Community News

Common Environmental Chemicals In Diet Affect Fetal Ovarian Development
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/07/070704144531.htm

Eau De Lawsuit: Woman Sues Over Scent
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/07/05/ap/strange/main3017287.shtml

Dog sniffs out mold problem in Western Pa.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_515796.html

Worker Sues Over Co-Worker's Perfume
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070704/METRO01/707040355/1006&template=printart

Opting for Organics
http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070703/HEALTH/707030345

Judge Orders OSHA to Release Toxic Info
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/T/TOXIC_WORKPLACES

Is Your Mattress Making You Sick?
http://www.cbn.com/CBNnews/108278.aspx

Multiple chemical sensitivity: Fact or fiction?
http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/features_julieshealthclub/2007/07/is-multiple-che.html

EPA Silent on Air Pollution Experts' Conflicts of Interest
http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2007/07/epa-silent-on-a.html

Pathogens & People: Internet helps spread delusion that Morgellons a disease
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/07_01-25/COL

Activists: Herbicide Spraying a Risk
http://www.precaution.org/lib/07/prn_herbicide_risk.070624.htm

Inside MCS America

The Ready-to-Go Activist

This month we added a new webpage to the MCS America website called The Ready-to-Go MCS Activist.
http://mcs-america.org/index_files/ReadytoGoMCSActivist.htm

The purpose of the Ready-to-Go MCS Activist is to provide pre-designed letters for varying educational and activist efforts. Many times we want to write a letter to an establishment, individual, or other entity to educate them and request they change their practices. The hardest part used to be writing the letter, and often it never happened because there was no time or ill health got in the way. Now, letters exist that can be customized and printed by you. Simply open the applicable link, add the date, print, sign, and mail.

Current letters include:

Fragrances on Mail and/or Catalogs
http://mcs-america.org/FragrancedMailCatalogBillsLetterforActivists.doc

Air Freshener Use
http://www.mcs-america.org/customairfreshenerletter.doc

Use of Fragrance, Cologne, and Perfume
http://mcs-america.org/UseofFragranceLetterforActivists.doc

More will be added each month. Check back soon!

To suggest a letter or contribute a letter:
activism@mcs-america.org

The PCB In Me

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are mixtures of up to 209 individual chlorinated compounds (known as congeners) and refer to a class of chlorinated, chemical compounds that includes numerous different substances favored for their low conductivity, high boiling point, chemical stability, and flame retardant properties., "There are no known natural sources of PCBs. PCBs are either oily liquids or solids that are colorless to light yellow. Some PCBs can exist as a vapor in air. PCBs have no known smell or taste. Many commercial PCB mixtures are known in the U.S. by the trade name Aroclor."2 Monsanto Company, the sole manufacturer of PCBs in the United States from 1929-1977, produced over 700,000 tons of PCBs.1 PCB's were often used for insulating and cooling electrical equipment, particularly in transformers, large capacitors, and fluorescent lamp ballasts due to their low flammability.1

The EPA suggests that "PCBs are released into the environment from (1) items that contain PCBs introduced deliberately for their useful chemical properties, (2) inadvertent generation during certain production processes, and (3) storage and disposal facilities" as primary sources.1 PCB's, now mostly banned were previously used in the production of dielectric fluids for transformers, capacitors, and other electrical components as well as synthetic resins, epoxy paints, protective coatings, and hydraulic and heat transfer fluids.1

A group of persistent and widely distributed environmental pollutants, PCB's are known to cause neurotoxic effects, endocrine disruption, cancer, and reproductive abnormalities. Individuals may suffer exposure through the use old fluorescent lighting fixtures, electrical devices, and appliances that were made at least 30 years ago. Food borne exposure is common when eating fish, especially sport fish caught in contaminated lakes or rivers, as well as some meats and dairy products.2 Other sources of exposure include hazardous waste sites, contaminated well water, and workplace exposure during repair and maintenance of PCB transformers, fluorescent lights, and other old electrical devices.2 An example of a common source of non-occupational exposure is a leaking power transformer on an electrical pole on a residential street.

Symptoms of PCB exposure include skin conditions such as acne and rashes, stomach problems, thyroid gland injuries, cancer, changes in the immune system, behavioral alterations, impaired reproduction, liver damage, and death.2 Laboratory tests can determine levels of PCB in blood, body fat, and breast milk.2 However, like many tests for toxicants, it is rarely ordered by physicians and no specific limits are set for cases of poisoning.

The EPA has set a limit of 0.0005 milligrams of PCBs per liter of drinking water (0.0005 mg/L).2 Infant foods, eggs, milk and other dairy products, fish and shellfish, poultry and red meat may contain no more than 0.2-3 parts of PCBs per million parts.2 However, it is conceivable that no amount may be safe. Each little bit adds to the overall environmental and body burden. Since PCBs are a persistent pollutant, each little bit adds to the bits before for an ever increasing PCB burden.

PCBs are recognized as persistent environmental pollutants, which are resistant to degradation and can be found in surface soil. They accumulate in animal tissues and have been known to interfere with reproductive processes. This accumulation has been found in many human tissues, including follicular fluid, uterus, placenta and ovarian/uterine cells In addition, PCB's have been shown to bioaccumulate in rivers and seas, as well as detritivorous fish and bluefin tuna. Fish intake was associated with elevated PCB levels in pregnant women from Taiwan.14 A study showed concentrations of PCBs were significantly higher in otters that died of infectious disease, suggesting an association between elevated PCB concentrations and infectious diseases.15

Since PCB's present no odor, determining if there is a clear and present danger can be difficult. Testing is required to determine exposure.

PCBs are resistant to metabolism and can accumulate and biomagnify.16 PCB's are easily stored in body fat and losing weight may mobilize PCB's and other toxicants, causing illness. "The pharmacokinetic behavior of dioxinlike compounds and PCBs is largely governed by three major factors: 1) lipophilicity, 2) binding to CYP1A2 leading to hepatic sequestration, and 3) relative rates of metabolism. v controls the rate and extent of absorption, tissue distribution, and passive elimination."16

Therefore, the main detoxifying mechanism for PCB's is to convert this fat-soluble substance into a water-soluble substance for ease of excretion. Sauna therapy may be helpful as the sauna heats body fat, which may mobilize PCB's into the blood stream where they can be then be excreted. Adequate nutrition and supplementation may also play a key roll to ensure the liver
detoxification system is supported and properly functioning. And, as always, avoiding exposure in the first place is the best measure!

-LS

References

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1998). Great Lakes Binational Toxics Strategy Stakeholder Forum. PCB's Workgroup. Retrieved on July 22, 2007 from: http://www.epa.gov/glnpo/bnsdocs/pcbsrce/pcbsrce.html

2. ToxFAQsT for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. February 2001. Retrieved on July 22, 2007 from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts17.html.

