Organic Well Being

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Freedom from Fluoride in This Episode of “Secrets to Health” on Gaiam TV!

Link to Natural Health & Organic Living Blog

Freedom from Fluoride in This Episode of “Secrets to Health” on Gaiam TV!

Posted: 05 Nov 2013 03:53 PM PST

Do you believe fluoride is a public health achievement or a hazardous contaminate? In the new episode of “Secrets to Health,” Mike Adams and I reveal the shocking facts and statistics behind one of America's most accepted additives. In this eye-opener, we’ll discuss the history of fluoride, its widespread sources, and why its use is unsafe, ineffective and inequitable. Don’t miss this one!

Join Gaiam TV for Complete Access!

Go to www.SecretsToHealth.TV to join Gaiam TV and get access! Not only will you get access to ALL the episodes of Secrets to Health, but it’s extremely affordable and, best of all, Gaiam TV has THOUSANDS of high-quality, information-filled videos available to members!

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Please be sure to leave your feedback!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

The post Freedom from Fluoride in This Episode of “Secrets to Health” on Gaiam TV! appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Dr. Edward Group to Speak at California Jam 2014!

Posted: 05 Nov 2013 01:56 PM PST

I’m very honored to say that I’ll be speaking at California Jam 2014! California Jam is a yearly health and wellness event held in Southern California. Billy DeMoss is the organizer and he’s done a dynamite job orchestrating the premier chiropractic and health event of the year. Not only will it be held in the absolutely beautiful, 5-star Segerestrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa California, but it’ll feature some of the greatest chiropractic and alternative health speakers in the world!

Join myself and over 2,000 highly motivated doctors and natural health enthusiasts at the 3-day event to learn from the world's most authoritative speakers in chiropractic and nutrition. And after we work, it’ll be time to play! The California Jam 2014 Speakers' Gala Dinner takes place on February 28th at the beautiful Center Club. This is going to be an intimate affair where you’ll dine with the Cal Jam speakers. And I’m especially looking forward to the Cal Jam After Party where we’ll party and dance the night away at the Samueli Theatre!

Sneak Preview

I did a podcast with Billy DeMoss the other day. Listen to it and get a little taste of what’s to come!

The Details

California Jam takes place from February 28 to March 2, 2014. It’ll be at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa California and you can get your tickets here. Don’t wait! This one WILL sell out! It’s going to be an awesome event and we’re going to have a blast, I want you to join us!

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn from the best and brightest. Here are just a few of the people scheduled to speak:

Andrew Wakefield
Joseph Mercola
Patrick Gentempo
David Jackson
Sherri Tenpenny
…and MANY more!

I hope to see you there!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

The post Dr. Edward Group to Speak at California Jam 2014! appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Monday, November 4, 2013

A Bonus Just For You

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Love,

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Blog http://foodbabe.com | Facebook http://www.facebook.com/thefoodbabe | Twitter https://twitter.com/thefoodbabe

P.O. 31521 Charlotte, NC 28231

If you'd like to stop receiving free food investigations, recipes and healthy living tips, click here.

The Dangers of Acetaminophen

Posted: 03 Nov 2013 08:00 AM PST

When it comes to proven, over-the-counter solutions for easing pain and controlling a fever, acetaminophen (also called paracetamol, and best known by the brand name, Tylenol) has long been the preferred recommendation for many. It is actually the most widely used product of its kind, and with good reason. When compared to other non-prescription pain relievers and fever reducers, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, acetaminophen is considered to be much more safe — especially for young children, people with weak or compromised liver function, or blood-clotting concerns. ^[1]

The Dangers of Acetaminophen

But, not so fast. Despite being a better choice than some of the alternatives, acetaminophen doesn’t exactly get a free pass. To the contrary, severe health problems such as liver damage and death have been reported, even after “mild” overdose.

