HEALTH RISKS OF FOOD DYES

One unique trait we enjoy in contrast to most of the animal kingdom is our ability to see in bright, vivid colour. Unfortunately, this is a trait that the processed food industry uses to it's full advantage, by adding the most cost-effective food colourings, in order to attract our attention. A recent study has conclusively shown a strong link between the chemicals in food dyes and childhood cancer, hyperactivity, and allergies. Some countries are already considering a complete ban on these synthetic additives that are commonly found in processed foods such as cereals, soft drinks, sweets, etc. Alternative food-derived dyes are available and commonly used, but instead of waiting for the food industry to take action, it's best to just avoid processed foods as much as possible. The closer food is to its natural form, the safer and healthier it will be.

PAIN KILLERS & HEARING LOSS

Whenever a patient tells me that they've stopped using pain pills, I always tell them that their stomach, liver, and kidneys will also be grateful. Surprisingly, it turns out that less pain pills will also help preserve your hearing. A study published recently in the American Journal of Medicine found an association between regular use of over the counter pain killers and hearing loss. The researchers from Harvard and Vanderbilt in the U.S. concluded that "regular use of aspirin, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen increases the risk of hearing loss in men, and the impact is larger on younger individuals." For men that were taking more than 2 pain pills every week the risk of hearing loss was much greater than those taking less than 2 per week. Remember, that covering up symptoms like pain may help you feel better temporarily, but you are potentially creating other long-term problems. Specific chiropractic care helps you function and feel better, which often results in less pain, naturally.