carcinogen Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Report Reveals SHOCKING Level of Glyphosate Contamination in Foods Sold by Top Grocery Stores

AHA Publisher — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:00:31 +0000

Wendy Miller via NaturalHealth365 – Do you ever wonder what is in your food? Most people blindly believe that if you buy from a “good company” like Whole Foods Market, Target, and Hy-Vee, you are getting quality foods safe for you and your family. Apparently, that isn’t the case and companies like Quaker Oats, those that make wheat bread, are some of the worst. The scariest part is that the FDA knows about most foods with higher than expected glyphosate levels and still considers them safe. Even non-GMO products have shown significant levels of weedkillers. Most Widely Used Weedkiller in U.S. Linked to Causing Cancer in Humans According to the National Pesticide Information Center, glyphosate is an herbicide used to kill broadleaf plants and grasses. Glyphosate is one of the most commonly used weedkillers in the U.S. and has been used since the 1970s. Roundup, the brand name of a broad-spectrum glyphosate-based herbicide initially made by Monsanto, has been linked to causing cancer in humans. Bayer/Monsanto, the maker of Roundup, has paid millions in damages to people who have used the weedkiller and consequently have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or other types of cancer. We are told it is natural and safe for small traces of pesticides and weedkillers to be found in agricultural products. But is that really so? And why is a known carcinogen being sprayed on our crops, anyway? And how much is too much? TOXIC Foods: Despite Risk of Severe Adverse Health Effects, Glyphosate Contamination Is Widespread Glyphosate can be found in foods as well as baby items like diapers. When used as a weedkiller, it can be found on grains and any other mass-produced farm crop. It can also be found in vegetables and fruits grown in your own gardens if you choose to use Roundup or other types of chemicals. If you live next to a large farming operation, you also run the risk of contamination through run-off from the farmer’s acreage to yours. It is mind-boggling to imagine that the chemical is used on over 70 different crops. Some examples of contaminated foods are rice, almonds, grapes, garbanzo beans, and sunflowers. How Much Gyphosate Is Too Much? The Answer May Surprise You In the United States, exposure to 1.75mg/kg BW/day glyphosate is considered acceptable. In Europe, the acceptable limit is much lower; 0.3 mg/kg BW/day. But it turns out, levels considered acceptable by government authorities do not necessarily mean safe. Both amounts have already been proven too high to be safe, but the FDA seems to disregard that the levels are dangerous. Comprehensive studies have already shown the link between developmental and reproductive issues in both female and male rats. DNA damage and alterations in how genes function have also been found in many peer-reviewed studies. Levels deemed safe by the EPA’s standard could be reduced by at least 100 times and still be too high to be considered safe. Comprehensive Glyphosate Testing Reveals Shocking Results Samples were taken from hundreds of foods sold by some of the most popular retailers, including Walmart, Target, Whole Foods Market, and many others. A variety of essential foods like grains, beans, and even protein shakes were tested. Thanks to the vast number and wide array of foods included, this was the most comprehensive glyphosate testing ever conducted in the U.S. What did the researchers find? Shockingly, both Walmart and Whole Foods Market sold foods that tested abnormally high, including non-GMO foods. What Can You Do To Reduce Your Exposure to Toxic Chemicals in Your Food? Be as vigilant as possible when it comes to reading labels. It’s also a good idea to go with brand names that you know and trust when it comes to buying organic or at least weedkiller-free foods. Avoid shopping at grocery stores that are known to follow their own rules when it comes to foods that contain contaminants and other hazardous chemicals. Follow the research performed by groups outside of the FDA or the toxic chemical companies. You may be surprised at what you learn. Take a close look at your shopping habits. Do you find yourself buying the same foods week over week? Most of us do, which is why doing your research about the brands you buy is critical. You may be shocked to find out that some of your favorite products contain toxic chemicals that could alter your DNA and even harm your reproductive health. What you put into your body every day will have a long-term effect on your health. It is undoubtedly clear that we cannot count on government authorities to protect us. Instead, protect your health by becoming informed and purchasing most of your foods from organic, non-GMO sources. And, above all, try to avoid consuming non-organic wheat, corn and soy products – which are loaded with unwanted toxins like, glyphosate. Sources for this article include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org NPIC.orst.edu To read the original article click here.