A 10-fold increase in overdose has been reported in children given injectable paracetamol. ^[2]
In one reported case, an overdose of acetaminophen resulted in death with blistering of the skin and rhabdomyolysis (a breakdown of the muscle fibers) with blood clotting and reduced blood flow to the heart. ^[3]
Overdose in children occurs more quickly with more severe problems than adults. ^[4]
Renal failure has been observed in persons suffering from acetaminophen overdose. ^[5]
One study found that patients taking acetaminophen for dental pain were at a higher risk of suffering accidental poisoning. ^[6]
In 2011, the British Medical Journal reported heavy alcohol consumption, fasting, malnourishment, and the taking of enzyme inducing drugs increased the likelihood of liver damage from acetaminophen use. ^[7]
Even the US Department of Health and Human Services, a division of the FDA, warns of dangers of taking Acetaminophen. ^[8]

Simple Mistakes Can Lead to Complicated Problems

You may be thinking, “Good grief! I thought this stuff was safe!” Well, you’re not alone. There’s a common misconception that, because it’s sold without a prescription, it is also safe to take acetaminophen very regularly to alleviate any and all minor aches and pains. Additionally, the over-the-counter classification has lead some individuals to casually disregard dosage instructions and consume more than directed. If two is great, then four must be better, right? Wrong. Those errors are why hospital emergency rooms deal with more acetaminophen overdoses on an annual basis than they do opiate overdoses.

A good example would be taking acetaminophen to cope with a slight hangover. Not only is this use unnecessary (you likely need hydration, not acetaminophen), but it can further stress an already stressed liver. In fact, this exact scenario accounts for a large percentage of easily avoidable overdoses.

Watch for Hidden Acetaminophen

Another mistake many people make is not reading the labels on the back of over-the-counter products before using them. Use of acetaminophen is prolific among drug manufacturers, and it’s not uncommon to find it included in everything from sleep aids to cold and allergy medications. It’s fairly common for those who are under the weather to take several products at once. These small doses can easily add up, and if you’re not careful, may lead to permanent liver damage. ^[9]

In addition to keeping an eye out for hidden sources, and minimizing unnecessary use, using a high quality, all-natural liver supplement and performing a periodic comprehensive liver and gallbladder flush, is a great way to promote the health of your liver.

Do you use acetaminophen? Have you ever had problems? Please leave a comment below and share your experience with us!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

Bárzaga Arencibia Z, Choonara I. Balancing the risks and benefits of the use of over-the-counter pain medications in children. Drug Saf. 2012 Dec 1;35(12):1119-25. doi: 10.2165/11633620-000000000-00000.
Injectable paracetamol in children: yet more cases of 10-fold overdose. Prescrire Int. 2013 Feb;22(135):44-5.
De-Giorgio F, Lodise M, Chiarotti M, d’Aloja E, Carbone A, Valerio L. Possible fatal acetaminophen intoxication with atypical clinical presentation. J Forensic Sci. 2013 Sep;58(5):1397-400. doi: 10.1111/1556-4029.12205. Epub 2013 Jul 3.
van den Anker JN. Optimising the management of fever and pain in children. Int J Clin Pract Suppl. 2013 Jan;(178):26-32. doi: 10.1111/ijcp.12056.
Le Vaillant J, Pellerin L, Brouard J, Eckart P.Arch Pediatr. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) causing renal failure: report on 3 pediatric cases. 2013 Jun;20(6):650-3. doi: 10.1016/j.arcped.2013.03.027. Epub 2013 Apr 28.
Vogel J, Heard KJ, Carlson C, Lange C, Mitchell G. Dental pain as a risk factor for accidental acetaminophen overdose: a case-control study. Am J Emerg Med. 2011 Nov;29(9):1125-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2010.08.006. Epub 2010 Oct 15.
Robin E Ferner, James W Dear, D Nicholas Bateman. Management of paracetamol poisoning. BMJ 2011;342:d2218.
Borman M. Organ-Specific Warnings; Internal Analgesic, Antipyretic, and Antirheumatic Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use; Final Monograph. April 24, 2009. (Last accessed 2013-11-01)
Dal Pan, G. Acetaminophen: Background and Overview. June 28, 2009. (Last accessed 2013-11-01)

The post The Dangers of Acetaminophen appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Sunday, November 3, 2013

7 Health Dangers of B12 Deficiency

Posted: 02 Nov 2013 08:00 AM PDT

There are a great number of people out there who rely on vitamin B12 supplements as a natural way to help ease stress and boost their energy levels. While the vitamin's ability to enhance mental performance is relatively well known, research suggests that the effects of B12 deficiency may be more serious than a simple lack of energy. Let’s take a look at seven of them.

