Using mass spectrometry analysis techniques, researchers in Luxembourg and France detected 69 biomarkers of pollutants and pesticides — 12 of which are banned in the EU — in hair samples from over 200 French children.
This study, published in Environment International, is the first to target over 150 biomarkers in a single hair sample, which “represents the most comprehensive assessment of chemical exposome in humans,” the authors say. This adds more credence to the debate as to whether or not to eat organic foods, foods which are grown without chemicals and pesticides.
A new study published in the British medical journal, Lancet has confirmed that the use of statin drugs for high cholesterol increases the risk of diabetes by 36%. Statins have also been shown to increase risks of cataracts, neurological conditions and certain cancers. Recent research is pointing to insulin resistance being the primary driver of atherosclerosis, not LDL cholesterol levels. Scientists are recommending a holistic approach to heart health, considering factors beyond cholesterol levels. A Japanese study, published in Scientific Reports (Feb 2024), links the use of statins to pancreatic cancer risks. This study was massive (67,768 participants) and performed over many years and showed a definite increase in pancreatic cancer risk in those who took statins.
Vitamin C is an important nutrient that helps our bodies fight off colds. It has special properties called antiviral and antibacterial properties, which means it can help protect us from germs that make us sick. When we take vitamin C supplements, it boosts our immune system. This makes it easier for our body to fight off infections, so we can get better faster and stay healthy. Taking vitamin C supplements is especially helpful during cold and flu season. They can help reduce the severity of colds and make our symptoms less severe. Plus, vitamin C is easy to find in fruits like oranges and strawberries, but sometimes we don't get enough from food alone. That's why taking a supplement can be a good idea to make sure we have enough to keep our immune system strong. I personally take 1000mg of vitamin C per day. Vitamin C is a staple in our “medicine cabinet” for when our bodies might be coming down with a germ. At the first sign of a symptom, I become proactive and start taking higher doses of C, multiple times per day. When a germ appears, 3000 to 4000 mg every 4 hrs is not an uncommon dosage for me. Usually, one day of high dose C is all I need, as the C will wipe out the germ with its anti-viral, immune system boosting properties. Liposomal vitamin C is the best C to take for high doses, as liposomal C will not cause any gastric distress.
Chiropractic care can be very helpful for children. It focuses on making sure that their spine and nervous system are working properly. This can help improve their overall health by making sure that their bodies can function the best they can. For instance, children who receive chiropractic care may have better posture and fewer problems with back pain. Another great benefit of chiropractic care for kids is that it can help their immune system. When a child's spine is in good shape, their body can fight off infections more easily. Science has researched the connection to immune system function and spinal neural impulse flow. The nervous system controls the function of the immune system. This means children might get sick less often and recover faster when they do.
Some kids who see a chiropractor also see fewer ear infections, which are a common problem. Muscle tension in the neck can place pressure on the ear tubes, pushing them more horizontal, which prevents ear fluid from draining. Stagnant ear fluid attracts bacteria which then can lead to infection. Chiropractic adjustments to the neck relaxes the muscles, allowing the tube to "dip" downward, draining the fluid and preventing the ear infection from reoccurring.
Chiropractors can also help prevent and treat issues like scoliosis, which is a condition where the spine curves in an unusual way. This can make a big difference for a child's comfort and health as they grow. Additionally, if a child plays sports, chiropractic care can help them recover from injuries more quickly and even prevent some injuries from happening in the first place. Overall, chiropractic care is a great way to support the health and well-being of children.
