Starting With Our Heads

What we put in our bodies is as important as what we put on our bodies. Many products we use to clean, moisturize, beautify and protect also contain harmful chemicals which have been proven to cause rashes, allergies and worse- cancer. In this column, I am going to concentrate on hair care and hair dyes and bleaches. I will start with the head and move my way down the body, so check back for more valuable information.

According to Greg Horn, a leader in the health and wellness industry and author of “Living Green”, “If you wouldn’t eat it don’t put it on your skin.” Not that he expects you to eat your soap, but if it is not made from natural oils, herbs, vitamins and minerals- it probably isn’t good for you. If you can’t pronounce the ingredients, it most likely isn’t safe. Anything put on your body or scalp is absorbed into your body and affects your health and well being. There is no mandated requirement for safety testing on personal care products before they go on the market. The FDA has no power to regulate before there is a known problem. However the FDA does have the authority to require complete labeling for all ingredients. However, they DO NOT issue warning labels for products which contain dangerous and toxic ingredients. So if you want natural products, safe products, you have to be willing to seek them out. Learn to read labels and refuse to settle for anything but safe, effective and natural personal care products. When we all start doing this, the industry will have no choice but to provide safe, organic and natural products for their educated consumers.

Avoid the following ingredients in all personal care products:

Phthalates are a group of petrochemicals that are known to have endocrine disrupting properties. Phthalates are used to make rigid plastics soft and pliable and are also commonly added to cosmetics. Phthalates are linked to elevated rates of endocrine disruption and are possibly carcinogenic. Centers for Disease Control report found alarming rates of phthalates in urine and blood samples.

Formaldehyde - used as a preservative and often listed as quaternium 15 (which releases formaldehyde). Avoid products that contain any of this toxic chemical that can cause nerve damage, allergies, enhance your sensitivity to other chemicals and even cause cancer.

Dimethyl dimethyl hydantoin- A microbicide found in a wide range of products from hair conditioners to shampoos, hand soaps, baby wipes and sunscreens. DMDM hydantoin can break down to ingredients that trigger skin sensitivities.

Methyl, Propyl, Butyl, Ethyl Paraben and Parabens — Used as inhibitors of microbial growth and to extend shelf life of products. These have caused many allergic reactions and skin rashes. Studies have shown that they are weakly estrogenic and can be absorbed by the body through the skin. Widely used even though they are known to be toxic. They are usually combined with other chemicals, parabens have been found in breast tissue samples of women with breast cancer, although no firm link has yet been scientifically established. But if you don’t need it, why risk it?

Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA) — Often used in cosmetics as emulsifiers and/or foaming agents. They can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation and dryness of hair and skin. DEA and TEA are “amines” (ammonia compounds) and can form cancer-causing nitrosamines when they come in contact with nitrates. Toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time.

Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea — These are widely used preservatives. The American Academy of Dermatology has found them to be a primary cause of contact dermatitis. Two trade names for these chemicals are Germall II and Germall 115. Neither of the Germall chemicals contains a good antifungal agent, and they must be combined with other preservatives. Both these chemicals release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.

Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate — A cheap, harsh detergent used in shampoos for its cleansing and foam-building properties. Often derived from petroleum, it is frequently disguised in pseudo-natural cosmetics with the phrase “comes from coconuts.” It causes eye irritation, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, skin rashes and other allergic reactions.

Petrolatum — Also known as petroleum jelly, this mineral oil derivative is used for its emollient properties in cosmetics. It has no nutrient value for the skin and can interfere with the body’s own natural moisturizing mechanism, leading to dryness and chapping. It often creates the very conditions it claims to alleviate. Manufacturers use petrolatum because it is unbelievably cheap.

Propylene Glycol — This is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain alcohol, both of which are natural. Usually it is a synthetic petrochemical mix used as a humectant. It has been known to cause allergic reactions, hives and eczema. When you see PEG (polyethylene glycol) or PPG (polypropylene glycol) on labels, beware—these are related synthetics.

PVP/VA Copolymer — A petroleum-derived chemical used in hairsprays, styling aids and other cosmetics. It can be considered toxic, since inhaled particles can damage the lungs of sensitive persons.

Stearalkonium Chloride — A quaternary ammonium compound used in hair conditioners and creams. Developed by the fabric industry as a fabric softener, it is a lot cheaper and easier to use in hair conditioning formulas than proteins or herbals, which are beneficial to the hair. Causes allergic reactions. Toxic.

