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4 Surprising Ways You May Not Know Could Help Beat Autoimmune Disease

The AHA! Team — Wed, 14 May 2025 05:24:34 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide, manifesting as conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and more. Despite their increasing prevalence, the root causes often remain elusive. From Dr. Don Colbert’s integrative perspective, several hidden triggers play a crucial role in setting the stage for autoimmune issues. These triggers include genetically modified (GMO) foods, compromised gut health, chronic stress, and a deeper spiritual dimension. By examining each factor and incorporating both scientific research and personal insights, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and enhance overall well-being. 1. GMO Foods and Gut Health GMO Concerns Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants or animals whose DNA has been altered in ways that do not occur naturally. While many organizations deem GMOs safe for consumption, concerns linger about their long-term impact—particularly on gut health and inflammation. Certain GMO crops are engineered to withstand large amounts of herbicides (like glyphosate), which can end up in our food supply. Gut Health Implications Gut health is intimately tied to immune function; around 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. When the delicate balance of gut bacteria (the microbiome) is disrupted—through factors like antibiotics, poor diet, and potential pesticide residue—this can lead to increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”). Toxins and undigested food particles may then enter the bloodstream, triggering immune responses. One study published in Frontiers in Environmental Science suggests that glyphosate-based herbicides, commonly used on GMO crops, may alter gut microbiota and contribute to dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria).1 From Dr. Colbert’s perspective, limiting exposure to GMO foods and opting for organic, non-GMO options can be a proactive step toward protecting gut integrity and overall immune health. Identifying GMO Foods As of January 2022, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) introduced new bioengineered food labeling requirements, replacing the term “GMO” with “bioengineered” or “BE.” Foods that contain detectable modified genetic material must display the new label. However, not all products are required to disclose this information, making it challenging to avoid GMOs entirely. Look for the “Non-GMO Project Verified” label. This independent verification is a reliable indicator that products meet strict standards for GMO avoidance. Choose organic when possible. Organic certification prohibits the use of GMOs, offering an additional layer of assurance. Stay informed. Checking brand websites or calling manufacturers can help you determine if a product uses GMO ingredients. 2. Stress and Autoimmune Disease Chronic stress is another key factor in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune conditions. Emotional or mental stress can lead to immune dysregulation, triggering flare-ups or even the onset of new autoimmune disorders. A 2018 study in Frontiers in Immunology explains how chronic stress can alter immune cell distribution and function, contributing to systemic inflammation.2 How Stress Impacts the Body Hormonal Imbalance: High levels of cortisol (the “stress hormone”) over time can weaken the immune system’s ability to respond appropriately. Inflammation: Chronic stress fosters a pro-inflammatory environment, a driving factor behind many autoimmune conditions. Sleep Disruption: Stress often affects sleep quality, and poor sleep is directly linked to compromised immune function. Practical Ways to Reduce Stress Mind-Body Practices: Techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or prayer can calm the mind and lower stress hormone levels. Physical Activity: Regular, moderate exercise supports immune function and helps manage stress. Adequate Rest: Prioritizing seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night is essential for immune resilience. 3. A Spiritual Perspective In addition to addressing physical triggers like diet and stress, Dr. Colbert emphasizes the importance of nurturing the mind and spirit. Gratitude is a cornerstone of the Christian faith and is closely tied to healing. The Bible reminds us: “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, KJV) Scientific research also supports the healing power of gratitude. In a 2003 study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, participants who practiced regular gratitude exercises (such as writing down things they were thankful for) reported higher levels of well-being, fewer physical symptoms, and increased optimism compared to those who did not.3 By engaging in prayer, meditation, or other spiritual disciplines that cultivate thankfulness, you can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and foster a sense of purpose—all of which positively influence the immune system. 4. Taking an Integrative Approach Dr. Colbert’s perspective on autoimmune disease is rooted in an integrative approach—one that combines cutting-edge medical research with nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and spiritual well-being. By targeting the potential triggers of autoimmune disease, you create a multi-layered defense against inflammation and dysregulation: Dietary Modifications: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods and limit exposure to GMOs, pesticides, and other toxins. Gut Health Support: Incorporate probiotics, fermented foods, and fiber to nurture a balanced microbiome. Stress Management: Implement regular stress-reducing practices like prayer, meditation, and exercise. Spiritual Growth: Embrace faith-based practices—especially those emphasizing gratitude—to promote peace, gratitude, and emotional resilience. Learn More from Dr. Colbert If you’re ready to dive deeper into this integrative approach, be sure to watch Dr. Colbert’s three-part series on autoimmune disease. In Part 1 of the series, Dr. Colbert and Kyle discuss early detection, root causes, and practical steps to begin the healing process. Subsequent episodes expand on dietary strategies, lifestyle interventions, and the spiritual aspects of well-being—offering a comprehensive roadmap for overcoming autoimmune challenges. References: > Cuhra M, Bøhn T, Cuhra P. Glyphosate: Too Much of a Good Thing? Front. Environ. Sci. 2016. Dhabhar FS. The Short-Term Stress Response – Mother Nature’s Mechanism for Enhancing Protection and Performance Under Conditions of Threat, Challenge, and Opportunity. Front. Immunol. 2018. Link Emmons RA, McCullough ME. Counting Blessings Versus Burdens: An Experimental Investigation of Gratitude and Subjective Well-Being in Daily Life. J Pers Soc Psychol. 2003;84(2):377-389. To read the original article click here.

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Strawberries Bloom Once Again Near the Gaza Border

