Wellness Wednesday #18

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food & others in our personal care products.  Homosalate is found in sunscreens, skincare, cosmetics, hair care, body care and certain hypnotic drugs. Why don’t you want HomosalateEndocrine Disruption: It mimics estrogen, and impacts progesterone & androgen receptors, and is linked it to increased growth in human breast cancer cells (which multiply in response to estrogen). High Systemic Absorption: FDA studies show it is absorbed into the bloodstream after 1 use, reaching levels far exceeding safety thresholds (detected at 23.1 ng/mL vs the 0.5 ng/mL limit), and it lingers in the body for up to 21 days. Reproductive & Developmental Risks: It has been detected in human breast milk & placental tissues. It may suppress placental cell proliferation, potentially leading to pregnancy complications like intrauterine growth retardation. Enhanced Toxin Absorption: Homosalate can increase the skin’s permeability, enhancing the absorption of other harmful chemicals.

By |2026-03-06T14:54:09-05:00May 6, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #17

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both.  Avobenzone is found in our personal care products. It is common in sunscreens, skincare, cosmetics, hair care, fragrances, detergents, and plastics. Why don’t you want Avobenzone?  High Systemic Absorption: It stays in blood, urine, and breast milk weeks after use, raising concerns about long-term internal exposure. Hormone Disruption: It has shown “pro-estrogenic” activity in lab tests, meaning it may interfere with natural hormone signaling. Degradation and Free Radicals: When exposed to sunlight, it begins to break down within 30 minutes. This process not only reduces sun protection but also generates free radicals, which can damage skin cells and accelerate premature aging. Contact Dermatitis: It is a frequent cause of photoallergic reactions. Some users experience redness, itching, or rashes specifically when the applied product is exposed to the sun.

By |2026-03-06T14:44:13-05:00April 29, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #16

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate) is found in our personal care products. Why don’t you want Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate)? Readily absorbed through the skin, it is linked to thyroid dysfunction and reproductive toxicity.  It is common in sunscreens, cosmetics, hair care, and fragrances.

By |2026-03-06T14:31:36-05:00April 22, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #15

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) is found in our personal care products. Why don’t you want Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)? Found in the bloodstream of 97% of Americans, it is a suspected endocrine disruptor linked to altered hormone levels, thyroid dysfunction, and reduced sperm function. It is also a primary contributor to coral reef bleaching. It is common in sunscreens, skincare, haircare, household cleaners.

By |2026-03-06T14:30:11-05:00April 15, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #14

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Formaldehyde is found in our personal care products. Why don’t you want Formaldehyde? Cancer Risk: Frequent use of products containing methylene glycol, such as keratin treatments, is linked to an increased risk of uterine, ovarian, and breast cancers. Respiratory Harm: Inhalation of vapors during heat-activated hair treatments can cause coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and long-term asthma. Skin and Eye Irritation: It is a strong sensitizer that can cause severe rashes, allergic contact dermatitis, and eye injuries.

By |2026-03-06T14:21:26-05:00April 8, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #13

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Styrene is found in our personal care products. Why don’t you want Styrene? Carcinogenicity: Styrene is classified as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) and as Group 2A (probably carcinogenic) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Endocrine Disruption: It is classified by the European Commission as a Category 1 endocrine disruptor, with documented evidence of interfering with hormone systems in humans and wildlife. Neurotoxicity: Exposure can cause central nervous system (CNS) effects, including headaches, fatigue, weakness, and memory loss. Skin Sensitization: It is a known sensitizer that can cause irritation, rashes, redness, and burning upon contact, especially for those with sensitive skin.

By |2026-03-06T14:13:21-05:00April 1, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #12

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Methylene glycol is found in our personal care products. Why don’t you want Methylene glycol? Cancer Risk: Frequent use of products containing methylene glycol, such as keratin treatments, is linked to an increased risk of uterine, ovarian, and breast cancers. Respiratory Harm: Inhalation of vapors during heat-activated hair treatments can cause coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and long-term asthma. Skin and Eye Irritation: It is a strong sensitizer that can cause severe rashes, allergic contact dermatitis, and eye injuries.

By |2026-03-06T14:10:18-05:00March 25, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

FDA Agrees to Remove Controversial “Stop It” Post

FDA settles case & agrees to remove controversial “Stop It” posts & website. In early 2024, the FDA agreed to remove social media posts and webpages that urged people to stop taking ivermectin to treat COVID-19. We shared this back then, but with states now considering legislation making it legal to sell Ivermectin behind the counter without a prescription (such as Florida SB1756), we thought you might want to read the news release again.

