Health Dangers of Chlordane
(DrEddyClinic News) Chlordane is a man made chemical and popular pesticide that was offered in the United States from 1948-1988. Due to concerns about environmental damage and human health risks, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of chlordane in 1983, except for controlling termites. It was banned for that use, and all uses, in 1988 but still its effect is felt across the world and in the United States.
How am I Exposed to Chlordane?
Chlordane has been banned for over 20 years so the risk of exposure is gone too, right? Wrong. Chlordane is considered a persistent organic pollutant and the key word is “persistent.” Like plastic, it doesn’t occur naturally nor does it decompose quickly; like an unwanted house guest, it just lingers. Chlordane is unlikely to enter groundwater but only because it fiercely adheres to and pollutes soil particles. If you’ve been to homes that were treated for termites any time before 1988, there’s a good chance chlordane was used. If you were alive when chlordane use was at its peak, you were probably exposed then too.
Chlordane: Found Everywhere?
Persistent organic pollutants, especially chlordane, have affected and polluted nearly the entire world. The University of Hong Kong Department of Community Medicine reports that remnants of persistent organic pollutants have been found in human breast milk in the region. [1] The Chinese Academy of Sciences has warned that the amount of POP’s in China’s water supplies may pose health risks to humans. [2] That might be something to think about before purchasing herbs and supplements produced overseas.
Chlordane still pollutes the environment in the United States. The University of Iowa examined soil samples and discovered that Cedar Rapids Iowa had chlordane soil contamination almost as severe as urban areas of China. [3] Perhaps more depressing, a U.S. Geological Survey found chlordane contamination in soil samples from Yosemite National Park. [4]
In the Pacific Northwest, salmon migrate through rivers to spawn. This is a natural cycle that has been going on for longer than any of us have been around. Unfortunately, this migration process can transport chemicals. The University of Saskatchewan reports that when fish are contaminated with persistent organic pollutants and die, which they all do, their decomposing bodies release the stored chemicals and further contaminate the environment. [5]
In equally depressing news, researchers at the University of Hawaii have discovered concentrations of POP’s, including chlordane, in the blubber of the endangered Hawaiian seal monk. [6]
It’s very sad that America’s heartland, national parks, and wildlife have been reduced to receptacles for toxic waste.
Health Dangers of Chlordane Exposure
Chlordane can affect the digestive and nervous system, it’s also toxic to the liver. High exposure can cause convulsions and death. Low exposure may cause headaches, confusion, vomiting, stomach cramps, vision problems, and general malaise. Based on information from the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the Department of Family Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina reported that exposure to chlordane has been linked to an increase in the development of diabetes. [7] Additionally, exposure to herbicides and insecticides is especially harmful to the thyroid; chlordane is one of the most toxic chemicals in this regard. [8]
Reducing Chlordane Exposure
Because of its persistent pollutant status, we’re still paying the price for the bygone era when chlordane was celebrated and literally dumped all over the country. Many Americans have low levels of chlordane in their body fat, which could remain for a long time. Tests can determine if you have chlordane in your body (or in the soil around your home) but cannot tell when the exposure occurred and what health effects may result. Regardless, there are steps you can take to minimize your exposure.
The UC Davis Department of Public Health Sciences recommends dietary strategies to reduce exposure to toxic compounds such as chlordane. Specifically, consuming organically produced dairy, fruits, and vegetables and avoiding animal products and processed carbohydrates. [9] Washing or heating your food may not be enough. For example, Japan’s Fukushima Analytical Center discovered up to 10% of chlordane compounds can remain after roasting pesticide-exposed coffee beans. [10]
Be cautious when digging near the foundation of homes that may have been treated for termites prior to 1988. Additionally, be wary about letting children play in potentially affected soil.
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
1. Hedley AJ, Hui LL, Kypke K, Malisch R, van Leeuwen FX, Moy G, Wong TW, Nelson EA. Residues of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in human milk in Hong Kong http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20199797. Chemosphere. 2010 Apr;79(3):259-65. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2010.01.047. Epub 2010 Mar 2.
2. Bao LJ, Maruya KA, Snyder SA, Zeng EY. China’s water pollution by persistent organic pollutants http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22325437. Environ Pollut. 2012 Apr;163:100-8. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2011.12.022. Epub 2012 Jan 11. Review.
3. Martinez A, Erdman NR, Rodenburg ZL, Eastling PM, Hornbuckle KC. Spatial distribution of chlordanes and PCB congeners in soil in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22230089. Environ Pollut. 2012 Feb;161:222-8. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2011.10.028. Epub 2011 Nov 26.