3. Frame GM, Cochran JW, Bowadt SS (1996). Complete PCB congener distributiosn for 17 Aroclor mixtures determined by 3 HRGC system optimized for comprehensive quantitiative congener-specific analysis. Journal of High Resolution Chromatography. 19:657-658.

4. Ren N, Que M, Li YF, Liu Y, Wan X, Xu D, Sverko E, Ma J (2007). Polychlorinated biphenyls in Chinese surface soils. Environ Sci Technol. Jun 1;41(11):3871-6.

5. Arnold DL, MEs J, Bryce F, Karpinski K, Bickis MG, Zawidzka ZZ, Stapley R (1990). A piolot study on the effect of Aroclor 1254 iingestion by Rhesus and Cynomologuys monkeys as a model for human ingestion of PCB's. Food and Chemical Toxicology. 28:847-857.

6. Kamarianos A, Karamanalis X, Goulas P, Theodosiadou E, Smokovitis A (2003). The presence of environmental pollutants in follicular fluid of farm animals. Reproductive Toxicology. 17:185-195.

7. Lindenau A, Fisher B, Seiler P, Beier HM (1994). Effects of persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons on reproductive tissues in female rabbits. Human Reproduction. 9:772-780.

8. Panasen M (1999). The expression and regulation of drug metabolism in human placenta. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews. 14:81-97.

9. Kotwica J, Wrobel M, & Mlynarczuk J (2006). The influence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and phytoestrogens in vitro on functioning of reproductive tract in cow. Reproductive Biology. 6(1):189-194.

10. Rowe AA, Totten LA, Xie M, Fikslin TJ, Eisenreich SJ (2007). Air-water exchange of polychlorinated biphenyls in the Delaware River. Environ Sci Technol. 2007 Feb 15;41(4):1152-8.

11. Zhang P, Song J, Liu Z, Zheng G, Zhang N, He Z (2007). PCBs and its coupling with eco-environments in Southern Yellow Sea surface sediments. Mar Pollut Bull. Jun 25

12. Colombo JC, Cappelletti N, Migoya MC, Speranza E (2007). Bioaccumulation of anthropogenic contaminants by detritivorous fish in the Rio de la Plata estuary: 2-Polychlorinated biphenyls. Chemosphere. Jul 10.

13. Corsolini S, Sara G, Borghesi N, Focardi S (2007). HCB, p,p'-DDE and PCB ontogenetic transfer and magnification in bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) from the Mediterranean Sea. Environ Sci Technol. Jun 15;41(12):4227-33.

14. Huang MC, Chao HR, Wang SL, Hung HC, Wang YS, Pan WH (2007). Food Addit Contam. 2007 Jul;24(7):784-91. Associations of diet with body burden of dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs): observations on pregnant women from central Taiwan. Food Addit Contam. Jul;24(7):784-91.

15. Kannan K, Perrotta E, Thomas NJ, Aldous KM (2007). A Comparative Analysis of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Southern Sea Otters that Died of Infectious Diseases and Noninfectious Causes. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol. 2007 Aug;53(2):293-302. Epub 2007 Jun 11.

16. Van den Berg M, LBirnbaum L, Bosveld A, Brunström B, Cook P, Feeley M, Giesy JP, Hanberg A, Hasegawa R, Kennedy SW, Kubiak T, Larsen JC, Rolaf van Leeuwen FX, Djien Liem AK,14 Nolt C, Peterson RE, Poellinger L, Safe S, Schrenk D, Tillitt D, Tysklind M, Younes M, Wærn F, & Zacharewski T. Toxic Equivalency Factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, PCDFs for Humans and Wildlife. Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 106, Number 12, December 1998.

Sal's Place: McBride Sues Over Perfume in the Workplace

McBride Sues Over Perfume in the Workplace:
Banning Fragrances & Cigarette Smoke to Improve Health

Susan McBride works for the US city of Detroit. McBride is suing the city under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to encourage the city to establish a fragrance-free policy mandating that employees come to work un-scented just like they come to work and leave the cigarettes outside.

Like cigarettes, fragrances contain neurotoxicants that have been scientifically proven to reduce air flow and cause neurotoxicity. The ingredients in common perfumes are actually toxicants that harm everyone forced to share the same airspace. Perfume is not required for hygiene and often just plain stinks. A daily shower solves the problem of odor management quite easily and avoids the effect of sweat mixed with cologne that is quite offensive. A change to a healthier diet for an individual with exceptionally bad body odor generally corrects the odor. Perfume. on the other hand, just adds to the stench.

A study at Anderson Laboratories in Vermont concluded that fragrance chemicals caused a variety of acute toxicities in mice after an hour long exposure to breathing five commercial colognes. The researchers discovered "the emissions of these fragrance products caused various combinations of sensory irritation, pulmonary irritation, decreases in expiratory airflow velocity, as well as alterations of the functional observational battery indicative of neurotoxicity." A computerized test was used to detect decreases in expiratory flow velocity, indicating airflow limitation. Mice exposed to toilet water, rather than cologne, did not show any change in air flow velocity, pulmonary function, or neurological function. "Neurotoxicity was more severe after mice were repeatedly exposed to the fragrance products. Evaluation of one of the test atmospheres with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry revealed the presence of chemicals for which irritant and neurotoxic properties had been documented previously" which confirmed the presence of these damaging chemicals in the colognes (Anderson & Anderson, 1998).

Many people do not realize that fragrances have changed over the years and are not regulated by law. Once a pleasant and natural oil from a plant, fragrances are now made with many chemical ingredients that have become harmful to human health and are not disclosed on the label. When people walk around wearing these fragrances, they share them with everyone around them. Breathing second-hand fragrance is like breathing second-hand smoke. It has all the same effects amounting to acute toxicity. Wearing cologne affects all those who share the same air space, including pets and children who are at increased risk due to their smaller size. Asthmatics, respiratory patients, and the chemically sensitive can also be seriously injured by fragrances. The effects are not limited to these groups though. Even the wearer is sacrificing good health.

Synthetic fragrances are unnecessary and often unpleasant for others to smell. The media has misled us to believe that scents make us sexy and attractive. Quite to the contrary, like animals, our bodies put out our own distinct scent that is sexually attractive. Many cannot tolerate being near these toxicants and avoid them. More and more employers are enacting fragrance free policies in the workplace leading to a proven reduction of migraines and missed work. The Oregon police department is one such employer and their fragrance policy is already part of their employee handbook and can be read at:
http://www.mcs-america.org/PortlandCallCenterFragranceFreePolicy.doc
and
http://www.mcs-america.org/PortlandRecordsDeptFragranceFreePolicy.doc

Before fragrances emerged on the market the human species still mated and reproduced. This shows that fragrances are not necessary to attract the opposite sex. Quite to the contrary, much like animals, we use body scent to attract mates. Some fragrance manufacturers have realized this and are now marketing fragrances that smell like sweat. Unfortunately these fragrances are synthetic, made with chemicals known for their neurotoxic effects.