The AHA! Team — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:32:14 +0000

Zachy Hennessey via Israel21c – Owner of Uri Tutim farm says it will take the region’s agriculture a long time to recover, but its very existence is nothing short of a miracle. “Let me take you down ’cause I’m going to strawberry fields.” This line from the Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever” was ringing in my ears as I made my way to Uri Tutim (Uri’s Strawberries) farm in Moshav Yesha near the Gaza border. The strawberry fields the Beatles sang about were actually a reference to Salvation Army Homes. Meanwhile, I was heading to a farm located in the Western Negev that was among many others that were ravaged by the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. “Even before October 7, there were rocket hits in our greenhouses; an American woman was killed inside the moshav by a rocket once,” the farm’s owner, Uri Patkin, tells ISRAEL21c. From high-tech to farming Patkin, 55, grew up in Yesha, helping his father run the family farm. Eventually he moved to the center of the country, where he worked in high-tech for nearly a decade. “At the age of 35, I left my job and I told my parents I was coming back to the Negev to become a farmer. My dad told me I was crazy,” he says with a laugh. “But by that time I was already married and had children. I thought it would be better to raise a family in a moshav than in the city, closer to the land and nature.” At first, he worked at his father’s prominent flower farm. Shortly afterwards, however, he decided to start cultivating strawberries and business took off. For years, Uri’s Strawberries exported most of its produce to the biggest supermarket chains in Europe. When it became more financially lucrative for Europeans to import produce from countries like Egypt and Morocco, Patkin didn’t scale back; he just redirected the goods to the local market. Special technique One of the main reasons for Patkin’s success was the introduction of a special growing technique that not many Israeli farms were using at the time: planting in containers or baskets suspended from the top of the greenhouse. “The results of the method are high-quality berries with a shelf life that’s longer than what is customary for strawberries,” notes Patkin. Avoiding direct contact with the soil leads to less fungi and mold, requires fewer pesticides and makes picking easier for farm workers. “We also pluck out the bottom leaves, so that way the strawberry is always ventilated by dry air, free of invaders.” Although this method requires infrastructure and larger investments per unit area, he says, it also yields much more produce per unit. ‘The worst day of my life’ Patkin says that even before the October 7 attacks, there were constant “rounds of violence” launched by Gaza terrorist groups toward Israel. “It used to discourage people from coming to work or live here because every few weeks, sometimes every few days, missiles can start falling from the sky,” notes Patkin. But nothing could have prepared Patkin or other residents of the area for that Black Saturday. “It was the worst day of my life; people were being killed all around me,” he recalls. Five of the six were killed in the fighting Yesha was among the very few communities in the area that managed to fight off the invading terrorists thanks to six members of moshav’s emergency squad. However, five of the six were killed in the fighting: Lior Ben Yaakov, Gil Avital, Itai Nachmias, Tal Maban and Dan Assulin. And as they retreated from the moshav, the surviving terrorists kidnapped or killed foreign workers from Thailand. “The foreign workers are not part of this conflict between Palestinians and Israel, and they found themselves on the battlefield. I feel a lot of personal responsibility over that,” Patkin tells ISRAEL21c. Patkin himself was out helping the few IDF soldiers who finally reach the moshav in the afternoon hours. “I had to accompany the army, while taking care of the dead and the wounded, something I don’t recommend anyone go through in their life,” he says. A long time for full rehabilitation By October 8, nearly all Yesha residents were evacuated, except for the replacement emergency squad. A day later, all foreign workers followed. Patkin was among the few residents who never left the moshav, even when his entire family was evacuated. “We were ready to give up on agriculture. We thought, ‘At least we’re alive and healthy.’ But three days later, waves upon waves of volunteers from all over the country showed up, telling us they’re here to save agriculture,” Patkin recalls. He says that for the first three to four months after the attack, agriculture at the moshav was kept going by volunteers, who ultimately saved it. “Our type of agriculture is intense; it’s not like wheat that you plant and it just grows. Every day you have to do agrotechnical work and supervision.” Eventually, Israel began recruiting new agricultural workers from around the world to help rehabilitate the region. “This is what got the farms back on their feet, but still not to the scale they were before October 7,” he says. “I personally revived only about 50% of my farm; it will take a long time for it to fully rehabilitate.” By now, 90 percent of Yesha residents have come back to the moshav. Uri Tutim welcomes tourists to visit and pick strawberries by hand for a small admission fee. These visits help support not only the farm, but the entire region that is still hurting from what it endured. For more information, click here. To read the original article click here.

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Can Gout Increase Your Risk of Kidney Disease?

The AHA! Team — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:25:33 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Did you know that 14% of people in the United States have chronic kidney disease? This health condition can be serious and incredibly life-changing, especially if a person requires dialysis for advanced kidney disease. And nobody wants to require dialysis – which is the use of a machine to filter your blood because your kidneys can no longer do the job. Keep in mind that dialysis is a time-consuming process that usually takes about 4 hours, 3 sessions per week! So, today, we’ll highlight ways to avoid a problem. Known risk factors for chronic kidney disease include diabetes, smoking, and high blood pressure. But now, research out of BMJ Open adds another risk factor to the list: gout. This finding aligns with a recent paper in Kidney International emphasizing that uric acid retention in advancing kidney disease contributes to gout and systemic inflammation, which are linked to higher cardiovascular risks. Millions of people currently require gout treatment. This new paper suggests that to relieve your gout symptoms and protect your kidney health, adopting a healthy diet for gout and kidney stones is more important than ever. Gout, a common inflammatory condition, is linked with an increased risk of poor kidney function Interestingly, the medical community has known for a long time that having kidney disease can increase your risk for gout. But it turns out that this relationship is bi-directional. A team of researchers from the United Kingdom analyzed the health data of nearly 69,000 adults with gout and over 500,000 adults without gout. After following these individuals for nearly 4 years on average, they discovered that having gout increased a person’s risk for chronic kidney disease by almost 30%. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects at least 8.3 million Americans. The condition happens when a metabolic by-product called uric acid builds up in the blood. When this happens, crystals can form and lodge in joints throughout the body, especially the knees and big toes. The result? Painful, red, warm, and stiff joints. But high levels of uric acid aren’t just bad for joints. This study suggests that uric acid build-up caused by gout can harm your kidneys, too. By the way, there’s another condition that causes a build-up of compounds within the body: kidney stones. These are hard calcium masses in your kidneys that can cause severe pain. And while individual (tiny) kidney stones usually don’t cause serious damage, having them can increase your risk for kidney disease. Since it turns out that gout and kidney stones can increase your risk for chronic kidney disease, the natural next question is: How can I modify my lifestyle and diet to reduce my risk for gout, kidney stones, and kidney disease? And what does a diet for gout and kidney stones look like? Want to protect your renal function? Follow this diet for gout and kidney stones One of the greatest things about adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is that it’s highly efficient – that is, a solid nutrition plan can protect you from many types of chronic diseases, including kidney disease. But if you’re specifically worried about gout and kidney stones, be sure to follow a sensible plan that includes: Eat plenty of locally grown, organic fruits and vegetables Drink clean, fresh (purified) water – on a daily basis Make your own homemade lemonade In addition to eating nutrient-rich foods, consider adding more lemon wedges to your filtered water (antioxidants + hydration) or taking a high-quality vitamin C supplement, which has been found to significantly reduce the risk of gout. Again, staying well hydrated is crucial for kidney health. So, be sure to drink clean, pure water – regularly. This will ensure that your urine color will not get too dark – which is a sign of dehydration. Lastly, knowing what to avoid is important, too. Talk to your doctor about cutting back on or eliminating foods like alcohol, factory raised (toxic) red meat, and shellfish, which have been shown to increase the risk of kidney stones and gout. And, of course, avoid as many other environmental toxins as you can. Purify the air you breathe at home; don’t buy toxic personal care or household cleaning products, and buy local (organic) foods – as much as possible. All of this will help to reduce the toxic burden placed on the kidneys – day to day. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Kidney.org BMJ.com Medicalnewstoday.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Detox with Chelation Therapy — Help Your Heart & Brain

