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Health

Under Health you will find many articles discussing cures and prevention of disease. Please note this information has been curated from many sources and I do not recommend any unless under the care of your physician, I’m not a Doctor, Practitioner or Lawyer but I’m a cancer survivor 3 times. I hope you will be inspired by these articles to investigate your health and what you are using that will effect it positively or negatively. DT

    Why Chronic Kidney Disease So Often Ends in Heart Problems

    Your kidneys do far more than filter waste. They shape your blood pressure, your circulation, your fluid balance, and even the rhythm of your heartbeat. When they start to falter, the damage rarely announces itself. There’s no chest pain, no dramatic warning sign, no clear moment when something feels wrong. Instead, kidney function slips downward year after year while you continue to feel mostly fine, which is exactly what makes chronic kidney disease so dangerous.

    Here’s what most people don’t realize: when kidneys start failing, the first organ to suffer often isn’t the kidneys. It’s the heart. Long before dialysis ever enters the conversation, injured kidneys begin reshaping the cardiovascular system. Most adults can recite their cholesterol number from memory, yet very few could tell you whether their kidneys are filtering normally or already under stress.

    The tests that would reveal the answer are inexpensive, widely available, and often already sitting inside routine bloodwork, but the results rarely get explained in a way that connects them to heart attack, stroke, or heart failure risk. Recent research has uncovered something startling: damaged kidneys actively release particles into the bloodstream that travel to the heart and injure cardiac muscle cells directly.

    The kidneys aren’t just failing alongside the heart; they’re actively damaging it. Understanding this connection gives you something powerful: the chance to intervene while the damage is still reversible.

    2 Simple Kidney Tests Reveal Hidden Heart Danger

    Harvard Health Publishing examined the growing evidence linking chronic kidney disease to cardiovascular disease and explained why doctors now view the kidneys and heart as deeply connected systems rather than separate organs.1 Dr. John Ostrominski from Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital stressed that chronic kidney disease often goes unnoticed even though it affects about 1 in 7 U.S. adults.

    Early chronic kidney disease often develops silently because the kidneys compensate for damage over long periods. You might feel normal while kidney function steadily declines. Once symptoms finally appear, they often include swelling in the legs or ankles, fatigue, trouble breathing, exercise intolerance, and changes in urination. By that stage, substantial damage has already occurred. This is exactly why early testing changes outcomes.

    You gain a chance to slow progression before the disease starts affecting circulation, fluid balance, and heart function.

    • Two screening tests give an early warning long before a medical emergency develops — The first test is estimated glomerular filtration rate, called eGFR, which measures how effectively your kidneys filter waste from your blood. A score of 90 or higher is considered normal, while values below 60 signal impaired kidney function.

    The second test is the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, called UACR, which checks whether protein leaks into your urine. Healthy kidneys keep protein inside your bloodstream. Once albumin starts leaking into urine, it signals structural kidney damage.

    • Protein leakage in urine strongly predicts future heart problems — Ostrominski explained that elevated UACR levels reveal cardiovascular strain and future heart risk. According to the report, both low eGFR scores and high UACR values are strongly linked with greater risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat rhythm. That means a simple urine test gives you an early look at whether your blood vessels and circulation are already under stress.

    • High blood pressure and diabetes damage the kidneys through direct physical strain — Elevated blood pressure forces the body to hold onto more sodium and fluid, increasing pressure inside the tiny blood vessels within the kidneys. Over time, this chronic stress damages the filtration system itself.

    Diabetes creates a second layer of injury because prolonged exposure to high blood sugar thickens and damages microscopic kidney blood vessels called capillaries. Once those delicate filters stiffen and narrow, waste removal slows and inflammation rises.

    • The kidneys and heart create a feedback loop that worsens both diseases together — Healthy kidneys help regulate blood pressure, fluid levels, and mineral balance, all of which directly affect heart function. When kidney function declines, fluid builds up more easily, blood pressure rises further, and the heart works harder to move blood throughout your body.

    That extra strain increases the likelihood of heart enlargement, rhythm disturbances, and heart failure. At the same time, weakened heart function reduces blood flow back to the kidneys, which accelerates additional kidney damage.

    • Metabolic dysfunction sits at the center of this entire process — Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome, often shortened to CKM syndrome, links obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease together because they share the same underlying metabolic drivers.2 Excess body fat, poor blood sugar regulation, chronic inflammation, and impaired energy production damage multiple organ systems simultaneously.

    Tiny Kidney Particles Damage the Heart Directly

    Research published in Circulation investigated why so many people with chronic kidney disease develop heart failure even when doctors aggressively manage blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.3 Researchers studied blood samples from 35 patients with moderate to advanced kidney disease and compared them to healthy controls.

    Instead of focusing only on conventional risk factors, the team examined microscopic particles called extracellular vesicles, tiny membrane-covered packages released by cells into the bloodstream.

    Think of extracellular vesicles as microscopic mail packages sealed in membrane envelopes. Cells normally use them to send routine messages to other cells. But when kidneys are damaged, they start mailing toxic cargo — genetic instructions and stress signals — that travel through the bloodstream and get opened by heart muscle cells, which then begin shutting down.

    These extracellular vesicles carried genetic material and stress signals from injured kidney tissue directly into circulation. Once these particles reached heart muscle cells, they triggered cell death and interfered with the heart’s ability to contract normally. Researchers repeatedly described the kidney-derived vesicles as “cardiotoxic,” meaning directly harmful to heart tissue itself. That changes the entire understanding of kidney disease because the kidneys actively send damaging signals throughout the body.

    • The study found direct evidence of heart muscle injury — Researchers exposed healthy heart muscle cells to extracellular vesicles taken from patients with kidney disease. Those cells rapidly showed increased apoptosis, which is programmed cell death. The heart cells began shutting themselves down after exposure to these kidney-derived particles.

    Healthy control vesicles didn’t create the same damage. That confirmed the harmful effect came specifically from the diseased kidneys rather than from normal circulation.

    • Heart contraction strength also weakened significantly — The study examined how well heart muscle cells squeezed and relaxed after exposure to kidney-derived vesicles. Researchers found impaired contractility, meaning the heart cells struggled to pump efficiently.

    Calcium handling inside the cells also became disrupted. Calcium acts like an electrical timing signal that tells heart muscle when to contract and relax. Once calcium balance breaks down, the heartbeat loses efficiency and stability. Over time, this creates the conditions for heart failure and rhythm disturbances.

    • The harmful particles carried specific microRNAs linked to tissue damage — MicroRNAs are tiny genetic regulators that switch certain cellular programs on or off. They work like dimmer switches on your genes. Each one can turn down specific cellular activities, including the genes that tell heart muscle how to contract properly. When the wrong microRNAs flood into heart cells, they essentially dim the lights on the machinery that keeps your heartbeat strong.

    The researchers identified distinct microRNAs inside the extracellular vesicles that directly interfered with genes responsible for healthy heart contraction. When researchers inserted these microRNAs into laboratory-grown human heart cells, the cells showed the same toxic effects seen earlier in the study. This gave scientists a clearer explanation for how kidney disease physically alters heart tissue at the molecular level.

    • The kidney itself appeared to be the source of these toxic signals — Researchers traced the microRNAs back to injured kidney tissue rather than the liver, heart, or immune cells. The strongest signals came from specific kidney cells damaged during chronic disease progression.

    That finding reinforced the idea that chronic kidney disease acts as an active driver of heart failure instead of simply existing alongside it. The more severe the kidney dysfunction became, the stronger the cardiovascular injury markers appeared.

    • Removing these harmful particles improved heart function in early animal research — Researchers used mice with chronic kidney disease and pharmacologically reduced circulating extracellular vesicles. Heart function improved significantly after the vesicles were depleted. Researchers also observed improvement in heart failure progression. This suggests that reducing the biological stress signals released by damaged kidneys directly lowers strain on the heart.

    Researchers described these kidney-derived microRNAs as promising biomarkers for earlier disease detection and future therapies. These microscopic signals could eventually help identify cardiovascular damage years before a major cardiac event occurs.

    Tracking kidney function, improving metabolic health, lowering inflammation, and reducing long-term stress on circulation become much more meaningful once you understand that silent kidney injury physically reshapes heart tissue over time.

    Kidney Disease Changes Your Entire Cardiovascular System

    A 2023 review published in Cardiovascular Research by the European Renal and Cardiovascular Medicine Working Group examined the growing cardiovascular burden inside chronic kidney disease across all stages.4 Researchers explained that cardiovascular complications become the leading cause of death in people with advanced kidney disease and regular dialysis treatment.

    The review also highlighted a striking reality: many people with progressive kidney disease die from heart complications before their kidneys fail completely. That means protecting your cardiovascular system early becomes just as important as preserving kidney function.

    • Cardiovascular danger rises step-by-step as kidney function declines — Researchers cited a meta-analysis involving more than 1 million individuals showing that death risk climbed sharply as kidney filtration rates worsened.5 Compared to a healthy reference filtration rate, mortality risk increased 18% at moderate kidney impairment, 57% at more advanced decline, and more than tripled in severe kidney dysfunction. Protein leakage into urine independently raised cardiovascular death risk too.

    • Heart enlargement begins surprisingly early in kidney disease — The review discussed left ventricular hypertrophy, often shortened to LVH, which means the main pumping chamber of the heart becomes enlarged and thickened from chronic strain. Researchers found LVH already appears in earlier kidney disease stages and affects roughly 70% to 80% of patients with kidney failure on dialysis.

    An enlarged heart muscle becomes stiffer, less efficient, and more vulnerable to heart failure and rhythm problems over time.

    • Fluid overload places continuous stress on the heart and blood vessels — Damaged kidneys struggle to remove excess sodium and water efficiently. As fluid accumulates, blood pressure rises and the heart must pump harder against greater resistance. Researchers emphasized that volume overload alone doubles death risk in dialysis patients, even independent of other cardiovascular risk factors.

    • Inflammation emerged as one of the strongest hidden drivers of damage — The review explained that chronic low-grade inflammation becomes almost universal in advanced kidney disease. Oxidative stress, gut microbiome disruption, metabolic acidosis, and retained waste compounds called uremic toxins all fuel inflammatory signaling. Uremic toxins are waste products the kidneys normally remove.

    Once these compounds accumulate, they damage blood vessels, impair nitric oxide production, and increase oxidative injury throughout the cardiovascular system. Researchers noted that inflammation predicted cardiovascular death more strongly than LDL cholesterol in some kidney disease populations.

    • The nervous system also becomes trapped in a chronic stress state — Researchers found sympathetic nervous system activity rises dramatically in kidney disease patients and becomes extremely elevated during dialysis treatment. Your sympathetic nervous system controls your “fight-or-flight” response.

    Once chronically activated, it raises heart rate, constricts blood vessels, and increases blood pressure around the clock. The review linked this excessive sympathetic activation to higher rates of heart enlargement, arrhythmias, and cardiovascular death.

    • Anemia further weakens oxygen delivery and strains the heart — Failing kidneys produce less of a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production. As anemia develops, oxygen delivery throughout the body drops. To compensate, the heart works harder and pumps faster, gradually increasing workload and accelerating structural heart changes. Researchers linked anemia directly to left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiovascular hospitalization risk in kidney disease patients.

    • Sedentary behavior sharply increased cardiovascular risk — The review found limited physical activity was extremely common in both kidney disease and dialysis populations because of fatigue, illness burden, and reduced exercise tolerance.

    Yet researchers consistently observed that higher physical activity levels strongly associated with lower cardiovascular mortality and fewer hospitalizations. One walking-based intervention reduced hospitalization risk by 29% over 36 months in dialysis patients.6 Movement improves circulation, blood pressure regulation, metabolic health, and mitochondrial energy production all at once.

    Lower the Stress Load on Your Kidneys and Heart

    Your kidneys and heart respond to the environment you create every single day. Years of metabolic dysfunction, high blood pressure, excess blood sugar, inflammatory foods, poor circulation, and chronic stress gradually damage the tiny blood vessels that keep both organs alive.

    Once kidney tissue becomes injured, the research showed those damaged kidneys begin sending harmful signals directly into the bloodstream that weaken heart function too. That means the earlier you reduce the stress load on your body, the better your chances of slowing this cycle before it gains momentum.

    1. Track your kidney numbers like a personal health score — Many people track weight or cholesterol but ignore the numbers that reveal silent kidney stress. It’s important to keep track of your eGFR and UACR values the same way you do your blood pressure. Those two markers often change years before symptoms appear.

    Create a simple habit tracker on your phone or calendar and record your blood pressure and kidney labs whenever you get bloodwork done. Watching those numbers improve gives you direct feedback that your daily habits are reducing strain on your circulation and filtration system instead of damaging them further.

    2. Lower blood sugar spikes before they injure tiny blood vessels — Chronic high blood sugar acts like fine sandpaper on the microscopic blood vessels inside your kidneys, gradually scarring the delicate filters they depend on. That same damage weakens circulation throughout your entire cardiovascular system. Your body runs far more efficiently when blood sugar stays stable.

    Build meals around high-quality protein, collagen-rich foods, fruit, root vegetables, and other healthy carbohydrates instead of ultraprocessed foods, like seed oils, and sugary snacks.

    If your digestion is compromised, with regular bloating or irregular bowel movements, begin with easier-to-digest carb sources like whole fruit and white rice before introducing harder-to-digest starches. Most adults need about 250 grams of carbohydrates per day from whole-food sources. This steady fuel supply turns your mitochondria back on and keeps your metabolism resilient.

    3. Remove the inflammatory oils that damage cellular energy production — Seed oils, including soybean, corn, sunflower, safflower, and canola oils, are high in the polyunsaturated fat linoleic acid (LA), which places enormous oxidative stress on blood vessels, mitochondria, and kidney tissue when consumed in excess. Restaurant foods, packaged snacks, salad dressings, sauces, and processed convenience meals flood your body with these unstable fats that accumulate in tissues over time.

    Replace those oils with grass fed butter, ghee, or tallow. If you eat animal protein, prioritize lower-PUFA ruminant meats instead of conventionally raised chicken or pork. Small daily swaps create a measurable reduction in inflammatory stress over months and years.

    4. Use movement to improve circulation and metabolic function every day — Both organs run on the same fuel: steady, healthy blood flow. Every hour you spend sitting, that flow slows — and both kidneys and heart pay the price. Focus less on exhausting workouts and more on daily movement consistency because your body responds best to repetition.

    Start with 20 minutes of walking daily and build toward an hour, along with resistance training twice a week. Also work in regular daily activity, like yardwork and frequent standing instead of sitting.

    5. Restore your circadian rhythm to reduce chronic stress signals — Poor sleep and artificial light exposure raise stress hormones, worsen blood sugar regulation, and increase blood pressure strain on your kidneys and heart. Morning sunlight exposure helps reset your body clock and improves cellular energy production. I recommend getting outside shortly after sunrise and again near solar noon when possible.

    However, if your diet has been high in seed oils, avoid peak sun exposure (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) until you have removed them for at least six months, as excess LA stored in tissues increases susceptibility to sunburn and oxidative stress. At night, lower blue light exposure from phones, tablets, and televisions to support melatonin production inside your mitochondria.

    FAQs About Kidney Disease and Your Heart

    Q: How do I know if my kidneys are affecting my heart?

    A: Most people don’t feel symptoms early on. Hidden kidney stress often shows up first through abnormal eGFR and UACR test results, which reveal declining filtration function and protein leakage into urine. Research showed these changes strongly predict higher risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat rhythms long before severe symptoms appear.

    Q: What causes chronic kidney disease to damage the heart?

    A: Damaged kidneys increase fluid retention, raise blood pressure, disrupt mineral balance, and trigger chronic inflammation. Research also found injured kidneys release microscopic particles into the bloodstream that directly damage heart muscle cells and weaken your heart’s ability to contract efficiently. Over time, this creates a feedback loop where kidney dysfunction and heart strain worsen each other simultaneously.

    Q: What are the early warning signs of chronic kidney disease?

    A: Early chronic kidney disease often stays silent for years. As damage progresses, common symptoms include swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, muscle cramps, fluid retention, and changes in urination patterns. Many people discover kidney dysfunction only after routine blood or urine testing.

    Q: What lifestyle changes help protect both the kidneys and the heart?

    A: The most effective strategies focus on reducing the root causes driving metabolic and vascular stress. Stable blood sugar, lower blood pressure, regular movement, restorative sleep, and reducing inflammatory processed foods all lower strain on both organs. Daily walking, resistance training, whole-food carbohydrates, adequate protein, and avoiding seed oils help improve circulation, mitochondrial energy production, and long-term cardiovascular resilience.

    Q: Why does inflammation matter so much in kidney disease?

    A: Inflammation damages blood vessels, stiffens arteries, and increases oxidative stress throughout the cardiovascular system. Researchers found inflammation becomes extremely common as kidney function declines because waste compounds, called uremic toxins, begin accumulating in the bloodstream. Chronic inflammation also increases sympathetic nervous system activity, raises blood pressure, and accelerates heart enlargement and heart failure risk.

    https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2026/07/07/chronic-kidney-disease-heart-health.aspx

    Make navigating healthcare easier with a patient advocate.

    https://www.solace.health

    Aquablation

    Aquablation is a modern, minimally invasive robotic treatment for lower urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It uses a heat-free, high-pressure water jet guided by real-time ultrasound imaging to precisely remove excess prostate tissue, relieving blockages while helping preserve sexual and urinary function.

    How It Works

    • Uses a robotically controlled water stream to cut away blocking tissue without heat (athermally).
    • Combines a camera inside the urethra with a real-time ultrasound probe in the rectum to map out exact prostate anatomy.
    • Protects key areas like the urinary sphincter and structures tied to sexual function.
    • Benefits
    • No external cuts, incisions, or stitches are required.
    • Effective for a wide range of prostate sizes, including very large prostates.
    • Lower risk of permanent sexual side effects (such as incontinence or erectile and ejaculatory issues) compared to older surgeries.
    • Durable, long-lasting relief from frequent nighttime peeing and weak urine flow. Recovery and Risks
    • Typically involves a one-night hospital stay and a temporary catheter for a few days after going home.
    • Normal side effects include temporary bleeding, burning, or urgency while healing.
    • Potential risks include infection, bleeding, or changes in

    Specific Ultra processed Food Ingredients Linked to Risk for Hypertension

    Edited by Madhurima Roy

    August 11, 2026

    The consumption of foods containing specific ultra processing ingredients — known as markers of ultra processing — including coloring agents, sweeteners, flavorings, and varieties of sugar, was associated with a higher risk of developing incident arterial hypertension.

    METHODOLOGY

    • Researchers conducted a prospective cohort study using data from the UK Biobank to evaluate the association between specific ingredients used in ultraprocessed foods and the risk of developing incident arterial hypertension.
    • They analysed data of 101,560 participants (median age, 56 years) who were free from hypertension at baseline and completed at least one and up to five web-based 24-hour dietary assessments between April 2009 and June 2012.
    • To assess exposure to ingredients commonly found in ultra processed foods, dietary assessment data were linked to 2459 products from major supermarkets in the UK.
    • The outcome was incident arterial hypertension, identified using standardized diagnostic codes. Participants were followed up from their last dietary assessment until the first occurrence of hypertension, loss to follow-up, death, or the end of data collection on May 01, 2023, whichever occurred first.

    TAKEAWAY

    • Over a median follow-up of 10.5 years, 7633 participants developed incident arterial hypertension.
    • The consumption of foods containing coloring agents, sweeteners, flavorings, and varieties of sugar was associated with a higher risk for incident arterial hypertension, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.55, 1.42, 1.37, and 1.19, respectively (P < .05 for all).
    • Among individual ingredients, a higher consumption of foods containing aspartame, acesulfame, sucralose, xylitol, erythritol, saccharin, bulking agents, dextrose, fructose, hydrolyzed protein, and whey protein was associated with a higher risk for incident arterial hypertension, with HRs ranging from 1.10 to 1.65 (P < .05 for all).
    • In contrast, the consumption of foods containing flavor enhancer, processing aid, modified oil, added fiber, and protein source ingredients overall was not significantly associated with the risk for incident arterial hypertension.

    IN PRACTICE

    “[The study] results provide an initial framework for identifying MUPs [markers of ultra processing] that should be prioritized in interventions targeting UPFs [ultra processed foods] and in future mechanistic research,” the researchers of the study wrote.

    SOURCE

    The study was led by Kathrin Marie Krost and Gerrit Eichner, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany. It was published online on August 03, 2026, in European Heart Journal.

    LIMITATIONS

    The analysis did not account for changes in dietary exposure over time and remained susceptible to potential residual confounding from unmeasured or imprecisely measured factors. Hypertension was defined using diagnostic codes alone, which may have underestimated the true burden of hypertension and introduced outcome misclassification. Dietary intake was self-reported, which may have limited the accuracy and representativeness of the dietary data.

    DISCLOSURES

    The study was funded by the Deutsche Diabetes Gesellschaft. Some authors disclosed being involved in the development of a free nutrition and lifestyle framework that aims to reduce ultra processing

    Why is the Forest Service using glyphosate in our national forests?

    Glyphosate isn’t just being utilized by farmers; it is also used by the Forest Service.

    Forests

    June 24, 2026

    USDA Forest Service photo by Cecilio Ricardo | Public Domain

    Tell the Forest Service: Stop spraying glyphosate in national forests

    Tell the Forest Service: Stop spraying glyphosate in national forests

    Add your name

    Laura Deehan

    State Director, Environment California

    Ellen Montgomery

    Director, Great Outdoors Campaign, Environment America

    Vivian Goller

    Great Outdoors Intern

    The Forest Service stewards land that provides sanctuary for wildlife and opportunities for people to connect with nature. 

    Why then is the agency spraying a potentially carcinogenic herbicide on clear-cut and fire-ravaged national forests in California?

    A recent article published by Mother Jones delved into these questions, examining the extent to which glyphosate-based herbicides are used in the national forest near Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

    Marcia Wright | CC-BY-3.0

    Echo Lake — in Lassen National Forest, Northern California.

    What is glyphosate?

    Discovered in 1950 by a Swiss chemist named Henri Martin, glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the United States, having been used to treat between 13 and 20 million acres annually in recent years according to the Environmental Protection Agency. 

    To put this into perspective, the amount of glyphosate sprayed annually is equal to an area roughly the size of Texas, Kansas and Wyoming combined.

    Twenty years after the discovery of glyphosate in the 1970s, a chemist employed by agricultural giant Monsanto discovered its herbicidal properties, thus creating the infamous weed whacker: Roundup. 

    Roundup and other glyphosate-based herbicides are widely used for eliminating weeds and grasses. Glyphosate is also sold in various forms, including concentrated liquid, solid, and “ready-to-use liquid.”

    Monsanto’s invention of “Roundup-­ready” crops in the 1990s led to an increase in use.  These genetically modified corn and soybeans were more tolerant to glyphosate, so farmers were able to kill unwanted vegetation in their fields in one swift spray, while their corn and soybeans continued to grow.

    Mike Mozart | CC-BY-2.0

    Is glyphosate harmful?

    For years, the pesticide industry has defended glyphosate use. But recently a scientific study concluding that the herbicide is safe was retracted because Monsanto was found to have had significant influence on the study.

    In March 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” There is also evidence that suggests glyphosate could contribute to ailments besides cancer, from brain inflammation to metabolic and liver problems in children. 

    When it comes to wildlife, a 2020 EPA report noted that glyphosate injures or kills 93% of endangered species and 96% of their critical habitat.

    What is the status of glyphosate?

    Discourse around glyphosate has helped raise public awareness about the chemical’s potential health risks. EPA is currently re-evaluating the environmental risks associated with glyphosate after a federal appeals court determined that the EPA’s health assessment did not adequately consider whether the herbicide is carcinogenic. 

    While Americans wait for the EPA’s decision, thousands have taken legal action against the producers of Roundup, claiming the chemical is responsible for making them sick. Bayer (the company that acquired Monsanto in 2018) has spent at least $10 billion on settlements and jury awards from around 100,000 cases to date. 

    Bayer phased out glyphosate in their consumer-facing Roundup products in 2023. However, they still sell industrial glyphosate-based herbicides to licensed applicators.  

    Why are we using glyphosate on federal public land?

    Glyphosate isn’t just being utilized by farmers; it is also used by the Forest Service. 

    Following a controlled burn or clear-cut, the areas are sprayed to help regenerate conifer growths, which are logged for profit. Once new baby pines are planted, US Forest Service workers apply glyphosate with portable backpack sprayers to terminate the growth of deciduous trees, native shrubs, and flowering plants, all of which compete with conifers for resources (i.e., water, nutrients, and sunlight). The wax-coated needles of conifer trees protect their sensitive tissues from herbicide exposure, allowing them to continue to grow despite glyphosate exposure. 

    According to the Mother Jones investigation, 266,000 pounds of pure glyphosate was sprayed in California state forests in 2023. Their analysis shows that is, approximately five times what it was in the early 2000’s when glyphosate-based herbicides were popularized. According to Mother Jones reporter Nate Halverson, the Forest Service notified nearby residents that they plan to spray glyphosate starting in Spring 2026 on 10,000 acres of land near Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

    This type of treatment might make the forest more susceptible to wildfires. Deciduous hardwoods can actually slow down a fire. Conifers, on the other hand, are more flammable. A densely packed conifer forest could be more prone to faster moving fire. Fire is part of a forest’s natural cycle. Manicuring wild forests with glyphosate to make them more economically viable disrupts the natural balance, potentially harming humans and wildlife. 

    Hike395 | CC-BY-SA-4.0

    According to reporting from Mother Jones, the Forest Service plans to spay approximately 75K acres at the site of the Caldor Fire (2021)

    What should we do about glyphosate in our forests?

    1. Only California and Arizona have mandatory reporting for pesticide usage. This means that if there is spraying in other states, it’s likely not being reported. Other states should adopt mandatory reporting.

    2. Forests should generally be allowed to grow back naturally after a fire. Forest ecosystems are supposed to evolve in decades-long cycles, and we should usually let nature run its course.

    3. If management is necessary for the ecological health of the forest, the Forest Service should default to using workers, tools and machines rather than herbicides. 

    4. The Environmental Protection Agency should enact a moratorium on the use of glyphosate until and unless it’s proven to be safe by publicly funded studies.

    Tilt Table Test

    A tilt table test shows how the body reacts to changes in position. It can help find the cause of fainting or dizziness. The test is often used when fainting happens for no known reason.

    Why it’s done

    A tilt table test may be done if you faint with no known cause. Fainting may be a symptom of some heart or nervous system conditions such as:

    • Orthostatic hypotension.
    • Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS).
    • Irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias.

