food and nutrition – MyWellness Network

Simple Steps to Reduce Toxic Exposures in Your Home

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A summary of “Exposures to Contemporary and Emerging Chemicals among Children Aged 2 to 4 Years in the United States Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcome (ECHO) Cohort” (DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c13605):

Study Overview

Participants: 201 U.S. children aged 2–4 (sampled between 2010 and 2021), across four states—California, Georgia, New York, and Washington—along with their mothers sampled during pregnancy pubs.acs.org+4rti.org+4sciencedaily.com+4.
Methods: Analysis of a single urine sample per child, testing for 111 chemical biomarkers spanning multiple classes sciencedaily.com+2rti.org+2phys.org+2.

Key Findings

Widespread Detection
- 96 out of 111 chemicals found in at least 5 children.
- 48 chemicals detected in over 50% of children.
- 34 chemicals appeared in > 90% of samples—including nine not previously tracked in national surveys like NHANES, e.g. benzophenone-1, triethyl phosphate, and several phthalates and emerging plasticizers sciencedaily.com+2rti.org+2phys.org+2.
Concentration Differences vs. Mom
Children showed higher levels than their mothers (collected during pregnancy) of:
- Bisphenol S (BPS)
- Three pesticide biomarkers
- Two phthalate metabolites
  Conversely, mothers had higher levels of triclosan and monoethyl phthalate sciencedaily.com+1phys.org+1 pubs.acs.org+11rti.org+11sciencedaily.com+11.
Temporal Trends
- Declining levels (2010–2021) for traditional chemicals: triclosan, parabens, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and most phthalates.
- Rising exposure to newer substances: DINCH (a BPA alternative plasticizer), neonicotinoid pesticides (e.g., acetamiprid), pyrethroids, and the herbicide 2,4‑D phys.org+1sciencedaily.com+1.
Vulnerable Subgroups
- Younger children (age 2), later-born siblings, and children from racial/ethnic minorities exhibited higher exposure levels phys.org+1sciencedaily.com+1.

Implications

Critical insight: Children are not just exposed—they are frequently exposed to a diverse, evolving mix of chemicals, many at higher levels than their prenatal exposure.
Health concern: Early childhood exposure overlaps with critical periods of brain development, hormonal regulation, and immune system maturation.
Policy recommendation: The study supports calls for expanded biomonitoring, especially of emerging chemicals, and stricter regulations to protect young children sciencedaily.com+2phys.org+2rti.org+2.

Practical Takeaways for Parents

Based on recommendations reflected in media summaries:

Prefer products labeled “phthalate-free,” “paraben-free,” and “fragrance-free.”
Avoid plastics with recycling codes #3, #6, and #7.
Maintain hygiene: frequent handwashing, well-ventilated homes, and regular dust cleaning.
Reduce pesticide exposure by washing produce thoroughly or choosing organic. phys.org+1sciencedaily.com+1

Bottom line

This landmark ECHO cohort study highlights that U.S. preschoolers are routinely exposed to a complex mixture of both legacy and novel chemicals—many not currently tracked at national levels. Levels are notably higher in more vulnerable subgroups, with emerging substitutes like DINCH and newer pesticides on the rise, underscoring the urgency for expanded monitoring and stronger child-focused environmental protections.

Hidden Dangers of Sugar-Free Products for Children

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Health Update: Hidden Dangers of Sugar-Free Products for Children

In an effort to reduce sugar consumption, many parents turn to sugar-free alternatives, believing them to be a healthier choice for their children. However, emerging research highlights potential risks associated with certain sugar substitutes, particularly for young children.

Glycerol in Slushies: A Growing Concern

A recent study has found that glycerol, a common additive in slushies and other frozen beverages, can have negative health effects on children under the age of 8. Glycerol is used to maintain a smooth texture and prevent ice crystallization, but it is also classified as a sugar alcohol, which can have unintended physiological impacts when consumed in large quantities.