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New Study Links Common Pesticide to Chronic Kidney Disease

AHA Publisher — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 08:00:48 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to new statistics released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 37 million Americans – a startling 15 percent of adults across the nation – are now estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Not only that, but an astounding 90 percent of people with CKD do not even suspect they have it! And, even when severe kidney disease is involved, only 3 out of 5 individuals with the condition are aware of it. Against the backdrop of these disturbing figures, a just-published study reveals that malathion – the most popular organophosphate insecticide in the United States – substantially raises the risk of CKD in the American population. Clearly, this calls for closer examination of the link between this toxic pesticide and CKD. Let’s take a look at the research. WARNING: Chronic Kidney Disease Has Potentially Deadly Consequences Chronic kidney disease, also known as chronic kidney failure, involves damage to the kidneys and loss of kidney function. This serious condition jeopardizes the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products from the blood and excrete them through urine – causing fluid, electrolytes, and toxins to build up in the body. The early stages of kidney disease are often symptomless, causing the condition to go unnoticed. More advanced kidney disease may be indicated by fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, urination that becomes less or more frequent, confusion, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Keep in mind, CKD can lead to severe – and even life-threatening – complications, including pulmonary edema, heart disease, high levels of potassium in the blood, seizures, and irreversible kidney damage. The condition can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which – unless addressed by dialysis or a kidney transplant – is fatal. Malathion Exposure Is Linked to a 25 Percent Increase in Chronic Kidney Disease, Study Suggests In the study, which was published October 14 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, researchers examined the effects of pesticides on kidney health in the US population. The research involved over 41,000 participants and was conducted using data from the USA National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Animal studies have previously shown that exposure to malathion increases markers of kidney injury, such as levels of serum creatinine and urea. And human studies, as well, have linked malathion to kidney damage. Also driving the research was the growing incidence of unexplained chronic kidney disease in tropical countries. While hypertension, diabetes, and aging are primary factors for chronic kidney disease, international researchers had noticed the growth of cases of CKD with no known cause, particularly in agricultural workers in poorer sections of India and Sri Lanka. The scientists suspected that environmental toxins such as pesticides might be playing a role – and wanted to examine the possible effects of pesticides on kidney health in the United States. And they found that malathion exposure was associated with a significant 25 percent increase in chronic kidney disease in the United States! Study co-author Nicholas Osborne, PhD, an associate professor at the Queensland University School of Public Health, reported that the study provided evidence of altered kidney function in people exposed to malathion. “Malathion,” Dr. Osborne stated, “increases the risk of low kidney function in the general US population.” Wait, There Is More! Malathion Depletes Supplies of the Body’s Most Potent Disease-Fighting Enzyme Categorized as a “probable carcinogen” by the World Health Organization, malathion has been linked in animal studies to birth defects and various cancers. It has also been shown to be an endocrine disruptor. Scientists believe that malathion and other organophosphate pesticides cause their damage by reducing the metabolism of glutathione, the body’s most important natural antioxidant. This in turn leads to increased oxidative stress and disease. Malathion is licensed for agricultural and domestic use – as well as for mosquito control in recreational areas – and turns up in a wide variety of applications. It may be used on fruits, vegetables, shrubs, and lawns, as well as in household pesticides for ant control. It can also be found in products used to treat fleas and ticks on pets – and even makes an appearance in some treatments for head lice on humans. Short-term effects of high exposure to malathion include headaches, nausea, dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, excessive sweating, blurred vision, and accelerated heart rate. Minimize Exposure to Malathion and Other Environmental Toxins While the Environmental Protection Agency insists that the small amounts of malathion used for mosquito control make effects on humans “unlikely,” Dr. Osborne warned that chronic exposure to pesticides – even in very small doses – can lead to negative health outcomes. Natural health experts note that people can be exposed to small – but damaging – amounts by eating conventional chemical-dependent foods, inhaling the spray through mosquito spray programs, and being exposed to “drift” from local landscape applications. To minimize exposure, experts advise remaining inside or avoiding the area for at least 30 minutes post-spray. Close windows and doors, turn off window air conditioners, and close vents during spraying – and for at least 10 minutes after. Minimize contact with surfaces in recently-sprayed areas, and – if these areas are contacted – wash skin well. Rinse both homegrown and store-bought fruits and vegetables well before cooking or eating. Of course, organic produce contains far lower amounts of synthetic pesticides. So, whenever possible, spend your food money wisely. And, don’t forget to protect your fine furry friends. Pet food and water dishes should be brought inside, and ornamental fishponds should be covered, if you notice any spraying of toxic chemicals. Other natural steps you can take to support kidney health include avoiding the overuse of NSAID medications, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, bypassing sodium-laden processed foods, and managing medical conditions that can harm kidneys. The fact that chronic kidney disease is common in American adults is disturbing, especially when you consider the lack of awareness. But: the fact that malathion appears to contribute to the growing global incidence of the disease is even worse. Be proactive and protect your health. It’s worth it! Editor’s note: Click here to learn more about kidney health inside the Fatty Liver Docu-Class. It’s available now. Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com MayoClinic.org Health.NY.gov BeyondPesticides.com To read the original article click here.