    Other symptoms of these conditions may include dizziness and lightheadedness.

    More Information

    Risks

    A tilt table test is generally safe. Complications are rare. But, as with any medical procedure, the test does carry some risk.

    Potential risks of a tilt table test include:

    • Low blood pressure.
    • Weaknesses.
    • Dizziness or unsteadiness.

    These risks can last for several hours. But they usually go away when the table returns to a flat position.

    How you prepare

    You might be told not to eat or drink for two hours or more before a tilt table test. You can take your medicines as usual unless your healthcare team tells you otherwise.

    What you can expect

    Before

    Before a tilt table test starts, you lie flat on a table that has a footboard. Straps go across your body to hold you in place.

    Sticky patches called electrodes attach to your chest, and sometimes your legs and arms. Wires connect the patches to a machine that checks your heartbeat.

    A cuff placed on your arm or wrist checks your blood pressure. A device on your fingertip checks your oxygen level. Sometimes, a needle is placed in a vein in the arm if medicines are needed during the test.

    During

    During a tilt table test, a healthcare professional watches to see how changes in position affect your heartbeat.

    • You lie flat on a table for about five minutes. A member of your care team watches your heartbeat and blood pressure. The table is then tilted to a position that mimics standing. Depending on the reason for the test, you may stay in this position from 5 to 45 minutes. Your care team members continue to watch for any changes in your heartbeat or blood pressure.
    • While in this position, stay as still as possible. Tell your healthcare professional if you feel sweaty, lightheaded or dizzy, sick to your stomach, or if you have a pounding, racing heartbeat.
    • If you don’t faint or have other symptoms after 45 minutes, you may get a medicine that triggers the nervous system response that causes you to faint. This medicine is given through a needle in a vein in your arm.
    • You then stay standing strapped to the table for another 15 to 20 minutes.

    The nervous system controls the body’s heart rate and blood pressure. When you move to an upright position during a tilt table test, your heart rate and blood pressure may suddenly lower for a short time. As a result, less blood flows to the brain, possibly causing fainting.

    After

    If you faint during the test, the healthcare professional puts the table back to a flat position right away and carefully checks you. Most people who faint during the test regain consciousness almost immediately.

    When the test is complete, you can return to your regular activities.

    Results

    The results of a tilt table test are based on whether you faint during the test. The results also depend on what happens to your blood pressure and heart rate.

    • Positive result. Blood pressure drops and heart rate changes, causing dizziness or fainting during the test.
    • Negative result. Heart rate increases only slightly. Blood pressure doesn’t drop significantly, and there are no symptoms of fainting.

    Depending on the results, your healthcare professional might recommend more tests to look for other causes of fainting.

    https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tilt-table-test/about/pac-20395124

    It Will Hurt—A Reminder to Recovering Addicts,

    “You Are Supposed to Feel Pain”

    By Toshia Humphries, M.Ed., M.A.

    Throughout life, all individuals experience a wide range of emotions. Everything from joy and ecstasy to grief and depression is possible. However, not everyone is comfortable with or even willing to accept variations of the latter. And, regarding emotional pain, addicts are especially quick to kick and scream or attempt an avoidance or escape tactic.

    The latter is due to one simple fact; they’ve spent the duration of their addiction and then some trying desperately to suppress and deny pain.

    Active addicts typically utilize their substance of choice as a means or method of achieving that end. In fact, the drugs and alcohol begin to suppress and dull emotions so well, addicted individuals become seemingly numb. To a degree, that experience mirrors the initial stage of grief; denial. Incidentally, the latter is of course also exactly where active addicts typically sit regarding their disease and the need for help.

    But, in defense of active addicts everywhere, the state of denial isn’t populated by addicts alone. It’s where humans feel safe and secure. It’s one reason any truth that shakes the core of one’s beliefs or forces feelings by shedding light on tragedy or injustice is typically met with resistance and distortion. To attempt to force anyone out of denial is to potentially actively engage in war with one’s ego.

    Ego. It is the forerunner in the perpetuation of active addiction, and it’s not big on humility, accountability, personal growth or pain. And, as such, active addicts who are seemingly controlled by ego continue to refuse to deal with themselves, their underlying emotional or mental issues or the disease of addiction itself. They remain in denial and defend their state with the fervor of native Texans.

    That’s one reason rock bottom isn’t always low enough. The pain must be so great that it outweighs any level of intoxication and outnumbers the enablers left standing in false support. More importantly, the active addict must come to realize that the substance of choice is no longer suppressing or numbing pain but seemingly adding to it.

    That wakeup call occurs in seconds, and unfortunately it can be quite fleeting. Why? Because pain, however, is not.

    Pain lasts longer than detox. It extends for twenty-eight days. And, typically speaking, when the drugs, alcohol and numbness wear off and the physical ramifications of withdrawal have dissipated, the guilt, shame, grief and pain floods in, along with numerous other overwhelming and sometimes mixed emotions.

    Additionally, grief alone is a process. And, generally, it is intensified in recovery because addicts must let go of everything they know, including themselves, or at least the identity they have acquired during their active addiction. As such, emotional recovery becomes a vital piece of recovering from addiction.

    However, not all recovering addicts seek or receive emotional recovery; a fact which may contribute greatly to the staggeringly high statistics on relapse. But, for the record, there isn’t an individual alive—addicted, recovering or not—who couldn’t benefit from emotional growth and healing. Why? Because everyone experiences pain. Everyone.

    The experience of pain doesn’t always equate to a diagnosis. Often, it’s simply part of being human. We are meant to feel pain. To deny, suppress, avoid and escape pain only prolongs and ultimately intensifies and multiplies it. In fact, eventually, the unresolved painful emotions can have a very detrimental physical effect.

    Part of successful recovery is realizing it will hurt. Recovery, personal growth, letting go, starting over, being born again—whatever label is placed on the process, it will hurt. Why? Because it is birth; the birth of a new you.

    And yes. You are supposed to feel pain. Moreover, you are supposed to feel. Period. It is one way to know you are more than just merely alive. You’re living.

    Psychosomatic Illnesses

    People with psychosomatic illnesses are often accused of faking it or making it up. This happens because they experience real physical symptoms such as chronic pain, stomach troubles, seizures, or breathing problems, but medical tests usually show no obvious cause.

    This clean bill of health despite obvious illness raises an important question: how are the mind and body connected, and why can stress or emotions trigger real physical symptoms?

    In this article, we will learn about psychosomatic illnesses, common symptoms, triggers, and diagnosis, and even lifestyle changes that could alleviate these illnesses.

    What Is a Psychosomatic Illness

    A psychosomatic (‘psycho’ meaning mind and ‘somatic’ meaning body) illness is a physical ailment of the body due to mental influences on the physiological state of the body. It is often triggered and sustained by chronic stress, anxiety, or other mental states, which can alter normal physiological functions and lead to genuine physical symptoms, known as psychosomatic manifestations. In psychosomatic or somatic symptom-related conditions, symptoms may or may not be explained by a medical condition; the diagnosis focuses on the distress and behaviors about the symptoms.

    The cause of psychosomatic disorders is unknown; however, many factors, such as genetic, social, environmental, and biological factors, play an important role. The neurobiological pathway of psychosomatic illness often involves the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA axis), endocrine, and immune systems. Chronic mental stress impacts the entire system by acting as a stimulator for the activation of these pathways, which can lead to dysregulation and subsequent physiological distress..

    The Mind-Body Connection Explained

    A 2024 cross-sectional study on the Rates and Factors Associated with Psychosomatic Syndromes examined how common psychosomatic syndromes are amongst 6,647 patients data. In this study, complete cases across chronic medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), migraine, coronary heart disease (CHD), and type 2 diabetes (T2D) were utilized. Using the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR), along with standardized tools for anxiety, depression, stress, and well-being, the researchers found that alexithymia (difficulty in identifying and expressing emotions) was the most prevalent psychosomatic syndrome (about 64.5%).

    Patients with IBS followed with a psychosomatic syndrome prevalence of 20.6% and demoralization 15.6% followed by irritable mood (20.6%) and demoralization (15.6%). Notably, nearly half of fibromyalgia patients experienced demoralization, highlighting the psychological vulnerability within this group.

    Psychosocial factors strongly linked to multiple psychosomatic diagnoses included higher anxiety levels, abnormal illness behavior, poor overall well-being, and stress. These associations were particularly pronounced in fibromyalgia and type 2 diabetes patients. Overall, patients with fibromyalgia, IBS, and migraine were more likely to present with psychosomatic syndromes than those with CHD or T2D.

    The results of this study highlight that the relationship between our mental state and our physical health is biological, measurable, and essential. The mind and body are intertwined, especially in the context of chronic conditions, immune responses, and overall well-being.

    Common Symptoms of Psychosomatic Disorders

    The most common features of psychosomatic illness include physical complaints (somatic symptoms) often accompanied by anxiety and depression. In fact, comorbidity with anxiety and/or depression is common in somatic symptom disorder but varies widely based on the setting. That said, some populations reporting 34% with somatic symptom disorder experience both depressive and anxiety symptoms concurrently.

    Stress-related conditions and some complex medical conditions like hypertension, respiratory issues like shortness of breath, digestive issues such as IBS, chest pain, increased blood pressure, abdominal pain, sexual dysfunction, skin conditions like eczema, peptic ulcers, chronic fatigue, coronary heart disease, increased susceptibility to infections, and sleep disturbances, including insomnia may be influenced by psychosocial factors.

    Psychosomatic symptoms rarely resolve on their own without addressing the underlying causes. Identifying these health problems is the first step towards restoring balance and homeostasis in the body. Additionally, people suffering from Psychosomatic symptoms hardly identify the emotional aspects of their condition, which is why a health professional is often needed to bridge that gap.

    Identifying Triggers of Psychosomatic Responses

    Sometimes, for psychosomatic illnesses to manifest, a multifactorial model is needed to trigger a response. For instance, it has been postulated that for a psychological disorder to develop, it might require the interplay factors such as genetic vulnerability and an environmental or psychological trigger. The most common psychosomatic triggers include:

    • Traumatic events: Individuals react differently to stressful life events. While some develop resilience, others might develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Somatic symptom disorder is more likely among individuals with PTSD. Unfortunately, individuals in this category may fail to recognize how their emotional state is contributing to the physical ailments they are experiencing.
    • Personality traits: The variability in personality traits is an important aspect of psychosomatic medicine. For instance, individuals with alexithymia personality traits have an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders. Additionally, impairment in personality traits (such as high neuroticism, low agreeableness, low consciousness, low openness, and low extraversion) can also impact coping strategies, emotion regulation, and stress.
    • Genetic factors: Genetic contribution varies by disorder (30-50% for depression/anxiety; 60-80% for bipolar/schizophrenia Ris reflects many common variants of small effect plus environment.
    • Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as stress, trauma, and exposure to toxins can induce epigenetic changes, which may disrupt stress response, immune function, or hormonal imbalance, and inadvertently act as a trigger or amplifier of psychosomatic diseases.
    • Biological factors: The gut-brain axis establishes a two-way communication between gut microbes and the brain. A balanced microbiota improves mental states, while dysbiosis can lead to irritable bowel syndrome and can influence risk of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.

    These triggers are neither rare nor novel and can arise from different circumstances in life. Understanding some of these psychosomatic triggers can help physicians and psychiatrists develop personalized medical approaches that will suit each individual and help to maximize therapy outcomes.

    Psychological Theories Behind Psychosomatic Illness

    The impact of psychosomatic illnesses is relevant because it highlights the complex bidirectional relationship between the mind and the body, where mental health can influence physical ailments and vice versa. This complexity has led to the development of various psychological theories that explain how emotional and cognitive processes manifest as physical symptoms.

    While earlier theories, influenced by Sigmund Freud, focused on psychoanalytic explanations, newer models combine biological, psychological, and social factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding. Some of the theories include:

    Psychodynamic and Psychoanalytic Theory: This theory is rooted in the work of Sigmund Freud, who proposed that unresolved emotional conflicts or repressed experiences may be expressed through physical symptoms rather than conscious awareness. According to this view, when we suppress distressing emotions such as guilt, anger, or fear, the unresolved tension finds somatic expression. Although the original Freudian theory of symbolic symptoms is less emphasized in modern psychosomatic medicine, recent studies continue to associate emotional suppression with stress-related physical disorders. 

    • Stress-Related Theories: This theory describes how chronic psychological stress disrupts normal psychological health. In an article published in Jama Internal Medicine journal, the concept of allostatic load was used to explain the prolonged activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and autonomic nervous system due to chronic stress. Prolonged activation of these systems overwhelms multiple organ systems, and is associated with cardiometabolic predisposing an individual to disorders like hypertension, peptic ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome.
    • Neurobiological and Cognitive Theories: More recent neurobiological theories highlight the direct pathways between the brain and the body. A good example is the vagus nerve that connects the brain’s emotional centers with vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and gut. Another 2025 article by Zuhal Koc Apaydin, on Somatosensory Amplification, brings new insights into how individuals who are hyper-attentive to internal sensations are more likely to misinterpret them as signs of illness, leading to a cycle of anxiety and physical distress.

    In conclusion, the biopsychosocial model properly integrates all three perspectives, recognizing that psychosomatic illnesses emerge from interactions between our biological vulnerability, psychological processes, and social factors. In other words, factors like genetic predisposition, coping style, emotional regulation, and even social support all determine how psychological stress translates into physical symptoms.sWe are on curated science-backed health tips, nutrition advice and out-watering recipes. Sign up to receive your 3 starter et exclusive access to Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Disorders

    The diagnosis of psychosomatic disorders relies on a combination of approaches rather than one single or universal criterion. A medical professional first rules out other possible medical conditions through diagnostic tests before assessing the severity of psychological factors affecting the physical symptoms. Psychosomatic disorders are diagnosed when psychological factors significantly contribute to the onset, progression, or persistence of physical symptoms contributing to excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors about symptoms whether or not a medical condition is present.

    Two important diagnostic frameworks relevant to psychosomatic conditions are the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR).

    Psychosomatic disorders are classified under Somatic Symptoms and Related Disorders (SSRDs) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). In previous editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (particularly the DSM-IV), the diagnosis of somatic symptom disorder did not yet exist and it was called a somatoform disorder which could not be made unless symptoms were medically unexplained. However, modern research and diagnostic systems no longer focus solely on the absence of physical diseases but on the relationship between psychological distress and somatic experience.

    According to the DSM-5, to meet diagnostic criteria, three major components must be present: more than one somatic symptoms, excessive thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that are related to the symptoms, and persistent duration (this means that the somatic symptoms are persistent, typically lasting for more than six months).

    Unlike the DSM-5, which mainly classifies mental health disorders, the DCPR (Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research) is a revised system with modules for stress, illness behavior, psychological manifestations, and personality. In simple terms, the DCPR is a set of 14 psychosomatic syndromes, and is used alongside the DSM-5 to characterize psychosomatic syndromes.

    Therapeutic Approaches for Managing Psychosomatic Symptoms

    The management of psychosomatic symptoms requires a multidimensional approach that addresses both the psychological and physical aspects of the disorder. Modern treatment frameworks integrate cognitive behavioural therapy, stress management techniques, pharmacological treatments, and lifestyle interventions.

    • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): These techniques help to identify and modify negative thoughts that contribute to physical symptoms. CBT is a recommended, first-line psychotherapy treatment for SSD.
    • Pharmacological Treatment: Treatments like antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may be used when symptoms are severe or are linked to comorbid psychiatric conditions.
    • Stress Management and Relaxing Techniques: Because chronic stress can worsen psychosomatic symptoms, stress management is a very important part of treatment. Mindfulness meditation and yoga may help to lower perceived stress and some physiological markers. Progressive muscle relaxation and biofeedback can help to modulate autonomic responses.

    Integrating medical management, psychological therapy, and safe social support ensures that both the physical illness and the emotional suffering are addressed. Multidisciplinary interventions emphasize collaboration between physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other allied health professionals to ensure holistic care.

    Lifestyle Changes to Alleviate Psychosomatic Symptoms

    Lifestyle modifications are usually an adjunct therapy in the management of many chronic illnesses, and for psychosomatic disorders, the body can benefit through the following lifestyle changes:

    • Regular physical exercise.
    • Quality sleep (7-8 hrs for adults).
    • Healthy eating habits.
    • Cultivating self-compassion.
    • Strengthening healthy social support.
    • Avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco;

    These lifestyle changes are most effective when practiced together as part of a holistic approach to managing psychosomatic symptoms. Focusing on one area while neglecting another can undermine progress. For instance, exercising regularly without proper nutrition can actually place additional stress on the body, rather than relieving it. In other words, it doesn’t work well to selectively adopt healthy habits; they work in sync to support both mind and body.

    The Importance of Professional Mental Health Support

    A 2023 pilot study on Cognitive Behavioral Group Treatment examined the utility of brief CBT group intervention for individuals with SSD. When comparing pre- and post-group results, there were reductions in average scores for somatic symptom severity, depression, anxiety, stress, and pain-related disability. The authors concluded that, even though more research is needed, especially with a larger sample size, the study provides preliminary support for the potential effectiveness of CBT in reducing somatic symptoms, depression, anxiety, and stress in individuals with SSD.

    Mental health professionals can help patients bridge the gap between their physical symptoms and underlying emotional or psychological causes. They guide patients through therapies and help to replace maladaptive coping mechanisms with healthier strategies that build emotional resilience.

    Preventative Measures and Long-term Coping Strategies

    Self-awareness allows us to recognize early signs of stress triggers and emotional distress can prevent these factors from manifesting as physical symptoms. This starts by building resilience through working on self-awareness, consistent self-care, emotional awareness, and developing and maintaining healthy coping mechanisms.

    Healthy coping strategies like problem solving, seeking support, cognitive reappraisal, and gaining a sense of control over life events have been found to reduce psychological distress. These habits also help you develop positive self-esteem, improve resilience, and return to normal social functioning and routine activities.

    So if you experience any emotional distress or chronic stress, don’t forget to reach out for help and practice healthy lifestyle habits and coping mechanisms.

    Because psychosomatic symptoms are deeply influenced by stress and the body’s ability to rest and recover, quality sleep becomes one of the most powerful natural regulators of both mental and physical health. Restorative sleep helps balance the nervous system, reduce stress hormone levels, and strengthen emotional resilience—key factors in easing psychosomatic distress and promoting overall well-being.

    If you need an additional sleep booster, check out our premium sleep supplement. Restore Sleep formula is the only formula of its kind on the market that combines the 7 most powerful forms of chelated magnesium as well as includes two additional nutrients, including L-Theanine, that boost the effectiveness of this supplement to help achieve deep restorative sleep, enhance cognitive function and improve the relaxation response. 

    ​Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between a hypochondriac and a psychosomatic person?

    While a hypochondriac constantly worries about having an illness despite little or no medical evidence, a psychosomatic person actually experiences real physical symptoms that are triggered or worsened by psychological factors like stress or anxiety.A medical diagnosis may or may not also be present.

    How do you know if an illness is psychosomatic?

    You might suspect an illness has a psychosomatic component when symptoms cause significant distress and often worsens with stress, anxiety, or emotional distress. A diagnosis focuses on excessive thoughts, feelings, and/or behaviors about symptoms with or without a medical explanation.

    Which emotion is at the root of most psychosomatic disorders?

    There is no single emotion most often at the root of psychosomatic disorders. Stress and anxiety are common contributors but not the primary cause. Psychosomatic conditions are multifactorial, meaning a result of usually biological, psychological, and social components.

    Can your brain create symptoms?

    Yes. Your brain can create symptoms through powerful mind-body pathways. The brain can trigger real physical sensations like pain, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath even without underlying diseases. These symptoms aren’t imagined; they are genuine bodily responses driven by psychological or emotional states.

    Is IBS a psychosomatic disorder? More accurately, IBS is considered a Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI); however, psychological factors like stress can trigger

    How to Use Magnesium to Calm Anxiety

    There are times when anxiety is useful, motivating you to get started on a long put-off task or steering you away from danger, for example. But if you’re constantly feeling on edge, taking shallow breaths without even realizing it, or so stressed that you’re unable to do things you love, it’s a problem. To effectively treat your anxiety, you must get to the root causes of it, including considering how your diet may be contributing.

    Case in point: A 2018 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that adults with a magnesium deficiency had higher levels of anxiety than those who got enough magnesium. If you do a relatively good job of eating a wide range of nutrient-rich foods, you are likely to get enough magnesium. But if you cycle through the same handful of meals or know your diet isn’t exactly the healthiest, there’s a good possibility you’re lacking it. Roughly half the U.S. population is deficient in magnesium, according to a 2018 study in Nutrients.

    While upping your magnesium intake isn’t the magic bullet to living an anxiety-free life, it can certainly help. Here, medical experts and dietitians give their best tips on using magnesium to calm anxiety.

    The connection between magnesium and anxiety

    “Magnesium is a mineral involved in hundreds of important biochemical reactions in the body, many of which directly affect the nervous system,” says registered dietitian Sonya Angelone, PhD, RDN. She explains that one reason why getting enough magnesium is key to managing anxiety is because it helps regulate neurotransmitters and support the body’s stress response. “Magnesium helps regulate GABA, the primary calming neurotransmitter in the brain,” Angelone says.

    Angelone explains that when the body has enough magnesium, the nervous system can more efficiently shift from a fight-or-flight state into a calmer state. “In other words, magnesium can help prevent the brain from revving too high and getting pushed into overdrive,” she says.

    William Chu, PMHNP-BC, a psychiatric nurse specializing in nutritional psychiatry, says this too. “Magnesium acts as one of the brain’s natural calming agents. It helps regulate the nervous system by supporting GABA, the brain’s primary calming neurotransmitter, and by dampening the stress response that keeps the body stuck in fight-or-flight,” he says.

    Besides preventing the body from jumping into an anxious state too easily, Dr. Chu says that low magnesium leads to higher cortisol, a.k.a. the stress hormone. “Having a magnesium deficiency enhances our susceptibility to stress,” adds Uma Naidoo, MD, a nutritional psychiatrist and author of Calm Your Mind with Food. The major lesson boils down to this: When faced with a stressful situation, the body is primed to jump into an anxious state if your magnesium levels are low. But if you get enough magnesium, you could encounter the same situation and feel calmer.

    How to use magnesium to calm anxiety

    Knowing that magnesium can help you be resilient in anxiety-inducing situations can make you want to go all-in on magnesium supplements and consume as much as you can, but that’s not how it works. Dr. Naidoo emphasizes that consuming more than the recommended daily amount of magnesium (which is between 400 and 420 milligrams a day), won’t give you extra protection from anxiety.

    When it comes to using magnesium to manage anxiety, you have two options: upping your intake of magnesium-rich foods or taking a supplement. All the experts we talked to advocate for aiming to get enough magnesium intake through food first. But if you are deficient (which you can find out by having your healthcare provider, take some bloodwork), a magnesium supplement can be helpful.

    Magnesium-rich foods

    Keeping track of your magnesium intake can be tedious, so instead of mentally logging every gram, registered dietitian Andy De Santis, RD, says the best way to get enough is by eating a wide range of nutrient-rich foods.

    Beans, lentils, avocado, nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens, white potatoes, fish, and dark chocolate are all good sources of magnesium, De Santis says. Other unlikely foods high in magnesium include pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and tart cherries. If you’re a smoothie-drinker, De Santis recommends adding chia seeds or flax seeds to your smoothie as an easy way to up your intake of the nutrient.

    De Santis says that the major reason why so many people in the U.S. are deficient in magnesium is because they aren’t eating enough plant-based foods that have it. It’s why so many people are also not getting enough fiber and iron. Eating more plant-based foods won’t just help you get enough magnesium; it will help you reach your other nutrient goals too.

    “Many people who start eating more foods with magnesium also notice improved energy, sleep and mood,” Chu says, giving some extra motivation for upping your intake.

    Magnesium supplements

    Chu says that for his patients with anxiety, integrating a magnesium supplement into their routine often makes a huge difference. But again, that’s for those with an actual deficiency. If you do want to take a magnesium supplement, shopping for one can be confusing. There are all sorts of different types (magnesium glycinate, citrate, malate…) and they come in a range of different forms, such as capsules, powders, and even topical products, like lotion and oil.

    In general, all of the experts say that consuming magnesium capsules or powders is more effective than using topical products with magnesium—although self-massaging with magnesium-containing lotion or oil may help with muscle soreness.

    They’re also all in agreement about the best form of magnesium to take is magnesium glycinate. “This is the best form that’s shown in studies, and it also crosses the blood-brain barrier very efficiently,” Dr. Naidoo says, referring to the tightly locked layer of cells that protect the brain from harmful toxins while supplying it with beneficial nutrients.

    In terms of the best time to take a magnesium supplement, Angelone says that taking it in the morning can be helpful if you tend to experience anxiety during the day, while taking it at night can be beneficial if anxious thoughts prevent you from falling asleep. Dealing with both? Chu says you can take a magnesium supplement in the morning and at night (it’s what he recommends). Just make sure you’re not overdoing it dose-wise.

    “A lot of people wake up with anxious thoughts, so taking a magnesium supplement can be helpful,” Dr. Naidoo says, adding that she also recommends drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning, a simple, yet important habit that many people don’t do. “You’re already waking up dehydrated, and staying well hydrated can help with anxiety,” she says.

    When it comes to managing anxiety, getting enough magnesium is a part of treatment that’s often overlooked. Up your intake of plant food and consider a supplement, if you need it. That way, you’ll be ready to face life’s inevitable stressors from a healthier, more peaceful mindset.

    The Best Time of Day to Nap, According to Sleep Experts

    The timing of your nap matters more than you think.

    By  Andrea Mathis, M.A., RDN, LD

    In This Article

    • Experts agree that a well-timed nap can boost your mood and may sharpen your focus.
    • Research suggests the best time of day to nap is between 1 and 3 p.m.
    • A midday nap may help boost your mood, focus, memory and productivity.

    If you’ve ever felt that familiar energy crash after lunch, you’re not alone. Many people experience a natural dip in alertness during the early afternoon, making it tempting to reach for another cup of coffee–or simply close your eyes for just a few minutes. While napping sometimes gets a bad rap, sleep experts say a well-timed daytime snooze may actually boost your mood, sharpen your focus, and improve productivity.

    So, when is the best time to nap? Research suggests the ideal window is between 1 and 3 p.m.1 As Danielle Smiley, RDN, LDN, CD-N explains, “If I had to choose one ideal window, I’d advise early afternoon.” This timing aligns with your body’s natural circadian rhythm, allowing you to recharge without interfering with your nighttime sleep.2

    Plus, a nap during this time may provide several other benefits, including improved alertness, productivity, mood and physical recovery, while helping you wake up feeling refreshed rather than groggy.3

    Here’s why the early afternoon is considered the sweet spot for napping–and how taking a short daytime nap may benefit both your mind and body.

