Vitamin E in the form of all-rac-alpha-tocopherol-acetate or dl-alpha tocopherol should be avoided. There are serious questions about their safety. Get sunburn protection with SOD. Superoxide dismutase, or SOD, is your body’s master antioxidant. It works by neutralizing dangerous superoxide radicals in your body called “anions.” Ultraviolet rays from the sun can create these anions. Most antioxidants can’t help. But SOD has 3,500 times the antioxidant power of vitamin C. It triggers the conversion of these superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide, a less harmful oxygen-based free radical.5 In other words, they become harmless oxygen and water. SOD then remains “on site” to extinguish the fiery rampage of inflammation that follows. In one study, 15 people who were hypersensitive to the sun took SOD. They all reported a higher tolerance to the sun. They also had fewer tendencies to redden or have skin irritation from the sun.6 Another study showed that SOD allowed fair-skinned people to get eight times more sun before burning.7 I recommend supplementing with 500 mg superoxide dismutase formula. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. LaMotte S. “Majority of sunscreens would flunk proposed FDA safety tests, report to say.” CNN. May 15, 2019. Available at: https://edition.cnn. com/2019/05/15/health/sunscreen-fda-safety-standards-study/index.html. Accessed on March 25, 2023. 2. Hanson K, et al. “Sunscreen enhancement of UV-induced reactive oxygen species in the skin.” Free Radic Biol Med. 2006;41(8):1205-1212. 3. Yamada Y, et al. “Dietary tocotrienol reduces UVB-induced skin damage and sesamin enhances tocotrienol effects in hairless mice.” J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2008;54(2):117-123. 4. Ghazali N, et al. “Effects of tocotrienol on aging skin: A systematic review.” Front Pharmacol. 2022; 13: 1006198. 5. Faraci F, Didion S. “Vascular protection: superoxide dismutase isoforms in the vessel wall.” Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2004;24(8):1367-1373. 6. Laverdet C. “Glisodin sun study pilot.” Attachee de Consultation des Hopitaux de, Paris. July-September 2003. 7. Mac-Mary M, et al. “Evaluation of the effect of glisodin on the intensity of actinic erythema.” Presented at the CARD (Annual Congress of Dermatological Research) meeting in Brest, France. Accessed on March 25, 2023. To read the original article click here.

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Can ‘Forever Chemicals’ Be Destroyed? Promising Research Says Perhaps!

AHA Publisher — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 07:00:15 +0000