Like smoking, this is an issue of the health of all employee's in the workplace. Smoking has been banned inside and in many states is also banned near doors and windows. Perfume and synthetic fragrances are already in the works. Fortunately, there are many natural, healthy alternatives.\

Cited Reference
Anderson RC & Anderson JH. Acute toxic effects of fragrance products. Arch Environ Health. 1998 Mar-Apr;53(2):138-46.

Thank God for Michael Moore by Alan Moses

There are times when just one person stands out from the rest. Michael Moore has done this in his new video Sicko, and we see the results. He gives us the truth, the government claims, and the law violations as he sought the truth. Sicko shows the restrictions that are being applied to us all. If you challenge the powers that be, they will attack and make claims to discredit you. Junk scientist, far left, Liberal, Gay or whatever can be thought of as not moral or Christian.

As with most wars or civilization turmoil, religion is used as an excuse. The religion factor was involved when we became a nation independent of British rule. 200 years have past and not much has changed on the global experience. The tactics have changed, yet the desire has not. World domination is the goal and is being sought.

We pride ourselves for being the warriors of freedom, yet we have less than most industrialized nations. Holding thirty-seventh place in healthcare is just one concern. The need for the populace to become educated is paramount, but unlike others in the west, we don't provide college educations free. As far as greening America, this has been an after thought. Only when the excuses run out, do we react.

People like the writer Ann Coulter can attack and be allowed to use terminology that others can't. If she was a so-called Liberal she would have been silenced long ago. If you desire the truth in health care, politics, life, or religion there must be another place. America is no longer for you as Michael says "we fear our government." If you deny this sad fact, you are only lying to yourself. The promises that I grew up with are no longer here.

We never react to what is important or truthful. We just accept and try and deal with our own lives. The complications are many, as just paying our bills can be overwhelming. Time is not an option, as we have none. We are so free that we have to pay for every right that we have. If we can't afford the right, then we suffer for it.

I hope you all watch "Sicko" as this movie will enlighten you to the realities of life. Michael again shows us how America is faltering. It is your choice to accept things as they are or to fight for the rights that most of the other industrialized world has. The world must be allowed to understand itself before we can claim that we understand it.

Time is running out, but we are silent. Are we being weak or ignorant? Sometime between 2030 and 2050, China will be the superpower that we once were as history repeats itself.

Fight for your freedom don't allow it to be taken. The choice is yours and it is your right to speak up. I hope that you will, as silence begets silence.

-Alan Moses

Copyrighted © 2007 Alan Moses
Edited and Reprinted with Permission.

Letters to the Editor

Thank You for the Ready-to-Go Activist Webpage!

Dear Editor:

Thank you so much for the Ready-to-Go Activist webpage. I sent three copies of the letter related to perfumed mail inserts to the CEO of a department store which has continually sent me a bill with perfume, as well as sale catalogs, all with heavily perfumed inserts. I mailed them to three different addresses, one in the East, one in the West, and one in the Midwest to make sure my voice was heard. These addresses are easily found while doing an internet search.

Within a week I received two letters acknowledging my requests to receive all bills and catalogs scent free. They said it would take them at least eight weeks to make this part of my permanent mailing request, however they accomplished it already. I have already received the first of my scent free envelopes for billing after years of perfume assault! All catalogs already seem to be scent free as well without any of the injuring perfumed inserts.

Thank you so much for the easy letter options. Hopefully more people will take advantage of this strategy to keep their exposures to a minimum and not have their own mail and the mail in general contaminated.

Scent free in CA

My Ionic Footbath Experience

Ionic footbaths are said to help pull toxins out of the body through the many pores on the feet. The feet are said to contain the most pores, roughly 2,000 per foot. The feet are placed inside a warm tub of salt water. Ion generators are placed in the water to create a charge that is the polar opposite of normal. This charge is believed to pull toxic substances from the body.

The first time I tried an ionic footbath I was skeptical. I charged it up to over two amps and placed my feet inside. I was surprised to feel a tingly feeling, much like an electric current that felt like it was pulling from the part of the tub where the electrodes were. I began to wonder how safe this was. Was I running a current through my body?

After a few minutes the water began to turn green. As time passed it got darker and darker. Solid forms began to appear and float around the tub. It was an ugly green toxic waste dump!

When I removed my feet and washed them off, they felt warm, smooth, and relaxed for a couple of hours after that. So it felt good, but did it really draw toxins out of me? I did not feel any different.

Curious, I ran the tub without my feet and still got a mucky green mess, though perhaps not quite as dark. So was the salt water reacting with the electrodes to create the color change and solid mass? Or was it really my feet? Or perhaps both. Was someone trying to make me think those were really toxins coming out of my feet? Do toxins even have a color? When I sauna, my sweat is not colored. And, sauna's have been scientifically studied.

According to the color chart, each color produced in an ionic foot bath has meaning:
Black Liver
Black Flecks Heavy Metals
Brown Liver, Tobacco, Cells
Green Gall Bladder
Orange Joints
Red Blood Clots
White Foam Lymph
White Flecks Yeast
Yellow Kidney & Bladder

I turned to PubMed and ran a search for ionic footbaths and found no studies at all, let alone any to support the theory of toxin pulling. Was someone pulling my leg? Is this all a hoax? Or does it work so well that the medical profession keeps the secret well hidden for fear of loss of revenue from sick patients? I may never know.

At the very least it gave me a few minute to relax and enjoy some healing salt water. Salt is said to have antibacterial and healing properties. From that standpoint, I will happily do it again. I must admit, I would not use it with the intent to detoxify though. My money would be better spent on a sauna. Though it would be great to do a whole body ionization bath to relax. On second thought… perhaps that would be too gross!

The "Beauty" of MCS

Are you new to MCS? Are you wondering what to use in place of your traditional cosmetics? There are lots of great alternatives! Try some of these:

Mouth Wash

Peroxide
· Rinse mouth as usual. Do not swallow.

Chlorophyll
· Chew tablet to freshen breath.


Tooth Paste

Baking Soda
· Apply to toothbrush and brush as usual.

Peroxide
· Apply to toothbrush and brush as usual.
· Toothbrushes may also be left to soak in peroxide to clean them and kill germs.