    It Can Improve Alertness and Productivity

    One of the biggest benefits of a short afternoon nap is improved mental performance. Napping during your body’s natural afternoon energy dip may help reduce sleep pressure–the biological drive to sleep that builds the longer you’re awake–so you wake up feeling more alert and mentally refreshed.4

    Smiley explains that naps are best viewed as a recovery tool, not a replacement for quality nighttime sleep. “When they’re timed well, they can support energy, cognitive performance and overall quality of life,” she says.

    Research suggests that even a brief 10- to 30-minute afternoon nap may improve alertness, processing speed and mood while reducing feelings of sleepiness. Researchers believe that these benefits occur because a short nap gives the brain an opportunity to recover from mental fatigue without allowing enough time to enter the deeper stages of sleep that often leave people feeling groggy.2

    It Supports Memory and Learning

    This may be surprising, but your brain stays busy while you sleep–even during a short nap. Rather than simply resting, it strengthens the neural connections that support learning and memory. Research suggests that sleep helps transfer newly learned information from short-term to long-term memory, making it easier to remember what you’ve learned while preparing your brain to take in new information.5

    Research also suggests that naps around 30 minutes may improve memory encoding, helping you better absorb and retain new information.5 This may be especially beneficial for students, shift workers or anyone tackling mentally demanding tasks, as a brief afternoon nap may help support learning and recall for the remainder of the day.

    It May Boost Physical Recovery

    Naps don’t just benefit your brain–they may also help your body recover. During sleep, your body shifts into a restorative state, which directs energy toward repairing tissues, replenishing energy stores and supporting the release of hormones involved in muscle recovery and physical repair. Even a brief daytime nap may help to reduce the feelings of physical fatigue, allowing your body to recover after exercise or other physically demanding activities.

    In fact, research suggests that daytime naps may support physical recovery and performance, including strength, endurance and reaction time.6 According to Smiley, this may make naps especially beneficial for people with physically demanding jobs or active lifestyles. 

    While a nap won’t replace proper nutrition, hydration or quality nighttime sleep, it can serve as another valuable recovery tool to help your body–and your muscles–feel ready for the rest of the day.

    Other Strategies to Support Sleep

    A well-timed nap can provide several health benefits, but it’s also important to build daily habits that support both your daytime energy and your nighttime sleep. Here are a few strategies to try:

    • Stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day–even on weekends–helps to reinforce your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and serves as one of the foundations of healthy sleep.7
    • Exercise regularly. Smiley says that regular physical activity supports better energy levels and nighttime sleep quality, though it’s best to avoid vigorous workouts close to bedtime.
    • Watch your caffeine and alcohol intake. Consuming caffeine later in the day or drinking alcohol before bed may interfere with sleep quality.7, 8
    • Create a relaxing bedtime routine. Limiting screen time before bed and choosing calming activities like reading or stretching can help signal to your brain that it’s time to sleep.9
    • Eat balanced meals throughout the day. Smiley recommends avoiding going to bed overly hungry or overly full, since both can interfere with restful sleep.

    Our Expert Take

    If you’re going to take a nap, timing matters. Research suggests that a 10- to 30-minute nap between 1 and 3 p.m. is the ideal window to help boost your mood, focus, memory and productivity without making it harder to fall asleep at night. It’s important to remember that naps shouldn’t become a substitute for getting enough sleep. Consistently prioritizing healthy sleep habits, including a regular sleep schedule, balanced nutrition, physical activity and a relaxing bedtime routine remains the best strategy for supporting long-term health. As Smiley puts it, “Quality sleep doesn’t happen by accident—it happens because your daily habits support it.”

    Human Feces used as fertilizer

    Human feces can be an excellent source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, but require specialized processing or “hot composting” to destroy harmful pathogens before use. At a municipal level, treated wastewater solids are processed into “biosolids” used for agriculture, while homesteaders often use “humanure” composted for at least a year.

    Because raw human excreta can transmit dangerous bacteria and parasites, safety is the primary concern when utilizing it as fertilizer.

    The application of human waste involves these core methods:

    • Biosolids: Municipalities process wastewater into nutrient-rich biosolids. The EPA strictly regulates these into “Class A” (virtually pathogen-free and safe for public contact/home gardens) and “Class B” (used in agriculture with restricted access) categories.
    • Composting (Humanure): In off-grid settings, human waste is mixed with carbon-rich materials (like sawdust or leaves) in specialized composting toilets. The pile must reach high temperatures (usually 131°F to 150°F) for extended periods to kill pathogens, followed by a curing period of up to a year before application.
    • Ecological Sanitation (EcoSan): Systems like urine-diversion toilets separate solid waste for composting while using urine (which is typically sterile) as a direct, highly potent liquid fertilizer. Despite their efficacy, biosolid fertilizers face scrutiny due to concerns over pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and heavy metals that can pass through the waste stream into the environment. Always consult local agricultural or environmental health guidelines before applying treated human waste to food crops.

    Vaping is not healthy

    You are entirely correct: vaping is not healthy and poses significant risks to your heart, lungs, and brain development. While often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, health agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that no e-cigarette or tobacco product is safe to use. [1, 2]

    Key Health Risks of Vaping

    • Severe Lung Damage: Vaping delivers toxic chemicals like diacetyl deep into the lungs. This specific food additive is heavily linked to bronchiolitis obliterans (commonly known as “popcorn lung”), an irreversible disease that permanently scars the smallest airways.
    • Cardiovascular Issues: The nicotine in e-liquids acts as a powerful stimulant. It drastically increases your heart rate, spikes your adrenaline, and raises blood pressure, significantly increasing the long-term risk of a heart attack or heart failure.
    • Brain Development Impairment: Human brains continue to develop until roughly age 25. Nicotine exposure during youth can permanently harm parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.
    • Chemical and Metal Inhalation: The vapor produced is not just harmless water vapor. It contains a chemical cocktail of volatile organic compounds, cancer-causing agents, and heavy metals—including nickel, tin, and lead—leached from the heating coils. [1, 2, 3]
    • Extreme Addiction: Most vape products contain incredibly high concentrations of nicotine. In fact, some single vape pods can deliver as much highly addictive nicotine as an entire pack of 20 traditional cigarettes.

    The Context of Harm Reduction

    Public health organizations like the National Health Service (NHS) note that vaping is less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, because it doesn’t burn tobacco or produce the same level of tar and toxins. However, this benefit only applies to adult smokers who completely switch to vaping as a short-term stepping stone to quit nicotine entirely. For anyone who does not already smoke, starting to vape introduces severe, unnecessary health risks. [1, 2, 3, 4]

    If you are looking into this for yourself or a loved one, what is your primary goal? I can share proven, FDA-approved tools to quit vaping, or provide resources to help you talk to a teenager about its risks. [1, 2]

    Covid Exposed

    Alcohol is one of the most disruptive substances

    There’s a fact that most mental health content still hasn’t caught up to: 90% of your body’s serotonin is produced in your gut, not your brain. The bacteria living in your intestines are the primary factories.
    Alcohol is one of the most disruptive substances to gut bacteria that exists in the modern diet. A single drinking event kills off entire species within hours. Regular consumption produces a state of chronic dysbiosis — an imbalanced microbiome where beneficial bacteria are outnumbered by inflammatory species.
    The downstream effects on mood are direct and measurable:
    · Serotonin production drops when the bacteria that make it are killed
    · Inflammatory cytokines from a disrupted gut cross into the brain
    · The gut-brain vagus nerve signals distress upward
    · The “background low mood” most regular drinkers describe tracks with alcohol frequency
    This is also why:
    · SSRIs often work less well than expected in patients who drink
    · “Seasonal depression” tends to coincide with heavier social drinking seasons
    · Dry stretches consistently produce mood improvement that surprises members
    · Fermented foods and probiotics work dramatically better in non-drinkers
    Within 14 days of removing alcohol, gut bacteria diversity begins recovering. Within 30 days, serotonin production stabilizes. Within 60 days, most members report the “flat mornings” lifting in a way they’d stopped expecting.
    Depression is real and often requires clinical care. This isn’t a replacement for that. It’s one variable — often the biggest one — that goes unnamed in mood-focused content.
    You weren’t broken. You were running on a gut that had been chemically stripped, one drink at a time. 🧬
    #guthealth #serotonin #gutbrainaxis #mentalhealth #microbiome reframeapp

    So happy to have a chance to meet this amazing woman! Talk about Aging in reverse💪🏼 I hope you all have a chance to see the Healing humanity documentary when it releases! Maggie’s story is just one of the amazing testimonials! Food is medicine and a Proper Human Diet is the only food you need! #carnivorewomen #carnivoreover50 #carnivoreover70 #properhumandiet #eatthemeat

    Nervous system mirrors the people around you

    Neuroscience shows your nervous system mirrors the people around you.

    The more time you spend around anxious or negative people, the more your brain syncs to their state.

    It’s called co-regulation — and it explains why energy is contagious.     🧭

    Not in a vague, spiritual sense.

    In a measurable, biological sense.

    Your body is literally tuning itself to the frequencies of the people closest to you.

    Their calm becomes your calm.

    Their chaos becomes your chaos.     🌙

    That’s why protection isn’t just emotional — it’s physical.

    The people you let in are shaping your nervous system.

    Human Regenerator

    The Human Regenerator (often called the Human Regenerator Jet) is a wellness device that uses Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) to supposedly stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and boost energy. While users report deep relaxation and improved sleep, it is classified as a non-invasive wellness product, not a medical device, and its long-term benefits lack robust clinical backing.

    Whether it is “really good” depends entirely on your personal goals and expectations:

    What Users Report (Pros)

    • Stress & Recovery: Many wellness clinics and users report reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality, and faster muscle/tissue recovery after sessions.
    • Anti-Aging & Skin: Advocates in longevity medicine suggest CAP therapy can reduce oxidative stress and aid in collagen synthesis.
    • Non-Invasive: The sessions are generally painless, and there are no known side effects (except for individuals with electronic implants or those who are pregnant). Scientific Context (Cons)
    • Lack of Clinical Proof: The term “human regenerator” is not recognized in standard clinical medicine. Most of the supporting evidence comes from brand-funded studies and anecdotal testimonials rather than large, peer-reviewed clinical trials.
    • Not a Medical Cure: Sellers explicitly state the technology is meant to complement a holistic wellness routine, not diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions. Prices and availability vary since it is an exclusive, luxury bioenergetic therapy typically found in specialized longevity clinics and spas

    Just Change the Diagnosis

    Your Image

    ·  X-ray: Uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film — usually sufficient for the majority of fractures

    ·  MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body; especially useful for assessing soft tissue around injured joints and bones

    ·  Computed tomography scan (CT, CAT scan): Uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce 3D cross-sectional images (slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the affected area — including bones, fat, and soft tissue

    ·  Bone scan: Uses a radioactive dye to visualize the bones. It’s different from plain X-rays or CT in that it shows bone metabolism and cell activity in the bones. Bone scans are used to assess bone growth activity, bone remodeling activity, and/or blood flow in the affected area(s).

    Bacteremia

    Bacteremia is the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. It often occurs transiently through daily activities like brushing teeth, but if the bacteria multiply or persist, they can cause serious body-wide inflammation, leading to a life-threatening condition known as sepsis. [1, 2, 3, 4]

    Common Causes

    Bacteria typically enter the blood from an infection elsewhere in the body. Frequent entry points include: [1]

    • Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
    • Pneumonia or lung infections
    • Skin infections, burns, or open wounds
    • Contaminated medical devices (e.g., IV catheters, urinary catheters)
    • Invasive dental or surgical procedures [1, 2, 3, 4]

    Symptoms

    In healthy individuals with transient bacteremia, there may be no symptoms. However, if the infection escalates into the blood, symptoms often include: [1, 2]

    • Fever and shaking chills
    • Rapid heart rate and trouble breathing
    • Low blood pressure
    • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
    • Confusion or extreme fatigue [1, 2]

    Treatment

    Treatment for bacteremia requires immediate medical intervention to prevent it from progressing to sepsis or septic shock. Healthcare providers usually start intravenous (IV) antibiotics empirically to quickly combat a wide variety of bacteria, and then tailor the medication once specific blood cultures identify the exact pathogen. In some cases, the source of the infection (such as an infected IV line or abscess) must also be surgically removed. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

    You can learn more about bloodstream infections and their management on the Cleveland Clinic or read the professional overview on the Merck Manual Professional Edition. [1]

    If you are asking about a specific situation, let me know:

    • Is this related to a specific symptom you or someone else is experiencing?
    • Were there any recent medical or dental procedures?

    Histoplasmosis

    Overview

    Histoplasmosis is an infection caused by a fungus that’s often found in bird and bat droppings. People get the infection by breathing in airborne cells, called spores, from the fungus. These spores often get into the air during demolition, construction or cleanup projects.

    When soil tainted by bird or bat droppings is disrupted, it can spread the fungus that causes histoplasmosis. This also puts farmers and landscapers at higher risk of the disease. In the United States, histoplasmosis is common in Midwestern states in the Mississippi and Ohio river valleys. The disease also occurs in Africa, Asia, Australia, and parts of Central and South America.

    Most people with histoplasmosis never get symptoms and don’t know that they have the condition. But histoplasmosis can be dangerous for others, mainly infants and people with weakened immune systems. Treatments can help for even the most serious forms of histoplasmosis.

    Symptoms

    The mildest forms of histoplasmosis cause no symptoms. But serious infections can be life-threatening. When symptoms happen, they often appear 3 to 17 days after someone breathes in the spores that cause the infection.

    Histoplasmosis symptoms can include:

    • Fever.
    • Chills.
    • Headache.
    • Muscle aches.
    • Dry cough.
    • Chest pain.
    • Tiredness.

    Less often, some people also get joint pain and rashes.

    A long-term form of histoplasmosis affects the lungs. It’s called chronic histoplasmosis. It mainly affects people who have weakened immune systems or underlying lung conditions.

    Symptoms of chronic histoplasmosis can include weight loss, a bloody cough and trouble breathing. Chronic histoplasmosis symptoms sometimes seem like tuberculosis.

    Severe histoplasmosis

    The most serious type of histoplasmosis happens mainly in infants and in people with weakened immune systems. It’s called disseminated histoplasmosis. It can affect nearly any part of the body. This includes the mouth, liver, brain, spinal cord, skin and adrenal glands. Without treatment, disseminated histoplasmosis often is deadly.

    When to see a doctor

    Call your healthcare professional if you get flu-like symptoms after being exposed to bird or bat droppings. It’s very important to get a checkup if you have a weakened immune system.

    Causes

    Histoplasmosis is caused by cells, also called spores, from the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The spores can float into the air when dirt or other material is disturbed.

    The fungus thrives in damp soil that’s rich in organic material, especially the droppings from birds and bats. It’s common in chicken and pigeon coops, old barns, caves, and parks.

    Histoplasmosis can’t spread from person to person. But if you’ve had the infection, you can get it again. If you do get it again, the illness likely will be milder the second time.

    Risk factors

    The chances of getting histoplasmosis symptoms rise with the number of spores you breathe in. People more likely to be exposed to the spores include:

    • Farmers.
    • Pest control workers.
    • Poultry keepers.
    • Construction workers.
    • Roofers.
    • Landscapers and gardeners.
    • Miners and cave explorers.
    • Demolition workers.
    • Oil and gas workers.

    People most at risk of severe infection

    Children younger than age 2 and adults age 55 and older have weaker immune systems. Because of this, they’re more likely to get the most serious form of the disease, called disseminated histoplasmosis. Other factors that can weaken the immune system include:

    • HIV or AIDS.
    • Cancer chemotherapy.
    • Corticosteroid medicines such as prednisone.
    • Medicines called tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, which often are used to control rheumatoid arthritis.
    • Medicines that prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ.

    Complications

    Histoplasmosis can cause many serious health conditions, even in otherwise healthy people. Infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems can get complications that often are life-threatening.

    Complications can include:

    • Acute respiratory distress syndrome, also called ARDS. Lung damage from histoplasmosis can lead to this condition. ARDS happens when air sacs in the lungs start filling with fluid. This keeps the lungs from getting enough air. As a result, less oxygen gets into the blood.
    • Heart concerns. The body’s defenses may react to the spores that cause histoplasmosis by creating too much swelling, also called inflammation. If the tissue that surrounds the heart becomes inflamed, it’s a condition called pericarditis. Fluid may build up in the tissue as a result. When that happens, the heart can have trouble pumping blood.
    • Adrenal insufficiency. Histoplasmosis can harm the adrenal glands. That can cause the glands not to make enough of certain key hormones. This condition is called adrenal insufficiency. You also might hear it is called Addison’s disease.
    • Meningitis. Meningitis is an infection of the fluid and thin sheets of tissue that surround the brain and spinal cord. Sometimes histoplasmosis causes meningitis.

    Prevention

    It can be hard not to breathe in the spores that cause histoplasmosis. That’s especially true in areas where the fungus is widespread. But you can take the following steps to help lower the risk of infection:

    • Limit exposure. Stay away from projects and activities that might expose you to the fungus. These include caves. exploring and raising birds, such as pigeons or chickens.
    • Call professionals for cleanup if needed. If you live in an area with lots of bird or bat droppings, it’s risky to clean up the droppings yourself. Instead, call a company that removes hazardous waste.
    • Take safety measures at work. If your job involves working in an area where the fungus that causes histoplasmosis is common, talk with your employer. Ask if there’s a site safety plan to lower the risk of infection. Also ask if your employer offers training to help you protect yourself from getting histoplasmosis.

    Spray surfaces that might be tainted. Before you dig soil or work somewhere that could harbor the fungus that causes histoplasmosis, soak the area with water. This can help prevent spores from being released into the air. Spraying chicken coops and barns before

    Clindamycin

    ByBrian J. Werth, PharmD, University of Washington School of Pharmacy

    Reviewed ByBrenda L. Tesini, MD, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

    Reviewed/Revised May 2024

    View Patient Education

    Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic that is primarily bacteriostatic. It binds to the 50S subunit of the ribosome, thus inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.

    Pharmacokinetics of Clindamycin

    Clindamycin is absorbed well orally and can be given parenterally. Clindamycin diffuses well into body fluids except cerebrospinal fluid; it is concentrated in phagocytes. Most of the medication is metabolized; metabolites are excreted in bile and urine.

    Indications for Clindamycin

    The spectrum of activity for clindamycin is similar to that of the macrolide erythromycin (see table Some Clinical Uses of Macrolides) except that clindamycin is

    Aerobic gram-negative bacilli and enterococci are resistant.

    Clindamycin is usually used for anaerobic infections; however, clindamycin resistance has emerged among these organisms, particularly gram-negative anaerobes such as B. fragilis. Because these infections often also involve aerobic gram-negative bacilli, additional antibiotics are also used. Clindamycin is part of combination therapy for the following:

    Clindamycin can be used for infections (eg, skin and soft-tissue infections) in communities where community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is common; whether clindamycin is useful depends on local resistance patterns.

    Clindamycin can be used for infections due to clindamycin- and erythromycin-susceptible strains. However, some CA-MRSA strains are clindamycin-susceptible and erythromycin-resistant; erythromycin resistance in these strains may be due to an active efflux mechanism or modification of the ribosomal target. If the infecting strain of clindamycin-susceptible CA-MRSA is resistant to erythromycin because of the efflux mechanism, patients can be expected to respond to clindamycin. However, if the strain is erythromycin-resistant because of modification of the ribosomal target, patients may not respond clinically to clindamycin because certain mutants can emerge during clindamycin therapy; these mutants are resistant to clindamycin and erythromycin because of constitutive modification of the ribosomal target. (Constitutive means that resistance is always present regardless of whether an inducer, such as erythromycin, is present.)

    Erythromycin resistance due to efflux can be differentiated from that due to inducible ribosomal target modification with a commonly used double disk diffusion assay (D test). A clindamycin disk is placed at a standard distance from an erythromycin disk on an agar plate streaked with a standard inoculum of the CA-MRSA strain in question. Zone of growth inhibition (shaped like the letter “D”) around the clindamycin disk, with a flattened zone nearest the erythromycin disk indicates inducible ribosomal resistance. Patients who have moderate to severe infection with an inducible ribosomal-resistant CA-MRSA strain and a positive D test should not be treated with clindamycin.

    Clindamycin cannot be used for central nervous system infections (other than cerebral toxoplasmosis) because penetration into the brain and cerebrospinal fluid is poor.

    Topical clindamycin is used for acne.

    Contraindications to Clindamycin

    Clindamycin is contraindicated in patients who have had an allergic reaction to it, and it should be used with caution in those who have a history of regional enteritis, ulcerative colitis, or antibiotic-associated colitis.

    Use of Clindamycin During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

    Animal reproduction studies with clindamycin have not shown risk to the fetus. In clinical trials with pregnant women, clindamycin given during the second and third trimesters has not been associated with an increased frequency of birth defects. If medically indicated, clindamycin can be used during pregnancy.

    Clindamycin enters breast milk. Use during breastfeeding is not recommended.

    Adverse Effects of Clindamycin

    The main adverse effect of clindamycin is

    Clindamycin is more strongly associated with C. difficile colitis than any other antibiotic and has a boxed warning for this adverse effect. C. difficile–associated diarrhea is about 20 times more likely to occur after clindamycin exposure than after no antibiotic exposure (1), whereas other antibiotics, including fluoroquinolones and cephalosporins, have about 5 to 10 times greater odds of C. difficile compared to no antibiotics (2).

    Hypersensitivity reactions may occur. The most commonly reported adverse effect is mild to moderate maculopapular rash, but severe skin reactions, including toxic epidermal necrolysis, have also been reported.

    Clindamycin may prolong the QT interval especially in patients with multiple risk factors for QT prolongation.

    If not swallowed with water, clindamycin may cause esophagitis.

    Names, Types, and Uses of Common Antibiotics

    By Laura Dorwart 

    Updated on April 30, 2026

     Medically reviewed by Lindsay Cook, PharmD

    Table of Contents

    Key Takeaways

    • Antibiotics are medicines that treat bacterial infections by killing bacteria or stopping their growth.
    • Penicillin’s are a subclass of antibiotics used to treat illnesses like streptococcal infections and meningococcal infections.
    • Cephalosporins can treat a wide variety of conditions, including bacterial pneumonia and some skin infections.

    Amoxicillin, erythromycin, and other antibiotics treat bacterial infections by either eliminating bacteria or halting their growth. Using the right antibiotic for conditions like meningitis or skin infections ensures effectiveness and minimizes antibiotic resistance.

    Common Types of Antibiotics

    Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat bacterial infections like strep throat or urinary tract infections. They can be administered in several ways:2

    • Topically: through ointments, drops, creams, or sprays
    • Orally: via capsules, liquids, or tablets
    • By injection
    • Intravenously: through an IV line

    IV antibiotics are usually reserved for serious infections that are life-threatening or that have spread throughout the body.

    Antibiotics are divided into several classes based on how they work and what kinds of conditions they treat.3

    Penicillin’s

    Penicillin’s are a subclass of antibiotics (called beta-lactams) that are used to treat illnesses, including streptococcal infections (caused by gram-positive bacteria) and meningococcal infections (caused by gram-negative bacteria).4

    Penicillin’s include the following medications:4

    • Amoxicillin
    • Ampicillin
    • Carbenicillin
    • Dicloxacillin
    • Nafcillin
    • Oxacillin
    • Penicillin G
    • Penicillin V

    Penicillin’s are usually taken orally or by injection. They might also be used in combination. For example, a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanate is commonly prescribed to treat infection.4

    Side effects of penicillin’s include:5

    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Rash
    • Abdominal pain
    • Hives
    • Muscle spasms
    • Fever
    • Chills
    • Muscle pain
    • Headache
    • Rapid heart rate
    • Flushing
    • Rapid breathing
    • Low blood pressure

    You should not take penicillin if you’ve had a severe allergic reaction to penicillin or have experienced Stevens-Johnson syndrome after penicillin.5

    Certain medications interact with penicillin’s, including aspirin, phenylbutazone, sulfonamides, and others. Be sure to discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider before taking this antibiotic. Penicillin’s may also reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.6

    Penicillin’s are generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.4

    Cephalosporins

    Cephalosporins work by interfering with cell wall synthesis to disrupt certain enzymes and treat bacterial infections like meningitis. There are several different generations of cephalosporins. Each generation is effective at treating different types of infections.7

    The most common cephalosporins include

    • Cefaclor
    • Cefazolin
    • Cefadroxil
    • Cephalexin
    • Cefuroxime proxetil
    • Cefuroxime axetil
    • Cefixime
    • Cefoxitin
    • Ceftriaxone

    Cephalosporins can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including bacterial pneumonia, some skin and soft-tissue infections (due to staphylococci or streptococci), endocarditis, or Lyme disease.

    Lacosamide’s

    Lacosamide’s are a class of antibiotics that include just two medications: lincomycin and clindamycin. They are narrow-spectrum antibacterial medication that is effective against gram-positive bacteria but not gram-negative bacteria.8

    Lacosamide’s might be used to treat certain gynecological infections, bone and joint infections, or lower abdominal infections.9

    Macrolides

    Macrolides are a class of medications that are considered to be bacteriostatic, meaning that they prevent bacteria from multiplying, but they don’t destroy them.

    Macrolides include

    • Erythromycin
    • Clarithromycin
    • Azithromycin
    • Fidaxomicin
    • Roxithromycin (derived from erythromycin)10

    Macrolides are sometimes used to treat streptococcal and pneumococcal infections when penicillin cannot be used. They may also be used to treat certain skin infections, including acne.11 Macrolides, such as azithromycin may also treat sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.12

    Fluoroquinolones

    Fluoroquinolones are broad-spectrum, systemic antibacterial agents used to treat bacterial infections.