The AHA! Team — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:25:41 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Chelation therapy is considered an alternative medicine that has the purpose of removing “heavy metals” and toxins from the body. Why would someone experience heavy metal toxicity in the first place? Although it might sound like something only tied to rare circumstances of accidental poisoning, heavy metals are more common than you think. If you have mercury fillings in your teeth (or amalgam fillings), have been vaccinated to prevent various diseases, eat farm-raised fish regularly, consume foods that are grown in foreign countries (like China) that aren’t certified organic, or are healing from radiation and chemotherapy treatments, you’re likely experiencing heavy metal toxicity right now to some degree. Chelation therapy involves a chemical solution called EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), which is administered into the body — usually directly injected into the bloodstream — so it can bind with excess minerals. Once bound to “toxins” in the body, EDTA helps detox the body of heavy metals by removing them before imbalances and illnesses have the chance to develop. What is chelation therapy good for? First developed and used in the 1950s for the treatment of heavy metal poisoning, chelation therapy using EDTA is now performed to remove common heavy metals, including lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, aluminum and calcium. While still a controversial practice in mainstream medicine and one that requires more research for us to fully understand how it works, studies show that chelation therapy has potential for reducing the risk of heightened inflammation, heart disease, infections and more. A National Health Interview Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 111,000 adults 18 years or older had used chelation therapy as a form of complementary medicine between the years 2006–2007. (1) Since the popularity of chelation therapy has grown since this time and more health care professionals are being trained in this practice, it’s safe to say that this number is steadily rising. How Chelation Therapy Works Many people who have used chelation therapy regularly feel that it helps them remain more energetic and immune to common illnesses, environmental toxins and stress. Studies show that chelation is scientifically proven to rid the body of excess or toxic metals, especially certain kinds like lead or mercury that can lead to poisoning. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of chelation therapy with EDTA for treating lead poisoning and continues to investigate its potential and safety as a new drug for reducing coronary heart disease symptoms. (1) What is EDTA? EDTA is a type of man-made synthetic amino acid. As an alternative, some practictioners also use another substance in EDTA’s place called DMPS (2,3-Dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid), which works similarly. EDTA chelation therapy works by binding salts to molecules in the blood once EDTA is administered into someone’s veins. After EDTA attaches to heavy metals, together they both move to the kidneys where their elimination from the body occurs through urine. It’s possible that “chelating agents” like EDTA and DMPS can help detoxify the body of toxic elements that contribute to many types of chronic diseases. Chelating agents have specific bonds that form between organic molecules and metals. This gives them the ability to “bind” to metals that build up in the blood, major organs and blood vessels. Some chelating agents, including peptides like glutathione and metallothionein, have been well-researched and proven to transport and excrete toxins from the body, all without the need for expensive surgeries and risky medications. One of the biggest chelation therapy benefits is its ability to help control levels of various environmental metals in the body. Metals, including lead, mercury, aluminum and arsenic, can cause short- and long-term health consequences since they impact functions of the central nervous, cardiovascular, immune and skeletal systems. When the body is out of homeostasis due to experiencing imbalances in minerals, malfunction and damage to vital organs can develop. Some of the most symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include: Chronic fatigue syndrome Trouble learning and remembering new information “Brain fog” and trouble concentrating Autoimmune diseases Neurological disorders and cognitive decline Joint or muscle pain Mood changes, including depression and anxiety 5 Benefits of Chelation Therapy 1. Might Help Improve Heart Health Although ongoing research is still underway, some alternative health care providers use chelation therapy to help treat coronary heart diseases, including atherosclerosis (thickening and hardening of the arteries that can potentially lead to a heart attack or stroke). Why do some provides use chelation therapy for heart disease? EDTA binds with calcium within the arteries, helping to reduce plaque build-up and deposits that can cut off blood flow. (2) Once bound to calcium, EDTA can help carry the molecules out of arteries so circulation improves. In a similar way, EDTA might help control high inflammation and cholesterol levels, which also pose a risk for heart disease. In the future, we might see chelation therapy used a less risky and more affordable alternative to heart surgery and complicated mediations that have many side effects. 2. Acts Like an Antioxidant EDTA might act similarly to antioxidants by reducing inflammation, fighting free radical damage and removing metals that cause the foundation of chronic disease development. It’s been suggested that EDTA binds to not only calcium within arteries, but also other metals stored within bones, muscles and bodily tissues that can lead to increased inflammation or pain. The use of certain chelating agents has been shown to successfully lower the presence of plutonium radiation toxicity within the body, which is tied to increased cancer risk. (3) Uranium and radionuclide are two types of chemicals that can cause toxicity, leukemia and osteosarcoma when someone experiences long-term radiation exposure, but chelating agents, including DTPA, are able to help remove these before serious illnesses can form. 3. Lowers Pain and Swelling Since chelation therapy targets inflammation, the root of most diseases, including arthritis and many autoimmune disorders, many people report less pain from inflamed muscles, joints and bones when using EDTA. Although this theory hasn’t yet been proven in controlled scientific studies, chelation therapy might work by helping to reduce the effects of oxygen ions (also called oxidative stress) that can damage blood vessels and tissue. When inflammation causes the walls of vessels to become clogged, circulation decreases and pain grows. Chelation therapy may offer an alternative to ongoing medication treatments for chronic pain. 4. Can Help Fight Cognitive Disorders There’s evidence that chelation therapy can successfully treat cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. While the exact mechanisms in which EDTA helps resolve these problems isn’t yet clear or proven in studies, there seems to be a tie between heavy metal poisoning (or toxicity), including high levels of lead or mercury in the blood, and medical disorders that affect the brain, memory and learning. Research also shows that increased accumulation in the brain of copper, iron and zinc might be associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases. Long-term heavy metal exposure can lead to physical, muscular and neurological degenerative changes in the brain that set the stage for not only Alzheimer’s disease, but also dementia, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. (4) 5. Helps Lower Risk for Learning Disabilities Sadly, rates of learning disabilities, ADHD symptoms and autism spectrum disorders have been on the rise in recent years, yet how exactly these conditions should be treated or prevented remains controversial in the medical community. Many practitioners are now looking to alternative treatment methods to control symptoms of cognitive disorders, including some like chelation therapy that target heavy metal poisoning. While not technically authorized to be used for treating such conditions, “off-label use” of chelation therapy might be beneficial for cognitive health due to its ability to lower circulating or stored toxic metals that interfere with brain function. (5) Going forward, we should expect to see new proven strategies using chelating agents that are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and bringing back homeostasis of minerals levels. Related: Aconite: Safe Homeopathic Remedy or Dangerous Poison? How Chelation Therapy Is Performed Chelation therapy sessions take several hours to complete and usually take place in a doctor’s office under special monitoring. Most patients need between five to 30 treatments for best results. Each treatment session involves insertion of an intravenous (IV) to administer liquid EDTA, usually into a vein located in the hand or arm. The procedure isn’t painful for most people, but like with all injections, it’s possible to feel some burning, redness or swelling at the injection site. There isn’t much recovery time needed after the procedure and most patients are free to drive themselves home and go about their normal day. Some people report needing to urinate more than usual following chelation therapy, which can be beneficial considering this is how heavy metals leave the body. How can you locate a health care provider with appropriate training to perform chelation therapy? Currently the American Board of Clinical Metal Toxicology (ABCMT) is responsible for training and qualifying chelation therapy practitioners. ABCMT has actually been certifying doctors in chelation therapy for over 24 years! The American College for Advancement in Medicine is another organization that offers educational training. Both hold seminars and administer examinations in order for doctors to become board-certified and approved to work with patients. Can you feel safe with a chelation therapy doctor? Most likely, yes! Chelation therapy doctors must be either D.O. or M.D. and have a license to practice in their states, complete a comprehensive course on the diagnosis and treatment of chelation therapy, obtain letters of recommendation, and conduct at least 2,000 intravenous treatments for metal toxicity as part of a preceptorship with a certified physician. You can find out more about the qualifications and seek out a trained practitioner on the American Board of Clinical Medicine Toxicology website. Is chelation therapy covered by insurance? One thing to consider is that currently most insurance companies do not cover chelation therapy. As governing health authorities continue to undergo investigations into its safety and efficacy, it’s only practiced by limited alternative practitioners, which means your regular doctor might not yet offer chelation therapy or be convinced of its benefits. How much does it cost for chelation therapy? Depending on how many treatments your practitioner recommends, chelation therapy cost for an entire course of treatment will vary by patient. Treatments typically cost between $75 and $125. Side Effects of Chelation Therapy You should only receive Chelation therapy with EDTA from a properly licensed professional due to the potential for side effects to develop in some cases. What are the side effects of chelation therapy? The most common side effect is a burning sensation at the site where EDTA is enters the vein, but this usually goes away quickly and is mild. Rare chelation therapy side effects can include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. (6) It’s very important for EDTA to be infused properly and slowly, since high levels can cause electrolyte imbalances. It’s also possible that while it removes harmful heavy metals, EDTA can potentially also bind to needed vitamins and minerals and remove them from the body, which poses the risk for deficiencies. To make up for this, many practitioners give patients large doses of vitamins/minerals following chelation therapy so they avoid becoming very deficient. Although it’s very rare, kidney damage and heart failure can also occur due to blood pressure levels dropping suddenly and abnormally low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia). At this time, children, pregnant women, and anyone who has a history of heart disease or kidney problems should not use chelation therapy without consulting with a doctor first. (7) Related: Brain Detox: Is It Time for a Cleanse? (Plus How to Do It) Other Ways to Lower Heavy Metal Toxicity If you’re experiencing symptoms of heavy metal toxicity, chelation therapy along with a reduction in common toxins may be able to help you. How can you lower your exposure to heavy metals in the first place? Start by adjusting your diet and then consider taking supplements that can...