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CANCER ALERT: 300+ Chemicals Found to Increase Risk of Breast Cancer

AHA Publisher — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 07:23:02 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – According to the American Cancer Society, the typical woman has a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer at some point in her lifetime. Sadly, the rates of breast cancer have increased dramatically in recent decades. Today, breast cancer remains the most common type of cancer affecting women, other than skin cancer. Why are breast cancer rates skyrocketing – could the growing number of cancer-causing chemicals found in our environment be to blame? Data from one new study suggests yes. Hundreds of Chemicals Found in Common Everyday Products Shown to Promote the Synthesis of Hormones Linked to Breast Cancer, New Research Finds The study, published in the recent edition of Environmental Health Perspectives, used laboratory testing to identify chemicals that may cause breast cancer by elevating the synthesis of estradiol (estrogen) and progesterone, two hormones linked to an increased breast cancer risk. The researchers found that 296 chemicals demonstrated the ability to increase the activity of one or both of these hormones. Chemicals, including hexythiazox, oxyfluorfen, pirimiphos-methyl, and 3,3′-dimethylbenzidine, were found in various sources, including “pesticides, consumer product ingredients, food additives, and drinking water contaminants.” The researchers note that at least 53 of the chemicals tested are currently being used in consumer products, despite the fact that there is “inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential.” Incredibly, as many as 13% of the nearly 300 chemicals were previously identified as “unlikely” carcinogens or reproductive/developmental toxicants, despite showing cancer-causing potential in the comprehensive laboratory study. How could such a misclassification occur? One explanation relates to a failure of conventional toxicology testing. Generally, toxicology testing of U.S. consumer products only looks at whether chemicals mimic estrogen or bind to hormone receptors. But what is rarely tested is whether chemicals can actually trigger estrogen production, which is exactly what these researchers discovered. “Because [estradiol and progesterone] are important risk factors for breast cancer, chemicals that increase their synthesis may also increase the risk for breast cancer and must be prioritized for further research and exposure reduction,” the authors conclude. Beyond Everyday Household Items, Common Pharmaceutical Products Have Been Associated With Breast Cancer, Too It’s not just food, pesticides, and household products that can expose you and your loved ones to chemicals that increase the risk of cancer. Unfortunately, many drugs and medical products have an elevated cancer risk, too. Remember hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? Once widely recommended by medical professionals, HRT has been strongly linked to breast cancer, as just one example. We see this especially among postmenopausal women, who are more likely to have breast cancer when they have higher blood levels of estradiol, according to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. According to BreastCancer.org, combination HRT increases a woman’s risk of breast cancer by as much as 75 percent. Another group of medications linked with breast cancer – oral contraceptives, according to the National Cancer Institute. Indeed, the International Agency for Research on Cancer and World Health Organization identified combination oral contraceptives (which contain estrogen and progestin) as a Group 1 carcinogen back 2005 – putting “the pill” in the same category as arsenic, asbestos, and tobacco smoke. Question: if you’re a female or the parent of a female, did your doctor ever explain to you the full range of risks associated with this medication? Were you ever informed that oral contraceptives might cause cancer? Sources for this article include: Childrenshealthdefense.org Grandviewresearch.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Komen.org Cancer.gov WHO.int To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Talcum Powder Risks: 5 Reasons to Never Put Baby Powder on Your Skin Again