    Fluoroquinolones include medications such as:133

    • Ciprofloxacin
    • Ofloxacin
    • Levofloxacin
    • Moxifloxacin
    • Delafloxin meglumine14

    These medications are often used to treat respiratory and urinary tract infections.13 They may also be used to treat prostatitis, sepsis, pneumonia, complicated urinary tract infections, or diarrhea due to bacterial infection.14

    Sulfonamides

    Sulfonamides include medication combinations such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole that work together to treat bacterial infections. These medications may be taken orally (by mouth), but some are available as topical medications.15

    Sulfonamides include the following medications:15

    • Mafenide
    • Sulfacetamide
    • Sulfadiazine
    • Sulfadoxine
    • Sulfamethizole
    • Sulfamethoxazole
    • Sulfanilamide
    • Sulfasalazine
    • Sulfisoxazole

    Sulfonamides can be used to treat conditions including burns and vaginitis. They may also be used for superficial ocular infections or inflammatory bowel disease. In combination with other medications, they may also treat infections such as urinary tract infections.15

    Glycopeptides and Lipoglycopeptides

    Glycopeptides and lipoglycopeptides are medications that are used to treat certain complicated or serious infections. They work by work by preventing gram-positive bacteria from forming a cell wall, which kills the bacteria.16

    This group of antibiotics include

    • Dalbavancin
    • Oritavancin
    • Teicoplanin
    • Telavancin
    • Vancomycin

    Glycopeptides and lipoglycopeptides may be useful in treating skin infections from MRSA and other complicated skin infections.16

    Tetracyclines

    Tetracyclines are a group of broad-spectrum antibiotics used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

    Tetracyclines include:

    • Doxycycline
    • Eravacycline (IV only)
    • Minocycline
    • Omadacycline (novel aminomethylcycline)
    • Tetracycline

    Tetracyclines can be used to treat a wide range of infections including chronic bronchitis, Lyme disease, syphilis, chlamydia, and anthrax.

    Urinary Anti-Infectives

    This class of antibiotics treats urinary tract infections (UTIs). Urinary tract infections are more common in women, although it is possible for a man to get this condition. The first line of defense for a UTI is antibiotics.

    Urinary anti-infectives include:

    • Nitrofurantoin
    • Trimethoprim
    • Methenamine
    • Fosfomycin
    • Hyoscyamine

    Many urinary tract infections (UTIs) go away on their own without antibiotics. According to some research, around 42% of UTIs clear up on their own during the first nine days. If your UTI symptoms persist or get worse, you should seek medical treatment.

    In addition to an antibiotic, your provider may recommend other medications to manage UTI symptoms, such as pain and discomfort.

    Side Effects and Safety

    Antibiotics can be prescribed by your primary care provider or other qualified healthcare provider at almost any walk-in clinic. Depending on the clinic and the type of antibiotic you need, you may be able to pick up your prescription on-site or at a local pharmacy.

    If you have a severe infection that requires intravenous (IV) antibiotics, you should seek emergency medical care.

    Safety Tips

    Here are some ways to ensure that you’re taking antibiotics safely:

    • Take your antibiotics for exactly how long and at the exact dose that your healthcare provider prescribes.
    • Don’t take antibiotics that were prescribed for someone else.
    • Don’t skip a dose or save your leftover antibiotics for later.
    • Don’t give anyone else antibiotics that were prescribed for you.
    • Tell your healthcare provider right away if your symptoms get worse.

    Antibiotics usually start working to clear up a bacterial infection right away. You may start feeling better in just one to three days.

    Potential Side Effects

    While antibiotics are safe and effective for most people, they may sometimes cause side effects.

    Common side effects of antibiotics may include:

    In rare cases, antibiotics may cause more serious side effects, including:

    • Antibiotic-resistant infections (infections that do not respond to antibiotics)
    • Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections, which cause severe diarrhea that can be life-threatening

    If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help right away.

    Beta lactams (which include penicillin’s and cephalosporins) and quinolones, including fluoroquinolones, are the antibiotics with the highest risk of side effects, including neurotoxic side effects.22 Side effects may include nerve damage, changes in blood sugar, irregular heartbeat, or tendon damage.23

    Antibiotic Allergy

    Some people develop allergy symptoms after taking antibiotics. Allergic reactions to penicillin’s are particularly common—an estimated 5% to 15% of people have a penicillin allergy.24 

    You may be experiencing an allergic reaction to an antibiotic if you have any of the following symptoms:25

    • Rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Wheezing
    • Swelling
    • Difficulty breathing 

    If you start experiencing any of these symptoms, stop taking the antibiotic right away and tell your healthcare provider.

    Severe Allergic Reaction

    If you experience symptoms of anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) after taking antibiotics, such as difficulty breathing or swollen tongue or throat, dizziness or fainting, seek immediate medical help.

    Antibiotics During Pregnancy

    There has been some concern regarding the use of sulfonamides and nitrofurantoin during pregnancy. Some evidence has suggested that there may be an increased risk for birth defects, including anencephaly, heart defects, and orofacial clefts, associated with their use.26

    The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that sulfonamides and nitrofurantoin may be prescribed in the first trimester of pregnancy only when other antimicrobial therapies cannot be used.26

    Certain other antibiotics—fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines—should be avoided if you’re currently pregnant.27

    Let your healthcare provider know if you are pregnant or might be pregnant before you start taking an antibiotic. Your care provider can give you the most up to date safety information and personalized advice based on your health history and condition.

    When Antibiotics Shouldn’t Be Used

    It may be tempting to take antibiotics whenever you’re sick. But antibiotics won’t treat conditions caused by viruses, such as:1 

    • Sore throats, except strep throat
    • Influenza (the flu)
    • Colds 
    • Congestion and runny noses
    • Cough
    • Most cases of bronchitis (inflammation of the large airways)

    Viral infections often clear up without medical intervention, or they require antiviral medications or other forms of treatment. Your healthcare provider can help you decide what treatment will be appropriate and effective for your infection. 

    Also, antibiotics only work to fight certain bacterial infections. They aren’t effective in treating all conditions caused by bacteria, including some ear infections and most sinus infections.1

    Antibiotic Resistance

    Antibiotic-resistant infections may occur when antibiotics aren’t able to kill off certain bacteria. Antibiotic resistance can cause serious health complications, such as organ failure. In some cases, it may even be fatal. There are over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections in the U.S. each year, resulting in over 35,000 deaths.28

    You may be more likely to develop an antibiotic-resistant infection if you take antibiotics too often or unnecessarily. Only take antibiotics when you need them. Always finish taking your full course as prescribed (don’t stop when you feel better, continue the number of days on the prescription).29

    Antibiotic Alternatives

    In some cases, you may be able to use an antibiotic alternative if your provider does not recommend prescription medication. Your options may include over-the-counter antibiotics or natural antibiotics.

    Discuss any antibiotic alternative with your provider to be sure that your infection is managed properly.

    OTC Antibiotics

    Most of the time, antibiotics need to be prescribed by a healthcare provider. However, some over the counter (OTC) topical antibiotic treatments are available at pharmacies and drugstores.

    For example, Neosporin (neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin topical) is an OTC antibiotic ointment used to prevent minor cuts, scrapes, and burns from getting infected.30

    Neosporin is only effective in treating minor skin injuries. Talk to your healthcare provider instead if you have a burn, deep wound, animal bite, or another more serious injury.

    Natural Antibiotics

    There are some natural substances that have antimicrobial properties. They are often referred to as “natural antibiotics,” and they can be derived from plant, animal, or microorganism sources.31

    Some natural antibiotics include:

    • Honey
    • Thyme
    • Garlic
    • Ginger
    • Curcumin
    • Essential oils of coriander
    • Cumin
    • Mustard seed
    • Oregano

    More studies need to be done to fully understand the potential of these natural substances.

    About Sepsis

    Key points

    • Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency.
    • Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis.

    What is sepsis?

    Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.

    Infections that lead to sepsis most often start in the

    • Gastrointestinal tract
    • Lung
    • Skin or
    • Urinary tract

    Without fast treatment, sepsis can quickly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.

    Top of Form

    Bottom of Form

    Signs and symptoms

    A person with sepsis might have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

    • Clammy or sweaty skin
    • Confusion or disorientation
    • Extreme pain or discomfort
    • Fever, shivering or feeling very cold
    • High heart rate or weak pulse
    • Shortness of breath

    At-risk populations

    Anyone can develop sepsis, but some people are at higher risk for sepsis. Most people who develop sepsis have at least one underlying medical condition or recent hospitalization.

    Risk Factors for Sepsis

    Causes

    Infections put you and your family at risk for sepsis. When germs get into a person’s body, they can cause an infection. If that infection doesn’t stop, it can cause sepsis.

    Bacterial infections cause most cases of sepsis. Sepsis can also be a result of other infections, including viral infections, such as influenza. Fungal infections can also cause sepsis.

    Reducing risk

    You can take specific steps to reduce your risk of sepsis such as:

    • Preventing infection
    • Practicing good hygiene
    • Knowing the signs and symptoms
    • Acting fast

    If you have cancer, there are additional ways to reduce your risk of infection.

    Keep Reading Preventing Infections That Can Lead to Sepsis

    Quick facts

    Fact

    Each year, at least 1.7 million adults and more than 18,000 children in the U.S. develop sepsis. At least 350,000 adults and more than 1,800 children who develop sepsis die during their hospitalization or are discharged to hospice.

    • 1 in 3 adults who dies in a hospital had sepsis during their hospital stay.
    • 1 in 5 children who dies in a hospital had sepsis during their hospital stay.
    • About 1 in 10 children who develop sepsis die during their hospital stay.
    • Most cases of sepsis start before a patient goes to the hospital.
    • Most people who develop sepsis have at least one existing medical condition like chronic lung disease or a weakened immune system.
    • Nearly a quarter to a third of people with sepsis had a healthcare visit in the week before they were hospitalized.

    Diagnosis

    Sepsis is diagnosed through a medical assessment performed by a healthcare provider.

    They diagnose sepsis using physical findings, such as:

    • Fever
    • Increased heart rate
    • Low blood pressure
    • Trouble breathing

    Healthcare providers also perform tests that check for signs of infection or organ damage. Some of these tests are used to identify the germ that caused the infection that led to sepsis. This testing might include blood cultures looking for bacterial infections, fungal infections, or tests for viral infections, like influenza.

    Healthcare providers should immediately evaluate and treat people who might have sepsis.

    Treatment

    Research shows that rapid, effective sepsis treatment includes:

    • Giving appropriate treatment, including antibiotics, as soon as possible
    • Maintaining blood flow to organs

    Sometimes surgery is required to remove tissue damaged by the infection.

    Healthcare providers should treat sepsis as soon as possible.

    What to know about antibiotics

    Antimicrobial resistance

    Antibiotics are critical tools for treating infections, including those that can lead to sepsis. However, anytime antibiotics are used, they can cause side effects and contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance Antimicrobial resistance happens when germs, like bacteria and fungi, develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. Infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant germs can be difficult, or impossible to treat.

    Side effects

    Antibiotic side effects range from minor, such as rash, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea and yeast infections, to very severe health problems, such as life-threatening allergic reactions or C. difficile (also called C. diff) infection, which causes diarrhea that can lead to colon damage or death. However, when antibiotics are needed, the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects or antimicrobial resistance.

    Antibiotic stewardship

    Antibiotic stewardship is the effort to improve antibiotic use so that antibiotics are prescribed and used when they provide a clear benefit. Improving the way healthcare providers prescribe antibiotics and the way we take antibiotics helps keep us healthy, fights antimicrobial resistance, and ensures that these life-saving drugs will work when they are needed most, such as for treating infections that can lead to sepsis.

    Blood test for Septicemia can be incorrect

    The chances of a blood test for septicemia being incorrect are relatively high, with false-negative rates reaching up to 40% to 50%. This means a significant number of patients diagnosed with sepsis will have negative blood culture results, making the condition notoriously difficult to confirm. 

    Clinical Lab Products +2

    Because there is no single, definitive test for sepsis, diagnostic tests are primarily used to support a clinical diagnosis rather than rule it out. Several factors explain why these results may not be correct: 

    Sepsis Alliance +1

    • Prior Antibiotic Use: Starting antibiotics before a blood culture is drawn is the most common reason for a false negative. Administering antimicrobials can drastically reduce the test’s ability to detect bacteria. 

    National Institutes of Health (.gov) +2

    • Type of Infection: Some bacteria, fungi, or viruses are difficult to grow in a lab, or the infection may be localized in an organ (like the lungs or urinary tract) rather than circulating heavily in the bloodstream. 

    National Institutes of Health (.gov) +4

    • Contamination: Conversely, about 35% to 40% of positive blood cultures are false positives. This usually happens when skin bacteria contaminate the sample during the blood draw, which can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. 

    Deranged Physiology +2

    • Non-Bacterial Causes: Blood cultures only test for bacterial or fungal infections. Sepsis can also be triggered by severe viral infections (like influenza or COVID-19). 

    magnolia-medical.com +2

    Because of these limitations, doctors do not rely on blood cultures alone. They combine blood tests for organ function (such as lactate, creatinine, and white blood cell counts) and inflammatory markers (like procalcitonin) with physical symptoms to assess sepsis risk

    Why Bacteria Growth Causes Fatigue

    Urinary tract infections (UTIs) cause fatigue because your immune system diverts immense cellular energy and resources toward fighting the bacteria. If you are experiencing chronic fatigue, it could stem from a persistent, low-grade infection, embedded bladder bacteria (chronic UTI), or post-infection immune dysfunction. 

    • Immune Resource Allocation: Fighting off bacteria requires massive amounts of cellular energy (ATP). Your body shifts this energy from normal daily functions, leaving you feeling chronically drained.
    • Embedded Bacteria (Chronic UTIs): Sometimes, bacteria burrow into the bladder lining and form protective communities (biofilms). This can lead to an ongoing, systemic immune response and long-term exhaustion.
    • Sleep Disruption: The need to frequently wake up and urinate (nocturia) fragments your sleep, directly contributing to severe daytime fatigue and brain fog.
    • Post-Infection Syndrome: Research indicates that infections from pathogens like E. coli are linked to a higher risk of developing conditions like Myalgic

    To fight bacteria growth in your urinary tract with urostomy, you must prioritize aggressive hydration, consistent pouch management, and meticulous hygiene. Bacteria multiply rapidly in urine, but following these targeted, daily steps can significantly reduce your risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs): 

    www.oakmed.co.uk +4

    • Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 6 to 10 glasses (about 2 to 3 liters) of water daily. This continually flushes your urinary tract and dilutes your urine. Aim to keep your urine clear or pale yellow.
    • Empty Your Pouch Regularly: Drain your pouch when it is to full. Allowing it to get too heavy can cause leaks or cause urine to pool against the stoma, promoting bacterial growth.
    • Maintain Meticulous Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your stoma or changing your pouching system.
    • Use and Clean Night Drainage Systems: Use a night drainage bag to prevent urine from backing up overnight. Be sure to rinse and clean the container or leg bag thoroughly each morning. Consider switching to single-use, disposable night bags if reusing the same one becomes a recurring contamination issue.
    • Monitor Your Diet and Supplements: Some people find that unsweetened cranberry juice or cranberry capsules help, as they can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Always consult your healthcare team first, as supplements can sometimes interfere with other medications (such as blood thinners).
    • Limit Dehydrating Beverages: Reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol, as both act as diuretics and dehydrate you

    Philosophy – Pyramid

    Picture

    Balance and Common Sense

    There is nothing crazy or radical about this approach. Any and all therapy categories can and should be used in a manner that is in the best interest of the patient. And the patient is in the driver’s seat – it is their life, their decisions, etc. I am the professional advisor. My job is to present a clear picture of the options – with pros and cons – provide my recommendation with an explanation, and then work with them to fulfill their objectives. It is simply how I would want to be treated if I were the patient.

    Lifestyle

    Lifestyle is the use of elements of basic, daily living as treatment for medical problems – nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management/relaxation, sunlight/vitamin D, etc. As an example, science shows that exercise is as effective as prescription medication or psychological therapy for depression. Or the fact that sleep problems can cause fatigue, depression, high blood pressure, overweight, etc would logically lead us to evaluate and treat sleep problems as appropriate in dealing with any of these problems – instead of just writing another prescription. Lifestyle is the foundation of all effective long-term treatment and should receive the greatest emphasis in general.

    Physiology

    Physiology is essentially any and all treatments that are relatively “natural”, work with the body’s physiology, and have scientific evidence to support their use. These are things beyond what we would do in our daily lifestyle habits. They do not usually require a prescription. Physical modalities like physical therapy or massage would be included. Nutritional supplements could fall into this category. Anything that meets the above criteria would be included here. Side effects are typically minimal or mild, or may actually be positive.

    Prescription

    This is fairly self-explanatory. These are often substances that are foreign to normal human physiology or natural processes. The frequency and magnitude of negative side effects are often significant. Prescription medications can be a wonderful thing. It is life-saving to have modern antibiotics with serious infections, etc. Our problem is that our priorities are scrambled and our emphasis is all wrong. A healthcare system driven by corporate profit does not create optimal healthcare for patients (or providers). Let’s use prescription medications when we truly need them, but not instead of identifying and correcting the causes of disease.

    Surgery

    This level includes not only surgery but all medical treatments that are “invasive” and/or have a relatively high risk of very serious complications or side effects – like chemotherapy or radiation. These are not inherently evil things. Sometimes it is necessary to do things that are dangerous or very unpleasant to save a life. We need to be thankful for these options while doing all that we can to minimize the problems.

    https://www.nwlifestylemedicine.com/resources.html

    What Causes Intestines to Twist & Can a Twisted Intestine Get Untwist By Itself?

    Intesne Information Center

    Reviewed By: Team Pain Assist

    The human intestine extends from the pyloric sphincter of the stomach to the anus; and it consists of the small intestine and large intestine. The small intestine is subdivided into the ileum, duodenum and jejunum. The large intestine is subdivided into the colon, rectum and cecum. Any change in the shape of the intestine is known as twisted intestine or twisted bowel. These abnormal twists in the intestine can lead to serious complications and can even lead to death. It is therefore important to treat this condition as an emergency situation and seek medical attention at the earliest. Based on the location of the twists, they are of 2 types:

    What Causes Intestines to Twist?

    Twisted intestine can be caused due to multiple reasons. Infants born with twisted intestine have higher chances of developing twisted intestine in the future. In some cases, twisted intestine may arise after abdominal surgery. Based on the nature of the causes, they are divided into primary and secondary causes:

    Primary Causes of Intestines to Twist: These causes are associated with poor diet and gut mobility. It may be noted in children as well as in adults. Colonic volvulus is often related to pregnancy.

    Secondary Causes of Intestines to Twist: These causes arise due to certain underlying medical conditions such as redundant intestinal tissues or adhesions in the colon (often in the absence of anatomical abnormalities). These are commonly seen in adults above the age of 40 years.

    The other possible causes of twisted intestine include:

    Gut Motility: This may be caused due to excessive use of laxatives or following a high fibrous diet. This makes it hard for the body to expel the digested food leading to twisted intestine.

    Overeating: Excessive eating can exert abnormal pressure over the intestine to digest the food. This makes it difficult for the food to move through the intestine leading to twisted intestine.

    Intestinal Mal-rotation Causing Twisted Intestine: This is genetic fault where the bowel is abnormally shaped. It is often noticed within few days after birth.

    Abdominal Adhesions: This is often associated with a history of abdominal infection or surgery, possibly due to development of scar tissues. This leads to twisting or looping of the intestine.

    Diverticulosis Causing Twisted Intestine: This condition is associated with protrusions or sacs within the lining of the intestine causing looping and obstruction. This may be congenital or it may develop later in life.

    The exact cause of twisted intestine is hard to understand. It is characterised by the intestines folding upon it. Other causes are associated with cancers, old age, dietary changes pregnancy, post-surgical recovery etc. The medical conditions giving rise to twisted intestine include:

    • Diaphragmatic hernia
    • Stenosis or Atresia
    • Mega colon
    • Hirsch sprung disease
    • Meckel diverticulum
    • Intussusceptions
    • Cystic fibrosis
    • Meconium ileus
    • Intestinal pseudo-obstruction.

    Can a Twisted Intestine Get Untwist By Itself?

    It has been noted that in large number of cases, the intestine untwists by itself; however, if the untwisting does not occur by itself, the patient may need surgical intervention. Patients with mild to moderate intensity of twisted intestine are given the following option to promote untwisting of the intestine without surgery:

    Diet Modification to Untwist Intestine: Diet modification often solves the twisted intestine issue. It is important to follow a healthy diet that is rich in fiber. It is also important to increase the intake of fluids and water. Measures should be taken to avoid constipation.

    Exercise: Regular exercise can solve the condition, as it increases the blood flow to the area and promotes digestion. Regular exercise can help in reducing the pain and other symptoms.

    Colon Cleansing: It is a simple procedure carried out for removing toxins like feces from the intestine. It is usually done once a year. It is also known as colon therapy, colonic irrigation and colon hydrotherapy.

    Psychoactive drug ibogaine

    effectively treats traumatic brain injury in special ops military vets

    By Sarah Williams

    Stanford Medicine researchers find that ibogaine, a plant-based psychoactive compound, safely led to improvements in depression, anxiety and functioning among veterans with traumatic brain injuries.

    For military veterans, many of the deepest wounds of war are invisible: Traumatic brain injuries resulting from head trauma or blast explosions are a leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and suicide among veterans. Few treatments have been effective at diminishing the long-term effects of TBI, leaving many veterans feeling hopeless. 

    Now, Stanford Medicine researchers have discovered that the plant-based psychoactive drug ibogaine, when combined with magnesium to protect the heart, safely and effectively reduces PTSD, anxiety and depression and improves functioning in veterans with TBI.

    In a study published July 24, 2025, in Nature Mental Health, Nolan Williams, MD, an associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, and his team analyzed electroencephalography and MRI scans collected from a cohort of 30 veterans to uncover the neural mechanisms underlying the cognitive improvements. They found, for example, that veterans who improved in executive function after ibogaine treatment tended to show an increase in a type of brain wave known as theta rhythms. They also found that veterans with lowered PTSD symptoms after treatment tended to show a reduction in the complexity of brain activity in the cortex.

    The researchers speculate that stronger theta rhythms may encourage neuroplasticity and cognitive flexibility, while less complex cortical activity may lower the heightened stress response seen in PTSD. Brain activity patterns before treatment could also be used to identify patients who would benefit most from ibogaine therapy. 

    “No other drug has ever been able to alleviate the functional and neuropsychiatric symptoms of traumatic brain injury,” Williams said. “The results are dramatic, and we intend to study this compound further.”

    The new study expands on a study published online Jan. 5 in Nature Medicine.

    Alternatives

    Traumatic brain injury is defined as a disruption in the normal functioning of the brain resulting from external forces — such as explosions, vehicle collisions or other bodily impacts. The trauma associated with TBI can lead to changes in the function and/or structure of the brain, which, in turn, contributes to neuropsychiatric symptoms.

    Hundreds of thousands of troops serving in Afghanistan and Iraq have sustained TBIs in recent decades, and these injuries are suspected of playing a role in the high rates of depression and suicide seen among military veterans. With mainstream treatment options not fully effective for some veterans, researchers have sought therapeutic alternatives.

    Ibogaine is a naturally occurring compound found in the roots of the African shrub iboga, and it has been used for centuries in spiritual and healing ceremonies. More recently, it has gained interest from the medical and scientific communities for its potential to treat opioid and cocaine addiction, and research has suggested that it increases signaling of several important molecules within the brain, some of which have been linked to drug addiction and depression. Since 1970 ibogaine has been designated as a Schedule I drug, preventing its use within the U.S., but clinics in both Canada and Mexico offer legal ibogaine treatments.

    “There were a handful of veterans who had gone to this clinic in Mexico and were reporting anecdotally that they had great improvements in all kinds of areas of their lives after taking ibogaine,” Williams said. “Our goal was to characterize those improvements with structured clinical and neurobiological assessments.”

    Capturing ‘before and after’

    For the study published in January of 2024, Williams and his colleagues at Stanford Medicine teamed up with VETS, Inc., a foundation that helps facilitate psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans. With support from VETS, 30 special operations veterans with a history of TBI and repeated blast exposures, almost all of whom were experiencing clinically severe psychiatric symptoms and functional disabilities, had independently scheduled themselves for treatment with magnesium and ibogaine at a clinic in Mexico.

    Before the treatment, the researchers gauged the participants’ levels of PTSD, anxiety, depression and functioning based on a combination of self-reported questionnaires and clinician-administered assessments. Participants then traveled to a clinic in Mexico run by Ambio Life Sciences, where under medical monitoring they received oral ibogaine along with magnesium to help prevent heart complications that have been associated with ibogaine. The veterans then returned to Stanford Medicine for post-treatment assessments.

    “These men were incredibly intelligent, high-performing individuals who experienced life-altering functional disability from TBI during their time in combat,” Williams said. “They were all willing to try most anything that they thought might help them get their lives back.”

    At the beginning of the study, participants were experiencing clinically significant levels of disability as measured by the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale 2.0, which assesses disability in six functional domains, including cognition, mobility, self-care, getting along, life activities and community participation. In addition, 23 met the criteria for PTSD, 14 for an anxiety disorder and 15 for alcohol use disorder. In their lifetimes, 19 participants had been suicidal and seven had attempted suicide.

    Life-changing results

    On average, treatment with ibogaine immediately led to significant improvements in functioning, PTSD, depression and anxiety. Moreover, those effects persisted until at least one month after treatment — the endpoint of the study.

    Before treatment, the veterans had an average disability rating of 30.2 on the disability assessment scale, equivalent to mild to moderate disability. One month after treatment, that rating improved to 5.1, indicating no disability. Similarly, one month after treatment participants experienced average reductions of 88% in PTSD symptoms, 87% in depression symptoms and 81% in anxiety symptoms relative to how they were before ibogaine treatment. Formal cognitive testing also revealed improvements in participants’ concentration, information processing, memory and impulsivity.

    “I wasn’t willing to admit I was dealing with any TBI challenges. I just thought I’d had my bell rung a few times — until the day I forgot my wife’s name,” said Craig, a 52-year-old study participant from Colorado who served 27 years in the U.S. Navy. “Since [ibogaine treatment], my cognitive function has been fully restored. This has resulted in advancement at work and vastly improved my ability to talk to my children and wife.”

    “Before the treatment, I was living life in a blizzard with zero visibility and a cold, hopeless, listless feeling,” said Sean, a 51-year-old veteran from Arizona with six combat deployments who participated in the study and says ibogaine saved his life. “After ibogaine, the storm lifted.”

    Importantly, there were no serious side effects of ibogaine and no instances of heart problems that have occasionally been linked to ibogaine. During treatment, veterans reported only typical symptoms such as headaches and nausea.

    Lessons for PTSD, depression and anxiety

    The researchers hope to launch future studies to further understand how the drug might be used to treat TBI. In fact, based in part on the promising results of the team’s ibogaine studies, Texas recently approved a $50 million initiative to fund clinical trials of ibogaine. The initiative — one of the largest government investments in psychedelic therapy — will provide matching state funds to private investments in ibogaine trials that may lead to FDA approval. 

