glyphosate Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Babies at Risk: Glyphosate’s Shocking Toll on Birth Outcomes

The AHA! Team — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:23:40 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – We will examine this study, which observes the link between premature birth, low birth weight, and other peri/prenatal concerns associated with exposure to glyphosate and other environmental toxins. Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the world, accounting for massive spots of agricultural production and invading every part of our communities. While the link between glyphosate and certain types of cancers has already been established, there is emerging data that suggests that glyphosate impacts prenatal health and birth outcomes as well. We will examine this study, which observes the link between premature birth, low birth weight, and other peri/prenatal concerns associated with exposure to glyphosate and other environmental toxins. While environmental toxins like glyphosate are more pervasive than most people realize, we’ll provide actionable steps to help you reduce your exposure and safeguard the health of you and your family. Understanding glyphosate exposure risks to unborn babies Researchers were concerned about the potential harmful effects of glyphosate on fertility and birth outcomes, particularly for individuals living in agricultural areas where glyphosate is heavily used. They focused on communities with lower economic mobility, as these individuals often face the highest levels of exposure. To understand the issue, it’s important to know how glyphosate works. Glyphosate is a powerful herbicide that kills plants unless they are genetically modified (GMO) to resist it. The same company that produces glyphosate also sells GMO seeds designed to survive its application. As a result, glyphosate is often sprayed liberally on fields, eliminating weeds while saturating the soil, groundwater, and air with a highly toxic chemical. Researchers analyzed data from U.S. counties where glyphosate use was especially high, often in areas growing GMO crops like corn and soybeans, which were already well-suited to those regions. After 1996, glyphosate usage soared, and researchers reviewed over 9 million birth records spanning 1993 to 2021 to assess its impact. They compared birth outcomes – such as birth weight and gestational length – in counties with high glyphosate use to those with significantly less exposure. The findings were concerning. On average, babies born in areas with higher glyphosate exposure had gestational periods shortened by a full day and weighed an ounce less at birth. Alarmingly, the effects were even worse for babies who were already at risk of being premature or having low birth weight, although the study couldn’t pinpoint the exact reasons for this heightened vulnerability. Overall, the research demonstrated that glyphosate exposure negatively affects gestational time and birth weight for all babies, with the most severe outcomes seen in already vulnerable populations. Families with lower socioeconomic status, who are often more exposed and have fewer resources to reduce their risk, bear the greatest burden. Compounding risks of other environmental toxins Undoubtedly, the relentless presence of air pollution and the widespread use of plastics have caused significant genetic damage over generations. Heavy metals, air pollutants, BPAs from disposable plastics, pesticides, herbicides, and chemical runoff contaminate groundwater and poison agricultural communities daily. When you combine the impact of glyphosate on farmers and rural populations with these other environmental toxins, the effects on children’s gestational and birth health, as well as their long-term well-being, are deeply concerning. Glyphosate is particularly insidious. Rural communities are exposed not only when it is applied to crops but also through its residue, which remains on food long after harvest. Wheat and potatoes are especially problematic, as they are heavily treated with glyphosate, and traces persist when they reach the market. Despite the position of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that these levels pose ‘no safety concern,’ the continued presence of glyphosate in our food supply raises serious questions about its long-term impact on health. Solutions and preventative measures Unfortunately, those corporations with wealth and power often prioritize profit over public health, leaving vulnerable communities to bear the brunt of harmful practices. Companies like Monsanto (now owned by Bayer) have deep pockets to lobby politicians and keep glyphosate legal. The power to create change lies in grassroots, community-driven efforts where people unite to demand better from their representatives and protect their communities. Start by lobbying your congressional representatives, making it clear that their re-election depends on their support for your stance against glyphosate use. Building local community organizations to educate others about the dangers of glyphosate can also have a significant impact. At the very least, push for transparency by ensuring your community is informed when large-scale glyphosate applications are planned. Advocating for herbicide-free green spaces in your town is another proactive step. On a personal level, you can reduce your exposure to glyphosate by supporting small farms that produce organic crops. In many cases, buying your food from local sources can save you money and the long-term health benefits far outweigh the expense. Investing in a high-quality water filtration system is another critical measure, especially for those living in rural or agricultural areas where contamination risks are higher. While it’s uncertain whether glyphosate will ever be thoroughly scrutinized for its toxicity in the U.S., you can still take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. By wisely investing your time, energy, and resources – whether through advocacy, education, or personal choices – you can help secure a healthier future for your family and your communities. Sources for this article include: PNAS.org Medicalxpress.com To read the original article click here.