Baking Soda & Salt
· Mix 3 parts baking soda and 1 part salt.
· Apply to toothbrush and brush as usual.

Shampoo

Liquid Borax
· Add 1/4 cup of borax per pint of water.
· Shake well and allow to settle.
· Pour the water into a pump bottle leaving the borax powder residue behind.
· Wash hair as usual. Will not lather.

Castile Soap or Clearly Natural Glycerin Soap
· Use as regular liquid or bar soap.

Baking Soda
· Rub in as a paste and rinse.
· Note: Does not lather

Conditioner

Citric Acid Powder
· Mix ¼ to ½ tsp. per pint of water.
· Pour the rinse over your hair

Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice
· Mix ¼ to ½ tsp. per pint of water.
· Pour the rinse over your hair

Homemade Conditioner
· Mash a ripe banana and avocado.
· Strain through cheesecloth.
· Apply as usual.

Coconut Oil
· Rub into hair and leave overnight.
· Wash out in the morning.

Egg Yolk or Mayonnaise
· Rub into hair.
· Rinse out well.

Olive or Jojoba Oil
· Mix a tiny drop in a cup of water.
· Rub in and rinse out well.

Astringents, Toner, & After Shave

Witch Hazel
· Splash on as usual

Hydrogen Peroxide
· Splash on as usual – may lighten skin.

Shaving Cream

Castile Soap - Unscented
· Use as regular liquid soap.
· Lather and shave.

Homemade Liquid Castile Soap
· Boil 3 cups of water.
· Add shavings of one bar of unscented castile soap.
· Cool and fill pump bottle.
· Lather and Shave

Hair Bleach

Peroxide
· Apply peroxide to dry hair.
· Let sit 15 minutes and then rinse out.

Deodorant

Baking Soda or Corn Starch
· Dust body and/or underarms.

White Clay
· Rub in as a paste and rinse.

Deodorant Crystal
· Wet and rub under arm.

Water
· Wash underarms several times a day with plain water to remove bacteria and control odor.

Soap

Castile Soap - Unscented
· Use as regular liquid soap.

Homemade Liquid Castile Soap
· Boil 3 cups of water.
· Add shavings of one bar of unscented castile soap.
· Cool and fill pump bottle.

Liquid Borax
· Add ¼ cup of borax per pint of water.
· Shake well and allow to settle.
· Pour the water into a pump bottle leaving the borax powder residue behind.

Baking Soda
· Rub on as a paste and rinse.
· Note: Does not lather

Lotion

Olive Oil, Sesame Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, or Grapeseed Oil
· Rub a small drop on skin.

Coconut Oil
· Rub a small drop on skin.

Hair Gel & Hair Spray

Aloe Vera Gel - Unscented
· Rub into hair and style as usual.

Fresh Lemon Juice
· Squeeze juice of a lemon into spray bottle.
· Apply as usual and keep refrigerated.

Disclaimer

This information is for informational purposes and is not intended to replace the examination, diagnosis and treatment of a licensed physician and no such claims are inferred. Neither MCS-America, Lourdes Salvador, nor any members of MCS-America will be responsible for misuse of this information.

Increasing the Antioxidant Glutathione for Improved Detoxiication

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide antioxidant with the chemical name L-gamma-glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine. As an antioxidant, it protects cells from free radicals and other toxic substances. It is synthesized in the body from the amino acids L-cysteine, L-glutamate and glycine.

Glutathione is important in leukotriene synthesis and as a hydrophilic molecule that is added to lipophilic toxins and waste in the liver before biotransformation into bile. It is also needed for the detoxification of methylglyoxal, a toxin by-product of metabolism. As such, it functions as nature's detoxifier.

Grace Ziem has included glutathione in her suggested neural protocol for treating multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). However, research suggests that glutathione taken orally is not well absorbed. Ziem has recommended nebulized glutathione for better absorption as a result, which requires a prescription.

Fortunately, glutathione precursors such as L-cysteine, L-glutamate and glycine have been shown to increase glutathione content within the cell. Atkuri et al (2007) found that administration of N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a cysteine prodrug, replenished intracellular glutathione levels.

N-acetylcysteine is known to counter acetaminophen toxicity and was described by Atkuri and is colleagues as "a safe, well-tolerated antidote for cysteine/GSH deficiency" and they went on to say that "over two-thirds of 46 placebo-controlled clinical trials with orally administered NAC have indicated beneficial effects of NAC measured either as trial endpoints or as general measures of improvement in quality of life and well-being of the patients" during the trials.

In our modern world, which is full of many toxicants in our air, food, and water, ill health may be a sign of toxicity. Without sufficient glutathione, our natural detoxification processes slow down. Replenishing glutathione assists in detoxification and may improve health.

References

Atkuri KR, Mantovani JJ, Herzenberg LA, Herzenberg LA. N-Acetylcysteine-a safe antidote for cysteine/glutathione deficiency. Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2007 Jun 28.

Zeim, G. Using the Neural Protocol. Key Pharmacy. Retrieved on July 22, 2007 from:
http://www.mcscanadian.org/ZiemPallProtocolFromKeyPharmacy.pdf

Study Says Carbon Filters Ineffective for Multiple Chemical Sensitivities

For many with allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), a mask is the only way to go into stores and other public places where volatile organic compounds (VOC's) such as perfume, detergents, cleaning products, formaldehyde, scented products, and pesticides, among others, are abundant. Since reactions may include respirator problems, seizures, headache, fatigue, confusion, and other unpleasant debilitating symptoms, it is important to assure adequate protection when unavoidable exposures are encountered. Frequently, those with allergies and MCS resort to cloth masks. But is a simple carbon mask effective? Or, must one upgrade to a respirator or other form of protection?

A scientific study by Millqvist and Lowhagen found that breathing through a carbon filter does not protect people from perfume exposures that trigger symptoms. The study, Placebo-controlled Challenges with Perfume in Patients with Asthma-like Symptoms, examined nine patients with respiratory symptoms after nonspecific irritating stimuli. The patients did not have any IgE-mediated (histamine) allergy or bronchial obstruction, therefore represented a population similar to multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) sufferers.

Millqvist and Lowhagen used provocation with perfume or a placebo with or without a carbon filter mask. The purpose was to determine if breathing through a filter with active carbon would prevent symptoms. A nasal clamp was used to prevent smelling of the perfume while patients breathed through the mouth.

The researchers found that the patients' earlier symptoms were verified by the perfume provocation. More importantly, breathing through the carbon filter had no protective effect! "The symptoms are not transmitted via the olfactory nerve, since the patients could not smell the perfume, but they may have been induced by a trigeminal reflex via the respiratory tract or by the eyes" (Millqvist & Lowhagen, 1996).