    Williams believes ibogaine’s drastic effects on TBI suggest that it holds broader therapeutic potential for other neuropsychiatric conditions. “In addition to treating TBI, I think this may emerge as a broader neuro-rehab drug,” Williams said. “I think it targets a unique set of brain mechanisms and can help us better understand how to treat other forms of PTSD, anxiety and depression that aren’t necessarily linked to TBI.”

    The study was independently funded by philanthropic gifts from Steve and Genevieve Jurvetson. Stanford Medicine received no funding from VETS, Inc. or Ambio.

    How many people in the world have ME/CFS


    Estimates of the number of people globally with ME/CFS vary greatly.
    This is largely because there is no universal diagnostic biomarker and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Recent figures suggest the number could be between 17 million and 275 million worldwide.
    Pre-pandemic estimates
    Estimates before the COVID-19 pandemic were typically lower, around 17 to 24 million people globally. This
    range reflected the significant challenges in diagnosing the illness, with some studies estimating that up to 90%
    of cases were undiagnosed.
    Post-COVID-19 impact
    The global prevalence of ME/CFS appears to have increased significantly due to the large number of
    individuals experiencing long COVID, a condition that shares characteristics with ME/CFS. Some sources now estimate the number of people with ME/CFS to be much higher:

    • An estimate from May 2025 projects that up to 275 million people could have ME/CFS globally.
    • One 2025 study suggests a prevalence of around 71.2 million, based on applying the CDC-1994
      diagnostic criteria to the global population.
    • Challenges in determining accurate numbers
      Several factors make it difficult to determine an exact number:
    • No definitive test: There is no single, objective biomarker or test for ME/CFS. Diagnosis relies on a patient’s symptoms, which can overlap with many other conditions.
    • Varying diagnostic criteria: The estimated prevalence depends on the diagnostic criteria used. Estimates from different studies can vary by as much as tenfold based on the criteria applied.
    • High rates of misdiagnosis: Many patients go undiagnosed for years, are misdiagnosed, or are hesitant
      to seek medical care due to historical stigma.
    • Influence of long COVID: It is still unclear how many long COVID patients will develop ME/CFS,
      complicating current prevalence calculations.
    • Disproportionately affected groups
      Regardless of the overall number, studies consistently show that ME/CFS is more common in certain
      demographic groups:
    • Women are two to four times more likely to be affected than men.
    • The condition is most common among middle-aged adults (40–60 years), but can affect people of all
      ages.
    • Studies in the U.S. have shown higher prevalence rates among rural residents and adults with lower
      family incomes.
      This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. AI responses
      may include mistakes. Learn more

    R-CPD

    Retrograde Cricopharyngeal Dysfunction (R-CPD), or “no-burp syndrome,” is a condition where the upper esophageal sphincter muscle fails to relax, preventing belching and causing chronic symptoms like intense bloating, painful gurgling sounds, and flatulence. It is treated effectively with Botox injections into the cricopharyngeus muscle. 

    Key Symptoms of R-CPD

    • Inability to Burp: The primary symptom, often present from a young age.
    • Throat Gurgling: Loud, involuntary sounds from the throat.
    • Severe Abdominal Bloating/Distension: Especially after eating or drinking carbonated beverages.
    • Excessive Flatulence: As trapped gas moves through the digestive tract.
    • Chest Pain/Pressure: Caused by accumulated gas.
    • Dysphagia: A feeling of food sticking in the throat.
    • Vomiting Difficulties: Inability to vomit, or extremely painful, violent vomiting. 

    Causes and Treatment

    • Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it is a dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus muscle, which fails to open when gas moves up the esophagus.
    • Treatment: The most effective treatment is the injection of Botox into the cricopharyngeus muscle under general anesthesia, which relaxes the muscle and allows for burping. This is often a long-term fix, though it may need to be repeated. 
    • Severe Abdominal Bloating/Distension: Especially after eating or drinking carbonated beverages.
    • Excessive Flatulence: As trapped gas moves through the digestive tract.
    • Chest Pain/Pressure: Caused by accumulated gas.
    • Dysphagia: A feeling of food sticking in the throat.
    • Vomiting Difficulties: Inability to vomit, or extremely painful, violent vomiting. 

    Causes and Treatment

    • Cause: The exact cause is unknown, but it is a dysfunction of the cricopharyngeus muscle, which fails to open when gas moves up the esophagus.
    • Treatment: The most effective treatment is the injection of Botox into the cricopharyngeus muscle under general anesthesia, which relaxes the muscle and allows for burping. This is often a long-term fix, though it may need to be repeated. 

    CIRS

    Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a persistent, debilitating illness caused by exposure to biotoxins (like mold, Lyme bacteria) in water-damaged environments, leading to widespread inflammation, immune dysfunction, and multisystem symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, pain, and digestive issues, often misdiagnosed as other conditions like anxiety or fibromyalgia but diagnosable with specific lab tests and treatable by removing the source and using targeted therapies. 

    Causes & Triggers

    • Water-Damaged Buildings (WDB): The most common trigger, involving mold and endotoxins.
    • Biotoxins: Mold spores, Lyme disease, blue-green algae, and certain fish toxins.
    • Genetic Predisposition:

     Some individuals have genes (like HLA-DR) making them more susceptible

    Common Symptoms (Multisystem)

    • Neurological: Brain fog, memory loss, confusion, difficulty concentrating, headaches, poor executive function, PTSD, anxiety.
    • Respiratory: Cough, congestion, asthma-like symptoms, shortness of breath, sinus issues.
    • Musculoskeletal: Muscle cramps, joint pain, stiffness, weakness.
    • Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, food sensitivities.
    • Skin: Rashes, unusual skin sensitivity, stretch marks, light sensitivity.
    • Other: Fatigue, excessive thirst, night sweats, hormonal imbalances, vision problems, heart palpitations, temperature dysregulation.

    Diagnosis & Treatment

    • Diagnosis: Relies on patient history, ruling out other conditions, specific lab tests (C4a, MMP-9, etc.), and genetic testing (HLA-DR).
    • Treatment: Involves removing the exposure source (e.g., mold remediation), using binders (cholestyramine) to remove toxins, anti-inflammatory medications, and addressing hormonal/immune imbalances. 

    Key Characteristic

    • Unlike typical immune responses, CIRS involves a prolonged immune dysregulation where the body fails to clear biotoxins, keeping the immune system in a constant state of inflammation.

    Finding yourself dropping things

    Repeatedly dropping things is often caused by nerve compression (like carpal tunnel or cervical disc issues), reduced grip strength, or neurological conditions such as peripheral neuropathy. Other common causes include metabolic issues (diabetes), arthritis, fatigue, or cognitive changes, while temporary, sudden clumsiness can be caused by stress, lack of sleep, or, in rare cases, a stroke. 

    Key Causes for Dropping Things

    • Nerve Compression & Spinal Issues: A pinched nerve in the neck (cervical radiculopathy or herniated disc) can disrupt signals to the hands, causing weakness. Similarly, carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness and loss of feeling, leading to a weak grip.
    • Neurological & Metabolic Conditions: Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), ALS, or Peripheral Neuropathy, can cause muscle weakness and poor coordination. Diabetes can lead to neuropathies that reduce sensation in the hands.
    • Musculoskeletal Issues: Arthritis, tendonitis, and general joint pain can impair hand dexterity and strength.
    • Functional/Age-Related Changes: Reduced sensory feedback (feeling) and decreased strength, common with aging, can make it harder to properly gauge the grip required for objects.
    • Lifestyle Factors & Cognitive Issues: High stress, anxiety, or extreme fatigue can lead to inattention and, subsequently, dropping items. Cognitive decline or early Alzheimer’s can also lead to issues with spatial awareness. 

    When to Seek Medical Attention
    If dropping items is a sudden, new, or frequent occurrence, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out serious conditions like a stroke, especially if accompanied by dizziness, difficulty walking, numbness in limbs, or facial weakness. 

    https://www.google.com/search?q=what%20causes%20people%20to%20drop%20things%20repeatedly&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#lfId=ChxjMe

    Drinking excessive plain water can dilute essential electrolytes

    Drinking excessive plain water can dilute essential electrolytes like sodium and potassium, potentially causing an imbalance, particularly if consumed rapidly in massive quantities

    . However, for most people, water is vital for nutrient transport and waste removal, with kidneys efficiently managing mineral levels, the Cedars-Sinai website explains. 

    Key considerations regarding water and mineral balance:

    In summary, moderate water consumption helps the body function properly, while extreme, rapid intake is the primary risk factor for flushing out necessary minerals.  I drink half my body weight in ounces daily.

    Adding hydration powder to water

    Adding hydration powder to water is highly important for replacing electrolytes lost during intense exercise (60+ minutes), high heat exposure, or illness. For average daily activity, plain water is sufficient, as diet provides necessary minerals. Overusing powder can cause excessive sodium/potassium intake. 

    When Hydration Powder is Important:

    • Intense/Long Exercise: Replaces sodium lost in sweat, preventing cramps and hyponatremia.
    • Heat Exposure: Helps maintain body temperature regulation.
    • Illness/Recovery: Rehydrates quickly after diarrhea or vomiting.
    • Increased Fluid Retention: Helps the body absorb water more efficiently. 

    Key Considerations:

    • Not a Daily Necessity: Overusing electrolyte drinks can lead to high blood pressure, strain kidneys, or cause excessive calorie/sugar intake.
    • Dietary Sources: A balanced diet provides sufficient electrolytes for most people.
    • Signs of Imbalance: Too many electrolytes can cause muscle cramps, headaches, and dizziness. 

    The Bottom Line: Use hydration powders as a tool for specific, high-sweat, or high-loss situations rather than a daily replacement for water. 

    Here is what I use unless you make your own. I only use a quarter of the scoop per 16 oz of purified water.

    30 servings really is 60 if you use less. I see pricing al over the place so shop it.

    https://www.iherb.com/pr/redmond-re-lyte-hydration-lemon-lime-7-2-oz-204-g/144431

    Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

    Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) combines low-dose ketamine, given in a controlled setting, with talk therapy to rapidly relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions by creating a dissociative state that fosters deep self-exploration and insight, helping patients break ingrained negative patterns for lasting change. This structured approach involves preparation, guided sessions (often with IV ketamine), and crucial integration work with a therapist to process experiences and apply new understanding to daily life. 

    How it Works

    • Preparation: Sessions to get ready, set intentions, and establish trust with the therapeutic team.
    • Dosing: Ketamine is administered (often IV) in a calm, serene environment, leading to altered states of consciousness.
    • Guided Experience: A therapist provides support, guiding the patient to explore thoughts, emotions, and memories, often revealing root causes of distress.
    • Integration: Post-session therapy to make sense of insights and build lasting behavioral changes. 

    Key Benefits

    • Rapid Relief: Quick reduction in symptoms, especially suicidal thoughts, for severe depression and anxiety.
    • Deep Insights: Enhanced neuroplasticity and cognitive flexibility allow breakthroughs and new perspectives on old problems.
    • Lasting Effects: Benefits extend beyond the session, particularly with integration.
    • Addresses Trauma: Helps process painful emotions and memories that traditional therapy struggles with. 

    Conditions Treated

    Administration Methods

    • Intravenous (IV): Tailored doses, high bioavailability (e.g., 6 sessions in 2-3 weeks).
    • Intramuscular (IM): Good control overdose.
    • Nasal (Esketamine): FDA-approved (Spravato) for depression, different schedule.
    • Oral (Troches/Tablets): Lower bioavailability, less controlled

    Intermittent Fasting

    Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and fasting, focusing on when you eat, not just what you eat, to potentially aid weight loss and improve metabolic health by shifting the body from burning sugar to burning fat. Common methods include time-restricted eating (e.g., 16:8, fasting 16 hours, eating in an 8-hr window) and the 5:2 diet (normal eating 5 days, very low calories 2 days). While potentially beneficial, IF isn’t for everyone, with risks like headaches or fatigue, so consulting a doctor is recommended. 

    How it Works

    • Metabolic Switch: After about 10-12 hours without food, your body uses up its glucose (sugar) stores and switches to burning fat for energy, producing ketones.
    • Cellular Repair: Fasting can trigger autophagy, the body’s process of cleaning out damaged cells. 

    Popular Methods

    • 16/8 Method: Fast for 16 hours (including sleep) and eat within an 8-hour window (e.g., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
    • 5:2 Diet: Eat normally for five days, then restrict calories (around 500) on two non-consecutive days.
    • Alternate-Day Fasting: Alternate between normal eating days and fasting or very low-calorie days. 

    Potential Benefits (Short-Term)

    • Weight and fat loss
    • Improved insulin sensitivity
    • Lower blood pressure and cholesterol
    • Reduced inflammation 

    Who Should Be Cautious or Avoid IF

    • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
    • People with Type 1 diabetes or immunodeficiencies
    • Individuals with a history of eating disorders
    • Young children and teens 

    Side Effects

    • Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, weakness, mood swings, and sleep disturbances can occur as the body adjusts. 
    • I do a version of eat dinner by 7:00 PM and do not eat breakfast or lunch until 11:00-12:00 AM the next day, giving my digestive system a break and turn on repair in my body.
    • Not eating for 16 hours (16/8 intermittent fasting) primarily benefits the body by
    • promoting weight loss through fat burning, lowering insulin levels, reducing inflammation, and triggering autophagy—a cellular repair process. It improves metabolic health, enhances brain function, and can aid in heart health by reducing blood pressure. 
    • Key Health Benefits of a 16-Hour Fast:
    • Weight Loss & Fat Burning: By limiting the eating window, total calorie intake often drops, and sustained low insulin levels allow the body to burn stored fat for energy.
    • Cellular Repair (Autophagy): Fasting triggers autophagy, a process where cells break down and remove damaged components, which may contribute to longevity and reduced disease risk.
    • Improved Metabolic Health: Studies show significant decreases in blood pressure, improved blood sugar regulation, and reduced insulin resistance.
    • Reduced Inflammation: It can lower oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
    • Brain Health & Function: Early studies suggest it may increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), protecting brain cells and improving cognitive function.
    • Gut Health: Giving the digestive system a prolonged break allows it to rest and fosters a healthier microbiome. 
    • Important Considerations:
    • Physical Effects: It may help maintain muscle mass while losing fat.
    • Potential Side Effects: Some individuals might experience dizziness, fatigue, headaches, or irritability.
    • Sustainability: It is a lifestyle change rather than a quick fix, requiring consistency to see long-term results.
    • Medical Advice: It is not for everyone; individuals with specific health conditions (e.g., diabetes) should consult a doctor. 

    Cancer:

    Histotripsy

    Histotripsy is a non-invasive cancer treatment that uses focused high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy liver tumors, without incisions, needles, or radiation. It works by creating a bubble cloud within the tumor that physically shreds and breaks apart the cancer cells, which the body then flushes out. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, is often outpatient, and the destroyed cells are safely absorbed by the body.

    How it works:

    High-intensity ultrasound waves are focused on the targeted tumor.

    The sound waves cause rapid expansion and collapse of microscopic bubbles within the tumor tissue, a process called cavitation.

    This vibration and pressure physically shred and destroy the cancer cells.

    The destruction is confined to the targeted area, preserving surrounding healthy tissue.

    The resulting debris is harmlessly absorbed and cleared by the body’s lymphatic system. 

    Procedure details

    Non-invasive: The procedure does not involve any incisions, needles, or radiation.

    Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used during the procedure.

    Real-time monitoring: An interventional radiologist guides the treatment using ultrasound to ensure precision.

    Duration: A single histotripsy treatment can take between 10 and 90 minutes, depending on the size and number of tumors.

    Recovery: Patients often go home the same day or the day after the procedure. 

    Potential side effects:

    Mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the treatment site is the most common side effect.

    In rare cases, there can be unintended disruption of nearby tissues.

    It can impact overall liver function, which is closely monitored. 

    Patient eligibility:

    It is an option for patients with liver tumors, including primary liver cancer (HCC) and tumors that have spread from other sites.

    It is often recommended for patients with up to three tumors that are less than 3 cm and in locations suitable for treatment.

    It can be a good choice when surgery or other treatments are too risky, the tumor is near critical structures, or the patient is not a good candidate for more invasive therapies. 

    https://www.envita.com

    Laetrile B17 for killing Cancer

    History

    Amygdalin was first isolated in 1830 by two French chemists.[1,2] It was used as an anticancer agent in Russia as early as 1845, and positive results were reported for the first patient treated.[3,4] The first recorded use of amygdalin in the United States as a treatment for cancer occurred in the early 1920s.[5] At that time, amygdalin was taken in pill form; however, the formulation was judged too toxic, and the work was abandoned. In the 1950s, a purportedly nontoxic intravenous form of amygdalin was patented as Laetrile.[1,6,7]

    Laetrile has been tested on cultured animal cells, in whole animals, in xenograft models, and in humans to determine whether it has specific anticancer properties. As noted in the General Information section, hydrogen cyanide is believed to be the main cancer-killing ingredient in laetrile.[8,9] When amygdalin interacts with the enzyme beta-glucosidase or undergoes hydrolysis in the absence of enzymes, hydrogen cyanide, benzaldehyde, and glucose are produced.[1,7,8,10,11] Hydrogen cyanide can also be produced from prunasin, which is a less-than-complete breakdown product of amygdalin.[1,8]

    Proponents of laetrile have proposed four different theories to explain its purported anticancer activity. The first of these incorporates elements of the trophoblastic theory of cancer, a theory that is not widely accepted as an explanation for cancer formation. According to the trophoblastic theory, all cancers arise from primordial germ cells, some of which become dispersed throughout the body during embryonic development and, therefore, are not confined to the testes or ovaries.[12–17] The rationale for laetrile use is the suggestion that malignant cells have higher than normal levels of an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase (which is different from the enzyme beta-glucosidase) and that they are deficient in another enzyme called rhodanese (thiosulfate sulfur transferase). Another suggestion is that laetrile is modified in the liver, and that beta-glucuronidase breaks down the modified compound, ultimately producing cyanide. Rhodanese can convert cyanide into the relatively harmless compound thiocyanate. Thus, it has been proposed that cancer cells are more susceptible to the toxic effects of laetrile than normal cells because of an imbalance in these two enzymes.[10,13,18–20] Some experimental evidence does support the idea that normal tissues and malignant tissues differ substantially in their concentrations of beta-glucuronidase [21] and rhodanese.[22,23]

    The second theory states that cancer cells contain more beta-glucosidase activity than normal cells and, as in the first theory, that they are deficient in rhodanese.[1,5,13,15,18,24,25] Again, elevated beta-glucosidase activity in the interstitial regions of some malignancies has been experimentally demonstrated.[26,27]

    The third theory states that cancer is the result of a metabolic disorder caused by a vitamin deficiency. It states further that laetrile, or amygdalin/vitamin B-17, is the missing vitamin needed by the body to restore health.[18,28–30] Experimental evidence indicates that the level of intake of individual vitamins and/or the vitamin status of an organism can influence the development of cancer, but there is no evidence that laetrile is needed for normal metabolism or that it can function as a vitamin in animals or humans.[31,32]

    The fourth theory suggests that the cyanide released by laetrile has a toxic effect beyond its interference with oxygen utilization by cells. According to this theory, cyanide increases the acid content of tumors and leads to the destruction of lysosomes. The injured lysosomes release their contents, thereby killing the cancer cells and arresting tumor growth.[15] According to this theory, another consequence of lysosome disruption is stimulation of the immune system.

    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/laetrile-pdq

    When you get an MRI for cancer or other diagnosis:

    Cancer Researchers, All Lost

    No Coincidences

    Skin Cancer Myths

    American Society for Dermatologic Surgery

    https://www.asds.net › Skin Cancer › Skin Cancer Myths

    Limiting sun exposure is an important measure to take as both direct and indirect UV rays damage the skin and can lead to skin cancer.

    Ultraviolet radiation is not the major cause of melanoma …

    Oxford Academic

    https://academic.oup.com › bjd › article

    by RB Weller · 2025 · Cited by 1 — Melanoma has the highest mortality of all skin cancers and efforts to reduce this are focused on sun avoidance … Ultraviolet radiation is not the major cause …

    People also ask

    What is 90% of cancer caused by?

    AI Overview

    Approximately 90% of cancer cases are caused by environmental and lifestyle factors, not genetics. These factors include smoking, diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of physical activity, and exposure to carcinogens like those found in the environment or from sun exposure. These external influences can lead to genetic mutations that trigger the growth of cancer cells.  

    Lifestyle and environmental factors

    Tobacco use: Smoking is a major cause of many cancers, particularly lung cancer.

     Diet and obesity: A poor diet high in processed foods and red meat, coupled with a lack of physical activity, is linked to several types of cancer. Obesity is also a risk factor. 

     Alcohol consumption: Heavy and chronic alcohol use increases the risk of cancers of the breast, mouth, liver, and esophagus. 

     UV radiation: Sun exposure and tanning beds are the primary causes of skin cancer. 

     Infections: Certain infections can increase the risk of some cancers. 

     Environmental toxins: Exposure to pollutants and certain chemicals, like asbestos and benzene, can contribute to cancer. 

    Genetics versus lifestyle

    While a family history of cancer can increase risk, inherited genetic mutations are only responsible for about 5–10% of all cancers.

    The remaining 90–95% of cancers are caused by acquired mutations that happen during a person’s lifetime from aging and environmental and lifestyle factors. 

    How to reduce your risk

    Avoid smoking and tobacco products, protect your skin from the sun, Limit alcohol intake, and Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise

    5 Common Myths About Cancer and Cancer Treatment that Could Harm You

    Written by Eugene Ahn on March 10, 2023. Posted in Research Blog.

    The SIO Research Committee is pleased to offer this fourth installment in a new blog series known as “Myths of Cancer”. In this series we will address some of the most common myths and misperceptions that arise around cancer risk and treatment related to diet and natural health products, as well as other complementary therapies such as yoga, acupuncture and meditation. If you have a question, you’d like us to address or comments about this post, please send your suggestions to: [email protected].

    We hope you enjoy the series!
    Linda Carlson and Eugene Ahn, Research Co-Chairs.

    5 Common Myths About Cancer and Cancer Treatment that Could Harm You

    By: Eugene Ahn, MD

    Quick Answer Box

    Sometimes we can hold on to our belief systems too tightly. Below, we discuss some myths about cancer that evidence suggests may negatively impact on a patient’s chances of surviving a cancer diagnosis. We have intentionally excluded controversies that will be addressed in future blog entries.

    A new diagnosis of localized cancer can be an emotional rollercoaster of ups and downs, dread and optimism, fear and empowerment. Added to this distress is the seemingly impossible task of gathering sufficient information to make the best evidence-informed decision regarding an optimal individualized treatment plan. It is only natural (with the lack of any editorial oversight on most information posted on the Internet), that someone could accidentally pick up some erroneous beliefs about cancer and cancer treatment and likewise miss out on important new research insights that would improve cancer treatment outcomes. In this blog, we discuss myths that already have sufficient research to show they are not only incorrect but also may harm a patient’s chances for thriving after a cancer diagnosis. We interviewed surgical oncologists, medical oncologists and other cancer care providers to identify the most common harmful myths that they encounter in their practice. These myths are listed in order of least to most harmful.

    5. After completing treatment aimed at curing cancer, the most important thing to do is to have lab and imaging tests to make sure the cancer does not come back

    There are some cancers where lab tests and routine imaging are important for optimal outcomes, such as testicular cancer. But for other cancer types, we are clearly over-testing without any evidence that such practices improve outcomes. For example, in the case of breast cancer, some practitioners or patients will insist on obtaining tumor markers (blood tests for proteins that can be elevated if the cancer expresses it) despite the fact it is already established as an unreliable screening marker for breast cancer. The negative side-effects of using such tests can be huge. Imagine having an elevated cancer marker and the emotional turmoil that you would experience thinking you have a possible cancer recurrence, only to find out one year later after repeated images and tumor markers (and likely biopsies) that it is not the case. It would be more impactful to focus on primary prevention: i.e. promotion of lifestyle behaviors that would help prevent another cancer, and in some cases, reduce chances of cancer recurrence. This includes a healthier diet, more physical activity and mind-body practices, and continued secondary prevention (such as a screening mammogram, when appropriate).

    4. If my doctor recommends that I see a psychiatrist or psychologist for additional consultation, they must think I’m crazy.

    One of the biggest remaining stigmas about cancer care is no longer the word “cancer”, but anything that begins with the letter’s “psych”. In fact, that is precisely one of the reasons why supportive care clinics are not called “psychosocial care” or “psychological support” but use terms like quality of life or survivorship clinic. But it is really an unfounded fear. People with emotional distress who receive care from a qualified mind-body support professional do significantly better in terms of both cancer-related quality of life and minimizing side effects from treatment. In fact, the ones who need mind-body support most often tend to be the very ones who refuse to acknowledge this as a missing essential component in their healing plan. Oncologists know that cancer treatment can be tough physically and emotionally, and their referrals to a mind-body expert are basically their way of saying there are better, more qualified specialists who can help you with the emotional rollercoaster ride that is cancer. Those that receive care from a mind-body specialist often emerge from cancer treatment with what is called “post traumatic growth” or in simpler words, a silver lining to their cancer experience. This “positive meaning” to their cancer experience has huge implications in terms of emotional well-being after cancer treatment is completed.

    3. It’s not cancer that kills people; it’s the cancer treatment.

    While it is true that injury and even death can occur with conventional medicine and/or errors made by personnel within cancer centers, it is in the striking minority. A common narrative on alternative health websites is that when patients have metastatic cancer and receive chemotherapy, it is the chemotherapy that ultimately kills the patient, not the cancer. This is an easy hypothesis to test. If that were true, then you would have data that consistently shows patients with cancer who die, had chemotherapy in their last month of life. In fact, when you track most cancer centers, you will find that very few patients who die from cancer, received chemotherapy in their last month of life. In a study that garnered a lot of press attention, researchers found that in England, on average 8.4% of patients with lung cancer and 2.4% of patients with breast cancer died within a month of receiving chemotherapy (Wallington et al, Lancet Oncology 2016). In fact, chemotherapy given within the last month of life is a measure by which insurance companies will measure the quality of care given at a cancer center (less treatment in the last month of life is encouraged). According to this myth, we should also be seeing scores of patients in hospice care or self-care rebounding miraculously when freed from the toxicity of chemotherapy, but unfortunately that is not reflected in the statistics. It is true that a surprising number (35%) of oncologists polled on whether they would take chemotherapy (this was before the approval of immunotherapy) if diagnosed with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer would not. However, it is erroneous to assume that this data meant those physicians believed chemotherapy would kill them. They were simply willing to acknowledge that if they were dying, they would rather focus on the time left to connect with family and get their affairs in order.