Synthetic Colors — along with synthetic hair dyes, should be avoided at all costs. They will be labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number. Example: FD&C Red No. 6 / D&C Green No. 6. Many synthetic colors can be carcinogenic. If a cosmetic contains them, don’t use it.

Synthetic Fragrances — The synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics can have as many as 200 ingredients. There is no way to know what the chemicals are, since on the label it will simply read “fragrance.” Some problems caused by these chemicals include headaches, dizziness, rash, hyper pigmentation, violent coughing, vomiting, skin irritation—the list goes on.

Aluminum Chlorohydrate or Aluminum Zirconium – Often found in deodorant. These compounds are very soluble and are readily absorbed by the body. Once in the body, the aluminum portion of the molecule ionizes, forming free radical aluminum (Al+++) This passes freely across cell membranes and forms a physical plug, that when dissolved is selectively absorbed by the liver, kidney, brain, cartilage and bone marrow. It is this concentration of aluminum that has been the source for concern in the medical community, and has prompted the research being done on Alzheimer’s disease and Breast Cancer victims.

Coal Tar: Coal Tar is a thick liquid or semi-solid obtained as a by-product in the destructive distillation ofbituminous coal. In the United States, Coal Tar may be used as an active ingredient in OTC drug products. When used as an active drug ingredient, the established name is Coal Tar. Coal Tar has reported used in the following product types: dandruff/scalp treatment, shampoo, bath oil/salts/soak , anti-itch/rash cream, eczema/damaged skin treatment , conditioner

Lead Acetate: Lead Acetate is the inorganic salt. See Used in the following product types: hair color and bleaching, styling gel/lotion , dandruff/scalp treatment. Causes cancer and is extremely toxic. The same lead we are trying to avoid in paint is found in some personal care products (mostly hair dye).

The human body has a few areas that it uses to purge toxins: Behind the knees, ears, groin area and armpits. The toxins are purged in the form of perspiration. Antiperspirant, as the name clearly indicates, prevents you from perspiring, thereby inhibiting the body from purging toxins from below the armpits. These toxins do not magically disappear. Instead the body deposits them in the lymph nodes below the arms since it cannot sweat them out. This causes a high concentration of toxins that leads to cell mutation a.k.a. Cancer. Nearly all Breast Cancer tumors occur in the upper outside quadrant of the breast area. This is where lymph nodes are located.


Are Hair Dyes to Die For?

THE PROBLEM:
Some 35-40% of women ages 18 to 60 color their hair. Research shows a strong connection between the use of commercial hair dyes and various forms of cancer. Researchers at the National Cancer Institute estimate 20% of all cases of non-Hodgkins lymphoma, the cancer that killed Jackie Kennedy Onassis, are due to women using commercial hair dyes. There is also a very high incidence of cancer among hairdressers. Some of the most popular brands that can be purchased at your favorite grocery and drug store contain the most toxic and dangerous ingredients.

TIPS:
1. Put off using permanent and semi-permanent hair coloring products as long as possible.
Avoid the extremely dark shades of hair dye products— brunettes, blacks, and blues seem to pose highest risk.
2. Use as infrequently as possible.
3. If you must use a product with coal-tar dyes, try to choose one with the least number and lowest concentrations of any dyes. Although not perfect, the safest permanent and semi-permanent hair dye products are likely to be found at health food stores and natural health centers. These represent the best and safest choices you can make. See below for a list of natural hair dyes.
4. Read labels. Marketing claims on personal care products are not defined under the law, and can mean anything or nothing at all, including claims like organic, natural, hypoallergenic, animal cruelty free, and fragrance free. Read the ingredient label carefully to find evidence that the claims are true. For instance Herbal Essences is rated one of the worst hair dyes on the market.
5. Choose products that are "fragrance"-free. Fragrances can cause allergic reactions. Products that claim to be "fragrance free" on the packaging may not be. They could contain masking fragrances that give off a neutral odor. Read the ingredient label — in products truly free of fragrance, the word "fragrance" will not appear there
6. FDA Consumer magazine says, “Consumers might also want to consider using henna, which is largely plant derived.