Those with MCS already know that carbon filtered masks only provide nuisance level protection. For full respiratory protection, one must upgrade to a half-mask respirator. If the eyes are a factor in reactions, a full-mask respirator is in order. The respirator should have both a particulate filter and a VOC filter. An example
is a 3M 6000 series mask with a 6006 or 6003 VOC cartridge and an N-95 particulate filter that fits on top of the VOC cartridge.

A few respirator sources are:

National Allergy
http://www.natlallergy.com/product.asp?pn=1176&bhcd2=1177096712

Aler-G
http://www.alerg.com/page/A/PROD/11MSK/MSK1000

MSA North America
http://www.msanorthamerica.com/catalog/catalog500012.html

Western Safety Products
http://www.westernsafety.com/resppro.htm

WS Safety Solutions
http://www.websoft-solutions.net/protective_respirators_safety_respirators_s/42.htm


A few mask resources for light duty nuisance protection:

Allergy Control Products
http://www.allergycontrol.com/store/products_detail.asp?dept_id=55650&mscssid=CHCWRP8GS2BV9KGVDGRQQH1D1D9X0R89

American Environmental Health Foundation
http://www.aehf.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=52&products_id=907&osCsid=a1a5e5b204faf3fa45e6aeb6518e3080

Allergy Relief
http://onlineallergyrelief.com/masks/masks.html

Sandy DenBraber
http://www.lassentech.com/eimask.html

Respro
http://www.respro.com/allergyrelief_mcs.php


In addition to breathing, those with MCS also find that VOC's adhere to clothing, skin, and hair. Since skin absorption may occur, this mandates some form of a cover-up, such as long sleeves and pants with a hat or scarf, or even a disposable tyvek coverall that can protect clothing and be removed after exposure. Tyvek coveralls can be purchased at most hardware stores or online at:

ABC Safety Mart
http://www.abcsafetymart.com/clothing/clothing.html

TASCO
http://www.tasco-safety.com/tyvek-protective-clothing.html

UV Process Supply
http://www.uvprocess.com/product.asp?code=CLOTHING+E


-LS

Reference
Millqvist, E.; Lowhagen, O. Placebo-controlled Challenges with Perfume in Patients with Asthma-like Symptoms. Allergy. 51(6):434-439, June 1996.

Disclaimer
This information is for informational purposes and does not represent the opinion of or endorsement by MCS America and no such claims are inferred. Neither MCS America, Lourdes Salvador, nor any members of MCS America will be responsible for misuse of this information. Neither MCS America nor Lourdes Salvador has any financial interest in any link provided.

Scientific Studies: Myers' Nutrient Therapy

Many patients with chronic illness report having tried intravenous nutrient therapy in the form of a Myers' cocktail to help reduce symptoms. Few studies have examined whether or not there is a bona fide benefit to such therapy. Massey (2007) decided to evaluate the effectiveness of a modified Myers' formula of intravenous nutrient therapy on the symptoms of fibromyalgia, which often co-exists with chronic fatigue and multiple chemical sensitivity.

The modified Myers' cocktail consists of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin C in the following proportions (Gaby, 2006):

· Magnesium chloride hexahydrate 20% (magnesium)2-5 mL
· Calcium gluconate 10% (calcium)1-3 mL
· Hydroxocobalamin 1,000 mcg/mL (B12)1 mLPyridoxine hydrochloride 100mg/mL (B6)1 mL
· Dexpanthenol 250 mg/mL (B5)1 mL
· B complex 100 (B complex)1 mL
· Vitamin C 222 mg/mL (C)4-20 mL

Massey chose subjects who had fibromyalgia for at least 8 years and proved to be therapy resistant, having tried antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and exercise without relief.

Seven subjects were given the modified Myers' formula of intravenous nutrient therapy once each week for a total of 8 weeks. The subjects were monitored weekly by measures of pain, fatigue, and activities of daily living. All seven subjects reported improvement in all three measures.

Within two days of receiving the modified Myer's cocktail, the subjects all reported increased energy, with no side effects. There was an overall 60% reduction of pain and an 80% reduction of fatigue, though the reduction was not lasting.

Massey concluded that the modified Myers' formula of intravenous nutrient therapy was safe and effective in reducing symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Gaby (2006) agrees "the modified "Myers' cocktail," which consists of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin C, has been found to be effective against acute asthma attacks, migraines, fatigue (including chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia, acute muscle spasm, upper respiratory tract infections, chronic sinusitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, cardiovascular disease, and other disorders."

Mother must have been right when she said to eat your vegetables and get a balanced diet! When one is chronically ill, often nutrients are not absorbed or are used faster than they are absorbed. When food won't do it and health is in the balance, maybe a Myers' cocktail is in order.

References

Gaby, AR. Intravenous Nutrient Therapy: the "Myers' Cocktail" 2006. Retrieved July 21, 2007 from:
http://www.mcguffmedical.com/Customer_Knowledge/myers_cocktail_iv.htm#The%20Modified%20Myers%92%20Cocktail

Massey PB. Reduction of fibromyalgia symptoms through intravenous nutrient therapy: results of a pilot clinical trial. AlternTher Health Med. 2007 May-Jun;13(3):32-4.

Activist's Corner: Letter regarding perfumes

Letter regarding perfumes:

I would like to address a health concern regarding the use of fragrances by (your staff, co-workers, you, etc.)

Many people are not aware of the grave danger of using synthetic fragrances. A study at Anderson Laboratories in Vermont concluded that fragrance chemicals caused a variety of acute toxicities in mice after an hour long exposure to breathing five commercial colognes. The researchers discovered "the emissions of these fragrance products caused various combinations of sensory irritation, pulmonary irritation, decreases in expiratory airflow velocity, as well as alterations of the functional observational battery indicative of neurotoxicity" (Anderson & Anderson, 1998).

A computerized test was used to detect decreases in expiratory flow velocity, indicating airflow limitation. Mice exposed to toilet water, rather than cologne, did not show any change in air flow velocity, pulmonary function, or neurological function.

"Neurotoxicity was more severe after mice were repeatedly exposed to the fragrance products. Evaluation of one of the test atmospheres with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry revealed the presence of chemicals for which irritant and neurotoxic properties had been documented previously". This confirmed the hidden presence of these chemicals in the colognes (Anderson & Anderson, 1998).

Many people do not realize that fragrances have changed over the years and are not regulated by law. Once pleasant and natural oil from a plant, fragrances are now made with many synthetic chemical ingredients that are harmful to human health and are not disclosed on the label due to trade secret laws.

When people wear these fragrances, they share them with everyone around them. Breathing second-hand fragrance is like breathing second-hand smoke. It has all the same effects, amounting to acute toxicity.