    2. I can think my cancer away with positive thoughts

    Probably the greatest misunderstanding regarding mind-body medicine is that you can treat cancer by simply focusing on positive thoughts or imagery. Clinical trials looking at positive visualization have been negative for overall survival with cancer, but they do help reduce anxiety and improve some measures of quality of life and may even impact immune and other biological processes. However, there is no evidence that positive thoughts result in cancer regression or cure. The idea that having negative thoughts will bring back your cancer is simply wrong and can be very psychologically harmful. In fact, one of the most powerful mind-body therapies, mindfulness meditation, emphasizes becoming a non-judgmental curious observer of ALL that is transpiring in our ‘mind’, being inclusive of both “good” or “bad” emotions and thoughts. By embracing and not fearing our negative emotions or thoughts we can then gain personal insight into what is the real cause of those phenomena, and often it is discovered that these are conditioned responses, related to past experiences but not necessarily probable outcomes in the present. The healthiest way to relate to emotions is to acknowledge, accept and experience them as they are, allowing them to come and go as they will with the recognition that all things are passing and impermanent, and not harmful.

    1. I can’t do surgery on my cancer because “oxygen will feed the cancer” and make it more aggressive.

    Perhaps as expected, mainly the surgeons interviewed for this blog entry reported encountering this myth, which would clearly make a patient reluctant to have their cancer surgically removed or biopsied. There are a lot of reasons why surgery might not be the best option for you (for example, it is already metastatic and spread), but when it comes to curative intent treatment of almost all solid organ cancers, surgical removal is usually the most impactful intervention to achieve cure. In fact, for pre-cancerous lesions like colonic polyps and DCIS of the breast, surgical removal alone is highly effective for prevention of evolution into malignancy, and it is known that without surgery and just observation the risk of these becoming more aggressive in biology and clinical stage increases the longer you wait to remove those lesions. This belief system is more often found in African American and Latino patients (Ann Int Med 2003), and correlates to delay or refusal of surgery. If this belief were true, however, we would expect to rarely see cases of metastatic breast cancer in patients who did not have a prior biopsy or surgery for breast cancer. Unfortunately, we know that as many as 6-10% of patients who are diagnosed with breast cancer present with metastases without a prior biopsy or breast surgery. In summary, there are many more influential factors one should be worried about (biology of the disease, genomic changes in the cancer, lifestyle choices) than being afraid of surgery.

    Eugene Ahn

    Breast medical oncologist and integrative oncologist at City of Hope Chicago SIO VP Communications Associate Professor City of Hope Director of Clinical Research at COH Chicago/Atlanta/Phoenix

    Benefits of Walking: 

    Cardiovascular Health: Improves heart function, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of heart disease. 

    Weight Management: Burns calories, promotes weight loss, and improves metabolism. 

    Muscular Strength and Endurance: Strengthens leg muscles and improves overall endurance. 

    Bone Health: Increases bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. 

    Mental Health: Reduces stress, improves mood, and promotes relaxation. 

    Digestive Health: Stimulates bowel movements and aids in digestion. 

    Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Walking has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and some neurological conditions. 

    How to Make Walking the Best Exercise: 

    Start gradually: Begin with short walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity. 

    Walk briskly: Aim for a pace that elevates your heart rate and breathing. 

    Incorporate hills: Walking uphill provides additional cardiovascular benefits. 

    Vary your route: Explore different environments to keep things interesting. 

    Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Track your steps and set goals. 

    Make it a habit: Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking most days of the week. 

    Conclusion: 

    While walking may not be the most intense exercise, it is a versatile and accessible option that offers significant health benefits. By incorporating walking into your daily routine, you can improve your overall well-being and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

    9 Benefits of Walking After Eating

    By Cristina Mutchler

    Updated on July 30, 2025

    Medically reviewed by Anju Goel, MD

    Key Takeaways

    • Walking after eating promotes health benefits, including better sleep quality, improved heart health, lower blood pressure, stabilized blood sugar levels, improved digestion, and more.
    • Start gradually with a short walk. Just two to five minutes can make a difference. Increase to 10 or 15 minutes to get more positive results.
    • Wait longer after your meal if you experience stomach problems, such as nausea or cramping.

    Research suggests that walking after eating can have a positive impact on your health, particularly for managing blood sugar levels, lowering blood pressure, and weight management. Experiment with timing and vary the duration to avoid potential downsides, like experiencing an upset stomach after a larger meal.

    1. Reduces Gas and Bloating

    Because physical movement helps stimulate the digestive system, walking after eating may help improve gastrointestinal symptoms like gas and bloating in some people.

    One study found that when people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) increased their daily step count from 4,000 to 9,500, their symptoms decreased by 50%.1

    Other research performed on people with bloating symptoms showed that one month of walking for 10 to 15 minutes after every meal resulted in fewer gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, like bloating, burping, and gas. These post-meal strolls were reported to be more effective than digestion medications.2

    2. Helps to Regulate Blood Sugar

    A short walk after eating can help manage your blood sugar (glucose) levels, especially for people with diabetes. In one study involving adults with type 2 diabetes, taking a 10-minute stroll after each daily meal was more effective for regulating blood sugar levels than one daily 30-minute walk.3

    Experts theorize that light exercise (in this case, walking) after a meal is helpful for preventing blood sugar spikes, and it’s even more effective when done almost immediately after eating.4

    3. Improves Sleep

    An after-meal walk may help you get higher-quality sleep. People who averaged more than 7,000 steps per day reported better-quality sleep than people who didn’t walk as much.5 Other research showed that clocking 10,000 steps daily helped people fall asleep faster.6

    Moreover, taking a stroll closer to bedtime might help improve sleep efficiency (the time spent sleeping in bed).5

    4. Lowers Blood Pressure

    Walking after eating may positively impact blood pressure in some situations. A guided walking plan developed for primarily sedentary people with hypertension was successful in regulating blood pressure levels.7

    Another study showed that three 10-minute daily walks effectively reduced diastolic blood pressure in people with prehypertension (elevated blood pressure).8

    5. Supports Mental Health

    Short walks have been shown to help boost certain aspects of mental health in the following ways:910

    • About 1.25 hours of brisk walking per week reduced the risk of depression by 18% in adults.
    • Around 2.5 hours of brisk walking per week reduced the risk of depression by 25% in adults.

    Several factors affect the risk of developing depression and other mental health conditions. Still, physical activity like walking can be helpful for an overall mood boost.11 Consider breaking it down to a 20- or 30-minute walk post-meal, five days per week.12

    6. Improves Digestion

    Some research suggests that walking after a meal can help speed up digestion. Studies show that walking after eating stimulates the stomach and intestines, encouraging food to go through the digestive system quickly.1

    Walking after dinner may help digestion in people who are mostly sedentary during the day and in people with conditions like IBS.

    7. Reduces Heart Disease Risk

    Data shows that exercise may help reduce heart disease risk. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can lower blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein (or “bad”) cholesterol, and stroke and heart attack risk.13

    For example, you could complete a brisk 10-minute post-meal walk three times daily, five days a week, to meet recommended guidelines for physical activity.14

    8. Promotes Weight Loss

    Though high-intensity exercises are typically associated with weight loss due to their ability to burn more calories, walking still has weight management benefits. Research has found that people who took a 25-minute walk twice daily lost more weight (and inches from their abdominal area) than those who walked for 50 minutes once daily.15

    Try walking for short periods after lunch and dinner. You may reap similar results.

    9. Helps to Break Up Inactivity

    Long periods of sitting (sedentary behavior) have been associated with a host of health problems, including vascular dysfunction (impaired functioning of blood vessels), increased blood pressure, decreased brain health, and cognitive function. Studies have suggested that brief walking breaks, even at a light intensity, help to reduce some of these risks.16

    For many people, an after-dinner activity often involves heading to the couch for a relaxing stint in front of the television. If you can head out for a short walk before this period of inactivity, you may be able to reduce the impact of sustained sitting.

    Are There Any Downsides to Walking After a Meal?

    Despite the numerous health benefits of walking shortly after a meal, there may also be downsides.

    Some people may experience an upset stomach if they exercise too soon after eating. For some people, exercising within two to three hours after eating can cause symptoms.17

    This is common and may also come with symptoms such as:18

    • Bloating
    • Nausea
    • Cramping (side stitch)
    • Acid reflux
    • Vomiting
    • Reduced exercise performance
    • Diminished sense of balance (potentially increased risk of falls)

    While some research suggests that higher intensity exercise is more likely to cause GI distress, other studies indicate that exercise intensity doesn’t matter. Research also suggests that dehydration or the use of painkillers can increase the chances of gastrointestinal problems when exercising after eating.17

    If you have any underlying health conditions or if you are currently sedentary, speak with your healthcare provider before starting your walking program to get personalized guidance.

    5 Tips for Walking After Eating

    Experiment With Timing

    Food can take up to four hours to digest fully.19 But each person’s ideal post-meal walk time will vary and may be anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours.

    For many people, starting a brisk walk roughly 30 minutes to an hour after a large, heavy meal should be sufficient to avoid unwanted side effects. This time frame will be shorter for snacks or smaller, lighter meals.

    Vary the Duration

    If you are new to exercise, start with a short walk. Research suggests a two- to five-minute walk after a meal can help lower blood sugar levels.20 Gradually increase the duration to 10 minutes to gain even more benefits.21

    If you can eventually increase the duration to 30 minutes, five days per week, your walk will help you to reach the American Heart Association’s recommended guidelines for physical activity.22

    Wear Walking Shoes

    Your feet will thank you if you buy shoes made for walking. Footwear plays an essential role in protecting your feet from trauma and facilitating efficient and pain-free movement. Not only will proper footwear help prevent foot injuries, but if your feet are comfortable, you are more likely to sustain your walking habit.23

    Also, keep in mind that walking shoes eventually wear out. Experts advise that you get new walking shoes after about 400 to 700 miles of use (about six to 12 months).24

    Bring the Kids

    Your physical activity habits play an important role in your kids’ health. Studies suggest that modeling healthy habits, such as getting regular exercise and eating a nutritious diet, can help your kids grow up to be healthier adults. It also gives parents an opportunity to get a closer look at their kids’ motor skills, balance, and how well they play.25

    Increase Intensity Gradually

    Walking rapidly at a rate between regular walking and jogging may further boost the benefits of walking. Research suggests that incorporating a brisk pace may offer benefits that are comparable to running, including:26

    • Improving circulation, reducing blood pressure, and lowering “bad” cholesterol levels27
    • Supporting weight management28
    • Relieving stress and elevating mood state29
    • Boosting brain function and overall mental health 30
    • Reducing the risk of chronic diseases, like type 2 diabetes and cancer3132

    Start walking at a pace of 3 miles per hour (mph), and work your way up to 5.5 mph, if desired.33

    Diaphragmatic Breathing

    Yes, you read that right! Certain diaphragmatic breathing exercises can benefit digestion. It’s hard to believe that something as simple as taking a few deep breaths can transform your body, state of mind, and digestion, yet science shows that it does. Deep breathing sends a message to your brain that has a calming effect. Deep breathing in it of itself can lower your heart rate and breathing rate, decrease your blood pressure, reduce muscle tension and help you feel less stressed overall1. The best part is that these breathing exercises require no special equipment or supplies…they can be done by anyone, anywhere, anytime.

    The Power of Deep Breathing

    As it turns out, there actually is a “wrong” way to exhale, and experts claim that bad habits in the respiratory department are more common than you’d think. “Breathing is something we do 15,000 times a day, so that what ends up happening is that it can become habitual in a positive or negative way,” said Patricia Ladis, a physiotherapist and certified behavioral breathing expert2. Many of our breathing patterns were picked up in childhood, she says – for instance, if you lived in a stressful home or had traumatic experiences at school, your adult self may be more prone to unconsciously hyperventilate or hold your breath when you’re in tense situations. Other people can develop disordered breathing in response to things like injury, pregnancy, or chronic pain.

    When you start breathing correctly, there are a whole litany of benefits that you can expect to enjoy. One of the greatest benefits is that it can greatly reduce your anxiety. When you reach a breath rhythm of inhaling and exhaling for a count of five or more, it changes the nervous system, taking the body from the sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the digest-and-rest mode3. The fight or flight response causes blood to move from the gut to the larger muscles, which interferes with digestion, weakens the immune system and increases inflammation. These changes don’t last long, and in the short term, they are not harmful and may even be helpful, but when they happen time and time again, they can hurt your health. The good news is that you can learn to “turn off” this automatic response through deep breathing. Taking slow, deep breathes creates a “relaxation response” that calms the mind and body. Abdominal breathing, also called diaphragmatic breathing, is one of the easiest, most effective ways to reduce muscle tension and stop the fight or flight response4.

    Diaphragmatic breathing is especially helpful to those experiencing GI issues. Focusing one’s breath is an effective way to help the body to relax. When practicing this type of breathing, the stomach, rather than the chest, moves with each breath, expanding while inhaling, and contracting while exhaling. Some general benefits of diaphragmatic breathing are that it can lower the heart rate, increase blood oxygenation, bring warmth to the hands and feet, improve concentration, reduce stress hormones, and more. But for those suffering with GI issues specifically, diaphragmatic breathing offers specific benefits. Activating the diaphragm creates a gentle massaging action felt by internal organs like the intestines and stomach, which can reduce abdominal pain, urgency, bloating, and constipation5. This breathing can also help in these specific GI situations:

    • Diarrhea and urgency: Diaphragmatic breathing can help calm the digestive tract and ease moments of panic (i.e. I MUST get to the bathroom right now).
    • Constipation: Diaphragmatic breathing can be used while sitting on the toilet attempting to have a bowel movement, to calm and massage the system.

    Quick Guide to Deep Breathing

    Here is a quick step-by-step guide on how you can get the most from your deep breathing.

    • Find a comfortable, quiet location and lie in a flat or reclined position
    • Place one hand on your abdomen, and one hand on your chest
    • Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose into your abdomen to push your hand up. Only breathe in as deeply as is comfortable (your chest should remain still)
    • Exhale through the mouth and gently blow out
    • Your abdomen should rise as you breathe in and fall as you breathe out
    • Repeat these steps until you count up to 10

    Taking calm, deep breathes is easy, and you can start now. It can take weeks or even months, to fully realize the benefits of abdominal breathing.  But take a deep breath and hang in there, because now that we know that certain diaphragmatic breathing exercises benefit digestion, we’d say it’s well worth it! And for an even greater digestive “boost,” consider taking a daily probiotic.

    *These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

    References

    1. https://health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/2017-01-05/how-to-improve-your-health-through-breath
    2. https://www.wellandgood.com/good-advice/breathing-exercises-for-better-health/
    3. https://www.unm.edu/~lkravitz/Article%20folder/Breathing.html
    4. https://www.loyolamedicine.org/blog/breathing-stress-improve-digestive

          5. https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/diaphragmatic-breathing-gi-patients

    This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.

    WHAT IS THE WIM HOF METHOD®?

    Wim Hof is an extraordinary man with great breathing techniques as well as other healthy strategies.

    Put in the simplest of terms, the Wim Hof Method® is a way to keep your body and mind in its optimal natural state.

    For most of our evolutionary history, a merciless natural environment automatically did this for us: sub-zero temperatures, howling winds and hungry wolves kept our muscles and veins supple, and our minds sharp and clear.

    Fast forward to today, and phones are exhausting our brains, while the rest of our body wastes away as we sit in toasty rooms strapped to stiffening chairs.

    As a result, those natural defenses are no longer on high alert. We fall ill more easily. We stress out, lose sleep, and wake up without focus or energy.

    https://www.wimhofmethod.com

    Tai chi

    Tai chi offers benefits for physical health, mental well-being, and disease management through its combination of slow, flowing movements and focused breathing. Key advantages include improved balance and a reduced risk of falls, especially for older adults, as well as stress reduction, mood enhancement, and better cognitive function. It also helps strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and can be beneficial for managing chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, COPD, and heart disease.  

    Physical health

    Reduces risk of falls: Tai chi improves balance and has been found to be very effective in preventing falls in older adults. 

    Strengthens muscles and improves joint health: It is a full-body exercise that improves underlying muscle strength and keeps joints in good working order through its full range of motion. 

    Benefits heart health: It can help lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar control. 

    Manages chronic conditions: Tai chi can help with symptoms of conditions like osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and some heart conditions. 

    Improves flexibility: The flowing, full-body movements help improve flexibility. 

    Mental and emotional well-being

    Reduces stress:

    The practice’s emphasis on mindful movement and slow breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm the body’s stress response.  

    Improves mood and reduces anxiety:

    Studies show it can help improve mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and promote a sense of calmness.  

    Boosts cognitive function:

    Regular practice has been linked to improved cognitive abilities and memory and may help with conditions like Parkinson’s disease. 

    Enhances sleep quality:

    Tai chi and similar practices can lead to improvements in sleep quality. 

    How to get started

    Consult an instructor:

    Before starting, it is recommended to consult an experienced tai chi instructor to find the best style for your goals. 

    Practice regularly:

    Consistency is key. Studies have shown benefits from sessions that are 30-60 minutes long, done two to four times per week. 

    https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Tai-Chi

    See above link to instruct on how it works.

    Mental Health

    Codependency

    A codependent person may exhibit low self-esteem, a strong need to please others, difficulty with boundaries, and an excessive sense of responsibility for others’ happiness. Other signs include fear of abandonment, anxiety, poor communication skills, struggle to identify personal needs, and a tendency to control or overly care for others. This behavior often stems from growing up in a codependent environment, leading to a lack of individual identity and a deep need for external validation. 

    Emotional and Psychological Traits

    Low self-esteem: 

    A strong belief that they are not “good enough” or “worthy” on their own. 

    Fear of abandonment: 

    Deep-seated fear of being rejected or left by loved ones, which can drive unhealthy relationship behaviors. 

    Anxiety and worry: 

    Chronic anxiety and stress are common due to constant vigilance and a feeling of being responsible for others’ problems. 

    Lack of a sense of self: 

    Difficulty identifying personal feelings, needs, and desires, as they are constantly focused on others. 

    Emotional fusion: 

    A blurred sense of identity with family members, making it hard to tell where they end and their family members begin. 

    Behavioral Patterns

    • Excessive need to please: 

    A constant desire to gain approval and recognition from others, often at their own expense. 

    • Difficulty with boundaries: 

    A struggle to say “no,” set limits, or maintain personal boundaries in relationships. 

    • Caretaking and enabling: 

    An intense need to give, fix, or help others, to the point of neglecting their own needs and well-being. 

    • Controlling behavior: 

    A tendency to try to control others’ lives or emotions, often stemming from anxiety and a desire to prevent negative outcomes. 

    • Poor communication: 

    May use passive, passive-aggressive, or manipulative communication to try to control or get their needs met. 

    Relationship Dynamics

    • Feeling responsible for others: 

    An overwhelming sense of responsibility for the happiness and emotional state of others. 

    • Seeking validation: 

    A strong reliance on external approval for their self-worth, leading to mood fluctuations based on others’ opinions. 

    • Difficulty with independent decision-making: 

    A constant need to consult with others, especially family members, before making even small decisions. 

    • Chameleon-like behavior: 

    Adapting their personality to fit the demands of others rather than being their authentic self. 

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/codependency

    Allie Beth Stuckey’s Toxic Empathy

    A sharp Christian voice makes a bold argument: when politics are driven by empathy rather than truth, innocent people pay the price. We are told that empathy is the highest virtue—the key to being a good person. Is that true? Or has “empathy,” like so many other words of our day— “tolerance,” “justice,” “acceptance”—been hijacked by bad actors who exploit compassion for their own political ends? In Toxic Empathy, Allie Beth Stuckey argues that empathy has become a tool of manipulation by left-wing activists who bully people into believing that they must adopt progressive positions to be loving. She explores the five most heated issues through which toxic empathy is deployed: abortion, gender, sexuality, immigration, and social justice. Progressives use catchy mantras to present their perspective as empathetic, like “abortion is healthcare,” “love is love,” or “no human being is illegal,” but in each case, they ignore the other side of the moral equation. For example, abortion is presented as compassionate for the woman, but what about the human life the procedure kills? This book isn’t about killing empathy; it’s about submitting our empathy to God’s definitions of love, goodness, and justice. Stuckey exposes the logical pitfalls and moral consequences of toxic empathy, equipping Christians with research-backed, Biblical truths to dismantle the progressive lies that have permeated our culture—and our church.

    https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210454061-toxic-empathy

    Mental Illness

    Men’s Minds are full of boxes

    The phrase “men’s minds are full of boxes” is a metaphorical concept, popularized by speaker Mark Gungor, suggesting that men’s brains organize thoughts into separate, unconnected “boxes” for different aspects of life, such as a box for work, sports, or hobbies. This theory proposes that when a man discusses one topic, he opens that specific box and stays focused on it without other thoughts intruding. A key part of this concept is the “nothing box,” a mental state men can enter to simply think about nothing at all, which is seen as a way to escape stress or overthinking. 

    • Categorized thinking: The theory proposes that men’s brains use a “box” system for different life domains, keeping thoughts on one subject isolated from others. For example, a man thinking about a car would be focused solely on the car’s specifications, without his mind wandering to his family or job unless he opens that specific “box”.
    • The “Nothing Box”: This is considered the favorite box, allowing a man to mentally “check out” and experience a state of mental pause. It’s seen as a coping mechanism for stress, enabling men to not think about problems or emotions when they feel overwhelmed.
    • Contrast with “ball of wire”: The “box” theory is often contrasted with a metaphor for women’s brains being a “ball of wire,” where everything is interconnected and emotions and thoughts are constantly linked.
    • Communication: Proponents of this theory suggest that the “box” system explains why men can appear to have intense, but narrow, focus and why they may be less likely to overshare or talk about feelings that seem unrelated to a topic.
    • Relationship implications: The theory is often used in relationship counseling to explain differences in communication and thought processes between men and women.

    Manifest what you want

    A neuroscientist would explain manifesting as

    rewiring the brain through intentional focus and repetition to make goals more attainable. This involves clearly defining an intention, consistently visualizing it, and using techniques like writing it down to strengthen neural pathways that prioritize opportunities and motivate action toward that goal. 

    The neuroscience behind manifestation

    • Rewires the brain: By focusing on an intention, you create and strengthen neural pathways, teaching your brain that the goal is important and achievable.
    • Activates brain networks: The process of writing, reading, and visualizing an intention activates different brain networks, including the attention and executive control networks, which help you focus on and pursue your goals.
    • Embeds the intention: This process helps embed your intention into your subconscious mind, which then causes your brain to prioritize opportunities related to that intention. 

    How to manifest something (neuroscience-based approach)

    1. Define your intention: Get crystal clear on what you want, ensuring it’s a genuine desire and not a societal expectation.
    2. Write it down: Physically write down your intention. This engages multiple parts of your brain.
    3. Visualize it: Actively visualize your goal as if it has already been achieved. This process should be repeated consistently.
    4. Use affirmations and positive self-talk: Regularly remind yourself of your goal and the steps you’re taking to achieve it.
    5. Take consistent action: Recognize that this is an active process. The brain’s “priming” is most effective when paired with concrete actions. Celebrating successes to reinforce the process.

    https://www.instagram.com/the_comeback_coach_/?hl=en

    Reversing Alzheimer’s — The Forgotten Causes and Cures Big Pharma Buried

    Story at-a-glance

    • Alzheimer’s disease is commonly thought to result from abnormal plaque buildup in the brain that gradually destroys brain tissue. Almost all Alzheimer’s research for decades has been directed toward eliminating amyloid, even after the basis for much of this work was shown to stem from fraudulent research
    • The billions spent on amyloid Alzheimer’s research have only produced three drugs, all of which offer minuscule benefits and severe side effects
    • In contrast, affordable and straightforward treatments that reduce dementia or the preceding cognitive impairment have been maligned and buried by the medical industry
    • DMSO for example, has incredible neuroprotective qualities that have spared many stroke and spinal cord injury victims from a life of “incurable” disability. Decades of forgotten research also show it treats cognitive impairment and dementia
    • This article will review the great amyloid scam and the simple therapies for cognitive decline we never talked about.

    https://articles.mercola.com/sites/subscribe/email-confirmation.aspx?Source=EXP-LV:ArticlesInterviews-Desktop&SourceLocation=https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2025/11/07/reversing-alzheimers-forgotten-causes-treatments.aspx

    Hear is a great recommendation on a Dr. who has made it his life to give and explore health.

    https://www.mercola.com

    In one minute, “ten years of therapy”

    Highlights core concepts like recognizing thoughts are not facts, viewing emotions as signals, and understanding that habits, not motivation, but shape life. It also emphasizes taking ownership of one’s choices, learning from the past instead of living in it, and using present-moment awareness to manage anxiety. The takeaway is that change happens through consistent action and awareness, not just feeling motivated. 

    Key concepts

    • Thoughts vs. facts: Your brain can create faulty narratives. Thoughts are not necessarily true statements.
    • Emotions as signals: Feelings like fear or anger aren’t enemies; they are signals indicating what is important to you or where a boundary has been crossed.
    • Habits, not motivation: Motivation often follows action. Consistent habits are what truly change your life, not just the desire to change.
    • Living in the present: Anxiety is often a sign of living in the future. Use your breath to bring yourself back to the present moment, which is the only place you can act.
    • The past is a lesson: Learn from your past experiences, but don’t live in them. It’s a book to read, not your entire story.
    • Triggers are reflections: What irritates or triggers you in others can reveal areas within yourself that you haven’t healed or accepted.
    • Choice is power: You can’t control everything, but you have complete control over your own choices and responses.
    • Neuroplasticity: Your brain can be rewired. You are not stuck with a set personality, but rather a set of patterns that can be changed through repeated action

    Core Truths

    • Thoughts are not facts. Your brain can be a faulty narrator; the presence of a thought doesn’t equate to its validity. You can challenge negative self-talk and rewrite your internal narrative by being mindful of how you speak to yourself.
    • Emotions are vital signals. Listen to them before reacting:
      • Fear means something that matters to you and needs to be addressed with courage and support.
      • Anger indicates a boundary has been crossed, and you need to set and defend it.
      • Anxiety often means you’re living in the future; the present is your only anchor.
      • Sadness is a signal that you need comfort, connection, or rest. 

    Taking Control

    • Control is an illusion, but choice is real. You can’t control other people or external events, only your reaction and response to them. Owning your response is where your power lies.
    • Personal responsibility is key. While your past experiences (even those that weren’t your fault) shape you, you are responsible for your own healing journey and for creating your life, brick by brick, thought by thought.
    • The past is a book to be read, not lived in. Understand how childhood experiences and ingrained patterns influence present behavior, learn from them, but don’t let them define your future. 