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Stop Disease-Causing Inflammation in One Hour!

The AHA! Team — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:21:18 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – There is an invisible cause of disease-causing inflammation most people never think about… And it affects almost every patient I see at the Sears Institute for Anti-Aging. Let me tell you about one of them. By the time he came to see me, my patient was feeling extreme fatigue. He couldn’t focus at work. He had no appetite and was suffering from stomach upset. He described an overall sense of weakness and exhaustion. He’d already seen a doctor who sent him for standard blood work. But the results didn’t reveal anything out of the ordinary. His second doctor told him he had high blood pressure and prescribed one of Big Pharma’s beta blockers. But he didn’t feel any better… I told him that we were going to stop the medication and test for a suspicion I had. So I measured his heavy metals and found that his cadmium was 6 times the upper limit of normal. None of his previous physicians thought of testing for this. But I don’t blame them. It’s not something you typically learn in medical school.1 Another thing most traditionally trained doctors don’t know is that even so-called “acceptable” amounts of heavy metals trigger an inflammatory response. According to a 2022 study published in the European Journal of Inflammation, heavy metal toxins – including cadmium, lead, and mercury – have directly and indirectly been linked to an increased risk of: 2,3 Neurodegenerative diseases Heart disease Type 2 diabetes Autoimmune disorders Multiple sclerosis Kidney issues Osteoporosis Cancer And despite what the EPA tells us, there are no safe levels of heavy metal exposure. You see, exposure to heavy metals activates immune cells and stimulates the release of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines and chemokines. In turn, this leads to the development of oxidative stress. As blood levels of lead and other metals increase, this oxidative stress results in apoptosis – or cell death.4,5 My Patient Is Not an Isolated Case Unfortunately, heavy metal poisoning sneaks up on you over time, so symptoms are often overlooked or chalked up to other causes. I don’t know how my patient got so much cadmium (he isn’t a smoker), but it’s not hard to guess. Common sources are things you encounter every day… burning waste, cigarette smoke, car exhaust, coffee, some processed and refined foods like hydrogenated oils – even shellfish and tap water. My patient is not an isolated case. I’ve treated hundreds of patients for heavy metal toxicity. Chances are you have some level of exposure to heavy metals. You can have some level of toxicity from: Eating foods that contain metals – especially predatory fish, wheat cereals, certain root vegetables Inhaling it through the air Drinking water from tainted supply systems Taking medications or supplements containing high amounts of metallic elements Dental work that used “silver” amalgams Smoking But the biggest contamination comes from manufacturing. These poisons are used in producing things like pesticides, glass, wood preservatives, fertilizers, paint, batteries, plumbing, hobby paints, and ink. Personal care products are also a known source.6 Protect Yourself from Heavy Metal-Associated Inflammation with IV Chelation I recommended that my patient have chelation. At his next appointment, he told me, “I feel young again instead of tired and weak.” His blood pressure was also back to normal. At Sears Institute for Anti-Aging Medicine, I routinely test patients for lead exposure and other heavy metal toxicity. My patients are always shocked by the results. At my clinic, I’ve been helping patients use chelation for years to rid their bodies of heavy metals and other toxins. It’s a safe, easy, and fast solution, with a very low risk of side effects. IV chelation delivers calcium disodium EDTA directly into your bloodstream.7 In just about an hour, this “claw” binds to the heavy metals and toxins in your bloodstream and those that have accumulated in the fat in your tissues, like your liver, and pulls them out. EDTA is an effective procedure to remove toxic metals from human organs, tissue, and blood. Help to Detox Heavy Metals at Home While chelation therapy is the most effective way to purge heavy metals from your body, I understand not everyone can do it. There are ways to detox easily at home. Here’s what I’ve found works well: First, detox with dandelion. Greens from the plant stimulate the liver and act as a diuretic for excess water. Use 5 to 10 grams of dried leaves. Then flush toxins with chlorella. This edible alga binds to toxins and pulls them out of your body. Take 1 gram with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can increase the dose to up to 3 grams three times a day. Finally, add in milk thistle. This is still my go-to detoxifier. I have been able to document its capacity to heal damaged livers by measuring serum liver enzymes. Milk thistle is the plant Silybum marianum. I recommend 200 mg in capsule form twice a day. Look for dried extract with 80% silymarin. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: ACAM Integrative Medicine Blog. “IV Chelation therapy: finding a doctor who will test for and treat heavy metal toxicity.” 2017. https://www.acam.org/blogpost/1092863/268860/IV-Chelation-Therapy-Finding-a-Doctor-Who-Will-Test-for-and-Treat-Heavy-Metal-Toxicity. Accessed on September 15, 2024. Ferrero M. “Neuron protection by EDTA may explain the successful outcomes of toxic metal chelation therapy in neurodegenerative diseases.” Biomedicines. 2022 Oct; 10(10): 2476. Anka A, et al. “Potential mechanisms of some selected heavy metals in the induction of inflammation and autoimmunity.” Eur J Inflam. 2022:20. Hossein-Khannazer N, et al. “The effects of cadmium exposure in the induction of inflammation.” Immunopharmicol Immunotoxical. 2020; 42:1:1-8. Haidar Z, et al. “Disease-associated metabolic pathways affected by heavy metals and metalloid.” Toxicol Rep. 2023; 10: 554–570. US Food and Drug Administration. “FDA’s testing of cosmetics for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, mercury, and nickel content.” www.fda.gov. Accessed on September 29, 2024. Ferrero M. “Rationale for the successful management of EDTA chelation therapy in human burden by toxic metals.” Biomed Res Int. 2016; 2016:8274504 To read the original article click here.

