Food Additives Europe Banned, but the US Still Commonly Uses

Is there a striking difference in food quality between the United States and Europe? With a doctor’s advice, a woman committed to a gluten-free lifestyle. After months of avoiding gluten, she experienced remarkable improvements in her digestion and mental state. Her physical and mental energy had been restored. However, she now faces a dilemma while planning her European getaway – can she indulge in the delectable pizza and pasta of Italy without sacrificing her newfound health?

Consuming foods in Italy’s renowned gluten-filled cuisine during her vacation, she discovered a pleasant surprise: the absence of her usual gluten-induced symptoms. In fact, she felt invigorated rather than sluggish every day. What could explain this stark contrast in food quality?

It turns out that while American food manufacturers include potentially problematic additives, their European counterparts must either eliminate certain ingredients or disclose their risks to consumers. Even everyday products like ketchup can have significant differences in their ingredients between the two regions.

Titanium dioxide, a common ingredient found in flour, salad dressings, bread, candy, and more, has been banned for use in food products by the European Food Safety Authority. This decision was made due to concerns about its potential to damage DNA and cause inflammation, lung damage, and even tumors in rodents. The International Agency for Research on Cancer also classifies titanium dioxide as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”

From chips and crackers to cereals and granola bars, BHT and BHA are widely used to fend off oil oxidation. These preservatives, found in various food products, have been linked to immune issues and even potential carcinogenic effects. In fact, the esteemed National Toxicology Program considers both BHT and BHA as potential human carcinogens. Europe has already imposed certain restrictions on these chemicals.

Synthetic food coloring is everywhere including sodas, candies, sport drinks, and baked goods. But did you know that these petroleum-based food dyes can wreak havoc on your health? Yellow No. 5, Yellow No. 6, and Red No. 40 have been linked to behavioral challenges and hyperactivity. In fact, a recent study found that exposing children to these dyes can have detrimental effects on their behavior.

Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is a controversial vegetable oil that is used as an emulsifier in many beverages and has sparked controversy and concern. While a petition in 2012 caused some companies to ditch the ingredient, others still rely on it. Surprisingly, the FDA has not banned BVO, unlike the EU which has taken a strong stance against it. But the dangers of BVO are real – studies have linked it to neurological disease and reproductive harm. Not only can this harmful substance accumulate in the body, but it’s also been linked to a range of unpleasant symptoms including headaches, skin and mucous membrane irritation, fatigue, and muscle coordination and memory problems. However, change may be on the horizon. The FDA has proposed revoking BVO’s status as a food additive, potentially putting an end to its use once and for all by November 2, 2023.

Azodicarbonamide (ADA) is a commonly used ingredient in flour-based foods and plastics. Findings from animal studies reveal that ADA can be harmful to our organs and cells, while research suggests it may also lead to respiratory issues in humans. Interestingly, the EU has even banned ADA as a food additive. In a separate study, rats fed a diet with ADA experienced noticeable behavioral changes. Stay informed about the potential risks associated with ADA.

Potassium bromate is a controversial ingredient used in flour-based foods to enhance theie texture. Activists have long expressed concerns about the presence of small amounts of bromate, a substance that has been found to be carcinogenic in animal studies. It is banned in European countries due to the International Agency for Research on Cancer labeled it as “possibly carcinogenic,” leading to its ban in European countries. Recently, California also decided to ban the use of this ingredient, although the law won’t take effect until 2027. Studies have shown that animals exposed to potassium bromate experienced higher rates of both benign and malignant kidney tumors. Moreover, ingesting potassium bromate has been linked to a significant increase in cancer in the thyroid, kidneys, and other organs of mice.

Recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) is the hormone that revolutionized milk production in cows. While the EU took a proactive stance by banning rBGH in 1999, its impact on the endocrine system remains a point of concern. Studies suggest a possible link between elevated growth hormone levels caused by rBGH and hormone-related cancers. However, it’s important to note that the American Cancer Society states that the evidence is inconclusive, calling for further investigation. In addition to potential health risks for humans, rBGH poses a significant number of side effects for cows. Avoid the hormone by choosing organic dairy products, as the USDA strictly prohibits its use in certified organic products.

In the United States, food additives undergo an FDA review and approval process, unless they are deemed “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) by experts. However, there is a potential conflict of interest as manufacturers have the discretion to determine the use of a GRAS substance. They do not need FDA approval and notifying the FDA is optional. On the other hand, in the EU, there is no GRAS exception. Food additives must be assessed by the EFSA and authorized by the European Commission before they can be used. Compared to the US, the EU system prioritizes current data and scientific rules in assessing safety and ensures that regulators have the final say, not industry.