    Actionable Insights

    • Habits beat motivation. Discipline and small, consistent daily wins are what create lasting change, not fleeting desire.
    • Boundaries are essential. It is not selfish to want more or to set clear boundaries; it’s a sign of following your own intuition and valuing your needs.
    • Healing takes time and is not linear. It involves progress, setbacks, and continuous self-compassion. Long-term change requires patience and consistent effort.
    • Seek connection. Relationships can wound, but they can also heal, provided they are built on safety, trust, and mutual respect. 

    What Men Need in a Relationship: 10 Essential Elements for a Strong and Fulfilling Relationship 

    Understanding relationships is an important aspect of building strong healthy bonds. Knowing what each person needs can make a significant difference in ensuring happiness and security. While every individual is unique, certain fundamental needs are commonly shared among men in relationships. Now, these needs might seem straightforward, but they are crucial for building and maintaining a fulfilling relationship. I know in my own relationships and now in my marriage, it’s often difficult for me to express my needs or my wants; it feels almost selfish to ask for certain gestures or attention. In this blog, I will explore what most men need in a relationship, covering topics like respect, trust, support, affection, communication, appreciation, alone time, fun, and security. By understanding and addressing these needs, you can create a stronger and more satisfying relationship with the man in your life!

    Respect

    Respect is the foundation of any successful relationship. Men need to feel respected by their partners to maintain a sense of self-worth and confidence. This means valuing their opinions, listening to what they have to say, and appreciating their individuality. When someone demonstrates respect to me, it generally shows that this person accepts my perspective and doesn’t belittle my thoughts or opinions. And, if I feel respected by my friends, family and spouse, I’m more likely to demonstrate respect in return. This in turn leads to a healthy and balanced relationship. As the age-old saying goes, “respect is a two-way street”, and it certainly still applies today!

    Trust

    Trust is an essential component of any relationship. Men need to feel trusted by their partners and need to trust them in return. Trust involves being honest, keeping promises, and maintaining reliability. It is built through consistent actions and open communication. If there isn’t any trust to begin with, I often feel like I constantly need to explain my actions and preferences. This can get tiring! Trust today is also very difficult, as people can hide behind screens and often mask their emotions in-person, too. Having in-depth conversations with the guy you’re interested in, your boyfriend or your husband will allow him to feel more at ease with how you trust in your relationship. A relationship grounded in trust allows both partners to feel secure and confident, knowing they can rely on each other.

    Support

    Support is crucial for men to feel valued and understood in a relationship. This support can be emotional, such as listening to their concerns, or practical, such as helping with household tasks or encouraging their goals and dreams. I’ve often felt the weight of the world on my shoulders, especially as I’ve embarked on my new married life. When I feel support from my wife, I know he has a spouse who believes in me and stands by my side through challenges and successes. I’ve been through layoffs, a seemingly never-ending job hunt and moving apartments throughout our relationship. My wife providing support has meant the world to me and reinforced the team aspect of our relationship. We sink or swim together!

    Affection  

    Affection is a way of expressing love and care in a relationship. Although it may not seem like it, we need physical and emotional affection from our significant others! This can be through hugs, kisses, holding hands, or simply saying kind words. One thing my wife does consistently is hug me from behind while I’m washing dishes. It’s a small act that she does, and she might not even realize how much it means to me! Affection makes men feel loved and appreciated, reinforcing the emotional connection between partners. Regular expressions of affection help to maintain a strong and loving relationship.

    Communication

    Effective communication is key to resolving conflicts and building a deeper connection. Men need their partners to talk openly and honestly with them. This means sharing feelings, discussing problems, and talking about day-to-day experiences. Now, this is incredibly hard for some men to do, including myself. I’ve never been good at sharing my concerns, my battles, my struggles or my losses with anyone, let alone my lover! I still often bottled up my emotions and pushed forward, but this isn’t always the best way forward. In hospital settings, in battle scenarios, in backpacking trips, and heck, even in video games, men know how to communicate swiftly and effectively. There isn’t any reason this can’t also apply to our romantic relationships! Good communication helps to avoid misunderstandings and fosters a sense of closeness. It’s important to listen actively and speak kindly to each other, ensuring both people feel heard and understood.

    Appreciation  

    Feeling appreciated for their efforts and contributions is vital for men in a relationship. Whether it’s working hard at their job, fixing something around the house, or being a great dad, acknowledging and appreciating these efforts makes men feel valued. I often leave second in the morning and one of the things I do for my wife, and I is making our bed every morning! She always notices it when she comes home and makes a point to tell me. Another task is cleaning up our downstairs family room – I put out couch pillows back neatly, clean off our coffee table, and put our remotes onto our side table. These small gestures she gives me like saying “thank you” or leaving a note in my lunchbox goes a long way to showing me appreciation. Recognizing and celebrating each other’s efforts helps to build a positive and supportive relationship.

    Independence & Alone Time  

    While being close is important, men also need their space and independence. This means having time for their hobbies and personal interests. It’s honestly very healthy for both people in a relationship to have their own activities and time apart. My wife gets alone time in the middle of the day from late morning to early afternoon, and I get alone time in the early morning and late afternoon and evening. During those times, we often get to do the things we enjoy! She might put on a TV show I’m not interested in, bake something for her job, or even take a nap! I might workout, prep dinner for when she’s home, or play video games. This independence allows both of us to grow as individuals and still enjoy what we used to do when we weren’t married. There’s a good amount of respect we have for each other as well, so even when we are together, she might be watching her TV show while I’m editing photos. This doesn’t mean we don’t like hanging out with each other, but sometimes, doing activities independently but near each other is good for you!

    Fun and Laughter

    A relationship should be a source of joy and fun. Men need to laugh and have a good time with their partners. Sharing hobbies, playing games, or simply being silly together can strengthen the bond. I’ll often send her memes or silly social media reels, and she’ll make harmless jokes at my expense. We’ll also share stories from work, particularly the funny ones if there are any! Having time for laughter helps to release stress and brings partners closer together. Sometimes, watching a comedy helps the laughter naturally flow together and you’ll find yourself quoting movies in a humorous manner! It’s important to find time for fun activities and create happy memories together because your relationship remains a source of happiness and enjoyment.

    Security

    Feeling secure in a relationship is crucial for men. This means knowing that their partner is committed and faithful. A relationship built on trust, honesty, and a strong emotional connection provides a sense of security. Knowing that my wife supports me, especially when I’m grappling with life’s defeats like a layoff or move, reinforces our relationship. I don’t know what I would do if my wife didn’t support me! When men feel secure, they are more likely to be open and vulnerable, which deepens the relationship. I think this is especially true in my life; I’m not a very open person, even now, but especially at the beginning of a relationship. Men can get burned so quickly in the dating world and it’s tough to open yourself back up again! Building a secure relationship involves consistent effort, clear communication, and mutual support. Make sure you take the time to go slow in your relationship and work on yourself!

    Partnership

    A relationship is a partnership, a team effort: it’s both of you versus the world! Men need to feel like they are part of a team. I think this is especially true in my life and probably true in a lot of other men’s lives. When I’m on a good team of boys or men, I know they’ve got my back, and they know I’ve got theirs. If you’ve ever watched a hockey game when one team cheaply shoots another team’s player, you know how quickly *the entire team* will gang up on that opposing player! This is especially true in relationships as well; he’ll move to defend you if anything should happen to you and you should have his back, too. This means making decisions together, sharing responsibilities, and supporting each other’s dreams. A strong relationship is built on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared goals. It strengthens the relationship and makes both people feel valued and invested in their shared future.

    Understanding what men need in a relationship is essential for creating a strong and happy bond. By focusing on all aspects of a relationship, you can build a bond that makes both people feel loved and valued. Relationships require effort, understanding, and commitment from both sides. By addressing these needs and working together, you can create a lasting and fulfilling relationship that brings joy and satisfaction to both of you. Remember, a successful relationship is built on mutual respect, trust, and love, and by understanding and meeting each other’s needs, you can create a happy and healthy partnership.

    By Justin F.

    Healthy Articles

    Biofilm

    A biofilm is a community of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or algae, that adheres to a surface and is encased in a protective matrix of self-produced slime. These communities can form on a wide range of surfaces, including medical implants, teeth, and pipes, and are often harder to treat with antibiotics because the protective matrix makes the microbes more resistant.  

    Structure:

    A biofilm is not just a random clump of bacteria. It’s a complex, structured community where cells stick together and to the surface. This community is encased in a protective, slimy matrix made of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which are composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA. 

    Formation:

    Microbes are attracted to the surface and begin to adhere to it. Once they are attached, they multiply and start to produce the protective EPS matrix that surrounds them, creating a more robust and protected environment. 

    Composition:

    While often associated with bacteria, biofilms can also include other microorganisms like fungi, algae, and protozoa. They can also incorporate debris and other materials from their environment. 

    Examples:

    Dental plaque: A very common example of a biofilm on teeth. 

    Medical devices:

    Biofilms can grow on things like catheters, artificial joints, and other implants, which can lead to persistent infections. 

    Natural environments:

    They form on rocks in streams, in the roots of plants, and in other moist natural settings. 

     Significance:

    Disease: Biofilms are associated with numerous chronic and difficult-to-treat infections. 

    Antibiotic resistance:

    The protective matrix of the biofilm can significantly reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics, sometimes by a factor of 1,000. 

    They can cause problems like pipe corrosion in water systems but can also have beneficial roles in some natural processes. 

    Biofilm Disruptors Worth Considering

    #1. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

    N-Acetylcysteine is a powerful antioxidant that can help break down the mucus in biofilms. It’s commonly used in various protocols to enhance the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatments.

    NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a form of the amino acid l-cysteine and acts as a powerful free radical scavenger.* It is a precursor to and supports tissue levels of glutathione (GSH), the principle defense within the body against reactive oxygen species (ROS). NAC has also been shown to support healthy lung function through its mucolytic capability. *

    NAC is a type of amino acid called l-cysteine. This supplement works as a very powerful free radical. Free radicals like this work in the body to remove toxins and other components within the body that can lead to illness and disease.

    NAC works as a preventative tool and supports tissue levels of glutathione (known as GSH) as a way of defending the body from reactive oxygen species (known as ROS). It also works to protect the body from detoxification from drugs, compounds of all types including metabolites. NAC can specifically help to support healthy lung function.

    NAC provides 600 mg tablets of this high-quality nutrient necessary for overall body health and detoxification.

    #2. Serrapeptase

    Serrapeptase HP™ is a powerful systemic enzyme which supports Gut, Respiratory and Sinus health. * This formula is enteric coated to survive the acidic conditions of the stomach, promoting optimal absorption. *

    Serrapeptase limits the ability of biofilm to form. Other studies have shown that, when used together with antibiotics, serrapeptase can be very effective, especially against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.(*)

    Serrapeptase – also known as serrapeptidase, serratiopeptidase and serratia peptidase – is a powerful proteolytic enzyme derived from a species of bacteria originally found in the intestine of silkworms. The bacterium, Serratia marcescens, produces the enzyme serrapeptase to enable the silkworm to dissolve its silken cocoon and emerge as a moth after metamorphosis.

    You can learn more about Serrapeptase here

    #3. InterFase Plus with EDTA

    This is a combination supplement specifically designed to break down biofilms. But it also includes enzymes and EDTA (a chelating agent. Biofilms are heavily reliant on metal ions like calcium magnesium iron and zinc (for stability and structural integrity. These metal ions play crucial roles in maintaining the stability of the EPS matrix.

    The presence of calcium, iron, and magnesium is essential for biofilm creation and serves to cross-link the anionic regions for polymers. InterFase Plus® with EDTA includes ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) which binds the metals needed for biofilm formation.  Microorganisms residing within biofilms are highly resistant to antimicrobials including antibiotics and bacteriocins produced by probiotics.

    InterFase Plus® is a unique enzyme formulation with EDTA that is especially designed to disrupt the biofilm matrix that embeds potential gastrointestinal pathogens.

    Enzymes in InterFase Plus® with EDTA are selected for their ability to lyse the extracellular polymers commonly found in biofilm as well as degrade bacterial and yeast cell wall structures.

    #4. Lauricidin (Monolaurin)

    Monolaurin is a compound derived from lauric acid (found in coconut oil) and has antimicrobial properties. Monolaurin’s lipophilic (or fat-loving) nature allows it to integrate into the lipid bilayers of microbial cell membranes This makes it harder for microbes to adhere and stick to surfaces and develop the biofilm in the first place.

    Pathogen Defense provides broad spectrum immune support with a combination of natural herbs to inhibit the overgrowth and infectious potential of various pathogens. * Pathogen Defense naturally combats increased viral activity, abnormal bacterial colonization and activation of yeast overgrowth commonly affecting patients with neuro-immune syndromes.

    #5. Biocidin

    Biocidin Is another great biofilm disruptor. It comes in both Liquid and Capsule. I will often use and recommend the Biocidin liquid First as I can manage the dose a bit easier with drops. But either is great.

    Biocidin has a mix of natural herbs- things like Bilberry fruit extract, Grape seed extract, Shiitake mushroom extract, Goldenseal root, So those are some of my go-to biofilm disruptors There are a few other things you should know when it comes to using Biofilm disruptors.

    Warning: Not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your physician before using any supplement, especially if you are nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking medication. Discontinued use should adverse reactions occur. Keep out of reach of children.

    Check with your physician before taking anything.

    Mindset Mentor

    Beyond Brain Healtheyondbrainhealth

    https://www.instagram.com/beyondbrainhealth/?hl=en

    britainsimons

    Healthy products for humans at Tractor Supply.

    Chlorine Shower

    Ever thought about what’s really in your shower water?
    A 10-minute shower can expose you to as much chlorine as drinking 11 glasses of tap water!
    I ran a simple test on my regular city water — the results were shocking.
    We absorb chlorine not just by drinking it, but through our skin and lungs while showering.
    Time to rethink what “clean” really means.

    Consider putting in a whole house water filtration system, we use Pure Water Appliance

    www.purewaterappliance.com

    Function Health

    A fulfilling life depends on health, and health depends on awareness. You are the source of your truth, and we are here to enrich you with the deepest awareness of what is happening within you. We start by bringing together routine whole-body lab testing, advanced imaging, and the world’s top doctors. It is our first step in helping you pursue a lifetime of avoiding disease and feeling your best.

    Across the Function team, we have each had health challenges that shape our lives. We’ve experienced healthcare shortcomings juxtaposed with the brilliance of medicine. It inspires us to remove complexity, place exponential health technology in your hands, and put privacy first. Our unwavering commitment is to empower you to own your ever-changing health. Function is all about you.

    Welcome to your health.

    https://www.functionhealth.com

    How Trauma Affects Oxytocin (Chat-pt)

    Affects Oxytocin

    When someone experiences chronic stress, neglect, or trauma (especially early in life), the brain learns that closeness may not be safe.

    What happens biologically:

    • The nervous system stays in fight, flight, or freeze
    • Cortisol (stress hormone) stays high
    • Oxytocin release becomes blunted or inconsistent
    • Touch may trigger anxiety instead of comfort

    So instead of “this feels safe,” the body thinks:

    “I need to protect myself.”

    This is not a personal flaw—it’s a survival adaptation.

     Why Some People Become Touch-Averse

    Touch aversion can develop when:

    • Affection was unpredictable or unsafe
    • Boundaries were violated
    • Love came with conditions
    • Comfort was absent during distress

    Common experiences:

    • Flinching at touch
    • Feeling tense during hugs
    • Needing space even from loved ones
    • Feeling overwhelmed by intimacy
    • Wanting closeness but freezing when it happens

    Again—this is the nervous system trying to keep you safe.

    Rebuilding Oxytocin Safely (Very Important)

    Healing doesn’t start with “more touch.”
    It starts with choice, control, and safety.

    Gentle ways to increase oxytocin without overwhelm:

    • Consent-based touch (you decide when/if)
    • Weighted blankets
    • Warm showers or baths
    • Soft fabrics
    • Breathing exercises (slow exhale)
    • Pets (often easier than people)
    • Calm, emotionally safe conversations
    • Eye contact for short moments
    • Self-touch (hand on chest, gentle massage)

    Small, positive experiences retrain the nervous system.

    Why Some People Crave Touch But Also Fear It

    This push-pull is common after trauma:

    • Oxytocin makes you want closeness
    • Trauma makes closeness feel dangerous

    So the body sends mixed signals—wanting connection while bracing for harm.

    Healing happens when:

    Closeness becomes predictable, respectful, and safe over time.

    Something Important to Know

    You don’t have to force yourself to enjoy touch.
    The goal is not “normal.”
    The goal is regulated and safe.

    Your body’s responses make sense.

    If you’d like, I can also explain:

    • How to gently increase tolerance for affection
    • The link between oxytocin and attachment styles
    • How long it takes the nervous system to relearn safety
    • How self-love actually changes brain chemistry

    Hormone Disruptors: 14 Common Chemicals That Affect Your Hormones

    This article is by far the most in depth and revealing I have found, thank you Green Smoothie Girl. https://greensmoothiegirl.com

    Hormones. They’re often the butt of the joke when it comes to pregnancy, PMS, or teenagers. Other than that, we mostly just ignore our hormones.

    But did you know that just about everything you do is dependent on subtle changes in your hormone levels?1

    That’s right: How much energy you have during the day, how well you sleep at night, whether you’re interested in sex. How much you struggle with your weight, whether you can digest your food properly, and how easily you can fight off illness— that’s all hormones.

    In this article, we’ll be taking a close look at how the endocrine system (our hormone-making and monitoring system) works, as well as 14 of the most pervasive, dangerous endocrine disruptors we’re exposed to daily in modern society.

    You might have heard these chemicals called “the dirty dozen.” And while “the dirty dozen” certainly has a nice alliterative ring to it, the two chemicals we’ll be adding to the list are every bit as dirty–and every bit as devastating — to your endocrine system.

    What Are Endocrine Disruptors?

    Endocrine disruptors2 are chemicals (either human-made or manufactured) that disrupt or damage your body’s hormone-making organs or processes. This can happen when a chemical mimics a particular hormone, keeps your body from using or absorbing a particular hormone, interferes with the way your hormones talk to each other, or hijacks your hormone-producing organs.

    Why does that matter so much? And what’s the worst that could happen from a little hormone disruption? The truth is, most of us are woefully miseducated when it comes to understanding how our endocrine system works, the role hormones play in our bodies, and the harm we can suffer if our endocrine is compromised2–including reproductive damage, thyroid disease, neurological harm, immune dysfunction, and birth defects.

    How Does the Endocrine System Work?

    Your endocrine system is a complex network of organs and glands that work together to create, distribute, and regulate the hormones your body needs to function properly.

    Your endocrine system is a complex network of organs and glands that work together to create, distribute, and regulate the hormones your body needs to function properly.

    The head honcho of your endocrine system is a part of your brain called the hypothalamus. It calls the shots on just how much (and when) different glands in your endocrine system release hormones into your bloodstream so they can get to work regulating your metabolism, cell growth and repair, sleep cycles, stress levels, and sexual function.

    Another part of your brain, called the pituitary gland, relays messages between the hypothalamus (the boss) and your hormone-producing glands.

    Whether you’re male or female, your endocrine system includes your hypothalamus, pituitary gland, pineal gland (another part of the brain), thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal glands, and pancreas.

    Your gut and your liver aren’t usually grouped in with your endocrine system, but for all intents and purposes, they should be, since they produce a significant portion of the hormones your body uses on any given day. (More on that below!)

    If you’re a woman, your endocrine system also includes your ovaries. If you’re a man, it includes your testes.

    Endocrine System Organs and Hormones

    If you want to know what people mean when they say that the human body is a marvel of engineering, just look at the endocrine system organs and hormones. When they aren’t bogged down by chemical disruptors (which we will discuss), your endocrine organs and hormones work together seamlessly in an intricate, fascinating dance every moment you’re alive:

    Hypothalamus

    Like I said above, the hypothalamus is in your brain and calls the shots (based on information it gets from your pituitary gland) on when and how much hormone your other glands create.

    The hypothalamus also regulates your body temperature and your metabolism. It’s the reason you get a fever when you’re sick, to weaken the invading virus or bacteria.

    Pituitary Gland

    This endocrine organ is in the brain and stores important hormones (and distributes them as needed). It also runs traffic control with the other glands in your body, relaying signals back and forth between your hypothalamus and making sure everything is running properly.

    Your pituitary gland creates and regulates all the following hormones:

    • TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone): This hormone prompts your thyroid gland to kick into gear and produce its own hormones.
    • Growth hormones: These hormones are critical to growth and development, as well as maintaining a healthy overall body composition of bone, fat, and muscle.
    • Follicle-Stimulating Hormones and Luteinizing Hormones: These hormones regulate the levels of sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, steroids) your body produces.
    • Prolactin: This is the hormone that triggers the body to produce breast milk in women!
    • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH): ACTH triggers the adrenal glands to produce cortisol and other steroids that metabolize food, control blood pressure, and lower inflammation.
    • Vasopressin (antidiuretic hormones): These hormones help your kidneys manage water loss.
    • Oxytocin: Also called “the bonding hormone,” oxytocin helps regulate your emotional health and reduce stress. It also causes uterine contractions during childbirth.

    Thyroid Gland

    Your thyroid, which is located at the front of your neck, is in charge of creating thyroid hormones. These thyroid hormones are absolutely vital to metabolism and digestion,3 as well as a whole host of other body functions including your muscle tone, how well your reproductive system works, nervous system and brain development in children, and how effectively your body can control its blood pressure and heart rate.

    Parathyroid Gland

    You have two parathyroid glands, that sit right next to your thyroid. Their biggest job is to create something called parathyroid hormone, which controls how much calcium is funneled to your bones and bloodstream.

    Pineal Gland

    Located deep in the brain between the left and right hemispheres, this tiny gland has one big job: producing melatonin, which controls your sleep/wake cycles.  When you wake up, when you fall asleep, and how well you sleep all hinge on melatonin produced in the right amounts, at the right time.

    Adrenal Glands

    Your adrenal glands oversee creating hormones called corticosteroids. Every time you feel your heart rate rise or drop, that’s your adrenal glands. These tiny but mighty glands live right above your kidneys, and they regulate your metabolism, how your immune system functions, how well you deal with being stressed and how quickly you recover from stress, and even your sexual function.

    Pancreas

    Your pancreas is tucked just behind your stomach. It’s in charge of creating digestive enzymes and controlling your blood sugar by producing the hormones glucagon and insulin, which break down carbohydrates and sugar.

    Ovaries

    In women, the ovaries are the main source of sex hormones including estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are critical to sexual development, sexual health, and sexual function (including arousal, menstruation, and fertility.)

    Testes

    In men, the sex hormones are mostly made in the testes, which produce androgens like testosterone. Testosterone is the biggest factor in onset of puberty, sexual development, how much facial hair you grow, your sex drive, and your sexual health.

    Gut

    Until recently, the gut was pretty much ignored when it came to hormone production. But, to many people’s great surprise, the gut is actually extremely important to hormone production.

    The bacteria in your gut (and the short-chain fatty acids they help create) are responsible for 95% of your serotonin and 50% of your dopamine4  not to mention some melatonin and adrenaline.

    Your gut health, then, is directly linked to your mood, your sleep cycle, your appetite, and your ability to stay alert, among other important functions.

    Liver

    The liver is another unsung hero of the endocrine system. This organ creates bile to break down excess hormones to regulate hormone levels. It also produces some of your estrogen and testosterone.

    Risks and Results of Endocrine Disruption

    Think of endocrine-disruptors as identity thieves–chemicals that can flip the same switches as your body’s own hormones5–but can’t be regulated or reabsorbed in the same way.

    And these identity thieves can cause a lot of problems. (More on the specific problems different endocrine disruptors cause below!)

    Endocrine disruption in the adrenal and thyroid glands can mean weight gain and problems managing blood sugar,6 difficulty controlling sleep/wake cycles, and thyroid disease.7 Disruption of the sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen can lead to infertility, sexual dysfunction and cancers, and early menopause.

    Endocrine disruption can also trigger autoimmune diseases8 as the body struggles to separate friend from foe, and cancer as these chemicals alter cell growth and destabilize DNA.9

    Each of the following 14 endocrine disruptors destabilizes and hijacks the endocrine system in different ways. Knowing the names of these chemicals, where you are exposed to them, why they’re so harmful, and how you can avoid them is critical your health:

    14 Common Endocrine Disruptors

    Some of these endocrine disruptors may be familiar to your lead, for instance. Others may have names you don’t recognize at first. But take a closer look at the back of a shampoo bottle, or the lid of your cup of coffee, or the ingredients in your “pet-friendly” lawn fertilizer. Here’s what you need to know:

    1. BPA

    What is BPA, and Why Is It Harmful?

    BPA is a chemical that mimics estrogen. Which might not sound like such a bad thing, at first. After all, don’t a lot of women benefit from hormone replacement therapy?

    Unfortunately, this imposter-estrogen derived from plastic (aka, not even remotely biocompatible with our endocrine system) spells disaster. BPA’s fake plastic estrogen can cause breast cancer, prostate cancer, infertility, heart disease, weight gain, and a whole host of reproductive issues.10

    Where Is BPA Found?

    Blog: Endocrine Disruptors: 14 Common Chemicals That Affect Your HormonesBPA is everywhere, and is especially common in all kinds of hard and soft plastics. While more products are labeled as “BPA free” now, thanks to (totally justified) consumer outrage, the shelves are still swimming with this dangerous endocrine disruptor:

    • Sports water bottles
    • Baby pacifiers and toys
    • Many foreign-made trinkets and toys
    • In the lining of metal canned food containers (just another reason to eat fresh, raw foods!)
    • The coating on the receipts you get at the grocery store.
    • #7 recycled plastics
    • Most plastics labeled “polycarbonate.”

    How to Avoid BPA

    Get ready to feel queasy: One study showed that 93 percent of us have BPA in our bodies. Right now. Only use plastics that are specifically labeled “BPA free,” and be safe instead of sorry by doing your research and assuming the worst if “BPA free” isn’t specifically noted.

    Opt for plastics with a 1, 2, or 5 label, if you must use plastic, and use glass instead of plastic whenever you can.

    You’ll also want to keep an eye out for BPS or bisphenol S. BPS is nearly identical to BPA, but manufacturers sometimes use it to skirt around BPA laws, despite the fact that it’s been proven to have similar health effects. BPA has gotten the most press, but I believe you will be learning over time that all plastics are problematic.

    2. Perchlorate

    What Is Perchlorate, and Why Is It Harmful?

    Perchlorate is a chemical combination of chlorine and oxygen that’s found, among other things, in fireworks and rocket fuel.

    Some types of perchlorate are man-made, while others occur in nature. Perchlorate has the unique ability to rob your thyroid of iodine11–a basic requirement for your thyroid to produce hormones and function properly.

