Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Science Review Reveals Laundry List of Health Hazards Associated with Splenda Consumption

An in-depth scientific review of sucralose (Splenda) reveals an extensive list of safety concerns, including toxicity, DNA damage, and heightened carcinogenic potential when used in cooking When heated, it releases chloropropanols, which belong to a class of toxins known as dioxins. Dioxin—a component of Agent Orange—is among the most dangerous chemicals known to man Sucralose can destroy as much as 50 percent of the microbiome in your gut. What’s worse, it appears to target beneficial microorganisms to a greater extent than pathogenic and other more detrimental bacteria Both animal and human studies have shown that Splenda alters glucose, insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels, thereby promoting weight gain, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes The adverse effects of sucralose are oftentimes misdiagnosed or overlooked entirely as the side effects are so varied and mimic common ailments.

Monday, December 16, 2013

Health Tip: Toys to Avoid for Young Children

In 2012, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported 11 toy-related deaths and an estimated 265,000 toy-related injuries treated in emergency rooms Young children should not be given toys with cords or strings, sharp edges, or small parts Balloons, tiny magnets, and button batteries are among the most dangerous objects for small children Many toys contain chemicals linked to developmental and reproductive harm; choose pure, organic toys made from natural materials like wood in lieu of plastics like PVC.

Friday, December 13, 2013

Testosterone Decline: How to Address This Challenge to 'Manhood'

Testosterone is an androgenic sex hormone produced by the testicles (and in smaller amounts in the ovaries of women), and is often associated with "manhood." Testosterone levels in men naturally decline with age – beginning at age 30 – and continue to do so as men advance in years. Unfortunately, widespread chemical exposure is causing this decline to occur in men as early as childhood. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates, BPA, PFOA, and metalloestrogens lurk inside your house, leaching from human products such as personal hygiene products, chemical cleansers, or contraceptive drugs. They may also end up in your food and drinking water. To reduce your exposure to EDCs, replace chemical sources such as pots and pans, commercial cleansers, and processed foods with natural products and organic foods. There are numerous options to deal with age-related testosterone decline. Hormone replacement therapy, saw palmetto and other supplements, weight management through diet, exercise, and stress management are some recommended strategies.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Happiness and Laughter Are Natural Immune Boosters

Studies show that your immune system and brain are wired together Portions of your nervous system connect with immune-related organs, and immune cells have neurotransmitter receptors, suggesting active interaction between the two Chronic loneliness tends to result in upregulation of genes involved with your inflammatory response, while genes involved with antiviral control tend to be downregulated Happiness derived from activities that bring you a greater sense of purpose, life meaning, or self-actualization appear to have a direct, positive effect on your gene profile.