The FDA has not reassessed many food additives in decades, despite evidence showing that some of them may be harmful. Surprisingly, the FDA has the power to reevaluate these additives but is not required to do so. In contrast, the EU mandates that all food additives approved before January 20, 2009, undergo reassessment.

Understanding the Link Between Exercise and Brain Size

A new scientific study has revealed a powerful association between regular exercise and the size of important brain regions that are involved in memory and learning. By analyzing MRI scans of over 10,000 individuals, researchers found that even small amounts of physical activity, such as taking less than 4,000 steps per day, can have a positive effect on the brain. This is considerably lower than the commonly recommended 10,000 steps, making it a more attainable objective for a large population.

The findings reaffirm previous research that highlights the positive impact of physical activity on the brain. In addition to reducing the risk of dementia, exercise also plays a role in preserving brain size, which becomes increasingly important as we get older.

Regular exercise can have a powerful impact on both your body and brain function. Specifically, individuals who engaged in walking or running demonstrated larger volumes in the regions of the brain responsible for decision-making and memory. Notably, these activities promote the growth of key areas, including the gray matter involved in information processing, the white matter responsible for connecting various brain regions, and the hippocampus, which plays a vital role in memory. Through in-depth imaging scans, the study emphasizes the complex relationship between the body and the brain. This reinforces the understanding passed down by previous generations, demonstrating that engaging in more physical activity is an indicator of a healthier aging brain.

This study establishes a connection between regular physical activity and larger brain volumes, indicating potential neuroprotective benefits. By examining a large sample size, this research contributes to our knowledge of the impact of lifestyle factors on brain health and the prevention of dementia.

These findings suggest that setting realistic exercise goals, such as incorporating walking into daily routines, can greatly enhance cognitive health by directly impacting crucial brain areas. The research brings attention to a simple method of maintaining brain health: staying active! Whether it is a daily stroll or participating in a beloved sport, maintaining regular physical activity can yield long-term advantages for our brain’s well-being.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Exercise-Related Physical Activity Relates to Brain Volumes in 10,125 Individuals

The Inherent Dangers of BPA and its Replacements

BPA has been a staple in the manufacturing of plastics and consumer goods since the 1950s. However, it wasn’t until 1993 that scientists discovered its alarming effects, including leaking from polycarbonate flasks and acting similarly to the female sex hormone estrogen. Even more disconcerting, BPA has demonstrated its ability to accelerate the growth of breast cancer cells. Additional research has uncovered the harmful impacts of BPA on various bodily systems including the neurological, cardiovascular, reproductive, immune and endocrine systems.

A recent study discovered that BPA was present in almost 93% of the 2,517 individuals who were tested. Notably, higher levels of BPA were found in younger participants. Furthermore, a 2020 European study conducted across 11 countries and involving 2,756 adults revealed that 92% of them exceeded the recently updated “tolerable daily intake” for BPA and its substitutes.

New findings indicate that even though products are labeled as BPA-free, the alternatives used, specifically bisphenol-B (BPB) and bisphenol-S (BPS) may have harmful effects similar to BPA. Research suggests that BPS can disrupt the normal functioning of hormones and lead to abnormalities in chromosomes.

Environmental and consumer advocates have successfully advocated for stricter regulations on the widespread presence of BPA. While restrictions differ across countries and jurisdictions, some have imposed limitations on its usage in products that come into contact with food and beverages. However, due to its prevalence in the manufactured environment, it may be difficult to completely eliminate. BPA is omnipresent in various aspects of daily life, including building materials, plastic food and drink containers, pipes, electronics, flooring, clothing and even receipts. Furthermore, it has been discovered in rivers, drinking water, soil, and the air.

To safeguard against harmful BPA exposure, experts recommend the following:

Limit canned foods and switch to glass containers.

Avoid using plastic in microwaves and dishwashers.

Wash hands after handling receipts.

Beware of hand sanitizers and skin care products that may contain compounds enhancing BPA absorption through the skin.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has shown promising results in reducing BPA-linked DNA damage and embryonic defects, thus supporting female fertility.

Consider sweating through saunas or exercise as a potential way to eliminate BPA, as studies have found higher BPA concentration in sweat than in blood or urine.