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Glyphosate Exposure Linked to Lasting Brain Inflammation

The AHA! Team — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:04:19 +0000

Arizona State University via News-Medical – The human brain is an incredibly adaptable organ, often able to heal itself even from significant trauma. The human brain is an incredibly adaptable organ, often able to heal itself even from significant trauma. Yet for the first time, new research shows even brief contact with a common herbicide can cause lasting damage to the brain, which may persist long after direct exposure ends. In a groundbreaking new study, Arizona State University researcher Ramon Velazquez and his colleagues at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope, demonstrate that mice exposed to the herbicide glyphosate develop significant brain inflammation, which is associated with neurodegenerative disease. The findings suggest the brain may be much more susceptible to the damaging effects of the herbicide than previously thought. Glyphosate is one of the most pervasive herbicides used in the U.S. and worldwide. The research, which appears today in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, identifies an association between glyphosate exposure in mice and symptoms of neuroinflammation, as well as accelerated Alzheimer’s disease-like pathology. This study tracks both the presence and impact of glyphosate’s byproducts in the brain long after exposure ends, showing an array of persistent, damaging effects on brain health. The research, appeared in the Journal of Neuroinflammation Glyphosate exposure in mice also resulted in premature death and anxiety-like behaviors, which replicates findings by others examining glyphosate exposure in rodents. Further, the scientists discovered these symptoms persisted even after a 6-month recovery period during which exposure was discontinued. Additionally, the investigation demonstrated that a byproduct of glyphosate – aminomethylphosphonic acid – accumulated in brain tissue, raising serious concerns about the chemical’s safety for human populations. “Our work contributes to the growing literature highlighting the brain’s vulnerability to glyphosate. Given the increasing incidence of cognitive decline in the aging population, particularly in rural communities where exposure to glyphosate is more common due to large-scale farming, there is an urgent need for more basic research on the effects of this herbicide.” Ramon Velazquez, researcher, Arizona State University Velazquez is a researcher with the ASU-Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center at the ASU Biodesign Institute and an assistant professor with the School of Life Sciences. He is joined by first author Samantha K. Bartholomew, a PhD candidate in the Velazquez Lab, other ASU colleagues, and co-senior author Patrick Pirrotte, associate professor with the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and researcher with the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in California. According to the Centers for Disease Research, farm laborers, landscape workers, and others employed in agriculture are more likely to be exposed to glyphosate through inhalation or skin contact. Additionally, the new findings suggest that ingestion of glyphosate residues on foods sprayed with the herbicide potentially poses a health hazard. Most people living in the U.S. have been exposed to glyphosate during their lifetime. “My hope is that our work drives further investigation into the effects of glyphosate exposure, which may lead to a reexamination of its long-term safety and perhaps spark discussion about other prevalent toxins in our environment that may affect the brain,” Bartholomew says. The team’s findings build on earlier ASU research that demonstrates a link between glyphosate exposure and a heightened risk for neurodegenerative disorders. The previous study showed that glyphosate crosses the blood-brain barrier, a protective layer that typically prevents potentially harmful substances from entering the brain. Once glyphosate crosses this barrier, it can interact with brain tissue and appears to contribute to neuroinflammation and other harmful effects on neural function. The EPA considers certain levels of glyphosate safe for human exposure, asserting that the chemical is minimally absorbed into the body and is primarily excreted unchanged. However, recent studies, including this one, indicate that glyphosate, and its major metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid, can persist in the body and accumulate in brain tissue over time, raising questions about existing safety thresholds and whether glyphosate use is safe at all. Herbicide may attack more than weeds Glyphosate is the world’s most heavily applied herbicide, used on crops including corn, soybeans, sugar beets, alfalfa, cotton and wheat. Since the introduction of glyphosate-tolerant crops (genetically engineered to be sprayed with glyphosate without dying) in 1996, glyphosate usage has surged, with applications predominately in agricultural settings. The U.S. Geological Survey notes approximately 300 million pounds of glyphosate are used annually in the United States alone. Although glyphosate levels are regulated on foods imported into the United States, enforcement and specific limits can vary. Due to its widespread use, the chemical is found throughout the food chain. It persists in the air, accumulates in soils, and is found in surface and groundwater. Despite being considered safe by the EPA, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies glyphosate as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” and emerging research, including this study, points to its potential role in worsening neurodegenerative diseases by contributing to pathologies, like those seen in Alzheimer’s disease. The chemical works by inhibiting a specific enzyme pathway in plants that is crucial for producing essential amino acids. However, its impact extends beyond the intended weed, grass and plant targets, negatively affecting the biological systems in mammals, as demonstrated by its persistence in brain tissue and its role in inflammatory processes. “Herbicides are used heavily and ubiquitously around the world,” says Pirrotte, associate professor in TGen’s Early Detection and Prevention Division, director of the Integrated Mass Spectrometry Shared Resource at TGen and City of Hope, and senior author of the paper. “These findings highlight that many chemicals we regularly encounter, previously considered safe, may pose potential health risks. However, further research is needed to fully assess the public health impact and identify safer alternatives.” Is glyphosate safe to use at all? The researchers hypothesized that glyphosate exposure would induce neuroinflammation in control mice and worsen neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s model mice, causing elevated Amyloid-β and tau pathology and worsening spatial cognition after recovery. Amyloid-β and Tau are key proteins that comprise plaques and tau tangles, the classic diagnostic markers of Alzheimer’s disease. Plaques and tangles disrupt neural functioning and are directly linked to memory loss and cognitive decline. The experiments were conducted over 13 weeks, followed by a six-month recovery period. The main metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid, was detected in the brains of both normal and transgenic mice with Alzheimer’s pathology. Transgenic mice are genetically modified to carry genes that cause them to develop Alzheimer’s-like symptoms as they age. This allows researchers to study the progression and effects of the disease in a controlled laboratory setting. The researchers tested two levels of glyphosate exposure: a high dose, similar to levels used in earlier research, and a lower dose that is close to the limit used to establish the current acceptable dose in humans. This lower dose still led to harmful effects in the brains of mice, even after exposure ceased for months. While reports show that most Americans are exposed to glyphosate daily, these results show that even a short period could potentially cause neurological damage. Glyphosate caused a persistent increase in inflammatory markers in the brain and blood, even after the recovery period. This prolonged inflammation could drive the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, indicating even temporary glyphosate exposure can lead to enduring inflammatory processes that affect brain health. The data emphasizes that glyphosate exposure may be a significant health concern for human populations. The researchers stress the need for continued vigilance and intensified surveillance of glyphosate neurological and other long-term negative health effects. “Our goal is to identify environmental factors that contribute to the rising prevalence of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases in our society,” Velazquez says. “By unveiling such factors, we can develop strategies to minimize exposures, ultimately improving the quality of life for the growing aging population.” The National Institutes on Aging, National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health, and ASU Biodesign Institute funded this study. Source: Arizona State University Journal reference: Bartholomew, S. K., et al. (2024) Glyphosate exposure exacerbates neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s disease-like pathology despite a 6-month recovery period in mice. Journal of Neuroinflammation. doi.org/10.1186/s12974-024-03290-6. 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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Glyphosate Exposure Linked to Increased Risk of Kidney Disease