“We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the settlement as it is a victory for every doctor and patient in the United States,” added Dr. Paul Marik. Read more here https://wp.me/aecX6i-37B

By |2026-03-24T14:22:07-04:00March 24, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #10

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Red Dye No. 3 is found in both. Why don’t you want Red Dye #3 (Erythrosine)? Carcinogenicity: It was found in many personal care products, but the FDA banned it from cosmetics and topical drugs in the U.S. back in 1990 due to cancer links in lab animals. While it was phased out of cosmetics years ago, the FDA recently banned it from food and ingested drugs, with deadlines of 2027 for food and 2028 for drugs, as it’s linked to thyroid cancer in rats, though human risk is debated.

By |2026-03-06T14:02:57-05:00March 11, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #9

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Vinyl Acetate is found in both. Why don’t you want Vinyl Acetate? Carcinogenicity: Classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). In animal studies, high levels of inhalation led to nasal tumors, and ingestion led to mouth and stomach tumors.  Skin Sensitization: It is a known skin sensitizer that can cause irritation, redness, itching, and dermatitis, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.  Respiratory Irritation: Inhalation of vapors at low-to-moderate levels can cause nose and throat irritation.

By |2026-03-24T18:02:53-04:00March 4, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|1 Comment

Wellness Wednesday #8

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Acetaldehyde is found in both. Why don’t you want Acetaldehyde? It is linked to cancer, neurotoxicity and mutagenicity. Carcinogenicity: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies acetaldehyde as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). However, when associated with alcohol consumption, it is classified as Group 1 (carcinogenic to humans) because the body converts ethanol into acetaldehyde. Genotoxicity: Recent research highlights its genotoxic potential (ability to damage DNA), leading scientists to question if there is a truly “safe” threshold for its intentional addition to food.

By |2026-03-24T18:03:34-04:00February 25, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #7

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Talc (magnesium silicate) is found in both. Why don’t you want Talc? Carcinogen Status: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies talc as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A) as of mid-2024, a status that health advocates emphasized throughout 2025. Often used in baby and face powders, it can be contaminated with asbestos, a mineral linked to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. While asbestos-free cosmetic talc is generally considered safe for facial and hair products, it is widely recommended to avoid its use in the genital area due to a potential link to ovarian cancer.

By |2026-03-24T18:03:43-04:00February 18, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #6

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Potassium Bromate is found in both. Why don’t you want potassium bromate? Info on carcinogenicity, dermal absorption, acute toxicity, and organ damage is available at  https://wp.me/pecX6i-3B1

By |2026-03-24T18:03:53-04:00February 11, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #5

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Soy is found in both. Why don’t you want soy (glycine soja) or derivative products? Info on soy GMO status & pesticide use, hormone disruption, thyroid disruption, digestive issues & leaky gut, allergies, and cancer concerns is available at  https://wp.me/pecX6i-3AW

By |2026-03-24T18:04:03-04:00February 4, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|3 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #4

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Sucralose is found in both. Why don’t you want sucralose? Info on genotoxicity and DNA damage, gut health & “leaky gut,” reproductive & developmental risks, metabolic & weight management issues, toxicity at high temps, & drug interactions is available at  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1AyqXFmI60_885MFXDb8eE0Bo9wwgqnKliqgVb3cNMR4/edit?usp=sharing

By |2026-03-24T18:05:05-04:00January 28, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #3

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Phthalates are found in both. Why don’t you want phthalates? Info on reproductive & developmental harm, metabolic & chronic diseases, neurological & behavioral impacts, respiratory & immune issues, and cancer risks is available at https://wp.me/pecX6i-3AR

By |2026-03-24T18:05:12-04:00January 21, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|7 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #2

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. Parabens are found in both. Why don’t you want parabens? Info on endocrine disruption, cancer concerns, & skin irritation is available at https://wp.me/pecX6i-3zZ

By |2026-03-24T18:12:58-04:00January 14, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Potassium Bromate – info

Potassium Bromate is commonly found in our food & personal care products.  But we should avoid it. Why?