Wearing cologne affects all those who share the same air space, including pets and children who are at increased risk due to their smaller size. Asthmatics, respiratory patients, and the chemically sensitive can also be seriously injured by fragrances. The effects are not limited to these groups though. Even the wearer is sacrificing good health.

Would you please consider banning fragrances such as perfume, cologne, and fragranced lotion in the interests of our collective health?

I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

XXX

Cited Reference:
Anderson RC & Anderson JH. Acute toxic effects of fragrance products. Arch Environ Health. 1998 Mar-Apr;53(2):138-46.

Download, Edit, and Send:
http://mcs-america.org/UseofFragranceLetterforActivists.doc

Community Spotlight: Steve Monroe

What is the biggest challenge of being diagnosed with MCS?

The biggest challenge of being diagnosed with MCS is access to health care providers with knowledge of the condition and getting a general practitioner, assuming you even have insurance, to refer you to a specialist, such as an environmental MD. But, we lack doctors in that field. Some states don't have any doctors listed with the American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM). We also lack toxicologists, something I could have used years ago, but was unable to find or afford. Ten years ago this condition was mainly viewed as somatic or assumed to be "conventional allergies", but I'm seeing more and more providers take this seriously and several have told me personally that they do believe it does exist and I do have it, but for either legal concerns, medical billing problems due to lack of a specific IDC-9 code, or political reasons, they prefer to use more established existing names due to insurance billing or the board that certified them has yet to accept the condition officially. Recently, I did obtain signed documents from licensed MD's saying I have chemical sensitivities and they are referring to multiple sensitivities in discussions at office visits. I'm also aware of providers in the past 3 years that have told me they themselves are having problems with fumes and scents affecting them now that didn't years ago. Some today have scent free policies at there clinics, with signs saying so, and that's been promising to see.

Why did you found MCS-Awareness?

It was started as a group of persons with MCS to discuss its awareness, offer support to those with MCS, share files and information related to MCS, and promotes its establishment in the medical field as a valid physical medical condition as other organizations are attempting also. A related web site with same name was set-up as an information site to promote the groups same goals. I hope to resume working on the web site with much more information and data links from my database collected over the years.

What do you think should be the primary focus of the MCS community in the next couple of years?

I would like to see the various environmental groups band together more, as there is power in numbers and there has been a lot of division with various advocates over the MCS "term" name. We need to either push to get the long standing 1999 abstract consensus accepted as is with the medical field or improve it with some minor re-wording, as some propose, and stay on track. If I'd not been seeing gains with the medical field past 5 years, I'd say lets try a new name. But I'm concerned another "new term" would cause more delays. We have too many names now and that has compounded the problem. We all know chemicals are the likely cause of the problem, so lets settle on one name, define it, and focus our efforts on that. I know there's a committee working on this problem now in the US.

What do you think should be the primary focus of the MCS community in the next 5 years?

I would hope that in 5 years the CDC, AMA, or an existing medical board group will have finally accepted this condition so that existing and future victims can get better health care.

What do you know about the Chemical Industry Institute of Toxicology (CIIT)?

It's basically an industry trade group with heavy funding by many various chemical companies, and even the government, that claims to be doing the "proper science" of chemicals on human health via risk assessments. But that's been questioned by others, like the Union of Concerned Scientists. Even Consumer Reports magazine has been critical of their work or real purpose. Some believe they are behind the term "junk science" to dispute independent studies that point to the toxic chemicals behind most of today's health problems, such as ADD or Autism.

The CIIT funding from chemical companies is huge for their operating budget and they spend millions on lobby efforts to lawmakers and the public. The following info about CIIT comes from Source Watch; "The Chemical Industry Of Toxicology, also known as the CIIT Centers for Health Research or just CIIT, describes itself as "a private, not-for-profit research organization created by farsighted chemical industry leaders in 1974 to conduct independent research on the effects of chemicals. CIIT described its founding as being precipitated by: "alarming reports" about chemical pollution. CIIT's core research program on human health risks is funded by members of the American Chemistry Council. CIIT also receives research funding from federal grants and industry contracts".

Where do we go from here?

I'd like to see a formal national foundation or association, like the chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia groups, and other groups established years ago, whose only mission is the research and promotion of MCS with the medical field and the public. The National Fibromyalgia Association is one example that exists today. Maybe it could be called the "Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Association". Other groups could be charter members or supporters. We do have national groups today, but I'm referring to something much bigger than exists today, with full time paid staff and scientists that go after grant research money, do the research, and have their own lobbyists working the lawmakers and medical associations.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I would like to see more advocates and groups that exist today work a little harder to get along with each other, which I've tried to do as best possible by being part of 3 MCS International Coalition of Allied Groups and Organizations (MICAGO) groups. I've been noticing less co-operation in the past 3 or 4 years compared to back 7 years ago when everyone seemed to be focused on the same page. I really thought that around 2003 the movement was going well, until certain groups or persons split up and went in different directions and new terms were proposed that, in my humble opinion, slowed down progress. I believe a lot of the previously mentioned legal, medical, and political concerns would disappear once the condition is accepted and victims can get the legal and medical help they need. For many of us it's too late and our lives have been ruined medically and/or financially, but more and more people are developing this condition or are on disability related to it. The CDC recently accepted chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) as a real physical condition after years of similar debate to what is going on in the MCS world today, even though the cause of CFS remains a mystery with unknown bio-markers. The CDC Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) guideline for doctors does mention multiple chemical sensitivity can co-exist with CFS. From my experience, MCS is the most common name in the medical field via published studies, not just in the USA, but worldwide and in the public via news media articles. So lets stick with it. It's likely always going to be the layman's term regardless.

Featured Research Study

1: Bioorg Khim. 2007 Mar-Apr;33(2):195-228. Links

[NO-dependent modifications of nucleic acids]

Beda NV, Nedospasov AA.