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:23:21 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – An epidemic has been growing around the world, yet it remains largely unacknowledged in the United States. This epidemic is chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu). Countless individuals from South America to Asia have been affected, with many tragically losing their lives to this so-called “mysterious” disease. In El Salvador, CKDu has become a leading cause of death among men, surpassing other serious illnesses like leukemia, AIDS, HIV, and diabetes combined. Recently, a study published in Science of the Total Environment highlighted a concerning connection between glyphosate exposure and kidney injury, particularly in children living near farming areas. This raises important questions about the environmental factors contributing to CKDu and what we need to understand about this troubling health crisis. Western medicine fails to properly address chronic kidney disease Little has been done in the U.S. to combat the sudden surge of this deadly disease – which has only appeared in the past couple of decades. In fact, many American doctors still question whether it’s such a “big deal” or not. But, for the many people who have lost their loved ones to CKDu – the disease is very real. One man from Sri Lanka – Dr. Channa Jayasumana – worked with two colleagues to investigate the source of CKDu in his country. To start, the team recognized that CKDu is affiliated with kidney tubule damage, which is not normally found in patients with chronic kidney disease brought on by diet or conditions like hypertension. They also assumed that because the disease first appeared in the mid-1990s, a toxic agent must have been introduced to the country sometime within the previous 30 years to have led to kidney damage. Finally, the substance had to protect heavy metals in groundwater and safely transport them through the liver and into the kidneys. Their research led them to glyphosate, an herbicide that meets all the criteria for the offending agent and is used widely throughout Sri Lanka. First developed to remove mineral build-up in boiler pipes, glyphosate was never intended to be used in farming. It was only a matter of time before one company – Monsanto (acquired by Bayer) – discovered glyphosate’s “benefits” as a weed killer. Glyphosate has an ugly and destructive history Monsanto was quick to patent glyphosate as an herbicide in the 1970s. For decades, the company owned exclusive rights and sold it as a product called Roundup, now the most popular herbicide globally. Though widely touted as a “safe” herbicide, weeds have developed in recent years that are resistant to Roundup and, thus, require greater and more toxic amounts of herbicide. So, Monsanto created glyphosate-resistant GMO seeds that are resistant to the herbicide. Now, farmers can use extravagant amounts of this herbicide, destroying weeds without damaging the crops. Unfortunately, the farmers themselves seem to have suffered the repercussions of glyphosate toxicity, losing their lives to a disease that may have been prevented. Farmers are paying the ultimate price for ignorance Glyphosate is a substance that binds with metals in soils, such as arsenic. In the body, glyphosate is believed to protect metals from being metabolized by the liver, allowing them to become toxic within the kidneys. While genetically modified seeds resist glyphosate, there is no protection for the farmers who become ill after exposure to this substance as it binds with heavy metals. Unfortunately, dialysis and organ transplants aren’t as accessible in parts of the world most affected by CKDu, meaning most farmers with the disease caused by glyphosate toxicity will lose their lives to it. Editor’s note: If you’re looking for the science that proves how toxic glyphosate is, own the Fatty Liver Docu-Class, created by NaturalHealth365 Programs and watch the presentation with Jonathan Landsman and Stephanie Seneff, PhD. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Sciencedaily.com Truth-out.org To read the original article click here.