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Bad News About Impossible Burger: Ushering in a Huge Wave of Genetically Engineered Foods

The AHA! Team — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 06:07:04 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – The Impossible Burger, a “plant-based burger” marketed by Impossible Foods, now appears on diners’ plates in many restaurants. Unfortunately, most people don’t know how deceptive this genetically engineered food really at impersonating meat. The company that produces this ‘franken-burger’ wants the public to believe that this product is “delicious food that’s nutritious.” Nothing could be further from the truth. The appearance of these GMO burgers signals a bigger wave of genetically engineered foods created by gene editing – a technique that natural health experts say is insufficiently tested. Many consumers – blissfully unaware of the “burger’s” GMO origins – are already chowing down on the Impossible Burger. This is despite a recent survey showing that over two-thirds of consumers say they would not knowingly eat GMO foods. Food ALERT: GMO-based Impossible Burger breaks down into dozens of untested proteins According to Impossible Foods’ own website, their burger is actually based on yeast that has been genetically engineered to resemble leghemoglobin – a substance found in the roots of soybean plants. Soy leghemoglobin, or SLH, breaks down into the bright-red “heme” protein – which causes the burger to resemble meat and (creepily) even allows it to “bleed.” When ingested, SLH breaks down into 46 other proteins of undetermined safety – proteins that are not normally found in the human body and have undergone no testing whatsoever. And here’s the kicker: although Impossible Foods didn’t need the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to sell its GMO burger, the company requested that the agency confirm it as GRAS (generally recognized as safe). The FDA – to its credit – expressed concern that humans have never consumed SLH (and may be an allergen, to boot). According to documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act, the FDA stated that the current arguments in favor of the burger were “not enough to establish the safety of SLH for consumption.” But, the FDA stopped short of deeming the burger’ unsafe.’ Yet, despite the actions of the FDA, the Impossible Foods website maintains that the FDA does, in fact, validate SLH as safe. Of course, natural health experts are far from convinced of its safety. Genetically altered foods are heralded with the ability to “stop hunger” – but is the claim realistic? The Impossible Burger has been billed as lacking the environmental and ethical downsides of meat production. Genetically engineered foods such as the Impossible Burger have been touted as having the ability to help sustain the 9 billion-strong human population predicted on earth by 2050. On the surface, it sounds like a noble mission. However, natural health experts and officials at the UN and the WHO note that the world’s current hunger problem is largely due to improper distribution, inequality, poverty, and food waste. Rather than presenting a solution for world hunger, the Impossible Burger only represents the latest “twist” in high-tech GMO foods. And the repercussions of existing GMO foods are unfolding daily. GMO crops (such as Roundup Ready corn) are engineered to survive being doused with synthetic chemical pesticides, such as glyphosate and dicamba. This means they are responsible for a tremendous increase in the use of these toxic substances, which have been linked in studies to cancer, dementia, and immune problems. U.S. Right To Know, a non-profit organization dedicated to pursuing truth and transparency in the U.S. food system, points out that GMO pesticide-resistant crops have been associated with an array of disastrous effects. These include birth defects in Hawaii, cancer clusters in Argentina, contaminated waterways in Iowa, damaged farmland across the Midwest – plus much more. Remember “Golden Rice?” (or maybe you don’t). This vitamin A-enhanced GMO rice was touted almost two decades ago as “the rice that could save a million kids a year,” yet it failed to materialize on the market. This is due to the fact that breeders have yet to develop varieties that grow as well as existing natural rice strains. When one trait – in this case, the ability to produce beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A – is edited in a genome, other capabilities (such as speed of growth) may be altered, and not for the better. Maybe fooling Mother Nature is a bit harder than GMO scientists think. CRISPR technology signals a new horizon of synthetic biology “Old-school” genetic engineering, which is objectionable enough, involves the transfer of genes from one plant or animal species to another. However, CRISPR technology operates from a different angle. Also known as synthetic biology, gene editing, and gene silencing, CRISPR (an acronym for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats) involves genes that are turned off or “silenced.” Outright gene deletion and the creation of brand-new DNA sequences are also possible with CRISPR. And, remember: the resultant products can be patented – a very profitable distinction for the biotech industry! Agrichemical giants Monsanto (now Bayer), DuPont, and Dow Chemical have all achieved licensing deals that allow them to use gene-editing technology. According to U.S. Right to Know, companies are changing or creating DNA to artificially synthesize compounds, with yeasts and algae being genetically “tweaked” to produce flavors and fragrances such as vanillin, citrus, and patchouli. Of course, this development threatens the very survival of farmers in Mexico, Africa, and Paraguay, who have cultivated natural, organic extracts for centuries. CRISPR technology is altering the fruits and vegetables appearing in produce aisles. One example is the non-browning Arctic Apple, which uses CRISPR technology to silence the gene that causes apples to brown when sliced. The Arctic Apple has already been test-marketed and is on grocery shelves nationwide. Other gene-edited products now available in grocery stores include CRISPR canola oil and non-browning CRISPR mushrooms. Is ignorance really bliss? According to recent updates from Impossible Foods, the company’s products, including the popular Impossible Burger, are widely available in both restaurants and grocery stores across the U.S. Impossible Foods has significantly expanded its distribution since its initial launch, with products now offered in thousands of grocery stores, including major chains like Walmart, Target, and Safeway. Additionally, Impossible Burgers are served in numerous restaurant chains, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers. Meanwhile, consumers looking for a humane, nutritious, and safe meat alternative are consuming the Impossible Burger with no concept of what it contains – or of the possible health effects down the road. Infuriatingly, vendors and restaurateurs have reportedly been heard to tell customers that the Impossible Burger is “non-GMO.” To make matter worse, we already have a “Franken-Fish.” AquaAdvantage salmon, engineered with the genes of an eel to promote supernaturally fast growth, is currently on the market. One sure way you can keep these imposters from ending up on your dinner plate is to buy organic, “real” whole foods. Just say “no” to the Impossible Burger – and the invasion of nightmarish Franken-Foods. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov USRightToKnow.org ImpossibleFoods.com To read the original article click here.