AHA Publisher — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 07:00:31 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Talcum powder. It seems innocent enough, but did you know scientists have been warning us about potential risks since the 1960s? Talcum powder is a mineral-based product used in baby powder and many other cosmetics. Although published health studies show a link between use of talcum powder and ovarian cancer, millions of men and women still use it to absorb moisture and promote freshness. In fact, it’s still a popular diaper rash prevention tactic used in infants and young children. Johnson & Johnson shelled out more than $700 million dollars in talcum powder/ovarian cancer-related lawsuit cases in 2016 and 2017 alone, and have tens of thousands of pending lawsuits. In fact, Reuters just published an exclusive report suggesting that Johnson & Johnson is exploring a method to offload liabilities connected to baby powder litigations by pursing a bankruptcy plan. According to Reuters, Johnson & Johnson may use a newly created business to handle litigation related to talcum powder and would then seek bankruptcy protection, resulting in lower payouts for cases that didn’t settle beforehand. Still, people continue to use products containing talc on themselves and their children. Maybe they aren’t convinced of the potential health hazards of talcum powder, even though many studies and case reports clearly point out its dangers. Past reports have made it clear — you should never use baby powder or products containing talc on your skin. Plus, even inhaling these products can be problematic. The good news is that there are many natural alternatives for talcum powder that are completely safe and equally effective. What Is the Use of Baby Powder? Baby powder is commonly used to absorb moisture and cut down on friction. When applied to the skin, it can help prevent rashes and other skin irritations like chafing. Many women apply baby powder to their perineum, underwear or pads to keep the area fresh and dry. Talcum powder is also commonly added to makeup products like foundation and cosmetic powder in order to prevent caking and ensure a smooth appearance. And parents commonly apply it to their infants and young children to prevent bacterial overgrowth, yeast and diaper rash. Baby powder is a product name for talcum powder, which is made from talc, a clay mineral containing magnesium, silicon and oxygen. Talc is mined in proximity to asbestos, another naturally occurring mineral known to have carcinogenic effects. According to information posted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “to prevent contamination of talc with asbestos, it is essential to select talc mining sites carefully and take steps to purify the ore sufficiently.” Although the FDA considers it unacceptable for cosmetic talc to be contaminated with asbestos, there’s no federal mandate to test and approve cosmetic products and ingredients before they land on stores shelves. In an effort to address the safety concerns of talc in powders and cosmetic products, the FDA conducted a survey in 2009 and 2010. FDA asked nine talc suppliers to participate in the survey by sending samples of their talc. Of the nine suppliers, only four complied with the request. Meanwhile, tested purchased 34 cosmetic products in retail stores in the Washington D.C. area and tested them for asbestos contamination. The survey found no asbestos in any of the samples or products analyzed, but the FDA suggests these findings are limited because only four suppliers provided samples and the testing was limited to just 34 products. Therefore, this survey doesn’t prove that most or all talc-containing products sold in the United States are free of asbestos contamination. In fact, J&J recently recalled a batch of its baby powder due to concerns over baby powder asbestos contamination. Baby Powder Cancer Threats & Beyond 1. Ovarian Cancer According to the American Cancer Society, many studies in women investigated talcum powder’s link to cancer in the ovaries. When a woman applies baby powder or any product containing talc to her genital area, the powder particles can travel through the vagina, into the uterus and fallopian tubes and to the ovaries. The first study suggesting the connection of talc and ovarian cancer came out in 1971, when talc particles turned up in human ovarian and uterine tumors. Then, in 1982, a study linked genital talc use with ovarian cancer. Since then, dozens of studies suggest a strong link. A 2016 study conducted in Boston and published in Epidemiology analyzedthe association of ovarian cancer and genital talc use. Researchers examined talc use among 2,041 women with ovarian cancer and 2,100 women of similar ages and geographic locations that served as the controls. The data showed that genital use of talc increased ovarian cancer risk by 33 percent. The risk of cancer decreased as the longer a women went without using talcum powder in her genital region. Those who used the powder more frequently faced a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer. Another study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Preventioninvolved more than 1,300 African American women. Baby powder use was common for 62.8 percent of the women with ovarian cancer, implying a significant association between baby powder use and ovarian cancer risk. A New York Times article published in August, 2017 indicates that a judge recently ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $417 million dollars in damages to a 63-year-old woman who developed ovarian cancer after using baby powder on her genital area when she was eleven years old. There have been more than 5,000 baby powder-related cases against Johnson & Johnson, with lawsuits claiming carcinogenic effects. Damages to Johnson & Johnson between 2016 and 2017 exceed $700 million dollars. 