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3 Ways BIG AG Is Poisoning Our Food Supply

AHA Publisher — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 07:00:29 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Big agriculture is in the spotlight now that the public is learning about how the industry’s cost-cutting ways have resulted in unhealthy food with minimal nutrients, empty calories, and addictive ingredients. It wasn’t long ago when the fruits and vegetables available in local stores were chock-full of vitamins and minerals. Nowadays, the majority of the produce we consume is grown with harmful pesticides. Big Agriculture tech has improved, yet cancer and diseases are still prevalent, creating a progress paradox in desperate need of our collective attention. Today’s toxic food stems from how plants are grown, focusing on phosphate fertilizer. However, consumers are busy to the point that they cannot keep track of Big Agriculture’s practices. So here are the dirty details on the state of the world’s food industry. Phosphate Fertilizer Contains Radioactive Element, Raising Question About Food Safety Though few are aware of it, phosphate fertilizer used by Big Agriculture is slightly radioactive due to its unique component referred to as polonium-210. The problem with using even a small amount of this radioactive element is that it has the potential to be absorbed by the plants we depend on for sustenance and continued health. Rewind to 2015, glyphosate used within the aforementioned fertilizer was formally labeled as a human carcinogen. Glyphosate is tied to many health issues, including damage to the internal organs over time and even cancer. Though the scientific and medical communities are not completely certain phosphate directly causes cancer, it is clear that it is a toxic component that Big Agriculture must address in due time. Industrial Waste, Heavy Metals in Biosolids Linked to Cancer, Organ Damage The word “biosolids” (sewage sludge) certainly sounds intimidating, yet their toxic components are not as complex as they appear on their surface. The fertilizer used to grow crops contains PFAS chemicals. Such chemicals are much more likely to cause health problems, including issues with the thyroid, liver, and other internal organs. Crops serve as the conduit between the toxic components and the consumer, ultimately compromising the human body as time progresses. If BIG AG is going to re-establish a rapport with the public, it will have to address the use of toxic sludge for crop growth in the near future. Unfortunately, industry heads haven’t shown a willingness to alter their ways, meaning toxic sludge will be used to grow the food we need for sustenance until consumers and/or food industry regulators take action. Weed Killer Causes DNA and Pineal Gland Damage and More Though it might be hard to believe, the glyphosate used by farmers and others in the agricultural industry to inhibit weed growth has the potential to cause DNA damage and possibly even damage to the acorn-shaped pineal gland in the center of the brain that might one day be revealed as the spiritual center of the human body. Damage to the pineal gland is tied to neurological problems and gut dysbiosis, diseases ranging from Parkinson’s to anxiety, depression, and even autism. Pineal gland damage might also catalyze the release of a hormone that stimulates the thyroid, potentially setting the stage for hypothyroidism to develop across the aging process. The answer to this quandary is simple: consumers should consider boycotting Big Agriculture in favor of smaller, local farmers who grow organic crops without weed killers and other chemical-laden products. Alternatively, federal regulators could ramp up regulations on Big Agriculture, forcing the industry to clean up its practices and grow healthy and nutritious food that advances the greater good as opposed to corporate profits. Sources for this article include: Citeseerx.ist.psu.edu ChildrensHealthDefense.org To read the original article click here.