Carcinogenicity: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans), with links to kidney, thyroid, and gastrointestinal cancers in animal studies.
Dermal Absorption: While typically poorly absorbed through healthy skin, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel recommends it not exceed 10.17% in hair formulations to minimize risk.
Acute Toxicity: If ingested, it can cause severe symptoms, including abdominal pain, vomiting, kidney failure, and permanent hearing loss.
Organ Damage: Repeated exposure can lead to nervous system effects, such as headaches and impaired thinking, as well as chronic kidney damage.

By |2026-01-08T15:42:06-05:00January 8, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Soy info

Soy (glycine soja) & derivative products are commonly found in our food & personal care products.  But we should avoid them. Why?

1. Processing and Nutritional Profile. Highly Processed Soy: Most health concerns center on heavily refined products like soy protein isolate found in protein bars and mock meats. These often contain added sugar, sodium, and fillers, lacking the fiber and nutrients of whole soy. GMOs and Pesticides: Approximately 94% of soy grown in the U.S. is genetically modified (GMO). Critics note these crops are often heavily treated with the herbicide glyphosate, which may carry long-term health risks and disrupt gut health.
2. Hormonal Concerns (Phytoestrogens). Estrogen Mimicry: Soy contains isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens that can mimic or block the hormone estrogen. While this may help menopausal symptoms, excessive intake (>100 mg/day) has been linked in some studies to reduced ovarian function and reproductive hormone levels in women.
3. Thyroid Function. Goitrogens: Soy contains goitrogens, which can interfere with iodine absorption. Specific Risks: For those with healthy thyroids and adequate iodine, soy is generally safe. However, it may worsen conditions for those with hypothyroidism or iodine deficiency. Medication Interference: Soy is known to interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine (thyroid medication); patients are advised to wait at least four hours between taking the drug and consuming soy.
4. Digestive Issues and Anti-nutrients. Anti-nutrients: Soy contains compounds like phytic acid and protease inhibitors that can block the absorption of vital minerals such as zinc, iron, and calcium. Digestive Distress: Some individuals experience gas, bloating, or nausea due to these anti-nutrients. Fermenting, sprouting, or cooking soy can significantly reduce these levels and improve digestibility.  Because soy is a lectin, the spike protein can cause leaky gut.
5. Allergies and Sensitivities. Common Allergen: Soy is one of the top nine food allergens in the US. Reactions can range from mild itching to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Cross-Reactivity: Some practitioners suggest soy can cross-react with gluten in sensitive individuals, potentially maintaining inflammation even on a gluten-free diet.
6. Related to cancer. Soy has too much linoleic acid.

By |2026-01-08T15:12:11-05:00January 8, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Phthalate info

Phthalates are commonly found in our food & personal care products.  But we should avoid them. Why?

1. Reproductive and Developmental Harm. Male Reproductive Issues: Chronic exposure can interfere with testosterone production, leading to decreased sperm count, poor sperm quality, and infertility in men. Fetal Development: Phthalates cross the placenta and can cause birth defects, specifically in male infants (such as shortened anogenital distance and genital malformations). Pregnancy Complications: Higher levels are linked to increased risks of preterm birth, miscarriage, and low birth weight. Early Puberty: Exposure is associated with the premature onset of puberty, particularly in young girls.
2. Metabolic and Chronic Diseases. Obesity and Diabetes: By affecting hormones that regulate fat tissue and insulin, phthalates are linked to an increased risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Cardiovascular Health: Some studies suggest high levels of certain phthalates (like DEHP) are associated with increased cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, particularly in older adults.
3. Neurological and Behavioral Impacts. Child Development: Prenatal and early childhood exposure is linked to neurodevelopmental issues, including lower IQ, learning disabilities, and behavioral disorders such as ADHD and autism. Mental Health: In pregnant women, high exposure has been associated with increased chances of postpartum depression.
4. Respiratory and Immune Issues. Allergies and Asthma: Exposure can worsen allergic symptoms and increase the risk of developing asthma and eczema in children. Inflammation: Some phthalates can trigger chronic inflammation in the lungs and other tissues.
5. Cancer Risks. Probable Carcinogens: The EPA and other agencies identify certain phthalates (like DEHP and DINP) as probable human carcinogens. Specific Links: Research has found associations between phthalate exposure and increased risks of breast, uterine, and liver cancers.