Adequate folate intake guards against autism linked to BPA exposure. Additionally, genistein, a flavonoid present in soybeans, fava beans, miso, alfalfa, and broccoli, along with methyl donor nutrients like folic acid, can effectively reverse the harmful effects caused by BPA. To ensure sufficient folate intake, consumption of dark green, leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, liver, eggs, whole grains, and fortified foods is highly recommended.

It is crucial to minimize exposure whenever feasible, but it is also important to recognize that we possess effective tools to combat the adverse consequences.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Bisphenol-A and phthalate metabolism in children with neurodevelopmental disorders

The Alarming Link between Nano-plastics, Parkinsons and Dementia

The seemingly harmless plastic water bottle you consume from on a regular basis has the potential to turn into minuscule particles that can cause harm to your brain. Recent research reveals the concerning discovery that nanoplastics, which are tiny particles derived from common plastic products, are capable of attaching themselves to proteins linked to Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. These insidious nanoparticles have already infiltrated our soil, water, and food, and they could be the catalyst behind the rising prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases.

This research demonstrated that these nanoparticles have the ability to bind to alpha-synuclein, a protein closely associated with the development of these conditions. Notably, this interaction was observed not only in test tubes and cultured neurons, but also in live mouse models, providing strong evidence of the link between plastic and protein accumulation.

Perhaps the most astonishing revelation from the study was the formation of strong bonds between the plastic nanoparticles and alpha-synuclein within neuron lysosomes. Lysosomes, known as the “cellular cleanup crew,” are organelles responsible for breaking down waste and debris using powerful enzymes.

The evidence suggests nanoplastics are not confined to our environment alone. They have been found in indoor air as well. Inhalation of these particles allows them to bypass the respiratory tract and enter our bloodstream and brain, elevating the risk of developing cancer.

Discovering nanoplastics as a potentially harmful substance is just the tip of the iceberg. We also need to be aware of the existence of other toxins like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that have been linked to Parkinson’s disease. Shockingly, even though PCBs were banned over four decades ago, they can still be found in 30 percent of U.S. schools. Recent research has found high concentrations of PCBs in the brains of deceased individuals who had Parkinson’s disease, indicating a concerning presence of these pollutants in our educational institutions.

It is crucial for us to thoroughly investigate this toxic threat in our classrooms, conducting tests for PCBs and taking remedial action. Furthermore, it is alarming to note that other toxins associated with Parkinson’s disease remain in use, despite the EPA’s proposal to ban dry cleaning chemicals and pesticides that have been linked to a staggering 500% increased risk of developing the disease.

Preventing Parkinson’s disease may be more achievable than we once thought. The research has shown that our environments play a significant role in the rise of Parkinson’s cases. Both laboratory experiments and population studies have provided compelling evidence that demands our attention. Although further investigation is necessary, it is crystal clear that our environment plays a vital role in fueling this concerning trend.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Anionic nanoplastic contaminants promote Parkinson’s disease–associated ?-synuclein aggregation

The Unexpected Mental Effects of Anesthesia

If you’re over 65, there’s a significant chance that surgery could have surprising effects on your mind. Research shows that anywhere from a quarter to half of this age group experience postoperative delirium, a serious condition that causes sudden shifts in thinking and behavior. Although it’s not clear whether the stress of surgery or the lasting impacts of anesthesia are the main culprits, scientists have identified several risk factors that can help predict who is more likely to develop this condition.

Delirium is the most common surgery complication, but now experts believe it can be prevented and deserves further investigation due to its connection to long-term neurological issues. It is a condition that often masquerades as other psychiatric disorders. From dementia to depression and psychosis, its elusive symptoms leave no room for mistakes. With strikingly similar symptoms, the lines can blur, making accurate diagnosis a tricky challenge. On top of that, the symptoms may vary not only from patient to patient but also fluctuate over time.

With up to 65% experiencing this condition, and 10% facing long-term cognitive decline, the consequences are severe. Prolonged hospital stays, reliance on mechanical ventilation, and functional decline are just the beginning. Even after leaving the hospital, patients may face worsened functional and psychological health, coupled with increased risks of cognitive decline, dementia, and death. In fact, a recent study found that postoperative delirium can accelerate cognitive decline by a staggering 40% among elderly patients monitored for 72 months following elective surgery.

Many patients actually have undiagnosed pre-existing cognitive impairments that can alter the outcome of surgery. Age and type of surgery also play a role, with individuals over 60 and those undergoing orthopedic or cardiac procedures being particularly vulnerable. Risk factors include poor cognition, frailty, inadequate nutrition, alcohol-use disorder, depression, unmanaged diabetes, and other medical conditions. Notably, patients who are taking multiple medications are at a higher risk, as surgeries involve anesthesia drugs and additional pain management medications, along with precautionary antibiotics.