Leah Zerbe, MS, NASM-CPT, NASM-CES via Dr. Axe – A new analysis by Consumer Reports found that toxic “forever chemicals” still lurk in supermarket and fast food containers, despite mounting public health outcries to remove it. Used for its grease-proof properties, food packaging like paper wrappings and cardboard boxes are often coated with the nonstick chemical to keep it from seeping through and getting on your hands and clothing. That may sound like a good thing at first glance, but it readily migrates into food, and there’s now plenty of evidence linking this chemical class to a host of health woes. The Consumer Reports update is the latest evidence showing that this “unbreakable” chemical is ubiquitous — it’s even found in burger wrappers and salad bowls! Other recent reports show that “forever chemicals” linked to immune system damage, cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility and thyroid disruption are routinely detected in everyday products like yoga pants, bedding, tablecloths and more, too. The worst part of all of this is that this chemical application really isn’t necessary in the first place. And it’s so widespread that, today, PFAS contamination is found inside most of us, too. However, there is some good news. Researchers have found that a common ingredient in soap may help destroy these dangerous “forever chemicals.” According to Science: Researchers led by William Dichtel and Brittany Trang, chemists at Northwestern University, studied numerous recipes involving DMSO. One combined a little bit of the solvent with sodium hydroxide, a common component of soap, in water. When the team heated the mix to boiling temperature, it readily degraded one of the largest subsets of PFAS compounds. The researchers noted it does not work for all PFAS but does for some. What Are Forever Chemicals? Types of forever chemicals are known as PFAS. They are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances with the following properties: water-resistance heat-resistance oil-resistance Even the American Chemistry Society admits: “The chemistry that makes them so useful also makes them stick around in the environment and in us — and that could be a bad thing.” PFAS are used commonly in: fire-fighting foams rain coats shoes and boots nonstick cookware stain-proof carpeting and clothing fast-food packaging (which means there are forever chemicals in food) Due to their persistence and widespread use, forever chemicals are now also a tap water toxicity problem. Just like phthalates, another widespread chemical group, it seems PFAS started off as a good thing, but without proper testing for long-term impacts on human and environmental health, we unleashed a monster. Test Findings Consumer Reports tested more than 100 food packaging products from restaurant and grocery chains. PFAS contamination was detected in at least some packaging from every single chain tested. The dangerous grease-proof chemical turned up in things like: French fry cartons and bags Molded fiber salad bowls Sandwich wrappers Paper bags for chips Single-use paper plates And more Even companies that have vowed to eliminate PFAS wrappers tested positive at low levels, likely because the “forever chemical” is widespread in the environment now and contamination is inevitable. PFAS contamination is in the air, water, soil (and inside of us!) due to sending it to landfills, incinerating it (often in Black and Brown neighborhoods, which is an environmental justice issue), and runoff pollution that winds up in crops. Working within the U.S.’s weak chemical regulation system also means that industry is always several steps ahead of public policy. “Trying to ban individual PFAS is an impossible game of whack-a-mole. As soon as one is addressed, industry comes up with another.” Brian Ronholm, Consumer Reports Separate testing by Toxic-Free Future also delivered some key findings recently, including: Out of the “stain-” or “water-resistant” products tested, 72% tested positive for PFAS. These included hiking pants, mattress pads, comforters, rain jackets, tablecloths and napkins. At least one product from each of the 10 retailers tested contained PFAS. Manufacturers are using a mixture of PFAS that includes compounds banned in other countries. Alternatives to PFAS for stain and water resistance are in use. Toxic-Free Future items marketed as stain- and/or water-resistant were free of PFAS. A separate PFAS investigation from Environmental Health News and Mamavation found: Evidence of PFAS in women’s sportswear like yoga pants from popular brands, including Old Navy and Lululemon. 25 percent of the activewear tested positive in an EPA-certified lab for indications of PFAS. Workout leggings and yoga pants tested positive, including brands from Old Navy and Lululemon. Why Are They Dangerous? PFAS chemicals are linked to: Harm to the immune system Reduced vaccine efficacy Reproductive system damage Reduced fertility Lower birth weight Increased risk of certain cancers Metabolism problems Weight gain Impaired healthy cholesterol levels How to Avoid Them If you’re wondering how to avoid forever chemicals, the answer is it’s virtually impossible at this time. Today, PFAS chemicals are even detected in groundwater, tap water, rain water and even the air. They’ve traveled around the atmosphere and rained down on even our most primitive locations all over the planet. It’s no wonder they’re inside of most of us, too. “These toxic chemicals are so ubiquitous that it’s now literally raining PFAS,” said Scott Faber, Environmental Working Group’s senior vice president for government affairs. “While we’re heartened that the Biden administration and the EPA continue to make PFAS a priority, to truly tackle this national PFAS pollution crisis, we need a whole-of-government approach that includes the Department of Defense, the Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration.” Sign here to tell Congress to stop the PFAS contamination crisis. Limit meals of takeout food. If you do get takeout, transfer it out of the packaging as soon as possible. Tell companies like REI to ban the use of PFAS. Avoid nonstick cookware. Opt for PFAS-free outerwear from companies like Patagonia. Check your municipal water tests for PFAS contamination, and form a community group to pressure decision-makers to clean up the problem. Avoid anything labeled as “stain-proof” or “water-proof” unless you can verify the manufacturer used a safer, PFAS-free alternative. Conclusion There are more than 9,000 forever chemicals out there. They are so widespread that 99% of Americans contain PFAS inside of their bodies. Studies show PFAS exposure may cause thyroid issues, weight gain and certain cancers, and high cholesterol is linked to PFAS exposure as well. Watch out for “stain-proof” and “waterproof” claims. Some yoga pants, mattress pads and comforters tested positive. You can do your best to avoid PFAS chemicals, but public health experts say we need stronger laws and a nationwide plan to deal with PFAS pollution. Use this guide for more information on how to protect yourself from this widespread pollution. To read the original article click here.