1. Cognitive Impairment

In the elderly, B12 deficiency has been linked to cognitive impairment and dementia. This deficiency has also been linked to other neurodegenerative disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. ^[1]

2. Psychosis

Depressed mood, hallucinations, seizures and hypertension have been found in subjects who tested positive only for low B12 levels. Administration of B12 has been found to result in quick recovery (less than a week). ^[2] In one case, a middle-aged man diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder and low B12 levels found relief through the use of methylcobalamin (B12). ^[3]

3. Melancholic Depression

Individuals suffering from melancholic depression (caused by physical rather than psychological factors) have consistently displayed an inverse relationship between B12 levels and depression. ^[4]

4. Stroke

Increases in homocysteine levels resulting from adequate B12 have linked a B12 deficiency to stroke. One reported case involved an older male suffering from recurring strokes along with reduction in blood cells from an intestinal inability to absorb B12. This resulted in abnormally high levels of homocysteine in the blood — a likely contributor to stroke and blood clots. ^[5]

5. Alzheimer's Disease

While studies continue into the mechanism's causing Alzheimer's disease, a recently published study demonstrated a treatment of folic acid, B6 and B12 as a significant improvement in the reduction of cerebral atrophy. ^[6]

6. Cardiovascular Disease

Without B12 the body cannot convert homocysteine. This leads to a build-up of homocysteine levels which have been associated with atherosclerosis and increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. ^[7]

7. Anemia

This disorder hinders the body from producing red blood cells and can develop into fever. Researchers have noted that administration of a B12 intramuscular injection alleviates indications of anemia. ^[8]

Make Sure You Get Your B12

Vitamin B12's overall value to the human body cannot be stressed enough. In addition to reduced brain mass, long term B12 deficiency has been shown to readily contribute to impaired DNA synthesis and replication inside the body, as well as nerve damage, memory loss, and other cognitive issues. In some cases, it has also been associated with mania and various forms of temporary psychosis. These are big problems and can be avoided by simply keeping your vitamin intake regular and in check.

Do you take a B12 supplement or do you rely on food? Please leave a comment below and tell us!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

McCaddon A. Vitamin B12 in neurology and ageing; clinical and genetic aspects. Biochimie. 2013 May;95(5):1066-76. doi: 10.1016/j.biochi.2012.11.017.
Dogan M, Ariyuca S, Peker E, Akbayram S, Dogan Z, Ozdemir O, Cesur Y. Psychotic disorder, hypertension and seizures associated with vitamin B12 deficiency: a case report. Hum Exp Toxicol. 2012 Apr;31(4):410-3. doi: 10.1177/0960327111422404. Epub 2011 Oct 25.
Sharma V, Biswas D. Cobalamin deficiency presenting as obsessive compulsive disorder: case report. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2012 Sep-Oct;34(5):578.e7-8. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2011.11.006. Epub 2012 Jan 9.
Seppälä J, Koponen H, Kautiainen H, Eriksson JG, Kampman O, Leiviskä J, Männistö S, Mäntyselkä P, Oksa H, Ovaskainen Y, Viikki M, Vanhala M, Seppälä J. Association between vitamin b12 levels and melancholic depressive symptoms: a Finnish population-based study. BMC Psychiatry. 2013 May 24;13(1):145.
Bougteba A, Basir A, Kissani N. Recurrent ischemic stroke revealing Biermer’s disease. Rev Neurol (Paris). 2009 Dec;165(12):1099-102. doi: 10.1016/j.neurol.2009.01.051.
Douaud G, Refsum H, de Jager CA, Jacoby R, Nichols TE, Smith SM, Smith AD. Preventing Alzheimer’s disease-related gray matter atrophy by B-vitamin treatment. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2013 Jun 4;110(23):9523-8. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1301816110. Epub 2013 May 20.
Refsum H, Nurk E, Smith AD, Ueland PM, Gjesdal CG, Bjelland I, Tverdal A, Tell GS, Nygård O, Vollset SE. The Hordaland Homocysteine Study: a community-based study of homocysteine, its determinants, and associations with disease. J Nutr. 2006 Jun;136(6 Suppl):1731S-1740S.
Manuel K, Padhi S, G’boy Varghese R. Pyrexia in a patient with megaloblastic anemia: a case report and literature review. Iran J Med Sci. 2013 Jun;38(2 Suppl):198-201.

