Fluoridation, the process of adding fluoride to public water supplies in an effort to prevent cavities, has courted controversy since its introduction in the US during the 1940s. Now, the prestigious medical journal The Lancet has published a report that supports what opponents of fluoride have long been arguing. In essence, the journal article pointed to the fact that fluoride is a developmental neurotoxin. (more…)
Genetically-modified organisms (GMOs) are controversial in the US due to potential health risks and the concern that GM foods have not been adequately tested. Americans who do not wish to eat GM foods often search for grocery store products that are labeled as ‘natural,’ ‘organic,’ or ‘non-GMO.’ However, new evidence suggests that packaged products labeled as ‘natural’ are misleading. A recent food survey conducted by Consumer Reports has revealed that a majority of the US packaged foods labeled as ‘natural’ actually contain a substantial level of GM ingredients. (more…)
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that's involved with a lot of important processes in the human body. [1] Food is the primary source for this nutrient, with supplements being the secondary source for some people. Vitamin B12 is structurally the largest and most complex of all the vitamins known to man. Interestingly enough, vitamin B12 is integral to normal energy metabolism in all cells of the body as well as amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Additionally, B12 is extremely important in a myriad of other vital physiological processes […]
We've all heard about the much-touted health benefits of blueberries, grapes, and other berries, but you may not have heard of the unique compound they contain — pterostilbene. What are the benefits of pterostilbene for your health? As an emerging antioxidant that's getting a lot of attention, pterostilbene is chemically related to the more well-known resveratrol. However, studies show that pterostilbene may have even more powerful effects! Resveratrol boosts heart and brain health, promotes normal blood sugar, and supports a strong immune system, but pterostilbene does those things more effectively […]
For years, scientists believed aging was a foregone conclusion and out of our control. However, we have more authority over the aging process than previously thought. Part of aging has more to do with the stress and the functioning of your cells than it does with the number of candles on your birthday cake. The best way to protect cells involves the consumption of antioxidants, many of which are available in plant-based foods. (more…)