*Avoid Fragrances: Choose personal care and cleaning products labeled “fragrance-free” or “phthalate-free”.
*Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of fast food and ultra-processed items, which often absorb phthalates from industrial packaging and gloves.
*Switch Containers: Use glass, stainless steel, or porcelain for food storage instead of plastic, especially when heating food.
*Dust Regularly: Since phthalates accumulate in household dust from vinyl flooring and electronics, regular vacuuming and dusting can lower inhalation risk.

By |2026-01-07T14:29:14-05:00January 7, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Wellness Wednesday #1

Some toxins to watch out for are in our food, others in our personal care products, and some are in both. BPA is one that is not an ingredient in either, but commonly used in packaging for both. Why don’t you want BPA? Info on endocrine & reproductive disruption, developmental issues, metabolic diseases, cancer risk & more is available at https://wp.me/pecX6i-3zU

By |2026-03-24T18:05:19-04:00January 7, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|1 Comment

Paraben info

Parabens are commonly found in our food & personal care products.  But we should avoid them. Why?

1. Endocrine Disruption. Parabens are known xenoestrogens, meaning they can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body. Reproductive Issues: Some studies link parabens—specifically propyl- and butylparaben—to decreased sperm count and motility in men, and altered menstrual cycles or decreased fertility in women. Developmental Risks: Exposure during pregnancy has been associated with preterm births and lower birth weights. Early Puberty: Research suggests a link between high paraben levels and earlier onset of puberty in girls.
2. Cancer Concerns. Breast Cancer: A 2004 study famously detected intact parabens in human breast tumors. While this does not prove they cause cancer, experts are concerned that their estrogen-mimicking effects could fuel the growth of certain hormone-sensitive tumors. Skin Cancer: Some research suggests methylparaben may react with UV rays to increase skin cell death and potentially DNA damage, which could increase skin cancer risk.
3. Skin Irritation and Sensitivity. Contact Dermatitis: Parabens can cause allergic reactions, including itching, redness, bumps, and flaking skin. Existing Conditions: They may worsen symptoms for individuals with eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis.

This also includes Isobutylparaben & Isopropylparaben, so watch for those, too.

By |2026-01-06T11:35:33-05:00January 6, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

BPA Info

BPA is commonly found in packaging for food & personal care items. Why is BPA bad?

1. Endocrine and Reproductive Disruption. BPA is an xenoestrogen that mimics the hormone estrogen, interfering with natural hormonal signaling. Female Fertility: Linked to reduced oocyte (egg) quality, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and increased rates of implantation failure in IVF treatments. Male Fertility: Associated with decreased sperm count, concentration, and motility, as well as erectile dysfunction and lower sex drive. Pregnancy Risks: Exposure in utero may lead to fetal abnormalities, low birth weight, and altered development of reproductive organs.
2. Developmental and Behavioral Issues in Children. Infants and children are the most vulnerable because their bodies are rapidly developing. Brain and Behavior: Linked to neurodevelopmental problems including hyperactivity (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and aggression. Early Puberty: Exposure is associated with the earlier onset of puberty, particularly in girls.
3. Chronic Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases. Metabolic Disorders: BPA acts as an “obesogen,” promoting fat cell production and lipid accumulation. It is linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and Type 2 diabetes. Heart Health: Higher urinary BPA levels are associated with increased risks of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular abnormalities.
4. Increased Cancer Risk. BPA’s ability to interfere with hormone receptors may contribute to the development and progression of hormone-dependent cancers, including breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers.
5. Emerging 2025 Health Concerns. Immune System Suppression: Recent evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that BPA can harm the immune system, potentially increasing susceptibility to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Increased Mortality: Long-term studies have linked high BPA levels to a significant (up to 49%) increase in all-cause mortality over a 10-year period.

Check Recycle Codes: Avoid hard, clear plastic containers marked with #7 unless they are specifically labeled as “BPA-free.” Recycle code 5 generally means BPA-free.

By |2026-01-06T11:23:02-05:00January 6, 2026|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|0 Comments

Measles Fact Sheet

Misinformation about measles is being used to push restrictive health policies, but the facts tell a different story. Health Freedom Institute’s Measles Fact Sheet equips you with accurate, science-backed information. RestoreFreedomKH.com/4eiz for the fact-sheet OR RestoreFreedomKH.com/u9gv for more in-depth info.

By |2026-03-26T19:14:19-04:00March 19, 2025|Categories: Medical Updates / Scientific Updates|4 Comments
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