News, Notes and Newsletters August 2024

Heavy Metals Found in Tampons: A Cause for Concern?

Tampons, a widely used menstrual product, have recently come under scrutiny after a groundbreaking study detected the presence of heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, and 13 other metals. This “first study of its kind” revealed that tampons sold in the European Union, the US, and the UK contain these harmful substances, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. While the exact health implications of prolonged exposure to these metals through tampon use remain unclear, the findings highlight the need for further investigation and regulation to ensure the safety of menstrual products.

Understanding Entheogens in Religious and Cultural Contexts

Entheogens are psychoactive substances like psilocybin used in religious and spiritual contexts to induce profound changes in consciousness. Historically, cultures such as Native American peyote ceremonies have used these substances to facilitate mystical experiences. Recent research shows that entheogen-induced experiences are empirically similar to those from traditional religious practices, with “set and setting” being crucial for positive outcomes. Despite denominational opposition, studies suggest a promising future for this research area. The term “entheogen” was coined to distinguish these substances from “hallucinogens,” emphasizing their spiritual significance rather than connotations of delusion or false perceptions.

Combination Therapy Shows Promise in Reducing Sepsis Mortality

A 2017 study led by Dr. Paul Marik, published in the journal Chest, investigated the effectiveness of a combination therapy using intravenous vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and thiamine in treating patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. This retrospective before-after study, conducted in a single ICU, demonstrated promising results.

Intervention Details:

• Vitamin C: 1.5 grams every 6 hours for 4 days.
• Hydrocortisone: 50 mg every 6 hours for 7 days or until ICU discharge.
• Thiamine: 200 mg every 12 hours for 4 days.

Key Findings:

• Mortality Reduction: The treatment group experienced a significant decrease in hospital mortality, with rates dropping from 40.4% in the control group to just 8.5% in the treatment group¹.
• Improvement in Organ Function: The treatment group also showed a greater improvement in organ function, as evidenced by better SOFA scores, reduced duration of vasopressor use, and a lower need for renal replacement therapy².

References

1. Marik PE, Khangoora V, Rivera R, Hooper MH, Catravas J. Hydrocortisone, Vitamin C, and Thiamine for the Treatment of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Retrospective Before-After Study. Chest. 2017;151(6):1229-1238. doi:10.1016/j.chest.2016.11.036.
2. The Marik Protocol: Have We Found a “Cure” for Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock? The Bottom Line. 2017.

Digital Devices Could Be Harming Emotional Development

A recent study published in Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has revealed that using digital devices to manage children's tantrums can hinder their emotional regulation development later in life.

Researchers from Hungary and Canada found that frequent use of tablets or smartphones to calm children leads to poorer anger management skills and less effortful control as they grow older.

The study highlights that while digital devices may provide immediate relief from tantrums, they deprive children of the opportunity to learn essential emotional coping mechanisms. Instead, the study suggests that parental support and guidance in navigating emotions are crucial for healthy emotional development.

Teaching children to recognize and manage their emotions, rather than relying on digital distractions, is key to fostering long-term emotional well-being.

Reference

Konok V, Fitzpatrick C. Digital Devices Hinder Kids’ Emotional Regulation Development. Frontiers in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 2024.

Scientists Discover Missing Link Between Diet and Cancer Risk

Recent research indicates that changes in gut bacteria (microbiome) could be a crucial factor in understanding the link between diet and cancer risk. This connection is partly due to how diet influences the composition and function of gut bacteria, which in turn affects the body's immune response and inflammation levels.

Key Points:

1. Gut Microbiome Diversity: Diets rich in fibre, fruits, and vegetables promote a diverse and healthy gut microbiome. This diversity is associated with a lower risk of various cancers.
2. Protein Pacing Diets: These diets, which involve consuming protein at regular intervals throughout the day, may positively affect the gut microbiome by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
3. Inflammation and Immune Response: Certain gut bacteria can produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which have anti-inflammatory properties. A diet that fosters the growth of such bacteria can help reduce chronic inflammation, a known risk factor for cancer.
4. Metabolite Production: The gut bacteria produce various metabolites that can influence cancer risk. For example, some metabolites can protect against DNA damage, while others can promote cancer cell growth.

Dietary Recommendations:

• High Fibre: Increase intake of dietary fibres from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Probiotics and Prebiotics: Incorporate foods that contain beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and those that feed them (prebiotics), such as yoghurt, kefir, garlic, and onions.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with adequate protein, healthy fats, and limited processed foods to support overall gut health.

Common mineral supplement may prevent dementia

A recent study has found that a common mineral supplement, magnesium, may play a significant role in preventing dementia. The research suggests that individuals who consume over 550 milligrams of magnesium daily have a ‘brain age' nearly one year younger by age 55, compared to those who consume the average dose of around 350 mg daily. Dr. Khawlah Alateeq, Ph.D., from the ANU National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health and the study's lead author, highlighted the importance of these findings, stating, ‘Our study shows a 41% increase in magnesium intake could lead to less age-related brain shrinkage, which is associated with better cognitive function and a decreased risk or delayed onset of dementia in later life.' This suggests that increasing magnesium intake could be a simple yet effective strategy to support brain health and reduce the risk of dementia.

5 Different Types of Magnesium and When to Consume Them

1. Magnesium Citrate: Known for its high bioavailability, it is often recommended for improving digestion and relieving constipation. It is best taken on an empty stomach.
2. Magnesium Glycinate: This form is gentle on the stomach and is commonly used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It is suitable for individuals with magnesium deficiency.
3. Magnesium Oxide: While less absorbable, it is often used as a laxative and to relieve indigestion. It is one of the most commonly available forms.
4. Magnesium L-Threonate: Notable for its potential cognitive benefits, it may improve memory and brain function. It is often consumed to support mental clarity.
5. Magnesium Sulfate: Commonly known as Epsom salt, it is used externally in baths to relieve muscle soreness and reduce stress.

Each type of magnesium serves different purposes, and the best choice depends on individual health needs. Consulting a healthcare provider is advisable to determine the appropriate type and dosage.

Nestlé Criticism Over Baby Foods with Added Sugar

Nestlé has faced criticism for adding sugar and honey to its infant milk and cereal products sold in poorer countries. Investigations by Public Eye, a Swiss organisation, revealed that products sold in countries like the Philippines, South Africa, and Thailand contain unhealthy levels of sugar compared to their counterparts in Switzerland and other European countries. For example, in Senegal and South Africa, Nestlé's biscuit-flavoured cereals for infants have 6g of added sugar, whereas the same product in Switzerland contains none.

Adding sugar to baby foods is particularly unhealthy, as it predisposes children to prefer sweet foods, leading to long-term dietary issues and increasing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. The World Health Organisation advocates for a ban on added sugars in products for children under three.

Multinational corporations like Nestlé influence public health policies through lobbying and donations, often aligning health policies with commercial interests. In some instances, these companies collaborate with local institutions to fund research, potentially biasing public health initiatives. This contrasts with high-income countries, where strict guidelines on baby foods, such as the EU directive, help regulate the industry.

Our magazine and newsletter is free and all our content is open online. No payment needed. However, if you enjoy our content, you can buy Daleen a coffee!