The post 7 Health Dangers of B12 Deficiency appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Saturday, November 2, 2013

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Yeast Infections

Posted: 01 Nov 2013 02:51 PM PDT

It’s hard to live in a living world without some living organisms taking residence on or inside of your body. It might not be the most pleasant idea, but everyone is carrying bugs of some sort. Harmful organisms in the intestines and bacteria in the gut are among the most common. Another is Candida albicans. If you’ve ever experienced a yeast infection, then you probably know this one well. Although everyone has Candida, problems are unlikely to arise if it’s kept in balance. However, if an imbalance occurs, so may a yeast infection. Yeast infections can affect the mouth, skin and genitals (and that includes women AND men) and range in severity from inconvenient and uncomfortable to life-threatening. Additionally, overgrowth in the gastrointestinal tract may be a catalyst for serious problems if the fungus enters the blood stream.

Let’s take a look at a few other must-know facts about yeast infections.

1. Yeast Infections May Occur Orally

Gross. Really? Yes, oral yeast infections are commonly called thrush. This infection is common in newborns but typically passes quickly. Babies are not the only ones affected, a recent study found that oral Candida overgrowth occurs in one out of every four adults. Poor oral hygiene is often a primary factor. Researchers identified the presence of plaque, tartar, and amalgam fillings as significantly related to the degree of Candida present. ^[1] The best defense? Proper, and regular, oral hygiene.

2. Vaginal Yeast Infections Can Be Tricky

Practicing good hygiene is a very good deterrent for yeast infections. However, this isn’t always the case. Frequent douching has been associated with higher incidences of yeast infections. So has wearing tight nylon or synthetic underwear. Oddly enough, over-the-counter anti-fungal medications have also been associated with stubborn occurrences of vaginal candiadosis. ^[2] The use of intrauterine contraceptive devices also show a statistically significant increase in Candida infection. ^[3]

3. Use of an Asthma Inhaler May Contribute to Candida

A Brazilian study of adults using inhalers for longer than 6 months identified oral candidiasis as one of several adverse effects. ^[4] Anyone using an inhaler, or any other oral appliance (such as mouth guards, retainers, or dentures) should be aware of the possibility of Candida exposure.

4. Candida Naturally Occurs On and In Humans

Microbiota like Candida occur naturally on human skin and in the human gastrointestinal tract. In healthy individuals, the immune system and symbiotic bacteria help keep these fungal species in check. Not surprisingly, persons with compromised immune systems are among the most susceptible to Candida overgrowth.

5. The Connection Between Diabetes and Candida

Individuals with diabetes are more likely to develop genital yeast infections, both women and men. The high blood glucose levels of diabetics encourage yeast growth. And, because it inhibits immune response, the risk of recurring infection is higher. Women are more likely to suffer infection from Candida alibicans and Candida glabrate. Uncircumsized men may experience infection from Candida balaritis. ^[5]

6. Candida Often Accompanies HIV

Research has shown nearly 90% of HIV positive patients suffer from oral Candiadisis. In contrast, these patients do not experience an increase in genital yeast infection. ^[6]

7. Candida Loves Carbohydrates

While Candida occurs naturally in the human digestive tract, how much is present depends quite a bit on diet. Studies have identified that persons whose diets are high in carbohydrates are more susceptible than persons whose diets are high in amino acids, proteins and fatty acids. Candida levels increase most immediately following consumption of carbohydrates.^[7]

8. You Can Protect Yourself With Probiotics

Intestinal yeast infections, or Candida overgrowth, have been associated with the development of several Irritable Bowel Diseases (IBDs) such as Crohn's disease. Protecting intestinal health has become a major focus for research. One study identified a probiotic strain as successful for improving cellular defense against Candida. ^[8]

9. Presents an Increased Risk of MS

This one is an unforeseen doozy to most — Candida infection has been associated with increased odds of multiple sclerosis (MS). A case-control study evaluated the relationship of MS and Candida infection and discovered that MS patients showed higher overall blood serum levels of Candida than the control group. ^[9]

10. Potential Remedy for Warts?

Perhaps not all facts about Candida infections are bad. One study found positive benefits from using a purified C. albicans antigen solution for persistent warts. This has led researchers to suggest intralesional Candida immunotherapy may provide an effective treatment for warts resistant to other forms of destruction. ^[10]