4. Mast MA, Alvarez DA, Zaugg SD. Deposition and accumulation of airborne organic contaminants in Yosemite National Park, California http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22189687. Environ Toxicol Chem. 2012 Mar;31(3):524-33. doi: 10.1002/etc.1727. Epub 2012 Feb 6.
5. Morrissey CA, Pollet IL, Ormerod SJ, Elliott JE. American dippers indicate contaminant biotransport by Pacific salmon http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22145949. Environ Sci Technol. 2012 Jan 17;46(2):1153-62. doi: 10.1021/es2028058. Epub 2011 Dec 23.
6. Lopez J, Boyd D, Ylitalo GM, Littnan C, Pearce R. Persistent organic pollutants in the endangered Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi) from the main Hawaiian Islands http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22884537. Mar Pollut Bull. 2012 Nov;64(11):2588-98. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2012.07.012. Epub 2012 Aug 9.
7. Everett CJ, Matheson EM. Biomarkers of pesticide exposure and diabetes in the 1999-2004 national health and nutrition examination survey http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20299099. Environ Int. 2010 May;36(4):398-401. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.02.010. Epub 2010 Mar 17.
8. Goldner WS, Sandler DP, Yu F, Hoppin JA, Kamel F, Levan TD. Pesticide use and thyroid disease among women in the Agricultural Health Study http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20061368. Am J Epidemiol. 2010 Feb 15;171(4):455-64. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwp404. Epub 2010 Jan 8.
9. Vogt R, Bennett D, Cassady D, Frost J, Ritz B, Hertz-Picciotto I. Cancer and non-cancer health effects from food contaminant exposures for children and adults in California: a risk assessment http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23140444. Environ Health. 2012 Nov 9;11:83. doi: 10.1186/1476-069X-11-83.
10. Sakamoto K, Nishizawa H, Manabe N. Behavior of pesticides in coffee beans during the roasting process http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23154763. Shokuhin Eiseigaku Zasshi. 2012;53(5):233-6.
You don't have to hurt as you age! Eat broccoli and avoid arthritis
by: S. L. Baker
broccoli, arthritis, health news
(DrEddyClinic News) Over 21 million people in the U.S. alone suffer from the most common form of arthritis -- osteoarthritis. Primarily associated with growing older, the condition is marked by the wearing away of cartilage, the cushioning between the bones in the joints. As osteoarthritis gets worse, the cartilage disappears and bone rubs on bone, producing pain and swelling. Mainstream medicine offers symptomatic relief -- but no cure -- with medications including liver damaging acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen which, long term, can cause ulcers and bleeding; some NSAIDs may increase the risk for heart attack and stroke, too.
But despite the view of many that osteoarthritis is an inevitable part of aging, researchers at the University of East Anglia (UEA) believe they are hot on the trail of a way to prevent this form of arthritis from developing in the first place. The potential solution? A natural, bioactive compound called sulforaphane that is found in cruciferous vegetables, especially broccoli.
The UEA scientists have already discovered sulforaphane blocks the enzymes that cause joint destruction in osteoarthritis. Now the same researchers are launching a new and groundbreaking project to investigate how sulforaphane may act to slow or even prevent the development of osteoarthritis. This initial study will pave the way for additional patient trials that could lead to safe and natural ways of preventing and treating this painful disease.
In a statement to the media, the UEA research team noted that broccoli http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=4129 has previously been associated with a reduced risk of cancer. But their study is the first major research into its effects on joint health. As part of their three year long project, the UEA scientists will also investigate the impact of other natural http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=16 compounds on osteoarthritis -- including diallyl disulphide, a component of garlic that appears to slow the destruction of cartilage in laboratory models.
As reported previously, phytochemical compounds in cruciferous vegetables are turning out to be remarkably powerful disease fighters and health builders. For example, scientists at Ohio State University's Comprehensive Cancer Center at Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and the Richard J. Solove Research Institute have discovered that a substance in broccoli and Brussels sprouts specifically blocks the growth of breast cancer cells (http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=69&t=23122). Other research has concluded eating broccoli can protect against asthma, too (http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=2962).
For more information:
http://www.bbsrc.ac.uk/home/home.aspx
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=1302
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000423.htm
What are VOC’s
(DrEddyClinic News) Volatile organic compounds are a topic that everyone needs to learn about, as they are found in a multitude of household products, and are generally harmful to your health. Volatile organic compounds, more commonly known as VOC’s, include a variety of chemicals found in many common products. VOC’s are emitted as gases from liquids or solids and can have short and long-term adverse health effects on respiratory systems.
What Products Contain Volatile organic compounds?