This review is devoted to chemical transformations of nucleic acids and their components under the action of nitrogen oxide metabolites. The deamination reaction of bases is discussed in the context of possible competing transformations of its intermediates (nitrosamines, diazonium cations, diazotates, triazenes, and diazoanhydrides) and mechanisms of crosslink formation with proteins and nucleic acids. The oxidation and nitration of bases by NO2 is considered together with the possibility of radical transfer to domains from the base stacks in DNA. Reduction of redox potentials of bases as a result of stacking interactions explains the possibility of their reactions within nucleic acids with the oxidants whose redox potential is insufficient for the effective reactions with mononucleotides. Modifications of nucleic acids with peroxynitrite derivatives are discussed in the context of the effect of the DNA primary structure and the modification products formed on the reactivity of single bases. The possibility of reduction of nitro groups within modified bases to amino derivatives and their subsequent diazotation is considered. The substitution of oxoguanine for nitroguanine residues may result; the reductive diazotation can lead to undamaged guanine. The intermediate modified bases, e.g., 8-aminoguanine and 8-diazoguanine, were shown to participate in noncanonical base pairing, including the formation of more stable bonds with two bases, which is characteristic of the DNA Z-form. A higher sensitivity of RNA in comparison with DNA to NO-dependent modifications (NODMs) is predicted on the basis of the contribution of medium microheterogeneity and the known mechanisms of nitrosylation and nitration. The possible biological consequences of nucleic acids NODMs are briefly considered. It is shown that the NODMs under the action of nitrogen oxide metabolites generated by macrophages and similar cells in inflammations or infections should lead to a sharp increase in the number of mutations in the case of RNA-containing viruses. As a result, the defense mechanisms of the host organism may contribute to the appearance of new, including more dangerous, variants of infecting viruses.

PMID: 17476982 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=17476982&itool=iconabstr&itool=pubmed_DocSum

Featured Research Study

Genetic polymorphisms in CYP1A1, CYP2D6, UGT1A6, UGT1A7, and SULT1A1 genes and correlation with benzene exposure in a Chinese occupational population

Gu SY, Zhang ZB, Wan JX, Jin XP, Xia ZL.
Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Fudan
University. Shanghai. People's Republic of China.
1: J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2007 Jun;70(11):916-24.

Metabolic enzymes involved in benzene activation or detoxification, including cytochrome P-450 1A1 (CYP1A1), cytochrome P-450 2D6 (CYP2D6), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A6 (UGT1A6), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase1A7 (UGT1A7), and sulfotransferase 1A1 (SULT1A1), were studied for their roles in human susceptibility to benzene poisoning. All 304 subjects were investigated with a unitary questionnaire and their DNA was isolated from blood samples by a routine phenol-chloroform extraction. The study included 152 benzene poisoning patients, and 152 control workers occupationally exposed to benzene in South China. The genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique with genomic DNA. No individuals had the CYP 2D6 c.212 G>A variant alleles in this study. There is no association between theUGT1A6 c.181 T>A, UGT1A7 c.208 Trp>Arg, and SULT1A1 c.638 G>A genotypes and increased risk of benzene-induced carcinogenesis. Although most of the CYP2D6 haplotypes did not show any significant difference, the CYP2D6 haplotype CYP2D6 c.188 C/C, C/T, and c.4268 C/C was significantly overrepresented in the case group (OR 4.02, 95% CI: 2.53-6.39) compared with in controls. Overall, our data suggested that individuals with CYP1A1 c.5639 T/T, CYP2D6 c.188 C/C, C/T, and CYP2D6 c.4268 C/C genotypes tend to be more susceptible to benzene toxicity.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=17479406&itool=pubmed_DocSum

Community News

Mercury from fillings harming the environment
http://www.edmontonsun.com/News/Edmonton/2007/06/07/4242839.html

See You In (Vaccine) Court
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-kirby/see-you-in-vaccine-cour_b_51224.html

Medical Examiner's report: NDA track star died from rare toxic dose of sports creme
http://blog.silive.com/advanceupdate/2007/06/medical_examiners_report_nda_t.html

Housing Office Ratchets Up River Pines Inspections
http://www.tbo.com/news/metro/MGBY7ZMNM2F.html

Hand Sanitizers Could Be Toxic In Kids, Poison Control Says
http://www.ketv.com/news/13454984/detail.html

First hearing on Autism/thimerosal link to be heard
http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=28998

Canines can be bothered by mold spores
http://news.rgj.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070606/DAYTON/706060457/1144/NEWS

Black Mold in Olean
http://www.wivb.com/Global/story.asp?S=6623554

Groups seek ban on cleaning chemicals
http://tinyurl.com/2e3fhv

UCSF study questions drug trial results: When drug companies sponsor research, their products more likely to perform well.
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2007/06/05/BUGMBQ7KAN1.DTL&hw=UCSF+study+questions+drug+trial+results&sn=001&sc=1000

Brain cancer linked to pesticides: Study
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/HealthScience/Brain_cancer_linked_to_pesticides_Study/articleshow/2098284.cms
Vaccine Claims to Get Their Day in Court
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uslatest/story/0,,-6683831,00.html

Inside MCS America

We have been closely following the research of Dr. Martin Pall, PhD. Pall's book, Explaining Unexplained Illnesses, was released in May of this year. The book discusses MCS, CFS, FM, Gulf War Syndrome, PTSD, and related conditions as a new paradigm in medicine.

Dr. Pall's suggested supplement protocol is now available in four products for individuals to purchase direct without a prescription from Nutricology at http://www.nutricology.com/. The cost totals at about $125 for a one month supply. When visiting Nutricology, one will find the four products:

CoQ-Gamma E with Tocotrienols & Carotenoids
http://www.nutricology.com/CoQ-Gamma-E-with-Tocotrienols-Carotenoids-60-softgels-p-16665.html

FlaviNOx
http://www.nutricology.com/CoQ-Gamma-E-with-Tocotrienols-Carotenoids-60-softgels-p-16665.html

MVM-A (Antioxidant Protocol)
http://www.nutricology.com/MVM-A-Antioxidant-Protocol-180-capsules-p-16660.html

NAC Enhanced Antioxidant Formula
http://www.nutricology.com/NAC-Enhanced-Antioxidant-Formula-90-tablets-p-16661.html

Disclaimer
Neither Lourdes Salvador, nor MCS America, has any financial interest in Dr. Martin Pall, Explaining Unexplained Illnesses, or Nutricology. The information provided in this article is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sal's Place

Another month gone by and much has happened. I'd like to do a reflection this month on cooperation.

I was sitting at a picnic table eating my lunch, which consisted of a salad and a croissant. I held the croissant in my left hand and the fork in my right. With a sudden flutter, a tiny bird swooped out of the nearby tree and snatched a chunk of my croissant right out of my hand! Stunned, I began to feed the birds the remainder of my croissant, a piece for them and a piece for me, while I observed their behavior.

If you've read this column before, you'll find I am always feeding birds and observing their behavior. I think we can learn a lot about human behavior from other species.

As I expected, the birds came to the table and would take bread from me as I held it out to them. A few were more shy or fearful and waited for me to put the bread down before they picked it up. So far so good... until something changed.

A new bird flew down and commanded a huge chunk of roll from my hand before flying off with all the other birds in hot pursuit. I watched in amazement as the bird flew this way and then that way… dodging and outrunning the others. It swooped under a branch, through the bushes, and around sharp corners in attempts to lose the other birds, all at high speed!