2. Lung Cancer Although inhaling talcum powder alone may not be directly related to the development of lung cancer, there are studies that suggest an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases among talc miners and millers. This is most likely due to the varying forms of asbestos that can come into contact with talc. A 2015 review of evidence published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found an increase in lung cancer mortality rates among talc miners. However, talc exposure may have been confounded with other carcinogens and the data couldn’t be adjusted to measure the affects of talc only. Another study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, evaluated the risk of lung cancer and respiratory disease among workers exposed to asbestos-free talc and silica in the manufacture of ceramic plumbing fixtures. Researchers suggest that workers exposed to high levels of silica dust and no talc did not face a significant risk of developing lung cancer. However, workers exposed to talc in addition to high levels of silica had a significant 2.5-fold increased risk of lung cancer. The mortality rate rose the longer someone was exposure to talc in the workplace. 3. Lung Disease Inhaling the very small particles that make up talcum powder can lead to lung irritation and respiratory distress. Continuous application of or exposure to talcum powder can negatively affect infants, children, teens and adults. Even asbestos-free talcum powder can cause irritation and inflammation of the respiratory system when ingested or inhaled. A type of lung disease called pulmonary talcosis is a rare disorder caused by the inhalation of talc through occupational exposure or continued inhalation or ingestion of talc. A report published in BMJ Case Reports describes a 24-year-old woman who had a 4-month ritual of inhaling cosmetic talcum powder. She developed talcosis 10 years later. The disorder involves inflammation, chronic cough and difficulty breathing. 4. Respiratory Conditions in Infants and Children Many case reports of infants and preschool children experiencing adverse effects from talcum powder exist. Poison control center reports showincidents involving inhalation during a child’s diaper or clothing changing. When babies or children inhale the tiny particles in baby powder, it can produce a drying effect on their mucous membranes and affect breathing ability. If enough powder is inhaled in one moment or over time, it can lead to serious lung damage. A case report published in the BMJ describes a 12-week-old baby who accidentally inhaled and ingested baby powder accidentally spilt on his face during a diaper change. He immediately coughed and choked on the powder, then vomited and refused to eat. Four hours later he was admitted to the hospital with severe respiratory difficulties. Thirty minutes after hospital admission, his condition deteriorated and he went into respiratory arrest. After his airway was secured, he vomited a white talc-like substance. 5. Granulomatosis Talc granulomatosis occurs when intravenous drug abusers inject tablets containing talc that are intended for oral use. Talc is used in these tablets to hold the components of the medication together. Research suggests that injecting talc into blood vessels can cause arterial obstruction, loss of blood flow to bone tissue, and the formation of granulomas in the lungs. Granulomas are formed by an infection or inflammation caused by the presence of a foreign substance. Where Else Talcum Powder Hides? Talc isn’t only present in baby powder; in fact, it’s hiding in products that many people use on a daily basis. Here’s a list of products that typically include talc: Bath bombs Shower products Soap Lotions Feminine hygiene products Blush Bronzer Face powder Foundation Eye shadow Lipstick Face masks Toothpaste Deodorants Before buying any of these products, look for “talcum powder” or “cosmetic talc” on the label. If you choose to use products containing talc, choose companies that certify their product is talc-free, especially if you are using the powder or lotion in your pelvic area. Better Alternatives to Products Containing Talc For Baby There are many natural and safe ways to prevent diaper rash in infants and young children. Instead of relying on commercial products to use on your baby’s skin, make your own DIY diaper rash cream that contains coconut oil, beeswax, shea butter, witch hazel and calendula. This homemade diaper cream will help reduce inflammation and skin irritation without putting your baby at risk. Magnesium oil is another safe alternative. It has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties that can help to heal diaper rash quickly. For Women Natural alternatives to using powders or products containing talc exist and help effectively absorb moisture and keep you feeling