- Cleaning Supplies http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=33389
- Paint strippers
- Paints and lacquers
- Copiers and printers
- Glues and adhesives
- Air fresheners
- Photographic solutions
- Permanent markers
- Correction fluids
- Pesticides http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=117&t=32640
- Carbonless Copy paper
- Carpet and rugs
- Building materials and furnishings
If you use regular paints, you need to properly dispose of any remaining amounts once a project is complete. Paints release VOC’s not only while you are using them, but also when being stored. [1]
Alternatives to Products with VOC’s
The danger of volatile organic compounds comes from many sources common in our daily lives. One of the many things that you can do to live green is use VOC-free paints, household furnishings and other non-toxic supplies. VOC-free paints are a perfect choice for painting in your home, as they are free from the noxious odors that are usually associated with outgassing. Regular paints, varnishes, and finishes release low-level toxic emissions into the air that may linger for years after any painting job is complete.
Check for VOC information before purchasing the above products, especially paint. The lower the VOC content, the safer the product is for your health. Of course, VOC-free is better, but if you cannot find those products, then at least purchase products with a low VOC number. The number ranges are from 5 to 200.
Concentrations of VOC’s are Higher Indoors Than Outdoors?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency conducted a series of studies called the Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM), and found the levels of at least 12 commonly used volatile organic compounds to be two to five times higher in homes than outside. [2] It was initially hypothesized the urban or rural location of the home may be a contributing factor, however that aspect was shown to be unrelated.
Possible Symptoms of VOC Exposure
Most people are not even aware of this problem, even though most of us do realize that paint and varnish fumes usually produce unwell feelings. If you are concerned about volatile organic compound, and you should be, the following list should provide you with a good idea of just how serious an issue this can be.
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Cancer
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination
- Allergic skin reaction
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Damage to kidneys, liver, and the central nervous system
Switching to VOC-free paints is one way that you can help make a difference for the environment, and for your own personal health. Once you start to use VOC-free paints instead of the more traditional brands, you should immediately notice how much better the VOC-free paints are. VOC-free paints are odor free and have a durable surface that’s easy to clean. Demand for VOC-free paints has been on the rise over the past several years; most major manufacturers now sell at least one type of VOC-free paint along with “regular” paints.
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
1. United States Environmental Protection Agency. An introduction to indoor air quality http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html. Volatile Organic Compounds.
2. United States Environmental Protection Agency. The inside story: a guide to indoor air quality http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/insidestory.html. Publications and Resources.
Tips for Supporting Sore Muscles and Joints
(DrEddyClinic News) Almost everyone has experienced some type of muscle or joint discomfort in their life. The entire human body is covered with muscle tissue and joints that are in motion almost constantly, making it easy for discomfort to appear anywhere, anytime. The most common type of muscle discomfort is lower back pain. It is estimated that up to 80% of the adult population in the United States has lower back pain. It’s a top reason why people see a doctor. It is also a leading cause of disability in Americans under the age of 45.[1]
Muscle aches may involve ligaments, tendons, and fascia.[2] A ligament is fibrous tissue that connects bones to other bones. A tendon is a band of tissues that connects muscle to bone. Just like ligaments, they are made of collagen. Fascia is dense connective tissues that connect muscle, bones, and organs.[3]
Why Do Muscles Get Sore?
Sore muscles can result from a variety of reasons; exercise is the most common.[4] Other factors, such as stress http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=120&t=33959 can cause a stiff jaw, neck, or aches elsewhere on the body.[5] Twisting, bending, or straining can also cause problems.[1]
Certain medical conditions and diseases, such as fibromyalgia, infections, flu, Lyme disease, polio, and lupus, may cause muscle soreness.[2] Car accidents are a significant cause of injury, usually to neck muscles.[6] Almost 2.5 million people are injured or disabled in road crashes every year! Dehydration can cause electrolyte imbalances due to low levels of potassium http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=34662, calcium, or magnesium and lead to muscle cramps and discomfort.
How to Relieve Sore Muscles and Joints
Chiropractic Sessions
Chiropractors are health care professionals who perform adjustments to the spine and other parts of the body.[7] The goal is to alleviate muscle and joint discomfort, improve function, range of motion, and support the ability of the body to heal itself.[8] There are currently more than 30,000 chiropractors treating approximately 30 million people per year in the U.S. These numbers will increase as people become more aware of the efficacy of chiropractic treatments http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=152&t=34027.