Your body’s ability to handle surgery is highly dependent on its reserve. Reserve can be described as an “extra bandwidth” that allows you to withstand fluctuations in blood flow, tissue damage, and other trauma. By focusing on nutrition, physical fitness, and cultivating positive psychosocial traits, you can boost your reserve and enhance your surgical tolerance. It’s like giving your body an extra shield of protection.

The key is to embrace the power of reserve and take proactive steps to elevate it. By simply being open and honest about your anxieties, you can start to lower your risks. Embrace the remarkable benefits of positive affirmations and breathing exercises to bring calm to your mind and body. Moreover, adopting a positive mindset and incorporating visualization techniques can significantly reduce the reliance on pharmaceuticals. This extends beyond simply medication dosages, as it can also lead to lesser amounts of anesthesia required during procedures. Ensuring a smooth transition and a sense of familiarity, patients are encouraged to bring along personal items from home, such as hearing aids, glasses, dentures, and all necessary medications and supplements.

With a resilient reserve on your side, you can face surgery with confidence and minimize any potential post-anesthetic complications.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Cognitive Decline Associated With Anesthesia and Surgery in Older Patients

Dangers of Blue Light Exposure Intensify as We Get Older

Blue light, the main culprit behind light emitting devices, is becoming increasingly prevalent in our daily lives. In a groundbreaking new study, researchers delved into the effects of blue light exposure on the lifespan of fruit flies. These tiny creatures share cellular and developmental mechanisms with humans, making them a valuable study subject.

The results showed that susceptibility to blue light stress is heavily influenced by age. Your age could determine just how much damage blue light can do to your body. This finding sheds light on the potential risks associated with blue light, underscoring the importance of protecting ourselves from its harmful effects.

As we age, our bodies become less capable of handling environmental stressors. And now, with the rising popularity of blue light-enriched LEDs in our homes and workspaces, we face a new challenge. But what are the long-term effects of chronic blue light exposure on our cellular functions? And could our susceptibility to blue light change as we age?

In the study, researchers investigated the effects of transitioning flies from darkness to a constant blue light environment at different ages. It was observed that the transition from darkness to light happened at specific ages: 2, 20, 40, and 60 days. The study specifically focused on how blue light affects the mitochondria of the flies’ cells. The most intriguing revelation of this study is the revelation that chronic exposure to blue light can disrupt energy production, even in cells that are not light-sensing.

It was determined that blue light significantly diminishes certain reactions in mitochondria, while age itself also impairs other reactions, regardless of blue light exposure. In essence, blue light exacerbates the effects of aging in flies, worsening the situation.

Understanding the importance of natural light to our daily rhythm is key. Our circadian rhythm regulates essential processes like brain activity, hormone production, and even cell regeneration. However, research suggests that too much exposure to artificial light can disrupt our sleep and circadian processes. With the rise in LED lighting and device screens, we are exposed to high levels of blue light, which can disturb our natural patterns. It’s essential to be aware of this and find ways to balance our exposure to artificial light for better sleep and overall well-being.

Although we may not fully understand the long-term impact on humans, findings from short-lived model organisms suggest an alarming potential for accelerated aging and cellular damage. With so much blue light in our surroundings, it’s crucial that we understand the impact it can have on our cells.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Age-dependent effects of blue light exposure on lifespan, neurodegeneration, and mitochondria physiology in Drosophila melanogaster

Which Brain Functions Improve with Omega-3?

Aging is associated with several changes in brain structure and a gradual decline in cognitive abilities. This decline typically begins in early adulthood, affecting various cognitive functions such as processing speed, memory encoding, working memory, and reasoning skills. In contrast, skills like vocabulary and general knowledge, usually remain stable or even improve until after the age of 60.

Fortunately, the progression of cognitive decline can be significantly influenced by lifestyle choices. Factors like physical activity, social engagement, and dietary habits play pivotal roles in maintaining cognitive health. A recent study has shown that incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into the diet, for instance, is linked to better cognitive functioning, reduced loss of neurons, and improvements in other brain-related measures.

For this study, the research subjects were selected from the Seventh-Day Adventist community, known for their generally healthy lifestyle. Characteristics typical of this group include an active lifestyle, a nutritious diet, and abstaining from smoking and alcohol consumption.