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Study Reveals SHOCKING Link Between Forever Chemicals and Liver Cancer

AHA Publisher — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:00:36 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Your liver is a vital organ with hundreds of important functions. For instance, your liver works hard to cleanse your blood of poisons and toxins. Now, a recent study published in JHEP Reports shows a disturbing link between a synthetic “forever chemical” and deadly liver cancer. The report suggests that the higher the exposure to forever chemicals, the higher the chance of developing liver cancer. Man-Made Forever Chemicals Linked to Deadly Form of Liver Cancer Forever chemicals are synthetic chemicals commonly used in consumer and industrial products. There are many types of these chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Perfluooctane sulfate (PFOS) is just one type of PFAS. For the JHEP study, researchers analyzed human blood and tissue samples previously collected for an epidemiological study. Researchers looked at the samples of people who did or did not develop liver cancer. They evaluated samples taken before cancer diagnosis, comparing them to samples from those who didn’t develop cancer. Researchers found that study participants with high levels of PFOS in their blood were four and a half times as likely to develop liver cancer. The participants who developed cancer all had high levels of multiple types of PFAS in their blood. But the strongest link was between PFOS and liver cancer. Although other studies involving animals have suggested correlations between PFAS and cancer, this is the first human study to prove it. Here Is Why PFAS Are Bad News for Your Health Forever chemicals earned their nickname because they are extremely long-lasting. They take a long time to break down, accumulating in our environment and our bodily tissues over time. Unfortunately, the use of these dangerous chemicals is still widespread, although some manufacturers have stopped using them altogether amid growing health concerns. PFAS are present in drinking water, food, food packaging, and even cosmetics. This is bad news for your health. Besides being carcinogenic, PFAS are associated with liver damage, kidney disease, neurological damage, and autoimmune problems. And once these toxic chemicals get into your bloodstream, they’re there for the long haul. How Does PFOS Lead to Liver Cancer? Researchers speculate that forever chemicals impede natural liver function. For instance, PFOS may interfere with glucose metabolism, bile acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. When the liver can’t function normally because of metabolic disruption, fat buildup can occur within the liver. This results in a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Those with NAFLD have a much higher risk of liver cancer. Shockingly, there has been a global uptick in the number of people diagnosed with NAFLD – with scientists estimating that a whopping 30% of the global population will have NAFLD by the year 2030. How to Minimize Intake of PFAS What can you do to keep your liver healthy and reduce your PFAS exposure? It may be hard to avoid PFAS altogether. But you may be able to minimize exposure by minimizing packaged and processed foods. Choose organic, whole, or locally grown foods whenever possible. This will ensure you’re avoiding as many harmful chemicals as possible and help you feel your best. Sources for this article include: Medical Press Johns Hopkins Medicine To read the original article click here.

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Cosmetics WARNING: New Study Finds Forever Chemicals in Over Half of 231 Samples

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 07:00:11 +0000

Damon Hines via NaturalHealth365 – Makeup can be a toxic swamp of carcinogens, irritants, allergens, silicones, parabens, and endocrine disrupters. The U.S. Congress hasn’t enacted any personal care laws since the 1930s, leaving America’s multi-billion beauty industry to regulate itself. A survey conducted by the Environmental Working Group found that the average woman uses 12 products a day, averaging 168 total ingredients. How many of those ingredients have been linked to cancer, birth defects, liver disease, thyroid disease, decreased immunity, hormone disruption, and a range of other serious health problems? A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology found signs of forever chemicals (PFAS) in over half of the 231 samples of products tested, including lipstick, eyeliner, mascara, foundation, concealer, lip balm, blush, nail polish, and more. Some of the highest PFAS levels were found in waterproof mascara (82% of brands tested), foundations (63%), and liquid lipstick (62%). Here Is the Ugly Truth About Ingredients Used in Beauty Products This isn’t the first time the beauty industry’s ugly ingredients have been exposed. Its evils are as long as the makeup aisle at Macy’s. For example, hair care company Wen settled a $26 million class-action case because its products were making people’s hair fall out. In 2020, filmmaker Phyliss Ellis released “Toxic Beauty,” a documentary that digs beneath the skin of the beauty industry with a thesis that argues that modern skin-care products are the new cigarettes. And as of February 2021, Johnson & Johnson has faced 27,168 talcum powder lawsuits, with victims complaining of ovarian cancer and mesotheliomas, a type of cancer occurring in the tissue layer covering internal organs. The company has paid out billions in damages to plaintiffs across the country. In other words, pretty hurts. Pay Attention! Wearing Lipstick Can Lead to the Ingestion of Several Pounds of the Product Throughout Your Life While researchers for the new study claimed to be surprised by the high number of cosmetic products that contain toxic forever chemicals, what’s even more shocking is the fact that Big Beauty companies don’t list PFAS on their labels when they use the chemicals, making them all but impossible to avoid for even the most cautious and green-minded consumer. According to Tom Bruton, a senior scientist with Green Science Policy Institute and one of the study’s authors, “regulatory agencies often allow companies to claim PFAS as a trade secret.” If the idea of accidentally ingesting several pounds of lipstick isn’t bad enough, to think that the product might be packed with PFAS is enough to make you quit skin-care products altogether. If Reading Labels Won’t Keep You Safe, What Will? “Not all things from nature are safe, and not all synthetics are bad,” says sustainability expert and chemist Dr. Richard Blackburn. And that makes an eco guide to clean beauty that much more difficult to navigate. However, there are certain keywords to look for when reading cosmetic labels. Researchers found that products advertised as “wear-resistant,” “long-lasting,” and “waterproof” often contain fluorine, which is a strong indicator of PFAS. One company worth mentioning is Dr. Hauschka. Of course, local farmers markets will often feature smaller companies that create wonderful (safe) products to use. But, whatever brand you choose … always avoid the toxic ingredients. Your health is worth the effort. Sources for this article include: TheGuardian.com Vogue.com Childrenshealthdefense.org This article has been modified. To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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America’s Troubled Drinking Water Supply, It’s Worse Than Most People Can Imagine