Being out of my league, I sat thinking "stupid birds, why don't you come here to the food source instead of chasing that one bird down for the piece it got?" What did they get for all that effort, flying fast and burning energy, only to end up sharing one tiny morsel when I had a half of a roll left to share with the lot?
Perhaps the bird that took the large piece was not liked by the other birds. It seemed the birds wanted what it had, when they had access to their own food supply from me. It struck me as a jealous and greedy behavior. The rest of the birds wanted what one bird had and was unwilling to share. Yet cooperatively, they could have taken the whole role back and fed their entire community.

Far be it from me to be an animal psychologist. I may be totally off base on this. However, it brought up a constant pattern I see in the human population. No matter what one has, they always want what someone else has and will fight to get it. These fights may take the form of disagreement, badmouthing, backstabbing, and even angry verbal attacks and unfounded slander.

It seems personal recognition, glory, and one-upmanship is often a motivator. Sometimes this motivator is at the cost of what really matters to the individual and group. And sometimes the only thing that matters for many is personal recognition. This often takes the form of criticizing others and wrapping one's whole group worth around one tiny item, when in reality the individual have much to contribute.

I find achieving something via a cooperative team effort just as rewarding as achieving it alone. It is often much easier to collaborate, cooperate, and combine efforts. I must agree with Alan Moses on page 24-25 of this issue. It's time to "come together, right now". Not just between groups, but within our own groups. The infighting must stop. Those who fight endlessly stop progress.

The Lone Ranger may have wanted to go it alone and have all the glory, but he was NOTHING without Tonto! Each and every one of us has something we specialize in to contribute. Why not use it all to make the community into a solidified whole?

It's Time to Collaborate

Opinion

Autism, multiple chemical sensitivity and environmentalist groups should join forces. All of these groups, plus others, share an agenda. That is to eliminate the amount of toxins that we are subjected to. Why this has not been done as of yet is beyond me, as I belong to groups that involve all three. I hear the same complaints and the same information being passed amongst members. By combining forces this may take these issues over the top and gain them the importance that they deserve.

Each group gains some recognition by state and national acknowledgements that in truth are small steps on an individual basis. Acknowledging and actually doing something are two different things. The horror stories continue and in truth nothing really changes. Despite the "us against them" attitude, without being one massive lobby we can't break the oil, pharmaceutical and industrialist hold on our government.

Yes this idea would be democratic, as all sides to each group could be represented and through parliamentary means issues could be tackled one after the other. No more small agendas being pushed at the same time. Individual desires must wait their turns. All and all this process would quicken the desperately needed changes required. This would also force those that block or discredit these views to take notice.

The arguments between the separate advocates and activists can continue, however some sort of consensus needs to be forwarded. If the government refuses to understand that these issues, as many others, are related, then force the issue. Use the same strategy that is used against you. After a while, the fighting must turn into an aggressive campaign against the so called enemy. Fighting amongst each other gains nothing.

You don't really want the top FDA official to be executed, as the Chinese have done for the situation so reminiscent to our own. Zhen Xiaoyu the former head of China's FDA was put to death for doing what his American counterparts do as usual business. The industry lobbyists that paid him the $832,000.oo should have suffered the same fate to be fair. But China was just telling its own officials that yes capitalism is okay, but the fraud that comes with it is not.

We are promised in our constitution that if the government no longer is doing its job then we can change it. This is not saying to over throw the government, but to use the system to make these changes. And just by electing this person or that does not help, as once in Washington they become a part of the problem. Only by numbers and making it clear that this is what we all want can we make the true changes.

We have a type of civil war going on in America. Groups that share an end can't even agree. It is time for all of the groups that recognize the dangers that toxins and pollutants are doing to us all come together as one. Only then can something really change. We should the system, as this has proven time and again to be the only way to make the adjustments that we require.

I promise that if the groups with shared agendas respond as one, we will see a difference. The infighting must stop, as this causes those that are in reality an ally to walk away. You never see this with the pharmaceutical industry. What oil company has said that they are going to invest all profits into alternative fuels? It is noted that every great idea was called crazy until enough people realized that it was beneficial.

I hope that all of us that feel the same can find ways to do as John Lennon once said, and "come together, right now".

-Alan Moses

Copyrighted © 2007 Alan Moses
Reprinted with Permission.

CFS/FM Serenity Prayer

Lord, grant me the serenity to accept
The things I cannot change,
The courage to change
The things I can,
And the wisdom to hide
The bodies of doctors I shot
When they said,
"You're perfectly healthy,
It's All In Your Head."

-Author Unknown

Retrieved from: http://www.livingonadime.com/

Reprinted with Permission

Healing Modalities: Just Don't Get Sick

The best healing modality is to avoid getting sick in the first place! For many reading this newsletter, it's too late. For our friends, families, and others, there may still be time. In the event illness is already present, practicing the same tips may result in improved health. There are many environmental toxicants that are correlated with various illnesses in our society. While it is not yet possible to avoid them all, there are things we can do to limit our exposures.

Diet, that nasty 4 letter word, is one of the most crucial aspects of our health. Our diet provides the very nutrients we need for normal function, detoxification, rebuilding, and healing. Eating a widely varying diet with fresh produce, whole grains, essential fats, and lean proteins is beneficial. Using as many organic foods as possible serves to limit intake of dangerous pesticides. Avoiding fast foods, restaurants, and taking to the kitchen ensures knowing exactly what is going into the foods you eat.

Exercise is also beneficial, as it improves fitness, increases caloric need to ensure adequate nutrition and satiation, and encourages sweating to removes toxicants.

Supplementation with needed vitamins and minerals is also essential, as many of the minerals we require are depleted from the soil we grow our food in. Many naturopaths, and some doctors, will order blood tests to determine what, if any, vitamins and minerals are lacking or in overabundance. It is important to remember that too much can be as bad as too little. Those suffering high iron levels become sick and the practice of blood letting is still used to reduce iron levels. Balance and testing is essential.

It is given that alcohol and cigarettes should be avoided, though some studies show a glass of wine with dinner is beneficial.

Enough sleep is absolutely essential to give the body time to repair and rebuild itself. Sleep deprivation is common and can cause accidents, lost productivity at work, and increase susceptibility to environmental contaminants.

Finally, avoidance of any and all chemical exposures is essential to avoiding the negative affects many toxicants have on reproduction, energy, metabolism, blood pressure, and general health. This can be the hardest step we take to improve our health as chemicals are everywhere and we are often not in control of what our neighbors or employers are using in our airspace. It takes diligence, effort, and constant follow-up to ensure we are taking care of ourselves. However, if we don't take care of ourselves, no one will!

To Good Health!

-LS