Scientists assessed the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the participants’ red blood cells, particularly focusing on EPA and DHA. They used this information to calculate the omega-3 index, a measure combining EPA and DHA, intended to reflect the omega-3 content in red blood cells. The investigation included conducting MRI scans and cognitive tests to explore the relationship between these omega-3 levels, brain volume, and cognitive performance.

In their analysis, the researchers identified varied connections between omega-3 fatty acids, cognitive functions, and the size and thickness of different brain regions. They found that both EPA and the overall omega-3 index showed positive associations with delayed memory and processing speed test scores. However, these fatty acids did not demonstrate a significant link with working memory or executive functions.

Contrary to their initial hypotheses, which anticipated a strong link between omega-3 fatty acids and hippocampal volume — crucial for learning and memory — the researchers did not find any significant correlation in this area. Intriguingly, instead of the hippocampus, EPA and the omega-3 index were correlated with the volume of the entorhinal cortex, a region integral to learning and memory that connects with the hippocampus.

Additionally, the study showed that EPA, DHA, and the omega-3 index correlated with an increased volume of total white matter in the brain. Aligning with previous findings, this relationship suggests a possible link between diets rich in omega-3 and both the microstructure of white matter and cognitive functions.

Reflecting the inherent limitations of association studies, the researchers suggest that further, more comprehensive research is needed to explore the connection between omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive abilities. This future research should involve diverse neuroimaging techniques and include a broader and more prolonged observation of participants to deepen the understanding of these relationships.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Cognition, and Brain Volume in Older Adults

The Power of Intermittent Fasting for Blood Sugar Control

A recent study reveals that time-restricted eating, also known as intermittent fasting, can be an effective strategy for individuals with type 2 diabetes to shed pounds and regulate blood sugar levels. With diabetes affecting 1 in 10 Americans and anticipated to rise to 1 in 3 if current trends persist, it is crucial to explore more preventive and intervention measures, as well as effective methods for weight and blood sugar control. The study’s participants, predominantly Black and Hispanic individuals, face a higher risk of diabetes, making the documented success of time-restricted eating particularly valuable to these communities.

In this scientific study, 75 participants were divided into three groups: a control group, a calorie reduction group, and a time-restricted eating group. Over a period of six months, the researchers recorded various health measurements such as weight, waist circumference, and blood sugar levels.

Research findings indicate that individuals in the time-restricted group, who restricted their daily eating to an 8-hour time period between 12 and 8 pm, experienced greater weight loss compared to those in the calorie-reducing group. The calorie-reducing group decreased their calorie intake by 25 percent. Surprisingly, both groups demonstrated similar improvements in long-term blood sugar levels, as determined by the hemoglobin A1C test. These results suggest that intermittent fasting may be an effective strategy for weight management.

The time-restricted group found it easier to adhere to their diet plan compared to the calorie-reducing group. Typically, individuals with diabetes are advised to limit their calorie consumption, a challenge that many find difficult to overcome and often falter. Surprisingly, the participants in the intermittent fasting group unintentionally reduced their calorie intake without being explicitly instructed to do so. They achieved this by adhering to a specific time window for their meals.

Interestingly, no serious adverse events occurred during the study, and there was no significant difference in occurrences of low or high blood sugar levels among the three groups.

This study suggests that time-restricted eating could be a viable option for individuals who are unable to adhere to traditional dieting methods or who have grown tired of them. Instead of focusing on calorie counting, this approach involves limiting the time frame in which one consumes food. In addition it may be more effective to eat during an 8 hour window that ends by 4 PM. Going to bed on an empty stomach leads to much better sleep and may also help with blood sugar control.

The findings from this small-scale study provide promising evidence that time-restricted eating can be a simpler and safer dietary strategy, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Effect of Time-Restricted Eating on Weight Loss in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

How Regular Tea Drinking Boosts Brain Power

A groundbreaking study has demonstrated that consuming tea may enhance the organization of different brain regions when compared to individuals who do not consume tea. By utilizing neuroimaging data, researchers unveiled the impact of tea consumption on brain structure.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of long-term tea consumption on the brain. A group of 36 healthy adults, with an average age of 71 years and mostly female, were divided into two groups: tea drinkers and non-tea drinkers. The tea drinking group had a history of consuming 4 to 6 cups of green, black, or oolong tea per week for approximately 25 years.

Research has indicated that tea has neuroprotective effects on Alzheimer’s disease. Building on this previous research, the researchers hypothesized that regular tea consumption would have positive effects on the brain’s organization and structure. They also predicted that tea drinking would reduce leftward asymmetry in structural connectivity and enhance connections in the Default Mode Network (DMN).