AHA Publisher — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 07:00:47 +0000

Damon Hines via NaturalHealth365 – From coast to coast, America’s drinking water supply is threatened by a variety of sources: plastics, pesticides, pathogens, PFAS, lax standards, and aging infrastructure create a perfect storm of toxicity. On July 28, 2010, the United Nations declared this issue to be a human right under International Law. Today, more than ten years later, 30 million people in the U.S. live in areas where they lack access to safe drinking water, two million people are denied access to running water and basic indoor plumbing, and over 110 million are exposed to toxic chemicals in their drinking water. America’s water is troubled but what’s more troubling is the lack of initiative to better enforce environmental safety laws, push for new legislation, and hold those parties – Big Government, Big Business, Greedy Policymakers – accountable for the ongoing water crisis. “Like a blood test for a disease, you only find what you test for” Erin Brockovich, the activist and clean water pioneer, makes this statement in her book Superman’s Not Coming: Our National Water Crisis and What We the People Can Do about It. Pollutants and toxins are everywhere, from the biological to the chemical, from the hazardous wastes and byproducts of industry and agriculture to chlorine and disinfectants. There are over 40,000 chemicals on the market, and only a few hundred are regulated. With so many dangerous chemicals, how do we know what to test for? The fact is: every city delivery system is different. For example, in Flint, Michigan, the national headline was about high lead levels. The same held true for Newark, New Jersey. In 2014, algal blooms and runoff from farms in the Lake Erie watershed shut down the Toledo, Ohio drinking water system. Other common toxic offenders include TCE (used in dry cleaning and refrigeration), hexavalent chromium (an anticorrosive agent), and PFASs (otherwise known as “forever chemicals”), which have become the latest headline grabber in the U.S. The CDC lists PFAS as potential carcinogens and endocrine disrupters. “A cocktail of chemicals all the time” The water crisis in Flint, Michigan wasn’t a one-off event. According to Seth M. Siegel, “We are ingesting, in micro quantities, a cocktail of chemicals all the time.” A 2018 study found that 21 million people in the U.S. were receiving water from utilities that violated the Safe Drinking Water Act. Many of these people live in rural, low-income areas. The health hazards of contaminated water are as numerous as the toxins polluting the systems. Chronic exposure to toxic byproducts have been linked to liver, kidney, and nervous systems problems, as well as increased risks of cancer. Outbreaks of E. coli, norovirus, giardia, and cryptosporidium have all contaminated water supplies. And Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia, and other pathogens, are known to grow in aging pipes and infrastructure. It’s going to take more than an Brita filter to fix America’s troubled waters. It’s a public health crisis that We the People need to solve … by pushing for change, new legislation, and by bridging the gap between clean resources and human rights. Sources for this article include: Theguardian.com, Theguardian.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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