THE SOLUTION:
There are safe, natural and very effective hair coloring products available that can color hair without the dangers of the chemicals described above. One of the primary herbal ingredients is known as henna, and it was used by Cleopatra as one of her eternal beauty secrets. Today Natural Hair Color can achieve a wide range of botanical-based colors with no chemical additives.

SAFE ALTERNATIVES:

Light Mountain http://www.internatural-alternative-health.com/light_Mountain/Light_Mountain_Natural_Hair_Color_and_Conditioner.cfm
Rainbow www.rainbowresearch.com
Manic Panic www.manicpanic.com – crazy hair colors
Fanciful www.thecolomergroup.com

Resources:
• www.ewg.org - Environmental Working Group
• www.cosmeticdatabase.com – Skin Deep by the Environmental Working Group. This amazing website allows you to rate all personal care products and see which ones are safe and which ones are toxic.
• Living green by Greg Horn, Freedom Press, www.freedompress.com
• Aubrey-Organics, www.aubrey-organics.com



TAMPA BAY SAFE SHOPPING:

Hair Salons:

Asonipse Spa & Salon
Aveda Concept Salon- uses Aveda and sells Aveda products which are plant derived. Some products contain fragrance. Semi-permanent haircolor is 99% natural, permanent is 97% natural. Both last a long time.
813-662-3848
6136 Winthrop Town Centre Avenue, Riverview, Florida 33569

Shops:

Seedlings
Sell organic products for babies and children including: baby food, shampoos, cleansers, clothing and bedding.
813-251-5111
1530 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, Florida 33629
www.seedlings.com

Happy Paws & Tails
Sell organic and natural dog food and treats.
813-661-5138
6032 Winthrop Town Centre Ave, Riverview, FL 33568
www.happypawsandtails.net

Organic Markets:
Tampa

M D Oriental Market, 1106 E Fowler Ave • Tampa, FL 33612
813-868-1688

Abby’s Health and Nutrition, 14374 N Dale Mabry Hwy • Tampa 33618
813-265-4951

Nature’s Harvest Market, 1021 North MacDill Ave. • Tampa 33607
813-873-7428

Village Health Market, 3225 S MacDill Ave • Tampa 33629
813-831-6065

Chuck’s Natural Marketplace, 11301 North 56th St • Temple Terrace, FL 33617 •
813- 980-2005

Brandon / Lithia/Valrico

Chuck’s Natural Food Marketplace, 114 North Kings Avenue, Brandon
813-657-2555

Natures Health Foods and Café, 3443 Lithia Pinecrest • Valrico 33594

New Port Richey

Nature’s Storehouse New Port Richey, 9131 Little Rd New Port Richey, FL 34654
727-862-6878

Wright’s Nutrients New Port Richey, 6630 US Hwy 19 • New Port Richey
727-848-5140

Palm Harbor / Tarpon Springs

Palm Harbor Natural Foods, 30555 US Highway 19 North Palm Harbor, FL
727-786-

Super Vitamin Outlet, 32510 US Hwy 19 North • Palm Harbor 34684
727-786-5994

Spring Hill

The Green Bean Organic Marketplace, 11020 Northcliffe Blvd and Mariner Blvd Spring Hill 34608
352-688-7979

References:
1. Doctors’ Prescription for Healthy Living Newsletter, Volume 2, Number The article is footnoted with numerous references and research on the subject.
2. The Safe Shoppers’ Bible by David Steinman and Samuel Epstein, M.D. (foreword by Ralph Nader) Macmillan, NY 1995, pp 240-244
3. The Breast Cancer Prevention Program by Samuel Epstein, M.D. and David Steinman (authors of the Safe Shoppers’ Bible), Macmillan, NY 1997, pp 225-231, 241-243, 328
4. Being A Woman—Naturally by Dr. Jan McBarron, M.D., Freedom Press, Topanga, CA 2002, pp 83-88, 176

Is this making my kid hyper?

Is this making my kid hyper?

Ritalin is not a cure.

It is a quick-fix for behavioral problems that does not address the underlying cause. Fortunately, there is help. Studies in Australia and the U.S. have shown that almost three-quarters of ADHD-diagnosed children show remarkable improvement when placed on diets which eliminate dyes, preservatives and foods commonly associated with allergic reactions (cow’s milk, wheat, soy, eggs, corn, chocolate, yeast, orange and apple juice). In the 1970’s, Dr. Benjamin Feingold found that many of the hyperactive children were allergic to artificial flavors, colorings, preservatives, and the salicylic compounds found in aspirin and many berry fruits.