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This Chemical in Our Food ‘Will Actually Perforate the Wall of the Gut’: Doc Reveals Secrets to Living Longer, Healthier

AHA Publisher — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 07:00:11 +0000

Lorie Johnson via CBN News – A disturbing new study reveals that a dangerous chemical has been found in the urine of a vast majority of Americans. Glyphosate is the pesticide found in Roundup, and it’s so prevalent in the U.S. food supply that it’s now in the urine samples of more than 80 percent of Americans tested in the study, including 87 percent of children. Experts say the chemical has been linked to cancer and other health concerns, and while it has now infiltrated much of the processed foods we buy at grocery stores, many people don’t even know about the dangers it poses. It’s just one of many concerns affecting our health and longevity, but there are ways to limit the risk and live longer. People Are Still Living Longer Living past the age of 100 used to be a rarity. These days, however, people over 100 comprise a fast-growing segment of the population. Just a few years ago, there were about 500,000 centenarians worldwide. The United States has the most: 72,000. Studies from the United Nations predict the world will have more than three million centenarians by 2050. That’s good news unless that population suffers from declining health. In fact, many people say they don’t want to live that long if it means their last decade is spent in a nursing home not being able to do anything or remember anyone. Rethink What It Means to be Old However, needing a home without stairs and taking lots of medications don’t need to go hand-in-hand with aging. One of the world’s leading experts on aging says far too many people equate getting old with poor health and plan accordingly. “We base a lot of our behaviors thinking that this is what’s going to happen to us, but in fact, that doesn’t have to happen,” Dr. Steven Gundry told CBN News. In his book, The Longevity Paradox: How to Die Young at a Ripe Old Age, Dr. Gundry lists the habits of healthy centenarians. “What we know about super old people who are thriving is that they don’t become infirm, they don’t get cancer, they don’t get Alzheimer’s,” Dr. Gundry said. “These people actually have the physiology, have the workings, of a 50-year-old individual.” Build a Better Gut A number of things separate healthy centenarians apart from their sicker counterparts. However, topping the list of what it takes to live a vibrant, disease-free life well into old age is a healthy gut. That means an intestinal tract brimming with good bacteria. “It’s amazing,” he said, “When we look at 105-year-old people around the world, they carry the diverse gut microbiome of 30-year-old people.” Having enough of the right bacteria can prevent just about every type of disease, including inherited ones. “Whether we turn genes on or off with information, and that’s called epigenetics or epigenomics, and it’s that interplay with actually a lot of material that comes from our microbiome telling our genes what to do,” he said. Glyphosate: Avoid Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut Dr. Gundry said the key to a healthy gut microbiome is avoiding processed foods, because of chemical ingredients, especially the pesticide glyphosate. “It’s probably the biggest health problem that people are unaware of,” he warned, “It’s in all of our products, all of our cereals. all of our breads, all of our crackers. A recent study of 35 oat products in the United States found glyphosate, including some very dangerous levels, in every one of the oat products including many of our kids’ cereals including our granola.” Dr. Gundry says in addition to cancer and other health concerns, glyphosate can wipe out good bacteria and even cause a ‘leaky gut.’ “You will actually make perforations in the wall of the gut, and bacterial particles and plant compounds and toxins will get right through the wall of your gut,” he said. A leaky gut can cause migraines, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune diseases like Celiac, according to Gundry. Intermittent Fasting In addition to eating right, robust old-timers go without food altogether for long periods of time. Regularly fasting a minimum of twelve hours within a 24-hour period can trigger the body to eliminate whatever hinders survival. “Fasting, or intermittent fasting, gives us an opportunity to really get all the best cells all the time and that’s what we all want,” said Dr. Gundry. Studies show intermittent fasting helps prevent atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and possibly cancer, all while boosting the immune system. The Problem with Pills Another common characteristic of healthy centenarians is they take few drugs or none at all. While many people, such as diabetics, take specific medication, Dr. Gundry maintains healthier choices can even reverse that need. “I have yet to meet a type two who I can’t get off all medications by teaching them how to eat,” he said. “I haven’t met a person who takes a statin drug to lower cholesterol that I can’t get off a statin once I teach them how to eat.” Dr. Gundry says antibiotics and common painkillers can harm the gut microbiome, with even something like an antacid leading to other problems. “And so I see so many people with dementia and congestive heart failure who’ve been taking these drugs chronically,” he said. “In fact, the FDA has a warning on these products that you should never take them longer than two weeks because they’re that dangerous.” Dust Off Those Sneakers Dr. Gundry says exercise keeps the body working well no matter what the calendar says. It improves blood flow, particularly to the brain. Women who exercise routinely during their lifespan have a 90-percent reduction in Alzheimer’s compared to women who don’t. Muscles strengthen bones, thus preventing injury. It turns out that walking against gravity, whether going up or down, is an especially good exercise because it works the area of the body between the knees and the hips, which contains most of our muscle mass. In fact, the five cities worldwide with the highest concentration of centenarians are all very hilly. Those cities are in what’s known as Blue Zones. The only one in the US is Loma Linda, which means ‘beautiful hill’ in Spanish. This California city is not only home to the largest concentration of centenarians in America, but also the largest concentration of Seventh-Day Adventists. That denomination avoids processed foods and drugs while embracing fasting and exercise. Years ago, Dr. Gundry practiced heart surgery in Loma Linda and was inspired by the people and their healthy lifestyle. Not long after that, he shifted the focus of his medical practice to teaching the world how to live strong to a ripe old age. To read the original article click here.