    Perchlorate can wreak havoc on your metabolism, your brain function, and how well your internal organs function.

    Where Is Perchlorate Found?

    Perchlorate has infiltrated the drinking water supply in many areas of the United States because of emissions during military operations, manufacturing, and crop fertilization. It’s also present in varying quantities in some foods, most of them highly processed:

    • Boxed mac and cheese
    • Salami
    • Bologna
    • Plain bagels

    However, even some fresh, raw produce like broccoli, collard greens, and cauliflower may test at high perchlorate levels.

    How to Avoid Perchlorate

    Educate yourself to find out whether you’re at special risk for perchlorate by finding out whether you’re near any types of manufacturing plants or facilities that use perchlorate. If you are, there’s a high likelihood that this water-soluble compound has infiltrated your water supply.

    A reverse osmosis system (paired with a water remineralizer and ionizer) can filter out perchlorate in your water. As for perchlorate for fresh produce, it’s much more difficult to avoid, and a good argument for buying organic produce. However, you can combat the small quantities of perchlorate you may ingest and help your thyroid work properly by making sure you get enough iodide in your diet (use nascent iodide,12 not chemically treated iodized salt!)

    3. Dioxins

    What Are Dioxins, and Why Are They Harmful?

    Dioxins are a class of toxic chemicals that are created from burning fuel or waste, producing pesticides, and other chemical processes in manufacturing. Once dioxins have been released into the air, they quickly settle in the soil, where they make their way into the water supply and plant life.

    One of the (many) reasons dioxins are so harmful is that, once consumed, they stay in the body for many years, building up and causing damage to tissues and systems. Dioxins can cause cancer, diabetes, and cellular mutations; wreak havoc on the human immune system; cause learning disabilities and delays; disrupt sex hormone signals; and damage reproductive processes,13 including permanently decreasing sperm quality and count.14

    Where Are Dioxins Found?

    Make their way up the food chain when animals drink water or eat food that is contaminated with dioxins. Those dioxins are then tucked away and build up in the animals’ fatty tissues. Experts estimate that an incredible 90% of the dioxin’s humans consume come from the following animal products:

    • Beef
    • Dairy
    • Milk
    • Chicken
    • Pork
    • Fish
    • Eggs

    How to Avoid Dioxins

    Since most of the dioxins we’re exposed to as humans come from the animal products we eat, the very best way to avoid dioxins is to eliminate as many animal products from your diet as possible. Another reason that a raw, plant-based diet is so important to our health!

    If you do choose to eat meat, choose lean protein and cut off any visible fat. Another extremely important way to avoid dioxins is eliminating backyard burning of waste. The EPA says, “Backyard burning of waste materials creates higher levels of dioxins than industrial incinerators and is particularly dangerous because it releases pollutants at the ground level where they are more readily inhaled or incorporated into the food chain.”

    4. Atrazine

    What Is Atrazine, and Why Is It Harmful?

    Atrazine is a type of herbicide that’s used on numerous crops including corn and sugarcane to stop broadleaf weeds. When women are exposed to Atrazine during pregnancy, their children run a higher risk of birth defects including heart, urinary, and limb deformation.15 Atrazine also mimics estrogen and disrupts hormone production16 in the ovaries and testicles, delaying puberty, and causing breast and prostate cancer.

    One study17 showed that atrazine exposure effectively sterilized 75% of male frogs, and turned one out of 10 into females capable of producing viable eggs.

    Where Is Atrazine Found?

    Atrazine is sprayed heavily on many of the crops we eat and has made its way into the groundwater around the world. Some of the crops and plants sprayed most heavily for atrazine include:

    • Corn
    • Sugar Cane
    • Winter wheat
    • Sorghum
    • Lawn turf

    How to Avoid Atrazine

    To avoid consuming atrazine that has made its way into your drinking water, use a really excellent water filtration system. You can also keep atrazine out of your life by avoiding pesticides on your lawn (many of which contain atrazine) and buying organic (non-sprayed) produce at the store whenever possible.

    5. Phthalates

    What Are Phthalates, and Why Are They Harmful?

    Phthalates are a family of chemicals used to create solvents and soft plastics. You’ll find this endocrine disruptor in everything from makeup to plastic wrap to medical tubing. Phthalates cause damage to the kidneys, liver, lungs, and the reproductive system. The most common phthalates found in consumer goods are dibutylphthlalate (DBP), dimethylphthalate (DMP) and diethylphthalate (DEP).

    Phthalates disrupt the endocrine system and wreak havoc in the human body by acting as an “anti-androgen,” which blocks testosterone from working normally (testosterone is important for both men and women!). This disruption can lead to abnormal fetus development,18 the birth defect hypospadias,19 premature puberty in girls,20 and insulin resistance.21

    Where Are Phthalates Found?

    Phthalates are everywhere. Any time you read the word “fragrance,” assume that this harmful chemical is present.

    (Under the EPA regulations, companies aren’t required to disclose the presence of phthalates in “fragrance”).  And while many industrialized nations are taking steps to reduce phthalate exposure–especially in hospitals (some of the highest levels of phthalates have been found in NICUs!22), you should know that phthalates may be lurking in all of the following places:

    • Blog: Endocrine Disruptors: 14 Common Chemicals That Affect Your Hormones
    • Plastic wrap and other plastic food packaging
    • Medical tubing and IV bags
    • Laundry detergent (hidden under the generic catchall “fragrance”)
    • Candles
    • Hair spray
    • Nail polish
    • Aftershave
    • Lotion, shampoo, and other personal care products (A study conducted by Health Care Without Harm report found phthalates in a horrifying 70% of cosmetic and personal care items23).
    • Vinyl shower curtains
    • Children’s toys made from PVC plastic
    • Car seats and car parts (that new car smell? That’s phthalates)
    • Animal fats (like dioxins, phthalates are often stored in the adipose tissue)

    How to Avoid Phthalates

    Choose plastics labeled “phthalate-free.” especially plastic wrap and food packaging. And whenever you can, steer clear of recycling label #3 or #7.

    Avoid anything that lists the ambiguous “fragrance” as an ingredient. It probably contains phthalates. Take special care with laundry detergents, air fresheners, perfumes, shampoos, and candles. Ironically, you’ll also want to stay alert to phthalate exposure if you have surgery or hospital stay, since high levels of phthalates can be found in plastic tubing and IV bags at hospitals.

    You should also think about tossing out any soft plastic toys you’ve had that may have been manufactured before 2009 (when phthalates were outlawed in children’s toys), e.g., fake food or rubber rings.

    Avoid animal products like meat and dairy. If you do partake, choose organic produce that was grass-fed (instead of mass-produced corn that was likely sprayed with large amounts of pesticides).

    Fortunately, more chemical-free products come on the market every year, so you can purchase non-toxic alternatives at natural products stores.

    We really like Truly Free for refillable laundry detergent that works, but is free of toxic chemicals.

    6. Chlorine

    What Is Chlorine, and Why Is It Harmful?

    In its pure form, chlorine is a toxic green gas. But most of us know it as our friendly neighborhood pool-pee protector.

    Unfortunately, chlorine disrupts the endocrine system by robbing our cells of iodine. And several studies have confirmed that exposure to chlorine can interfere with the production of testosterone. One study showed that boys who spent a significant amount of time in the pool prior to puberty were three times as likely to land in the bottom 10th percentile for testosterone levels.24

    Exposure to low levels of chlorine can also cause mild side effects like skin irritation, nausea, trouble breathing, and coughing. And, over time, there was a decrease in testosterone and thyroid function. Higher levels of chlorine can cause increasingly serious side effects like heart failure or pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs). In WWI, chlorine gas was used as weapon.

    Where Is Chlorine Found?

    Chances are that your skin or your lungs have been in contact with chlorine today. You’ll find chlorine in all the following places:

    • Laundry detergent (with chlorine bleach)
    • City water supplies
    • Swimming pools and hot tubs
    • Paper products
    • Dyes
    • Insecticides
    • Paint

    How to Avoid Chlorine

    One of the best ways to avoid chlorine is to install a chlorine filter in your shower and on your faucets (most city water contains small amounts of chlorine). Be aware that hot showers can turn chlorine into a vapor, and you breathe quite a bit of it, so a showerhead filter is also helpful if you don’t have whole-home water filtration.

    You can help avoid the harmful effects of chlorine in pools by showering or rinsing off before you enter the pool. Not only does this keep the pool cleaner, but it avoids a chemical reaction between the perspiration on your skin and chlorine that creates chloramine (another endocrine-disruption-byproduct of chlorine).

    Try to choose swimming pools that are treated with UV-light instead of chlorine or bromine, or choose lakes, swimming holes, or the ocean instead!

    Don’t wash your clothes in detergents that include chlorine bleach (opt for hydrogen peroxide or baking soda to get your whites extra clean instead!).

    7. Fluoride

    What Is Fluoride, and Why Is It Harmful?

    Fluoride is a water-soluble, colorless chemical compound that is often added to drinking water or used as part of dental care to stave off tooth decay. However, fluoride disrupts the endocrine system by displacing iodine in the cells, which can lead to thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s, thyroiditis, and Grave’s disease.

    And that’s not all. In 2014, an important study proved that fluoride is a neurotoxin25 that can delay children’s development and lower IQ. Fluoride has also been shown to decrease bone health.26

    Fluoride is also dangerous because it causes lead to leach from pipes that carry drinking water,27 exposing populations to yet another toxic endocrine disruptor.

    Where Is Fluoride Found?

    Endocrine Disruptors: 14 Common Chemicals That Affect Your HormonesFluoride is found in all of the following places:

    • City water supplies
    • Toothpastes and mouth rinses
    • Dental treatments
    • Mechanically processed foods
    • Teflon pans

    How to Avoid Fluoride

    Most of us have already been exposed to far too much fluoride in the water supply. There’s no need to supplement additional fluoride through dental treatments, toothpastes, or mouthwashes.

    Instead, keep tooth decay at bay by brushing with baking soda, flossing regularly, or rinsing with hydrogen peroxide. You’ll avoid the risk of swallowing fluoride, and you’ll keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free.

    If you live in an area where the water has been treated with fluoride, it’s especially important to use a water filter or reverse osmosis system that specifically removes fluoride (many water filters don’t).

    You’ll also want to avoid processed foods and cook with ceramic pans instead of Teflon.

    8. Fire Retardants

    What Are Fire Retardants, and Why Are They Harmful?

    Fire retardants are a class of chemicals used to make household and commercial goods less flammable. The most common type of fire retardants are called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) made up of chlorine, bromine, or phosphorus and carbon.

    Scientists discovered the pervasiveness of fire retardants by accident–while studying human breast milk. The samples all contained a high amount of fire retardants. And, disturbingly, the percentage of fire retardants found in human breast milk since 1972 has doubled.28

    The most common way we come into contact with these pervasive endocrine disruptors is a process called “off gassing.” Fire retardants aren’t actually bound to the material in your mattress or couch cushions. So, they “off gas” into the air, attach to dust particles, and then you breathe them in.

    One of the reasons fire retardants are so dangerous is that, like many endocrine disruptors, these chemicals build up in our bodies over time–and stick around in the environment for a long time.

    Many fire retardants have been banned or phased out of manufacturing, but are still everywhere in the environment. These extremely common chemicals can wreak havoc in our endocrine system with outcomes like thyroid dysfunction, decreased IQ, brain damage, cancer, and reproductive problems.29

    Where Are Fire Retardants Found?

    Fire retardants can be found in almost every home, office, and school:

    • Furniture (couch cushions, chair stuffing, you name it)
    • Mattresses
    • Carpets
    • Blinds
    • Curtains
    • Home and building insulation
    • Wires and cables
    • Appliances and electronics (computers, phones, tvs)
    • Polyurethane foam
    • Seat covers
    • Plane and car parts

    How to Avoid Fire Retardants

    Even if you avoid products that contain fire retardants (and you should definitely do just that!) It can be extremely difficult to avoid exposure to these harmful chemicals, because of their staying power in the environment.

    In addition to avoiding polyurethane foam and furniture that isn’t specifically labeled “no fire retardants,” it’s a good idea to use a Hepa air filter to keep from breathing toxic dust. If you decide to reupholster foam furniture or replace your old carpet or blinds, take extreme caution and wear a high-quality mask.

    I recently replaced all my carpet with wool carpet, with no flame retardant or stain-resistant coatings. Next time you’re in the market for new carpet, consider this option.

    9. Lead

    What Is Lead, and Why Is It Harmful?

    While many of the endocrine disruptors in this article might be new information, almost everyone knows how harmful lead can be. This heavy metal (which was once commonly used in paint and pipes), can lead to devastating damage to the endocrine system and body tissues,30 including brain damage, miscarriage, decreased IQ and learning delays, and dangerously low levels of sex hormones.

    Lead can also cause problems with your endocrine system’s ability to signal properly, which shows up as mood disorders like depression and anxiety, as well as high blood pressure and uncontrolled stress.

    Where Is Lead Found?

    While plenty of products that used to have high levels of lead (like paint) aren’t sold anymore, you’ll still find this endocrine disruptor in all of the following places:

    • Paint and woodwork on older homes
    • Antique children’s toys
    • Antique furniture
    • Older pipes and plumbing, and the solder on many modern pipes
    • Gasoline
    • Batteries
    • Imported candies, especially ones that contain tamarind or chili powder from Mexico, Indonesia, China, or Malaysia
    • Imported furniture, ceramics or crafts
    • Vinyl blinds imported from Mexico, China, or Taiwan
    • Costume jewelry that’s often worn or mouthed by children (in 2006, one child died after swallowing a heart pendant that came with a pair of Reebok shoes. It was examined and found to be 99% lead31).
    • Kohl (sometimes used for eyeliner).

    How to Avoid Lead

    There are a few important ways you can help avoid lead exposure. The first is simply to eat a healthy diet. Studies have shown that kids and adults who eat a nutrient-dense, balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables absorb less lead32 than people who eat a lot of processed, empty calories.

    Dispose of batteries and electronics properly instead of just dumping them into the trash, to keep lead out of the soil and groundwater. And if you’re renovating or painting an older house, use a contractor that’s certified lead safe.33 And steer clear of costume jewelry, cheap imported metals, blinds, furniture, and ceramics.

    Lead exposure is just another good reason to install a reverse-osmosis water filter in your home. If you can’t afford a water filter, you can help reduce lead leaching from pipes by avoiding the hot water tap on your faucet and running the water on cold for several minutes before drinking or cooking with the water.

    10. Arsenic

    What Is Arsenic, and Why Is It Harmful?

    The poison arsenic is found in nature (in some fruit pits, for instance), the vast majority of arsenic we’re exposed to on a daily basis is human made.

    Arsenic is deadly in high doses (“high” doses being as little as 100 milligrams). Moderate exposure from polluted drinking water, proximity to industrial pollutants, or simply low-dose over a long period of time leads to cancer, respiratory and immune dysfunction, reproductive harm, nervous system disorders, and gastrointestinal harm.34

    Arsenic disrupts the endocrine system by causing problems with how your body uses carbohydrates in the glucocorticoid system. And when this system is disrupted, the result is uncontrolled weight gain, immune disorders, diabetes, and developmental problems.

    Where Is Arsenic Found?

    Most of the manmade arsenic we’re exposed to on a daily basis comes from industrial activities and treated timber.

    • Pesticides
    • Preservative treatments of timber (up to 70% of the arsenic we make goes to treat timber that’s used in garden containers, play structures, and decks)
    • Glass treatments
    • Deeply drilled wells
    • Groundwater
    • Rat poison
    • Cigarettes
    • Mining activities
    • Burning fossil fuels
    • Rice, which absorbs arsenic at higher rates than other plants

    How to Avoid Arsenic

    First, don’t smoke. You’re already being exposed to enough arsenic as it is! You can lower your everyday exposure by investing in a good water filter that can filter out arsenic. You can avoid arsenic exposure through rice by boiling your rice in larger amounts of water (and then draining the excess), or by simply mixing up the types of grains you eat daily.

    Don’t build garden boxes out of treated wood (arsenic can leach into the soil), and don’t burn, saw, or eat food off of treated wood on decks, garden containers, or playgrounds.

    Avoid old wood play structures, and make sure your children wash their hands afterward if you do visit one!

    11. Organophosphate Pesticides

    What Are Organophosphate Pesticides, and Why Are They Harmful?

    The history books will tell you that we dodged a bullet in World War II when we stopped the Nazis from deploying its stockpile of chemical weapons called organophosphate compounds. But the truth is, we took that same technology and created pesticides from it–which are commonly sprayed on crops around the country every day.

    This type of pesticide destroys insects’ nervous system and, unsurprisingly, cause neurological harm in other animals too (including us) by causing nerve signals to go haywire. These pesticides disrupt the nervous and endocrine system by damaging an important enzyme called acetylcholinesterase. The disastrous results can include decreased testosterone and sex hormone dysfunction, neuropathy, leukemia, brain cancer, thyroid dysfunction, and tumors of the pancreas, thyroid, and adrenal glands.35

    Where Are Organophosphate Pesticides Found?

    Organophosphate pesticides are used in home gardens, veterinary clinics, large- and small-scale agriculture, and pay-to-spray pest control services. You’ll find them by all of the following names:

    • Insecticides
      • Malathion
      • Parathion
      • Diazinon
      • Fenthion
      • Dichlorvos
      • Chlorpyrifos
      • Ethion
    • Herbicides
      • Tribufos (DEF)
      • Merphos

    How to Avoid Organophosphate Pesticides

    Whenever possible, opt for organic produce. And don’t use pesticides in your own home garden or pay for so-called “pest control services.”

    Thankfully, these pesticides aren’t likely to enter the food chain (most of the concern is from residue and contact with food or surfaces that have been treated). But organophosphates can enter groundwater if they’re sprayed heavily enough in an area, so get that water filter up and running!

    At least get a water ionizer and purifier on your sink, for your drinking water, from our favorite water company, that’s Objective #1! But if it’s in the budget, also ask them about the wholesale price they give our readers, on whole-home filtration to get all the impurities out of the water you shower and bathe in, as well.

    12. Mercury

    What Is Mercury, and Why Is It Harmful?

    The toxic metal mercury is generally content to stay underground. Except, that is, when we burn it as coal — which releases the mercury into the air, and into our oceans, and into marine life.

    Mercury disrupts the endocrine system in several ways, and it’s especially dangerous for pregnant women–since consumed mercury from seafood is delivered straight to the developing baby’s brain, where it can accumulate and cause brain damage and delays.36

    Mercury disrupts the way adrenalin, insulin, estrogen, and testosterone function in the body and can lead to disease and disorders of menstruation, ovulation, Addison’s disease,37 pituitary problems that can result in mood disorders and even suicidal thoughts, thyroid disorders,38 and insulin resistance or diabetes.

    Where Is Mercury Found?

    The most common way most of us are exposed to mercury is though seafood. However, you should know that batteries and fluorescent light bulbs also contain mercury (and should be disposed of properly). These fish and crustaceans have been identified as the highest sources of mercury:

    • Mackerel (King Mackerel)
    • Orange Roughy
    • Marlin
    • Shark
    • Tilefish
    • Swordfish
    • Tuna (Bigeye, Ahi, Yellowfin, and canned Albacore)
    • Striped Bass
    • Cod
    • Halibut
    • Lobster
    • Mahi-Mahi
    • Perch
    • Snapper

    How to Avoid Mercury

    If you do choose to eat seafood, your safest bet is still wild-caught fish. While many people believe farmed fish a “safe” bet, these mass-produced fish kept in dirty water and fed a processed diet aren’t going to do your health any favors.

    These wild-caught seafood sources have the lowest levels of mercury:

    • Salmon
    • Catfish
    • Clams
    • Crab
    • Flounder
    • Haddock
    • Herring
    • Scallops
    • Shrimp
    • Squid
    • Tilapia
    • Freshwater trout

    13. PFCs (Perfluorinated Chemicals)

    What Are PFCs, and Why Are They Harmful?

    PFCs, or perfluorinated chemicals, are commonly used to repel stains on carpet and upholstery and food residue on cookware. But the irony is that this chemical, intended to be “non-sticky,” stays in the environment and living organisms for an incredibly long time.

    An astonishing 99% of us have perfluorinated chemicals in our bodies.39 Which means that 99% of us are at risk for PFC endocrine disruption of the thyroid, liver, testes and ovaries,40 resulting in thyroid disorders, dangerously low birth weight, decreased sperm count, and fertility problems for women. PFCs have also been linked to ADHD and high cholesterol.

    Where Are PFCs Found?

    Perfluorinated chemicals are commonly used anywhere “nonstick” or “stain resistant” is the name of the game. Keep a particular eye out for these items:

    • Endocrine Disruptors: 14 Common Chemicals That Affect Your Hormones
    • Carpets labeled as “stain resistant”
    • An optional (or included) “stain-resistant” or “pet-resistant” spray applied to couches, upholstered chairs, or other plush furniture
    • Coated frying pans, woks, and other cookware (like Teflon)
    • Fast food wrappers
    • Paper plates
    • Carpet cleaner
    • Windshield fluid
    • Cleaning products, polishes, and waxes
    • Paint
    • Waterproof clothing (e.g., Gore-Tex)
    • Beauty products with ingredients that start with “fluoro” or “perfluoro” such as shaving cream, powders, and lotions

    How to Avoid PFCs

    Steer clear of pans and other cookware that’s labeled “nonstick,” like Teflon-coated anything. Instead, opt for ceramic cookware that’s naturally nonstick. And avoid carpets, couches, and other upholstered surfaces with an alluring “stain-resistant” coating or spray that’s been applied. Stains might not stick to these surfaces, but PFCs will stick around in the environment — and your body.

    You can also cut down on your exposure to PFCs by avoiding takeout and packaged, processed foods and keeping a close eye on the beauty products you use (avoid anything with “fluoro” or “perfluoro” in the ingredients.)

    14. Glycol Ethers

    What Are Glycol Ethers, and Why Are They Harmful?

    Glycol ethers are a class of chemicals commonly used in cleaning products and paint.

    Long-term exposure to glycol ethers has been linked to reduced fertility, decreased sperm count and quality, testicular atrophy, miscarriage, and harm to a developing fetus. And babies and children whose rooms were painted with paint containing glycol ethers had higher rates of asthma and allergies.

    Sudden exposure to glycol ethers has been linked to extreme liver damage, kidney damage, or pulmonary edema. Long-term exposure at low levels has been shown to cause anemia, nausea, neurological problems, decreased bone marrow production, liver damage, oxidative stress, anemia, and autoimmune disorders.41

    Where Are Glycol Ethers Found?

    The most common source of glycol, either exposure comes from cleaning products, but that’s not the only source. Be wary of all of the following products:

    • Cleaning products that include any of the following ingredients:
      • 2-butoxyethanol
      • methoxydiglycol
      • Diethylene glycol
      • Triethylene glycol
      • Ethylene glycol
      • Propylene glycol
      • Dipropylene glycol
      • Tripropylene glycol
    • Paint
    • Oven cleaners
    • Glass cleaners
    • Floor cleaners
    • Liquid soaps
    • Varnishes and Lacquers
    • Perfumes
    • Inks and dyes
    • Cosmetic products

    How to Avoid Glycol Ethers

    You’d be surprised how many things you can keep clean with simple, non-chemical cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. Avoid industrial or chemically laden cleaners, and you’ll go a long way in avoiding glycol ethers.

    Check your makeup for any of the ingredients listed above, and consider switching to a makeup brand that uses only natural and organic ingredients.

    Best Practices to Protect Your Endocrine System from Disruption

    You might have noticed some common themes when it comes to avoiding these 14 endocrine disruptors. In a nutshell, you can make a big dent in eliminating these harmful chemicals from your life by doing the following:

    • Eating organic food that hasn’t been sprayed with endocrine disrupting pesticides and fertilizers
    • Taking extra care of your liver and thyroid–they’re two of your frontline endocrine organs, and they need extra care. Supplement with nascent iodine and vital minerals, eat nutrient- and enzyme-rich raw foods, and add a liver or whole-body detox to your healthcare routine.
    • See a natural hormone practitioner to evaluate where you’re at, hormone-health wise.
    • Get a reverse-osmosis water filter to get the nasty stuff out of your water.
    • Eat foods that will help you flush toxins from your body–not add to them. Raw, unprocessed foods should be the bulk of your diet. Steer clear of fried, packaged, or fast food.
    • Get your house in order: Get rid of mystery chemicals and cleaners, dangerous plastic containers, pesticides, sprays, and fragrances. Use an air filter to catch and eliminate the rest (get the GSG discount on my favorite one, here).
    • Limit your intake of animal fats and take great care with which seafood products you eat.

    Conclusions About Endocrine Disruptors

    Endocrine-disruption chemicals are everywhere: the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, and the products we use— with dire consequences like thyroid disease, sexual dysfunction, infertility, and cancer.

    And while it might be true that we live in an increasingly chemical world, it is also true that non-toxic alternatives are becoming increasingly available–and every dollar you spend on safer products is a vote for more! Protecting your endocrine system and your health from dangerous chemicals is increasingly possible, through diet, education, and everyday choices.

    Smoking

    Smoking drastically increases your chances of developing numerous diseases, harming nearly every organ, and is the leading preventable cause of death, causing cancers (especially lung), heart disease (2-4x risk), stroke (2x risk), COPD, and weakening the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections like COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia. Even light smoking (2-5 cigarettes/day) significantly raises heart disease and mortality risk, with risks only fully diminishing after many years of quitting. 

    Major Diseases Linked to Smoking:

    • Cancer: Leading cause of cancer death, responsible for ~90% of lung cancers, plus cancers of the mouth, throat, bladder, and more.
    • Heart Disease & Stroke: Doubles or quadruples risk of heart disease and stroke, damaging arteries and increasing clots.
    • Respiratory Disease: Causes COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), making breathing difficult.
    • Immune System Issues: Impairs the body’s ability to fight infections, increasing colds, flu, and COVID-19 risk. 

    Other Significant Risks:

    • Diabetes: Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.
    • Bone Health: Higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures (like hip fractures).
    • Eye Conditions: Increased risk of cataracts and macular degeneration (leading to blindness).
    • Reproductive Health: Infertility, pregnancy complications, erectile dysfunction, premature menopause.
    • Oral Health: Gum disease, tooth loss, decreased taste/smell. 

    Key Takeaway:

    • No Safe Amount: Even light or occasional smoking is dangerous and significantly increases health risks.
    • Long-Term Risk: The longer and more you smoke, the higher your chances of developing serious illnesses, but quitting significantly lowers these risks over time, say health experts at Healthline and Johns Hopkins Medicine.