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Food Safety Alert: Many GF Foods Contaminated with Glyphosate & Other Agrochemicals

The AHA! Team — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:07:58 +0000

Olivia Cook via Natural News – Recent tests on both organic and non-organic gluten-free food samples have produced disturbing results that could affect at least 20 million people who eat gluten-free food in the United States. Moms Across America tested 46 samples of gluten-free foods (including bread, pasta, crackers, snacks, flour, dessert mixes and chips) for glyphosate/AMPA, 236 pesticides, minerals and gluten. Approximately 600 million people worldwide avoid gluten, with many experiencing sensitivities and some having celiac disease, a condition that affects roughly one percent of the population. Approximately 600 million people worldwide avoid gluten Celiac disease is an autoimmune system disorder that occurs when gluten – a protein found in barley, rye and wheat – is ingested. This condition can cause damage to the small intestine’s lining, leading to various health issues and preventing the absorption of certain nutrients. The only effective way to manage celiac disease is by adhering to a gluten-free diet. Many people believe that gluten-free products are automatically healthier or safer, but these can actually be among the most misleadingly marketed and chemically contaminated foods on store shelves, according to the Health Ranger Mike Adams, author of “Food Forensics: The hidden toxins lurking in your food and how you can avoid them for lifelong health.” (Related: Health Ranger Mike Adams warns of shocking levels of GLYPHOSATE weed killer in some organic foods.) Zen Honeycutt, director of Moms Across America, noted that the organization comprises a large, committed network of mothers dealing with health challenges, both mental and physical, in their families. The belief that foods labeled as “clean” are truly free of contaminants, including organic options, is increasingly being called into question. Honeycutt pointed out that many people who have been eating gluten-free and mostly organic foods for years are suffering from health issues like anxiety and digestive problems. Testing results and food quality concerns The tests, conducted by the Health Research Institute Laboratories found glyphosate residues in 44 out of 46 gluten-free food samples. Glyphosate, the primary chemical in Roundup herbicides, was the most frequently detected among nearly 240 pesticides screened. This weed killer was detected in nearly 96 percent of the samples at levels above 0.1 parts per billion, and 21 percent of the samples had levels higher than 10 ppb, which is the European Union’s safety threshold for pesticide residues. Research suggests that even very low levels of glyphosate can affect gut health, disrupt hormones and have long-term health effects. (Related: Glyphosate warnings go mainstream as the dangerous truth about this toxic herbicide can no longer be denied.) The only two products without any detectable glyphosate were Lesser Evil Popcorn and Edward and Sons Rice Crackers. (Related: Glyphosate herbicide may be altering children’s genetics and causing BIRTH DEFECTS.) In addition to glyphosate, all tested samples had pesticide residues – including piperonyl butoxide (PBO), a chemical flagged by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a “possible human carcinogen.” Seven samples had only trace amounts, but 25 samples (54 percent) had measurable levels of another pesticide, 2,4-D. More troubling, the tests also showed that several products contained gluten levels above the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) maximum limit of 20 parts per million (ppm). The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) has an even stricter threshold of 10 ppm. In the analysis by Moms Across America, three samples had gluten levels that exceeded 20 ppm. Further tests revealed that almost all samples had very low levels of essential nutrients, like calcium, iron and magnesium, which is very concerning. Honeycutt emphasized that when people buy gluten-free food, they are really paying for nutritional value, including necessary minerals. Yet many convenient and inexpensive foods, such as those served in schools and fast food, lack proper nutrition. She made it clear that while Moms Across America acknowledges that gluten-free manufacturers aim to produce safer and healthier foods, the challenge lies in the contaminated ingredients available due to the use of harmful agrochemicals. (Related: Glyphosate worse than we could imagine. “It’s everywhere.”) Call for higher and stricter standards Moms Across America is now pushing for more stringent food regulations. Honeycutt emphasized the critical issue of contamination from glyphosate and other chemicals in foods intended for individuals with celiac disease and other conditions covered by the Americans with Disabilities. Honeycutt believes this kind of contamination could be avoided. She thinks policymakers in the U.S. should ban the use of glyphosate and other chemicals as drying agents on crops. This change alone could eliminate up to 80 percent of glyphosate exposure through food. (Related: Glyphosate to be banned across Europe? Massive war raging, and poison-pushing Monsanto is playing dirty.) Honeycutt urged gluten-free food manufacturers to advocate for stricter regulations to protect consumers. She also criticized government agencies like the FDA, EPA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for failing to prioritize public health over corporate profits. According to Honeycutt, Moms Across America is committed to exposing the truth about food safety and pushing for changes that will create healthier communities. Visit Glyphosate.news for more stories like this. Watch this video about gluten-free foods being found loaded with glyphosate. This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Study: Glyphosate is present in both organic and genetically modified foods. Glyphosate’s undeniable connection to autism. Avoid harmful chemicals like glyphosate in food by ALWAYS choosing ORGANIC. Sources include: MomsAcrossAmerica.com FoodForensics.com BakeryAndSnacks.com NaturalHealth365.com Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here: https://www.naturalnews.com/2024-09-03-gluten-free-foods-loaded-glyphosate-agro-chemicals.html

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Leaky Gut Syndrome: 7 Signs You May Have It