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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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Fast Food DISASTER: Industrial Chemicals Found Inside Many Samples, NEW Study

AHA Publisher — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 08:00:54 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – If you love fast food like nearly 37% of the United States population who eat it a day, you may be consuming industrial chemicals. That is exactly what a study published by George Washington University recently found. The study examined the top fast food chains in the country by purchasing 64 fast food items from establishments in the San Antonio, Texas area, including Chipotle, McDonald’s, Domino’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut. Upon testing their samples, the researchers found small amounts of harmful chemicals called phthalates in most food samples. Phthalates, Anyone? Toxic Plasticizer Is Found in a Host of Products, Even in Your Fast Food Phthalates are a group of chemicals that are commonly referred to as plasticizers. They are commonly used to make plastics soft or more durable. Some are used to dissolve certain materials. These chemicals can be found in all sorts of products, including: Lubricating oil Plastic packaging Hair spray Vinyl flooring Medical tubing Shampoo Garden hoses Soap It is not uncommon for humans to come in contact with phthalates by touching products that contain the chemicals or by eating or drinking foods that have been in contact with other products, such as packaging, which contains phthalates. Particles of the chemicals can also be breathed into the body. Sadly, in fast foods, they are being consumed by millions of people – every day. How do Phthalates Affect Human Health? There are some concerning health issues that are linked to phthalates in humans. Some types have caused problems with the reproductive system in humans and animals. There is not enough research to determine how low levels of phthalate exposure affect humans, but some conditions are believed to be linked to it. These chemicals have also been linked to learning disorders and behavioral and attention disorders during childhood. They have also been found to disrupt the endocrine system and are linked to other health problems, including cancer and autoimmune disorders. Shocking Findings Indicate Industrial Chemicals in Over 80 Percent of Food Samples Some of the foods contained higher levels than others, and certain chemicals were more prevalent than others. But, overall, the breakdown was eye-opening: DnBP (DI-n-Butyl Phthalate) was found in 81% of the samples, and DEHP Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate was found in 70% of the samples. These are linked to reproductive and fertility problems in humans and an increased risk of behavioral, attention, and learning disorders during childhood. DEHT (Di-2-ethylhexyl-terephtalate) was found in 86% of the samples. There is no solid research yet to determine just how it affects human health. Fast food meats like chicken burritos and cheeseburgers had the highest levels of phthalates and the highest DEHT levels. In addition, the gloves that were used for food handling at the restaurants also contained DEHT. Of all the foods tested, cheese pizza had the lowest levels of the majority of the chemicals. Reality Check: Government Agencies Fail to Protect the Public from Dangerous Chemicals in the Food Supply At this time, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have any legal thresholds that limit how much phthalates can be in our food. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does have certain guidelines in place regarding thresholds for phthalate levels but what was found in the samples fell below that mark. The FDA has agreed to review the study and consider it a portion of the body of scientific evidence. The chemicalshave been banned from certain products, including toys, but are still used to make industrial tubing, rubber gloves, and conveyor belts – all used in factories that produce or process foods for fast food companies. They are also found in the packaging of those products and the foods. So What Can You Do to Protect Your Family Against These Harmful Chemicals? The best thing you can do is eat as fresh (and organic) as possible. This would include buying local when possible and preparing your food at home. Never underestimate the value of shopping at your local farmers market and eating unprocessed, locally-grown (organic) food. It’s the best! If you’re looking to “indulge” a bit: you can prepare your own ‘fast foods’ like pizza (made from glyphosate-free flour and organic ingredients) or 100% grass fed beef burgers ahead of time, freeze them, and cook them whenever you’re ready. This would be one way to accomplish the time-saving convenience of fast food without the dangers associated with conventional fast food meals. After all, who really wants industrial chemicals with every meal? Sources for this article include: News.Yahoo.com MediaRelations.GWU.edu PublicHealth.GWU.edu CDC.gov To read the original article click here.