Potential Health Risks of Glycerol in Young Children:

Gastrointestinal Distress – Glycerol acts as a humectant, drawing water into the intestines, which can lead to diarrhea, bloating, and stomach discomfort in young children.
Dehydration Risk – Due to its laxative properties, excessive glycerol intake can cause dehydration, a serious concern in small children who are more vulnerable to fluid imbalances.
Dizziness and Blood Pressure Fluctuations – In some cases, glycerol consumption has been associated with mild hypotension (low blood pressure), leading to dizziness, fatigue, or lightheadedness.
Metabolic Impact – While not classified as an artificial sweetener, glycerol is metabolized differently than glucose and may interfere with normal energy regulation in developing bodies.

Other Hidden Dangers in Sugar-Free Products:

Beyond glycerol, many sugar-free products contain artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols that can pose additional health risks for children:

Aspartame and Sucralose – Found in diet sodas and sugar-free candies, these artificial sweeteners have been linked to gut microbiome disruption and potential neurological effects in some studies.
Sorbitol and Xylitol – These sugar alcohols, commonly found in sugar-free gum and candies, are known to cause bloating, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, even in small amounts.
Erythritol – While often marketed as a “natural” sugar alternative, erythritol has been associated with increased risk of blood clotting in recent studies, which could have long-term implications.

What Parents Should Do:

Limit Sugar-Free Processed Foods: Just because a product is “sugar-free” does not mean it is safer or healthier.
Read Ingredient Labels Carefully: Watch for glycerol, sorbitol, aspartame, sucralose, and other sugar substitutes that may have unintended effects.
Choose Natural Sweeteners in Moderation: Honey, maple syrup, and fruit-based sweeteners are preferable alternatives when used responsibly.
Monitor Symptoms: If a child frequently experiences digestive discomfort or other adverse reactions after consuming sugar-free products, consider eliminating them from their diet.

Final Thoughts:

While reducing refined sugar intake is a worthwhile goal, replacing it with artificial alternatives or sugar alcohols may introduce new health risks. Parents should prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods and avoid excessive reliance on sugar-free processed products, especially for young children. As research continues to evolve, staying informed about food additives and their potential effects remains critical in safeguarding children’s health.

Long-COVID Update

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by Daniel Brouse

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has left an indelible mark on global health, demonstrating not only its immediate threat but also the potential for enduring consequences. This article explores the profound and lasting impact of COVID-19, delving into the virus’s role in chronic conditions and its ability to leave a lasting imprint on various aspects of health.

Long-Term Complications and Excess Deaths

A COVID-19 infection often leads to persistent complications that significantly diminish both the quality of life and life expectancy. Shockingly, 10% of excess deaths can be directly attributed to COVID itself, while the remaining 90% are attributed to what can be considered COVID’s silent killers. Individuals who have experienced COVID may face a diminished quality of life and an increased risk of premature death. Dr. Rob Wust underscores this by stating, “There is something inside the body going wrong with the disease.”

Long-COVID: A Looming Reality

For those who have contracted COVID, the probability of developing chronic conditions, known as Long-COVID, is a staggering 99%. This alarming statistic underscores the pervasive and lasting impact of the virus on an individual’s health.

Key Insights into COVID-19’s Long-Term Effects

Direct Impact on Organs:
- COVID-19 has been responsible for millions of deaths and has caused long-term damage to vital organs, leaving many survivors permanently disabled.
Persistent Viral Presence:
- SARS-CoV-2 can persist in the body for months or even years, causing chronic infections and leaving behind viral proteins associated with Long-COVID. This persistence is comparable to other viruses like Chicken Pox leading to Shingles or Epstein-Barr virus contributing to Mononucleosis and Multiple Sclerosis.
Compromised Immune System and Autoimmune Risks:
- Post-COVID individuals often experience a compromised immune system and an increased risk of autoimmune diseases. Local immune responses may be disturbed by both mental and physical exertion in long-COVID patients.
Genetic and Epigenetic Changes:
- SARS-CoV-2 induces genetic and epigenetic alterations to DNA, resulting in a compromised immune system, elevated risks of diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and damage to neurological, circulatory, and cardiovascular systems. Predisposed conditions are likely to escalate to more advanced stages.
Complexity of Long-COVID:
- Long-COVID is likely a multifaceted condition involving persistent virus presence, residual viral proteins, and lasting epigenetic and genetic changes, potentially lasting indefinitely.
Increased Risks with Reinfection:
- Reinfection with COVID amplifies the risks of death, hospitalization, and multi-organ damage, exacerbating underlying conditions across various bodily systems.