Inversion Therapy
Inversion therapy involves hanging upside down from an inversion table http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=34279 for the purpose of taking pressure off the nerve and disks in your spine and increasing the space between the vertebrae.[9] A plethora of studies have confirmed the health benefits of inversion therapy.[10]
Practicing Yoga
Yoga http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=34023 is a mind and body practice that originated in India.[11] It involves practicing different physical postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and relaxation. According to the National Institute of Health, a weekly yoga class can be effective at reducing back discomfort.[12] It is no wonder why yoga is increasing in popularity; between 2012-2015, the number of American yoga practitioners grew by more than 75% from 20.4 million to over 36 million.
Stretching
As with yoga, stretching is incredibly effective for supporting muscle and joint health.[13]
Ice and Heat
When discomfort results from overuse or injury, applying ice for the first 24 to 72 hours is the first step toward relief. Following with heat can help soothe away the pain.[2]
Topical Muscle and Joint Relief
There are many over the counter lotions and creams that help reduce muscle and joint discomfort.[14] People, including athletes, frequently use creams and ointments for minor muscle aches. Most of these products only provide temporary relief and do not address the root cause. If you prefer a natural product, we have created NutraCool® http://bit.ly/dreddyclinic-nutracool, an all-natural topical cream for muscle discomfort, sprains, and strains. It contains no chemicals, artificial ingredients, or other toxic substances!
What About Sprains and Strains?
A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament.[15] Remember, a ligament is a fibrous connective tissue that attaches bone to bone. According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), as many as 25,000 people sprain an ankle every day. This adds up to almost 10 million sprained ankles every year![16]
Remedies for sprains and strains include rest, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy.[17]
How to Discourage Muscle and Joint Discomfort
Warming-up and stretching before and after exercise are extremely important. Sit and stand with good posture. Stretch a few times a week. Stay active. And, if you are overweight, losing weight http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=119&t=32298 can reduce the strain on your back.[18] Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise; and, if your work requires sitting in the same position most of the day, try to stretch or walk several times throughout the day (at least once every hour).[2] And, finally, maintain good form and posture when lifting heavy objects. Your legs should do most of the work.
What tips or insight do you have to offer? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References
1. Steven Ehrlich. Low Back Pain http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/low-back-pain. University of Maryland Medical Center. 2/14/16.
2. Linda Vorvick, David Zieve, Isla Ogilvie, A.D.A.M editorial team. Muscle Aches https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003178.htm. Medline Plus. Updated 4/11/2015.
3. Schleip R, Klinger W, Lehman-Horn F. Active fascial contractility http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15922099. Medical Hypotheses 2005;65(2):273-7.
4. Miles MP, Clarkson PM. Exercise-induced muscle pain, soreness, and cramps http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7830383. Journal of sports medicine and physical fitness, 1994 Sep;34(3):203-16.
5. Linda J. Vorvick. Stress and Your Health https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003211.htm. Medline Plus. 11/23/2014.
6. Back Injuries https://medlineplus.gov/backinjuries.html. Medline Plus.
7. Chiropractic https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/chiropractic.html. Medline Plus.
8. Chiropractic: In Depth https://nccih.nih.gov/health/chiropractic/introduction.htm. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. February 2012.
9. Edward Laskowski. Back Pain. Does inversion therapy relieve back pain? http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/expert-answers/inversion-therapy/FAQ-20057951?p=1 Mayo Clinic.
10. Inversion Therapy: a study of physiological effects http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2484360/?page=6. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. 1985 Sep; 29(3): 135–140.
11. Yoga: In Depth https://nccih.nih.gov/health/yoga/introduction.htm. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. June 2013.
12. Nicki Contie. Yoga or Stretching Eases Low Back Pain https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/yoga-or-stretching-eases-low-back-pain. NIH Research Matters. October 31, 2011.
13. Karen Sherman, et al. A Randomized Trial Comparing Yoga, Streching, and a Self-care Book for Chronic Low Back Pain http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3279296/. Arch Intern Med. 2011 Dec 12;171(22):2019-2026.
14. Liliana L Jorge, Caroline C Feres, Vitor EP Teles. Topical preparations for pain relief: efficacy and patient adherence https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3048583/. J Pain Res: 2011; 4: 11–24.
15. Sprains and Strains https://medlineplus.gov/sprainsandstrains.html. Medline Plus.
16. How to care for a strained ankle http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/how-to/foot-injury/Pages/How%20to%20Care%20for%20a%20Sprained%20Ankle.aspx. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society.
17. Sprains and Strains https://medlineplus.gov/sprainsandstrains.html. Medline Plus.
18. Prevent Back Pain https://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/everyday-healthy-living/safety/prevent-back-pain#the-basics_1. Healthfinder.gov.