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Is Wheat the Problem? Or Is It Pesticides? A Surprising Factor in Celiac Disease

AHA Publisher — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:00:17 +0000

Leah Zerbe, MS, NASM-CPT, NASM-CES via Dr. Axe – If you’ve been dealing with ongoing gastrointestinal (GI) issues — diarrhea, nausea, pain and bloating — the cause may be right on your plate. Gluten, the main protein in wheat and other grains, causes serious reactions in millions of people. And it affects more of us all the time. But it didn’t used to. For thousands of years, people all over the world ate wheat without suffering any consequences. But over the past few decades, both celiac disease and gluten intolerances have begun affecting huge numbers of people, especially in the U.S. Which begs the question: How did this global staple food turn toxic for so many of us? The answer may not be the gluten itself, but the chemicals used to grow, treat, and harvest the wheat. What’s Your Gluten Issue? Gluten can affect your health in three ways: Wheat/gluten allergy: An immediate, severe immune system response to wheat and the proteins it contains, but without lasting damage to the body Gluten intolerance (also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity): A condition that causes dozens of symptoms but no autoimmune response when you consume gluten Celiac disease: An autoimmune condition where even tiny amounts of gluten trigger an attack on your small intestine Wheat allergies are uncommon, especially in adults, but can be life-threatening. Celiac disease causes lifelong health issues in millions of people, about 1.4 percent of the world population. Gluten intolerance is by far the most common issue, but it’s hard to pin down the numbers. Researchers estimate that around 6 percent of people suffer with this condition, but that’s probably on the low side. Both wheat allergy and celiac disease can be diagnosed with existing medical tests — though the results in celiac tests aren’t always accurate. Gluten intolerance is harder to diagnose because there’s no real test for it. It’s more of a non-diagnosis: People who test negative for celiac disease but feel better after eliminating gluten from their diets, are considered gluten intolerant. Do You Have These Symptoms? People first begin to realize they may have gluten issues when they start having GI problems. All three conditions listed above can cause GI issues including diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. But gluten intolerance and celiac disease can also cause some surprising and seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as: Headaches Depression and anxiety Joint pain Bone loss Chronic fatigue Brain fog Memory lapses Itchy rashes And unlike allergies and intolerances, celiac disease does lasting damage to the body. It injures the protective gut barrier, which can lead to severe malnutrition. Celiac also triggers system-wide chronic inflammation, setting the stage for other disease states to move in. The main treatment for all three conditions is avoiding wheat and gluten. But that’s not as easy as it sounds, and it doesn’t always work. A “Gluten-Free” Diet May Not Be Enough Going gluten-free should be easy, but it’s not. For one thing, studies show that foods labeled as gluten-free often contain gluten. In one study, researchers detected gluten in 32% of 5,624 foods labeled gluten-free. In fact, 53% of gluten-free pizzas and 51% of gluten-free pastas contained gluten. A 2020 mega-study led researchers to report that “foods labeled as gluten-free should not be considered safe” for people who need to avoid gluten. Second, if you eat somewhere even in your own home where other people consume gluten, you run a high risk of cross-contamination. That can happen when particles of gluten stick to pots, plates, and utensils also used for gluten-containing foods. And if you’ve ever baked with flour, you know it finds up everywhere. Third, gluten hides out in the weirdest places. You wouldn’t expect it, but gluten is found in things like: Bouillon cubes Ketchup and mustard Wine coolers Soy sauce Instant coffee Fruit snacks Toothpaste and mouthwash Medications Vitamins Even if you do manage to stay 100% gluten-free, it may not be enough to heal your gut — at least not through diet alone. When you have any level of gluten reactivity, it triggers immune system responses including inflammation that can damage the inner lining of your intestines. Your gut gets a break when you avoid gluten, but that won’t fix the existing damage. On top of all that, there’s another threat to your recovery: glyphosate. Glyphosate is the most widely used weed killer in the world. It’s used extensively on grain crops (including wheat), along with everything from chickpeas to kale. And while glyphosate might not seem related to your gluten issues, it almost certainly is. Factor in Celiac Disease: Gluten or Glyphosate? With gluten-related illnesses on the rise, scientists raced to find out why. Their main suspect was the higher gluten content in modern wheat. But unexpected study results quickly nixed that idea. Researchers found that a high-gluten diet didn’t increase GI symptoms, immune responses, or intestinal inflammation when