GM food is an example of a GMO, a term used to describe a genetically modified organism where its gene pattern has been modified or engineered, either by adding or taking away genes to make it develop differently. Crops can be genetically modified to be resistant to pesticides and herbicides such as glyphosate. GM crops … Continued
Removing your shoes at the door is customary in many homes, and in some cultures it’s seen as a mark of respect to leave your shoes outside. But there might also be some good health reasons to ask anyone coming into your home to remove their shoes first. Bacteria is carried on the soles … Continued
For the last two years our health focus has been largely on coronavirus, but it looks like the common cold and flu is back with a vengeance. So, what can you do to make a good recovery if you get the flu or nasty cold? Eat and drink well It’s tempting to eat fast, processed, or … Continued
Infants and children are at risk of exposure to the same levels of environmental pollutants as their parents. They are especially susceptible to these pollutants because their body organs including those that control detoxification are immature and still developing. Children are especially at risk during sensitive periods of development and rapid growth when their … Continued
Since 1990 deaths from cancer have been rising in people under the age of 50 in many countries across the world. Rises have been recorded in a wide range of cancers including breast, liver, kidney, thyroid, and numerous others. 5.7 million people died globally in 1990 from cancer, increasing to 8.9 million by 2019. … Continued
Exposure to air contaminated by pollution has been linked to changes in lung tissue which can increase the risk of lung cancer. Air pollution can be measured by the levels of microscopic particulate matter which has a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5). PM2.5 is generated by vehicle exhaust fumes and combustion of … Continued
Glyphosate has been detected in 99% of urine samples of 187 pregnant women tested during their first trimester in a study based in Indiana, US. High levels of glyphosate were also subsequently associated with lower birth weights. Exposure to glyphosate has been associated with adverse developmental outcomes in numerous animal studies, but not as … Continued
A small town in Illinois is pioneering the way to bring safer water into people’s homes by investing in a brand new water system. At a cost of $13m, the new plant will supply fresh drinking water drawn from deep wells which will be treated to remove all traces of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). … Continued
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a widely used chemical group used in the manufacturing process of everyday items such as non-stick pans, plastics, water and stain resistant clothing, and food packaging. They have strong chemical bonds that are impervious to breaking down by known biological or chemical processes, so they are often described as ‘forever … Continued
In the UK more than 8 million people suffer with symptoms of asthma, higher than all other lung related health conditions combined. It affects all ages, and even though many children grow out of it, more than 5.4m people receive ongoing treatment for this condition at a cost of around £1 billion a year for … Continued