Understanding the epigenetic changes induced by COVID, including the downregulation of NAD+ and the impact on tryptophan, sheds light on the physical and mental health challenges faced by individuals. The deficiency in niacin, zinc, and vitamin D is a common consequence. It is crucial to recognize that COVID’s epigenetic changes may vary widely based on an individual’s genetic makeup, requiring tailored treatments for optimal outcomes.

COVID-19 / SARS-CoV-2 / Novel Coronavirus

Long-COVID: What We Know

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by Daniel Brouse
November 29, 2023

In February of 2020, I contracted SARS-CoV-2. Then, I continued to experience long-term complications and chronic conditions. The article Long COVID Update: 3 Years of Living With It describes the symptoms and the knowledge gained from the experience.

Now I am approaching 4 years and continue to get asked for help by others. Here is what I have learned:

Long-COVID has pretty much been classified into three categories — complications from the infection, persistent virus (chronic infection), and epigenetic changes. Complications from infection are lifelong chronic conditions most often seen in the lungs and respiratory system. Persistent virus can sometimes be cured with post-infection vaccination. Epigenetic changes can sometimes be reversed but many times they cannot. It is likely some epigenetic changes can become genetic changes that may be passed on to future generations (similar to cigarette smoking.)

The increase in excess deaths and long-term amplification of genetic conditions indicates most COVID complications cannot be cured. Unfortunately, this means a shorter life-expectancy as well as a diminished quality of life. On October 26, 2023, Insurance News Network reported, “Excess mortality is the difference between the total number of deaths for a specific time period and the number that would have been expected. The numbers were naturally forecast to climb during the pandemic, but some industry and health authorities are concerned the rates haven’t greatly diminished as COVID infection rates have declined.”

Personally, it forever messed with my blood pressure, lipid profile, hepatic function panel, A1C, and others.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The reason I am aware of my condition is because I am actively researching long-COVID and am aggressively pursuing medical testing. If you had COVID, there is a 99% chance that you, too, have chronic conditions. “SARS-CoV-2 causes genetic and epigenetic changes to your DNA. These changes include long-term compromising of the immune system, increased risk of diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, as well as, damaging the neurological, circulatory, and cardiovascular systems. Any ailments for which you are predisposed will likely be elevated to the next stage. See your doctor. Get all the tests you can especially blood work. If you have a family history of inherited genetic disorders, seek counsel from your physician. Many of the epigenetic changes are undetected for a year or two after infection; however, the sooner treatment is started, the better. Medications, diet, and other lifestyle changes can help treat the conditions, improve your quality of life, and increase your life expectancy.

High levels of cardiovascular issues have occurred in youth. We do not know why COVID causes this problem; however, it appears NAD+ is another common factor in the youth (in effect causing them to age faster/shortening life expectancy.) We don’t know if the two are related. Niacin is recommended to help stabilize NAD+.

Did you know that milk does not naturally contain vitamin D? How about that Niacin is added to breakfast cereals? This is because most Americans main source of D and Niacin is through their “fortified” breakfast fooda. Chances are large you are starting deficient in D and Niacin. Both of these slow the aging process and prevent diseases.