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:19:53 +0000

Kathleen McCoy, BS via Dr. Axe – As more Americans are affected by poor diet choices, chronic stress, toxic overload and bacterial imbalance, it appears that the prevalence of leaky gut is potentially reaching epidemic proportions. The medical profession is just now agreeing this condition even exists, which is especially shocking considering that “intestinal permeability” (another name for leaky gut) has been discussed in the medical literature for over 100 years! Why should leaky gut syndrome concern you? In recent years, studies consider leaky gut a “danger signal for autoimmune disease.” Below is a brief description of common leaky gut syndrome symptoms seen in people struggling with this condition. A four-step process is recommended to help promote healing — including trigger foods to remove from your diet and beneficial supplements to add in. What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome? The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, said, “All disease begins in the gut.” More than two millennia after his death, scientific research has now proved he was on to something all those years ago. For over three decades, study after study has been published (several thousand articles exist to date) discussing our growing understanding of immunity, gut function, and how modern diets and lifestyles negatively contribute to overall health by damaging the digestive system. This particular phenomenon is called leaky gut syndrome. In the medical literature, leaky gut is also referred to as “increased intestinal hyperpermeability.” What happens when you have leaky gut? The intestines are protected by a single layer of specialized epithelial cells that are linked together by tight junction (or TJ) proteins. As one 2020 review explains, leaky gut symptoms are a consequence of intestinal TJ malfunction. These TJ proteins are the gateway between your intestines and your bloodstream. They control what is allowed to pass into the bloodstream from your digestive system. More than 40 different TJ proteins have now been recognized to play a role in gut health. TJ proteins have a very precise job. They have to maintain the delicate balance between allowing vital nutrients to enter your bloodstream, while remaining small enough to prevent xenobiotics (disease-causing substances like toxins and bacteria) from passing out of your digestive system into the rest of your body. Here’s how a report published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology describes the pathology of intestinal permeability: “The intestinal epithelial lining, together with factors secreted from it, forms a barrier that separates the host from the environment. In pathologic conditions, the permeability of the epithelial lining may be compromised allowing the passage of toxins, antigens, and bacteria in the lumen to enter the bloodstream creating a ‘leaky gut.’” Symptoms (Plus Related Conditions) According to one review focusing on medically reviewed research about intestinal permeability (among other sources), the chronic condition of hyperpermeability may be linked to numerous symptoms and health conditions, including some autoimmune diseases. What are the symptoms of leaky gut? Some of the most prominent signs you may have this condition include: Gastric ulcers Joint pain Infectious diarrhea Irritable bowel syndrome Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) Small intestine bacterial overgrowth Celiac disease Esophageal and colorectal cancer Allergies Respiratory infections Acute inflammation conditions (sepsis, SIRS, multiple organ failure) Chronic inflammatory conditions (such as arthritis) Thyroid disorders Obesity-related metabolic diseases (fatty liver, type II diabetes, heart disease) Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes, Hashimoto’s and more) Parkinson’s disease Chronic fatigue syndrome Propensity toward weight gain or obesity Leaky gut may not directly cause any of these conditions — it’s more that people who have gut issues are more likely to have a number of other health problems. So while the scientific evidence has not yet proved that increased intestinal hyperpermeability is actually responsible for these conditions, it strongly suggests that leaky gut and other dysfunctions tend to occur simultaneously. Common Leaky Gut Problems Here’s more about some of these problems can develop due to gut dysfunction: 1. Food sensitivities Some research suggests that intestinal hyperpermeability can cause the immune system to overproduce various antibodies, which may make some more susceptible to antigens in certain foods (especially gluten and dairy). In studies involving rats and human children, leaky gut and food allergies have been linked. Allergies are believed to be one of the most common symptoms. 2. Inflammatory bowel disease Researchers from Hungary uncovered in 2012 that elevated gut permeability is oftentimes localized to the colon in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis. As far back as 1988, scientists suggested that Crohn’s disease may be more of a risk for people with leaky gut. A small study (observing 12 patients) discovered that zinc supplementation may help resolve the TJ dysfunction in these cases, although more medically reviewed research is required on a larger scale to confirm these results. 3. Autoimmune disease The key to understanding how leaky gut can cause autoimmune diseases is through research done on a protein known as “zonulin.” According to a one article published in the journal Physiologic Reviews: “Zonulin is the only physiological modulator of intercellular tight junctions described so far that is involved in trafficking of macromolecules and, therefore, in tolerance/immune response balance. When the finely tuned zonulin pathway is deregulated in genetically susceptible individuals, both intestinal and extraintestinal autoimmune, inflammatory, and neoplastic disorders can occur.” Eating certain food allergens, such as gluten, may trigger this dangerous cascade. University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers uncovered that gluten “activates zonulin signaling irrespective of the genetic expression of autoimmunity, leading to increased intestinal permeability to macromolecules.” The good news is that it seems possible to reverse these autoimmune reactions’ problematic immune responses. 4. Thyroid problems One of the autoimmune diseases that leaky gut syndrome may directly affect is Hashimoto’s disease. Also known as “chronic thyroiditis,” this disorder is displayed with hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), impaired metabolism, fatigue, depression, weight gain and a host of other concerns. 5. Nutrient malabsorption Various nutritional deficiencies can also result from leaky gut, including vitamin B12, magnesium and digestive enzymes. Those common nutrient deficiencies are one reason why many functional medicine practitioners prescribe a whole-food multivitamin in addition to probiotics for people suffering from this condition. 6. Inflammatory skin conditions First described over 70 years ago, the “gut-skin connection theory” describes how increased intestinal hyperpermeability can cause a slew of skin conditions, particularly acne and psoriasis. Creams and drugs with endless lists of (sometimes dangerous) side effects are often prescribed for these skin disorders, yet there has been evidence for several decades that part of the root cause might exist in the gut. 7. Mood issues and autism According to a study published in the journal Neuroendocrinology Letters, intestinal permeability has been shown to contribute to various neurocognitive disorders. For example, the inflammatory response characteristic of intestinal hyperpermeability triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other chemicals that are thought to induce depression. A study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience described the “vicious circle between immune system impairment and increasing dysbiosis that leads to leaky gut and neurochemical compounds and/or neurotoxic xenobiotics production and absorption.” The authors described findings from a number of studies that point to their theory that autism may be connected to problems in the microbiome, particularly within the first year of life. It is actually now a common hypothesis in modern science. Causes What is the main cause of leaky gut? As explained above, it occurs when certain tiny particles that should never be able to enter your bloodstream start to make their way through due to dysfunction of the mucosal barrier in the gut. There also commonly are abnormalities in the gut stemming from antimicrobial molecules, immunoglobulins and cytokine activities. This presents a major problem, as the vast majority of your immune system is found inside the gut (sometimes called the microbiome). The result is a disruption of acute inflammation and sometimes autoimmune reactions. A normal part of your immune response that serves to fight infections and diseases winds up over-performing, leading to chronic inflammation, which is at the root of most diseases. Some of the underlying causes of leaky gut include: Genetic predisposition — Certain people may be more predisposed to developing this condition because they are sensitive to environmental factors that “trigger” their bodies into initiating autoimmune responses. Poor diet — Especially a diet that includes allergens and inflammatory foods, such as unsprouted grains, added sugar, GMOs, refined oils, synthetic food additives, conventional dairy products and alcohol. Chronic stress Toxin overload — This includes “chronic stressors,” such as high drug and alcohol consumption. We come into contact with more than 80,000 chemicals and toxins every single year, but the worst offenders for causing leaky gut include antibiotics, pesticides, tap water, aspirin and NSAIDs. It’s recommended to buy a high-quality water filter to eliminate chlorine and fluoride and look to natural plant-based herbs to reduce inflammation in your body. Bacterial imbalance — Also called dysbiosis, which means an imbalance between beneficial and harmful species of bacteria in your gut. A large body of evidence now shows that gut microbiota is important in supporting the epithelial barrier and preventing autoimmune reactions. At least 10 percent of all gene transcriptions found in intestinal epithelial cells that are related to immunity, cell proliferation and metabolism are regulated by gut microbiota. Controversies Do most conventional doctors support the idea that leaky gut is real? Not exactly, as it the topic remains controversial. WebMD refers to leaky gut as “something of a medical mystery.” This isn’t surprising, since it’s not a diagnosis that most doctors have been taught in medical school. “From an MD’s standpoint, it’s a very gray area,” says gastroenterologist Donald Kirby, M.D., director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the Cleveland Clinic. In his opinion, “Physicians don’t know enough about the gut, which is our biggest immune system organ.” However, a roundtable review quotes the researchers at seven different European universities in 2014 agreeing upon the following: “Alteration of the gut barrier seems to have multiple consequences facilitating the onset of a variety of diseases depending on other hits and on genetic or epigenetic constellations, respectively. The growing significance of the gut barrier and bacterial translocation raises the questions of how we can improve gut barrier functions and gut microbiota.” While it’s encouraging that science is coming around to leaky gut syndrome being a real problem, we are by no means at a point where there are standard diagnostic tools for testing and treating this problem. This means that doctors are often left with no other choice than to follow what they believe to be the “safe path” and prescribe drugs that only treat symptoms. For example, medications (like proton pump inhibitors or antacids) can be used to manage symptoms like acid reflux medications, but these drugs don’t solve the root problem. Because there is so much unknown about leaky gut syndrome, it’s critical that you understand what leaky gut is and what to look out for in case you or a loved one is affected by it. The good news is that many functional and integrative medicine practitioners have a greater understanding of this condition than they did even a decade ago. Treatment Several leaky gut syndrome tests are available that can help confirm a diagnosis and point you in the right treatment direction. Tests are helpful for identifying specific sensitivities and uncovering which types of toxins or deficiencies are contributing to your symptoms. Available tests include: Zonulin or Lactulose Tests IgG Food Intolerance Test Stools Tests Organic Acid Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies Tests Lactulose Mannitol Test What leaky gut treatments are available? A four-step process can help treat leaky gut. We cover this process in a leaky gut diet and treatment plan. The basic steps to healing leaky gut are as follows: Remove foods and factors that damage the gut. Replace these with healing foods that are part of an anti-inflammatory diet. Repair the gut with specific leaky gut supplements like butyric acid. Rebalance your microbiome with probiotics (beneficial bacteria). This is key because bacteria in your...