Through structural and functional imaging, the researchers analyzed the regional brain connectivity and overall brain organization of both groups. The goal was to understand how tea consumption affects the brain at both a local and global level. The study’s innovative approach diverged from previous tea studies, which predominantly relied on neuropsychological assessments instead of neuroimaging methods to investigate interregional connections in the brain.

The study’s results not only confirmed these hypotheses but also provided additional peer-reviewed evidence supporting the advantages of plant-based foods. When comparing neuropsychological and cognitive measures, the researchers found a significant difference between the tea-drinking and non-tea drinking groups in one of the 12 measures: the Block Design test.

There were no major distinctions observed in terms of functional network measures between the group of individuals who drink tea and those who do not. However, in the structural network, six regions located in the frontal cortex exhibited significant differences between the two groups. Additionally, the non-tea drinking group showed a greater degree of hemispheric asymmetry in the structural network.

Tea drinking enhances brain structure and connectivity, reducing asymmetry. It also strengthens connectivity within the Default Mode Network (DMN). These findings support the idea that tea has neuroprotective properties and can help prevent cognitive decline. Future research will focus on identifying the specific bioactive compounds in tea responsible for these benefits.

To view the original scientific study click below:
Habitual tea drinking modulates brain efficiency: evidence from brain connectivity evaluation

Stevia Found to be a Natural Antibiotic Against Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a tough nut to crack, with its ability to shape-shift and defy conventional antibiotics. But what if there was a safer and more effective solution? Enter Stevia rebaudiana, commonly known as stevia, a natural plant that could hold the key to combatting this increasingly prevalent infection.

In 2015 a groundbreaking preclinical study discovered that whole stevia leaf extract possesses extraordinary antibiotic properties against Borrelia burgdorferi, the culprit behind Lyme disease. What’s more, this study revealed that the mighty stevia extract can take on all known morphological forms of B. burgdorferi, making it a formidable weapon in the fight against this stubborn disease.

B. burgdorferi, the bacterium responsible for causing Lyme disease, possesses a fascinating and diverse life cycle. It can even exist as an L-form, which lacks a cell wall. But what makes it truly fascinating is its ability to enter a dormant state, making detection via polymerase chain reaction a challenge. And as if that wasn’t impressive enough, it also boasts high antibiotic resistance in the form of biofilms.

The recent study reveals that a significant percentage of patients suffer from adverse health effects even after receiving antibiotics for the recommended treatment duration. These effects can include debilitating fatigue, joint and muscle aches, and pain lasting over six months and present a serious challenge to medical professionals. While the destruction of beneficial gut microbes by antibiotics could contribute to these symptoms, there is also a disturbing possibility that the drugs push antibiotic-resistant forms of the disease deeper into the body, aggravating the condition. In light of the difficulties in eradicating B. burgdorferi using traditional antibiotics, researchers have turned to stevia as a potential antimicrobial.

While Stevia may not be traditionally recognized for its antimicrobial properties, all plants have natural defense systems that shield them from infection. By ingesting Stevia, you can tap into these protective attributes for your own benefit. The leaf extract of Stevia is packed with numerous phytochemicals. These compounds have been proven to combat a wide range of pathogens with their antimicrobial prowess.

The results of the study found stevia leaf extract proved to be a highly effective agent in reducing the forms of this stubborn bacteria. Unlike the individual antibiotics which actually increased the mass of the most antibiotic-resistant form of B. burgdorferi, Stevia successfully decreased the biofilm mass by an impressive 40% on both plastic and collagen surfaces. This natural product could be the key to combating B. burgdorferi effectively.

Although stevioside, a compound derived from the stevia plant, does not possess antimicrobial properties against B. burgdorferi or resistant cells, its potential as a medicinal treatment is not lost. This implies that popular stevia products made from this extract lack the medicinal benefits provided by the entire herb extract. This finding aligns with the well-established notion in natural medicine that the collective effect of a whole substance cannot be replicated by its individual components, nor is the therapeutic value of the whole equivalent to the sum of its parts.

While this study is preliminary and cannot be taken to mean that consuming whole stevia extract will yield clinical improvements comparable or superior to conventional antibiotics, it does pave the way for future research in this area. With stevia as a potential game-changer, there’s hope for a safer and more effective treatment. This groundbreaking study opens up a new avenue for Lyme disease treatment.

To view the original scientific studies click below:
Effectiveness of Stevia Rebaudiana Whole Leaf Extract Against the Various Morphological Forms of Borrelia Burgdorferi in Vitro

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