A carefully designed study released last month in The Lancet, a leading British medical journal, shows that a variety of common food dyes and the preservative sodium benzoate -- an ingredient in many soft drinks, fruit juices, ice cream, candy and other foods -- causes some children to become more hyperactive and distractible than usual.




The study prompted Britain's Food Standards Agency to issue an immediate advisory to parents to limit their children's intake of additives if they notice an effect on behavior. In the U.S., there's been no such official response, but doctors say it makes sense for parents to be on the alert.




The research, led by Jim Stevenson, a professor of psychology at England's University of Southampton, included about 300 children in two age groups: 3-year-olds and 8- and 9-year-olds. Over three one week periods, the children were randomly given one of three fruit drinks daily: one contained the amount of dye and sodium benzoate typically found in a British child's diet, a second drink had a lower concentration of the additives, and a third was additive-free. All the children spent a week drinking each of the three mixtures, which looked and tasted alike. During each week long period, teachers and parents, who did not know which drink the kids were getting, used a variety of standardized behavior-evaluation tools -- some observational and one computer-based -- to size up such qualities as restlessness, lack of concentration, fidgeting, and talking or interrupting too much.

Some were given a mixture including four colorings -- sunset yellow, carmoisine, tartrazine and ponceau -- and sodium benzoate. A second group was given the preservative sodium benzoate and four colorings -- sunset yellow, carmoisine, quinoline yellow and allura red. A third group received a placebo.



The older children showed a "significantly adverse effect" from both dye mixes, but the adverse reaction of 3-year-olds was rated significant only for the first mix.




Acting on the research, the Food Standards Agency advised parents concerned about hyperactivity to avoid letting their children consume any of the additives involved in the Southampton study.



"If a child shows signs of hyperactivity or ADHD (attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder) then eliminating the colors used in the Southampton study from their diet might have some beneficial effects," said Dr. Andrew Wadge, the agency's chief scientist.

"However, we need to remember that there are many factors associated with hyperactive behavior in children. These are thought to include genetic factors, being born prematurely, or environment and upbringing."




Stevenson found that children in both age groups were significantly more hyperactive when drinking the stuff containing additives. Three-year-olds had a bigger response than the older kids to the lower dose of additives -- roughly the same amount of food coloring as in two 2-oz. bags of candy. And, there were big individual differences in sensitivity. While the effects were not nearly so great as to cause full-blown ADHD, Stevenson nonetheless warns that "these adverse effects could affect the child's ability to benefit from the experience of school."





He notes that a separate pilot study found that kids can become more hyperactive within one hour of consuming food additives.




The Lancet study is the first to nail down a link between artificial ingredients and hyperactivity, though the connection has long been suspected and was the basis for the Feingold Diet, which eliminates all artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners and preservatives and was popularized in the 1970s as a treatment for ADHD. Though such a diet alone is not a proven treatment for ADHD, some clinicians routinely advise parents of kids with ADHD to stick with a more natural diet.

If parents are concerned about any additives they should remember that, by law, food additives must be listed on the label so they can make the choice to avoid the product if they want to.


Put Limits on Juice


If your child likes juice, be sure to serve 100% juice. Also follow these recommended limits:
Up to 6 months old: no juice
6-12 months old: no more than 4 ounces (120 milliliters) per day, always served in a cup
1-6 years old: 4-6 ounces (120-180 milliliters) of juice per day
7-18 years old: 8-12 ounces (240-360 milliliters) of juice per day


Say No to Soda


Soda is commonly served to children, but this carbonated drink has no nutritional value and is high in sugar. One study found that one in eight preschool children drank 9 ounces (270 milliliters) or more of soda a day, which is 110-150 empty calories. Colas and other sodas often contain caffeine, which kids don’t need. If soda habits start when kids are young, they’re likely to drink increasing amounts as they get older. In older kids and adolescents, drinking soda has been linked to excessive weight gain and other problems, including tooth decay. Many kids like soda and will request it. As a rule, don’t serve it to babies, toddlers, or preschoolers. With older kids, let them know it’s a once-in-a-while beverage. Don’t ban it entirely if your child likes it now and then - that’s likely to make it more alluring, and your child more inclined to overdo it when he or she gets the chance!