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Junk Food Warning: Eating Processed Food Does ‘Crazy’ Things to Your Cancer Risk

The AHA! Team — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:08:06 +0000

Sharon Thomas via NaturalHealth365 – NEW research: Every 10% increase in calories from junk food triggers a ‘CRAZY’ effect on cancer risk Most people “get it” that eating candy and highly processed food is bad for us. But while most people try to avoid junk food because it will make them fat, many still fail to realize the most serious problem with eating these “treats.” In a nutshell (no pun intended), the alarming results of a recent study clearly link junk food eating habits with a substantial increase in cancer risk. NEW research: Every 10% increase in calories from junk food triggers a ‘CRAZY’ effect on cancer risk And, just to be clear, it’s ‘crazy’ because once you realize that a bad habit (substantially) increases the risk of cancer and you continue to do it … that’s crazy. According to most holistic physicians, 95% of all cancer diagnoses are related to environment and lifestyle. Even the American Institute for Cancer Research’s more conservative estimate of one-third is still startling. What’s the major takeaway from this statement? A cancer diagnosis is avoidable with proper lifestyle changes. And of all the lifestyle changes you could make, avoiding processed food is one of the most important. Consider data from a French prospective cohort study called NutriNet-Santé, which spanned eight years and involved 104,980 subjects. By analyzing daily meal logs, researchers were able to determine an important correlation: If just 10% of a person’s total daily calories came from “ultra-processed” foods, then they had a 12% INCREASED risk for overall cancer. Subsequent 10% increments in junk food calories increased their cancer risk by the same degree! The researchers suggest several possible reasons why. First, junk food has more refined sugar, less fiber, and fewer vitamins and minerals than whole and minimally processed foods, which can disrupt the healthy gut microbiota and promote inflammation. Second, chemicals, preservatives, fillers, and other ingredients (as well as their processing, e.g., the application of pesticides) are carcinogenic in their own right. The research is clear: repeatedly eating these foods can lead to serious health complications over time – not the least of which is packing on the pounds. Best junk food advice: Avoid the heavily processed foods that can make you sick It’s not just candy and cakes which increase your cancer risk. Here’s an extensive list of the foods which the researchers considered “ultra-processed:” “[M]ass produced packaged breads and buns; sweet or savory packaged snacks; industrialized confectionery and desserts; sodas and sweetened drinks; meat balls, poultry and fish nuggets, and other reconstituted meat products transformed with addition of preservatives other than salt (for example, nitrites); instant noodles and soups; frozen or shelf stable ready meals; and other food products made mostly or entirely from sugar, oils and fats, and other substances not commonly used in culinary preparations such as hydrogenated oils, modified starches, and protein isolates. Industrial processes notably include hydrogenation, hydrolysis, extruding, moulding, reshaping, and pre-processing by frying. Flavoring agents, colors, emulsifiers, humectants, non-sugar sweeteners, and other cosmetic additives are often added to these products to imitate sensorial properties of unprocessed or minimally processed foods and their culinary preparations or to disguise undesirable qualities of the final product.” Want a few simple hacks to help you make smarter choices at the grocery store? Keep these tips in mind: Opt for organic, whole, real food in its natural state whenever possible. These are usually found along the perimeters of the grocery store. If it has a super long shelf life and/or is found in the middle aisles of the grocery store, be suspicious. If it contains ingredients you can’t read, be suspicious. As the journalist Michael Pollan suggests, avoid “food-like substances.” Lastly, realize that food that has been heavily manufactured, tinkered with, and ultra-processed is virtually addictive by design. Keep this in mind: the largest food producers in the world want you to crave sugary foods because they’re cheap, accessible, and something you’ll want to buy again and again! Fortunately, you and your family can train yourself to break the cycle: skip the processed garbage, learn how to cook simple (healthy) meals, and eat as close to nature (organic) as possible. Even if you change just one meal at a time, start somewhere. Editor’s note: I know most of our NaturalHealth365 readers already appreciate much of what this article says. Yet, the main point is to provide a ‘tool’ for you to share with someone else who needs to read this message. Keep in mind: it’s NOT about ‘convincing’ anyone to do anything. But, I do believe it’s our responsibility to share valuable information with others and let them decide. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NaturalMedicineJournal.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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