compared to a low- or no-gluten diet. So scientists started looking for other causes … and they found one: Glyphosate, a pesticide often used on wheat crops. Glyphosate toxicity looks a lot like gluten issues. That’s because glyphosate creates the same damaging conditions normally associated with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Because of the way its chemical is designed, glyphosate kills off beneficial bacteria in the gut. It also prevents important cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes from functioning properly … the same enzymes affected in celiac disease. By inhibiting CYP450 enzymes, glyphosate makes it harder for your body to: Clear out toxins on its own Form bile acids (crucial for nutrient absorption) Produce essential fatty acids Activate vitamin D Break down vitamin A into usable forms At the same time, glyphosate decimates the beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut microbiome, but doesn’t hurt pathogenic bacteria. That causes a condition called dysbiosis, where harmful bacteria overgrow and cause destructive imbalance in the gut microbiome. This combination of effects triggers symptoms very similar to what you’d experience with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. And since glyphosate (along with other pesticides) contaminates dozens of plant foods, going gluten-free can’t fix the whole problem. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be fixed. A 3-Step Plan to Tackle Gluten and Glyphosate Since it’s so hard to completely avoid gluten and glyphosate, being proactive is the best way to protect yourself. With this simple three-step plan, you’ll be able to minimize the effects of gluten and glyphosate, whenever they sneak into your diet. Step 1: Detoxify To start the healing process, you need to remove these toxins from your system. Even though your body has its own detox process, it needs extra support to deal with the toxic overload of gluten and glyphosate. And because your body is already under stress, you want to use safe, gentle, natural detoxifiers that won’t be harsh for your system to handle. At the same time, you want block absorption and storage of any new toxins. To accomplish this, choose supplements from this pesticide detox dream team: Glycine (an amino acid) competes with glyphosate and helps prevent it from being stored in organs and tissues. Glycine also increases levels of glutathione, the “master antioxidant” that boosts your body’s detox process. Collagen is rich in glycine. Iodine blocks toxins like fluoride and chloride from being absorbed into tissues, especially the thyroid. Kelp is the best source of bioavailable iodine, with the added benefit of binding to toxins for safe removal from the body. Sodium alginate (a seaweed extract) binds with toxins like glyphosate in the GI tract so they can be safely eliminated. Citrus pectin binds with a variety of environmental toxins and heavy metals to reduce the body’s toxic burden. Step 2: Repair Once gluten and glyphosate are out of the picture, your body can begin to focus on repair. This involves reducing inflammation and repairing the damage done to the intestines. Gut-healing supplements include: Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, reduces systemic inflammation. Fish oil also helps repair the injured gut barrier. Citrus pectin also helps heal and restore gut barrier integrity. Glycine possesses strong anti-inflammatory actions that help calm and soothe the intestinal lining. Step 3: Restore and Revitalize After the intestines have been repaired, you can turn your focus toward restoring a well-balanced gut microbiome. When your gut microbiome contains a rich diversity of beneficial bacteria, it helps calm autoimmune and allergic responses to gluten. By replenishing and nourishing probiotic bacteria, you’ll be supporting healthy detox and immune system function. Best of all, a healthy gut microbiome can help eliminate even the most troubling GI symptoms brought on by gluten and glyphosate. Restore and revitalize a healthy gut with: Probiotics: Replenish beneficial bacteria and help crowd out harmful bacteria. Probiotics also produce many healing compounds, including short chain fatty acids (SCFA) that protect and repair the gut barrier. Prebiotics: A type of dietary fiber that selectively nourishes probiotic bacteria. Prebiotics also supply the raw materials for SCFA production. Citrus pectin: Encourages beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome to flourish. Digestive enzymes: Help break down foods into easy-to-absorb nutrients. Supplementing with small quantities of digestive enzymes helps stimulate your own natural enzyme production. This can be especially helpful during the recovery process as celiac disease can interfere with nutrient absorption. Emerging data suggests that modern wheat strains may be more difficult on digestion for many people. But as we also learn more about the impacts of pesticides and other influences on microbiome health, it’s becoming increasingly clear that supporting GI integrity and microbiome balance from multiple angles, holds the key to long-term health on every level. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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