fresh. For example, there are many baking soda uses for your skin and hair. Cornstarch also helps relieve skin irritation. Apply it to the skin to ease bug bites, chaffed skin, sunburns, jock itch, athlete’s foot and diaper rash. If you’re looking for a natural alternative for foundation, try my DIY Foundation Makeup. It’s made with skin-healing and soothing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, non-nanoparticle zinc oxide and vitamin E oil. To add color to this foundation, you use cinnamon and nutmeg, or cocoa powder. And if you’ve ever wondered how to make lipstick, try my all-natural homemade lipstick with lavender. It’s made with ingredients that will soften and repair your skin, while also getting rid of undesirable lines. Final Thoughts Baby powder is a product name for talcum powder, which is made from talc, a clay mineral that contains magnesium, silicon and oxygen. Talc is mined in proximity to asbestos, another naturally occurring mineral that is known to possess carcinogenic effects. Many studies in women, infants, children and male miners or millers suggest that inhaling talc or applying products containing talc to the skin can cause health conditions like ovarian cancer, lung cancer, lung disease and respiratory disease. Using natural alternatives for products containing talc, including cosmetic foundation, deodorant, baby powder, lipstick and lotion, will help you to avoid the dangers of applying talc to your skin or inhaling it. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Sunscreen Recall Targets 14 Popular Sunscreens Tainted with Known Carcinogen

AHA Publisher — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 07:00:20 +0000

Leah Zerbe, MS, NASM-CPT, NASM-CES via Dr. Axe – Johnson & Johnson issued a voluntary sunscreen recall after benzene, a known carcinogen, was detected in 14 different spray sunscreen products. The recall only involves aerosol products, a type of sunscreen that DrAxe.com and many public health advocates have been urging people to avoid for years for a host of different reasons. Sunscreen Recall Details Johnson & Johnson’s July 2021 spray sunscreen recall includes 14 products in the following five sunscreen lines. All SPFs and sizes of the following lines are impacted across the United States. Consumers are urged to stop using these sunscreens immediately: Neutrogena Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen Neutrogena Cool Dry Sport aerosol sunscreen Neutrogena Invisible Daily defense aerosol sunscreen Neutrogena Ultra Sheer aerosol sunscreen Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen According to Johnson & Johnson, benzene is never used in any of its sunscreen products, and the company is actively investigating the cause of the contamination issue. Even before this voluntary, in-house batch testing, the sunscreen industry was feeling the heat. In May, Valisure, an independent laboratory, tested 300 popular sunscreen and after-sun products and found that 27% contained concerning levels of benzene. (These 222 products did not contain benzene, according to Valisure records, although some could contain other harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, fragrances and more.) “The FDA should set and enforce standards for chemical contaminants in everyday products like sunscreen so that consumers don’t need to rely on independent testing from labs like Valisure,” says David Andres, Ph.D., senior scientist at Environmental Working Group (EWG). The results of the Valisure testing in earlier this year prompted a petition urging the FDA to take stronger regulatory action to protect consumers from this known carcinogen. The petition lists sunscreen samples that contained benzene. ‘Out of an Abundance of Caution’ Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene can cause leukemia or other cancers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Still, Johnson & Johnson states that the levels recently detected in some of its sunscreen products aren’t expected to cause negative health impacts. “Daily exposure to benzene in these aerosol sunscreen products at the levels detected in our testing would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences,” Johnson & Johnson said in its statement Wednesday. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are recalling all lots of these specific aerosol sunscreen products.” While levels may be low, public health experts say there is no safe level of exposure when it comes to benzene, particularly for children. Benzene can trigger DNA mutations that can set off health issues that won’t show up for years after exposure in some cases. Benzene is widely used in the United States and ranks in the top 20 percent of chemical production volume. Industries use benzene to create the following products: Plastics, including nylon and synthetic fibers Dyes Detergents Pharmaceuticals Pesticides Benzene also turns up in: Oil Gas Cigarette smoke Problems Plague Spray Sunscreens There are other problems when it comes to spray