Like many Americans, I grew up in the age of oversanitation in a house full of home cleaning products. My mom regularly scrubbed down our kitchen counter with household bleach. The sink was so shiny that it sparkled, and our floors were spotless. She didn't do this to hurt us; she thought it was keeping us safe.…
Do you have any idea what dragon's blood is? I'm not talking about the blood of a mythical creature, but rather the blood-red resin of a tree that has been known to heal wounds, stop bleeding and may even improve some gastrointestinal health problems such as ulcers. With scientifically proven abilities to lower inflammation and…
Have you ever experienced chronic pain that lasts for days, weeks, months or even years? If so, you know just how debilitating it can be. Not only does chronic pain interfere with just about every aspect of daily life, but it can also cause feelings of hopeless and intense frustration. According to a survey published…
Peritonitis is a serious infection or inflammatory response that can either be confined to the peritoneum (abdomen) or widespread. What can cause peritonitis? A number of things can trigger peritonitis. Peritonitis is usually caused by infection from bacteria or fungi that enter through a leakage or a hole in the digestive system, such as the intestines…
Elemental is defined as "primary or basic, related to or embodying the powers of nature." The elemental diet is a medical dietary strategy that uses very simple food solutions to provide essential nutrients, without adding a lot of stress to someone's already-overloaded digestive system. Variations of the elemental diet have been used safely by doctors since…
In mid-November 2017, the CDC released new information about a multidrug-resistant salmonella poisoning outbreak across several states in the U.S. Their report contained reports of the infection spanning 15 states, at least 54 people and 17 hospitalizations. So far, no deaths have been linked to this outbreak. However, it’s particularly concerning, because this strain of…
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis. The condition causes pain and stiffness in the back, and over time it can actually cause the bones in the spine (called the vertebrae) to fuse together. It also causes arthritis between the spine and pelvis, and may also affect other joints. Because it is a long-term inflammatory…
Uveitis is a group of eye conditions that cause inflammation in the eye (usually in the uvea, which is in between the outer and inner layers of the eye). (1) It can happen on its own or as part of another disease affecting the body. About 38,000 cases happen each year in the U.S. (2)…
Folate, also known vitamin B9, is one of many essential vitamins needed for copying and synthesizing DNA, producing new cells, and supporting nerve and immune functions. As a water-soluble B vitamin, it’s naturally present in some foods, added to others and available as a dietary supplement in the form of folic acid. Studies show that…
Proton-pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world. In fact, one study estimates Americans spend $11 billion on PPIs each year. (1) These popular pills are prescribed for the prevention and treatment of acid-relation conditions like acid reflux. But you may or may not be surprised to learn that…