Niacin is crucial to NAD+. COVID hijacks the precursors that create NAD+. Niacin is a substitute. Niacin does not cure the cause but it does treat the symptoms. At my worst symptoms, I was taking 500mg/day. After the vaccines were invented and I was vaccinated, most of my “long-COVID” symptoms (brain-fog, fatigue, inflammation, etc) subsided. Vaccination appears to have cured the persistent virus part of the disease. The epigenetic changes still persist, though. Now, I take 50mg/day to help my naturally aging NAD+. The most important part of the Niacin protocol is that you are really taking Niacin — nicotinic acid — NOT no-flush Niacin. If you are deficient in Niacin, you will flush. This will help you know you are taking the right supplement. Here is our paper on it… please feel free to ask any questions and to have me on standby the first time you take it if you have concerns. Flushing is normal and will not harm you; nevertheless, you may want to start with a small dose to mentally prepare. The paper COVID, Vitamin B3 (Nicotinic Acid), and the Immune System helps explain Niacin in more detail.

Did you know that milk does not naturally contain vitamin D? How about that Niacin is added to breakfast cereals? This is because most Americans main source of D and Niacin is through their “fortified” breakfast foods. Chances are large you are starting deficient in D and Niacin. Both of these slow the aging process and help prevent diseases. Talk to your doctor about taking supplements.

Coronavirus: Science Based Information on the Covid-19 Virus

Natural Air Purifiers, Aromatic Plants, and Phytoncides

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By Daniel Brouse

Air pollution is: a leading cause of death worldwide, the leading cause of climate change, and the greatest threat to humankind. There is not much an individual can do about the outdoor air quality; however, there is a lot one can do to improve their individual air quality. The EPA reports, risks from long-term exposure to indoor pollution “include some respiratory diseases, heart disease and cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal. It is prudent to try to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if symptoms are not noticeable.” In the Spring of 2023, wildfires in Canada made the symptoms noticeable to many residents in the United States. Outdoor air quality measured hazardous for days in a row. When people could see and smell the air quality, it became obvious. Their indoor air quality also became noticeably poor.

With extreme weather events increasingly impacting both outdoor and indoor air quality, a long-term breathing experiment is underway.

No matter where your virgin air comes from, most likely the best way to purify the air is with plants.

The most famous study was conducted by NASA to remove formaldehyde from the air and found spider plants removed 95 percent of the toxic substance from a sealed Plexiglas chamber in 24 hours.

As part of the long-term breathing experiment we have cultivated multiple generations of spider plants. They are a great place for a novice to get started. Spider plants thrive in bright to moderate light. In the spring and summer, once-a-week watering is sufficient. During the winter, the soil should dry between waterings. (Spider plants are almost as easy to care for as cacti.) Snake plants are also easy to grow in all kinds of lighting situations, require little watering, and are one of the best air purifying plants.

Aromatic Plants and Phytoncides
Almost all plants are good for air purification. The spider plant and snake plants are great for taking pollutants out of the air, as well as optimize sustainability. The long-term breathing experiment is also looking at adding to the air quality.

Aromatherapy and Forest Bathing are easy to implement in your natural air purification experiment. Many plants can help take contaminants out of the air while adding medicinal properties to the air. Rosemary, mints, basil, sage, and most other herbs can add anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, anti-anxiety, stress, pain relief and other beneficial properties to air quality.

During the Air Quality Crisis of 2023, the long-term breathing experiment collided with the Tree Extinction Experiment. As part of the tree experiment, we grow a small nursery of trees in containers. Their main purpose is usually outside to act as a windblock for the structure to help reduce heating and cooling energy needs. Luckily, during the hazardous air quality days we were able to bring some (spruce and oak) inside to help purify the air and add phytoncides. The US Department of Agriculture reports, “These chemicals are natural oils that plants use to defend themselves against unwanted pests such as insects, bacteria or fungi. Phytoncides improve the human immune system by increasing natural killer cell activity. These cells respond rapidly to virus-infected cells and tumor formation. Studies show that increased natural cell activity can last for more than 30 days after a trip to a forest, suggesting that a trip once a month would enable individuals to maintain a higher level of natural killer cell activity. Other benefits from phytoncides include an increase in anti-cancer proteins; a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones; reduced test scores for anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion; and increased scores for vigor.”

Trees known to produce especially high levels of phytoncides include the evergreen trees (Cedars, Spruces, Conifers and Pine) and Oak trees.

Read the full article.

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