sunscreens, too. Proper sunscreen coverage is challenging, since aerosol sunscreen distributes unevenly on the skin. This often gives people the sense of false protection. It can also lodge deep into the lungs, and we don’t fully understand how this impacts human health yet, although scientists are actively researching this. To opt for the best sunscreens, look for products scored 0 to 2 on on EWG’s annual sunscreen safety report. (The lower the score, the safer the ingredient formulation.) Here are some recommended sunscreens with safer safety profiles, according to EWG: Badger Kids Broad Spectrum Natural Mineral Sunscreen Cream, SPF 40 Badger Sunscreen Cream, Unscented, SPF 30 Coppertone Defend & Care Face Sunscreen Lotion, Oil Free, SPF 30 Neutrogena Clear Body Breakout Free Oil-Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30 thinksport Everyday Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion, Naturally Tinted, SPF 30+ Waxhead Sun Defense Skin Nourishing Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30 Conclusion Johnson & Johnson issued a voluntary sunscreen spray recall involving 14 products in five product lines. The impacted product lines includes Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreen sprays. Earlier in the year, independent lab testing found widespread benzene contamination in 27 percent of popular sunscreen and after-sun products tested. In general, avoid spray sunscreens. They contain chemicals that could lodge deep into your lungs and offer inferior protection due to coverage issues, according to EWG. Use EWG’s Guide to Sunscreens database to look for safer sunscreen options. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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NEW STUDY Shows This Extract Reduces the Harmful Effects of EMF Radiation

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 08:00:12 +0000

Edit Lang via NaturalHealth365 – Although the wireless industry claims that exposure to wireless radiation is “safe,” numerous studies have shown that EMF radiation is harmful to the human body. Each day, we are exposed to more wireless, cellular, microwave, and electric fields than ever before in history. No matter how hard we try, it is impossible to completely avoid EMF exposure and still participate in our modern society. Thankfully, new research reveals an easy way to help protect ourselves against the damaging effects of EMF radiation. Is 5G a breakthrough innovation or a threat to human health? The use of radiofrequency (RF) EMF is on the rise, despite the overwhelming evidence revealing its potential to harm humans. One of the most alarming ways RF-EMF damages the body is by increasing oxidative stress. Free radical damage and oxidative stress are involved in cancer onset and numerous chronic diseases. Even though EMF safety is highly controversial, plenty of evidence exists to justify the WHO IARC’s decision to classify RF-EMF as a “possible human carcinogen.” Many are concerned with the potential danger that 5G has in store for humankind. Governments around the world are aggressively rolling out their 5G infrastructure. The technology uses submillimeter and millimeter waves and relies on EHF (extremely high frequency) ranges between 6 GHz and 100 GHz – and beyond. Although the physiological effects of 5G systems are unknown, preliminary observations showed that millimeter waves trigger a host of processes that can be devastating to our bodies. Hundreds of members of the international scientific community have been urging regulators to conduct further studies to explore how millimeter waves affect human health. WARNING: EMF harms your health in many ways A substantial body of evidence confirms that EMF exposures inflict widespread damage on the human body. EMFs attack our nervous and endocrine systems and produce oxidative stress. The radiation can alter our cells’ DNA, elevate programmed cell death, lower fertility, and even cause cancer. The risks are real, yet, most users are unaware of the potential harm. EMFs have also been linked to life-threatening cardiac effects, early-onset dementia, and even Alzheimer’s. Pregnant women and children are at particularly high risk. Evidence shows that EMF exposure before and shortly after birth can lead to ADHD and autism. “FCC-compliant” radiation levels do not equal “safe” Tragically enough, the over 2,000 peer-reviewed studies documenting the biological and health effects inflicted on humans by non-ionizing radiation were not enough to warrant the adoption of federal safety standards. Hundreds of recent studies demonstrate adverse health effects from headaches to many types of cancer, including brain cancer caused by levels far lower than those considered acceptable by the FCC. Nonetheless, governing bodies conducted no long-term studies to ensure public safety. Instead, the US government issued “guidelines” developed by the industry, using outdated research. Rosemary extract protects against the harmful effects of EMF Although the repercussions of long-term