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

References:

Muzurovic S, Babajic E, Masic T, Smajic R, Selmanagic A. The relationship between oral hygiene and oral colonisation with Candida species. Med Arh. 2012;66(6):415-7.
Ekpenyong CE, Inyang-etoh EC, Ettebong EO, Akpan UP, Ibu JO, Daniel NE. Recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis among young women in south eastern Nigeria: the role of lifestyle and health-care practices. Int J STD AIDS. 2012 Oct;23(10):704-9. doi: 10.1258/ijsa.2012.011382.
Güdücü N, Gönenç G, Içi H, Yi?iter AB, Basüllü N, Dünder I. Clinical importance of detection of bacterial vaginosis, trichomonas vaginalis, candida albicans and actinomyces in Papanicolaou smears. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2012;39(3):333-6.
Pinto CR, Almeida NR, Marques TS, Yamamura LL, Costa LA, Souza-Machado A. Local adverse effects associated with the use of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with moderate or severe asthma. J Bras Pneumol. 2013 Jun-Aug;39(4):409-17. doi: 10.1590/S1806-37132013000400003.
PNyirjesy P, Sobel JD. Genital mycotic infections in patients with diabetes. Postgrad Med. 2013 May;125(3):33-46. doi: 10.3810/pgm.2013.05.2650.
Fidel PL Jr. Immunity to Candida. Oral Dis. 2002;8 Suppl 2:69-75.
Hoffmann C, Dollive S, Grunberg S, Chen J, Li H, Wu GD, Lewis JD, Bushman FD. Archaea and fungi of the human gut microbiome: correlations with diet and bacterial residents. PLoS One. 2013 Jun 17;8(6):e66019. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066019. Print 2013.
Rizzo A, Losacco A, Carratelli CR. Lactobacillus crispatus modulates epithelial cell defense against Candida albicans through Toll-like receptors 2 and 4, interleukin 8 and human β-defensins 2 and 3. Immunol Lett. 2013 Oct 10. pii: S0165-2478(13)00158-2. doi: 10.1016/j.imlet.2013.08.013.
Benito-León J, Pisa D, Alonso R, Calleja P, Díaz-Sánchez M, Carrasco L. Association between multiple sclerosis and Candida species: evidence from a case-control study. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2010 Sep;29(9):1139-45. doi: 10.1007/s10096-010-0979-y. Epub 2010 Jun 17.
Majid I, Imran S. Immunotherapy with Intralesional Candida Albicans Antigen in Resistant or Recurrent Warts: A Study. Indian J Dermatol. 2013 Sep;58(5):360-365.

The post 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Yeast Infections appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.

Friday, November 1, 2013

Organic.org

What GMO Labeling Means To You (Infographic)

Posted: 01 Nov 2013 12:38 PM PDT

If the old adage is true and you are what you eat, would you want to be a genetically mutated ear of corn?

Although that paints a pretty terrifying picture, the ethics behind Genetically Modified Organisms (better known as GMOs) are more complicated than one might think. Some studies show that these products are safe to eat and can actually cut down on the use of environmentally-harmful pesticides, while another group of scientists and activists believe that we don't know enough about GMOs to call them safe for people OR the environment.

Regardless of what stance you take on GMOs, many people can agree on one thing: Consumers should be given a choice whether or not they want to eat genetically modified foods. Unfortunately, thanks to a lack of labeling laws, very few Americans currently have that right.

On November 5, Washington state residents will vote on a new GMO labeling law. Named I-522, this initiative could be a historic development in the progress of GMO transparency. However, some roadblocks have the potential to derail the law.

To find out how GMOs and GMO labeling could affect you, check out the infographic below.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GMO LAWS [or the lack there of]

[via Huffington Post]

Dr. Group to Be a Guest on “On the Real Side” with Emmett Abati Doe

Posted: 31 Oct 2013 09:24 AM PDT

Hey everyone! Today, Thursday October 31 from 12 noon to 2pm (CST) I’ll be on the Houston Media Source Net Radio program “On the Real Side” with Emmett Abati Doe. You can tune in and listen live at www.HMSNetRadio.org!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM

The post Dr. Group to Be a Guest on “On the Real Side” with Emmett Abati Doe appeared first on Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.