EMF exposure can be severe, the good news is, you can help buffer your body against its damaging effects. A popular culinary herb may allow your cells to recover from overexposure and remove some of the radiation from your body. Rosemary is a common herb that is well-known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2020 study, scientists tested the antioxidant property of rosemary extract by exposing rats to electromagnetic fields. Results showed that rosemary extract reduced EMFs’ destructive effect, confirming its potential preventative benefits. In a 2016 study, a group of researchers came to similar conclusions after exposing rats to mobile phone EMFs. In rats not treated with rosemary, EMF exposure induced structural changes in connective tissues, and increased oxidative stress. Rats treated with rosemary extract faired much better and experienced a boost in antioxidant activity. How to use rosemary for EMF protection You can take rosemary extract in a tincture or capsules. However, drinking a cup of rosemary tea daily may be the easiest way to benefit from the herb’s protective compounds. Boil 1-2 cups of water. Add 1-2 inches of finely chopped rosemary leaves to your cup. Pour hot water over the leaves. Allow to steep for 10 minutes, strain, and enjoy! Sources for this article: NIH.gov, NaturalHealthResearch.org , NaturalHealth365.com

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Cancer-Causing Caramel Color

AHA Publisher — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 04:43:08 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via NutritionFacts – Caramel coloring may be the most widely consumed food coloring in the world. Unfortunately, its manufacture can sometimes lead to the formation of a carcinogen called methylimidazole, which was identified as a cancer-causing chemical in 2007. For the purposes of its Proposition 65 labeling law, California set a daily limit at 29 micrograms a day. So, how much cancer might caramel-colored soft drinks be causing? We didn’t know…until now… My video Which has more Caramel Coloring Carcinogens: Coke or Pepsi? explores these questions and more. Researchers tested 110 soft drink samples off store shelves in California and around the New York metropolitan area, including Connecticut and New Jersey. None of the carcinogen was found in Sprite, which is what you’d expect since Sprite isn’t caramel-colored brown. Among sodas that are, the highest levels were found in a Goya brand soda, while the lowest levels were in Coke products, which were about 20 times less than Pepsi products. Interestingly, California Pepsi was significantly less carcinogenic than New York Pepsi. “This supports the notion that [labeling laws like] Proposition 65…can incentivize manufacturers to reduce foodborne chemical risks…” To protect consumers around the rest of the country, federal regulations could be a valuable approach to reducing excess cancer risk—but how much cancer are we talking about? Johns Hopkins researchers calculated the cancer burden, an estimate of the number of lifetime excess cancer cases associated with the consumption of the various beverages. So, at the average U.S. soda intake, with the average levels of carcinogens found, Pepsi may be causing thousands of cancer cases, especially non-California Pepsi products, which appear to be causing 20 times more cancer than Coke. Of course, there’s no need for any of them to have any these carcinogens at all “as caramel colorings serve only a cosmetic purpose [and] could be omitted from foods and beverages…” But we don’t have to wait for government regulation or corporate social responsibility; we can exercise personal responsibility and just stop drinking soda altogether. Cutting out soda may reduce our risk of becoming obese and getting diabetes, getting fatty liver disease, suffering hip fractures, developing rheumatoid arthritis, developing chronic kidney disease, and maybe developing gout, as well. In children, daily soda consumption may increase the odds of asthma five-fold and increase the risk of premature puberty in girls, raising the likelihood they start getting their periods before age 11 by as much as 47 percent. If we look at the back of people’s eyes, we can measure the caliber of the arteries in their retina, and the narrower they are, the higher the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Researchers performed these kinds of measurements on thousands of 12-year-olds and asked them about their soda drinking habits. Their findings? Children who consume soft drinks daily have significantly narrower arteries. “The message to patients can no longer remain the simplistic mantra ‘eat less, exercise more.'” It matters what you eat. “[S]pecific dietary advice should be to significantly reduce the consumption of processed food and added sugar and to eat more whole foods.” This article has been modified. To read the original article click here. For more articles by Dr. Greger click here.

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