12 tips for environmentally conscious and healthy living

 

Our planet is suffering and it is time that we are careful with resources and the environment. With a little thought and know-how, anyone can contribute to a healthier environment and thus to a healthier life for themselves.

  1. Use items over again, instead of constantly buying new products. Look around to see if the item you are considering purchasing is actually needed.
  2. Surround yourself with natural durable materials, instead of polluting the environment with plastic materials.
  3. Avoid unnecessary products, like room fragranced sprays, and air fresheners which pollute the environment and are often unhealthy. Instead, ventilate with fresh air which is free!
  4. Switch to organic, which reduces pollution and is better for your health. Shop at local farmers markets, which cuts down on transportation of products.
  5. Fill the washing machine completely, not only half way. Dry your clothes outside instead of in the dryer.
  6. Turn off electrical devices when they are not in use. Pull the plug out from the wall because otherwise many devices will consume more power.
  7. Avoid bottled water. Drinking plenty of water is healthy, but the transportation of this water to markets is often long. Water from plastic bottles also takes more resources and can lead to more pollution. Filter your tap water which saves money and resources.
  8. Take a basket or tote bag to the market with you instead of constantly using new plastic bags which can pollute nature.
  9. Avoid expensive packaged products.
  10. Do a lot of walking instead of always using the car. It consumes less fuel and is better for the environment.
  11. Power with “green energy.”
  12. Plant a tree in the garden. It filters the air, produces tons of oxygen and binds the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.

 

Allergies caused by cuddly animals

An early determination of whether a child is sensitized to inhaled allergens such as pollen, mold or dust mites, serves as an important prognostic factor. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of small children is quite difficult to perform. Scientists from Belgium found that stuffed animals have an influence on the development of allergies in children.

Testing to identify allergies

A Belgian team of scientists tried, through a study of infants aged 0 to 2 years, to determine whether the allergies of children are based on a relation to environmental influences, or based on whether one has a family history of allergies. For this purpose, 824 infants who were previously tests with skin tests, inhaled allergens, and foods in an asthma clinic, were examined by the medical profession.

Stuffed animals make for allergies

It was determined that 40% of young children could be allergic. 28% responded to the respiratory allergens such as house dust, pollen and molds. For most young children dust mite allergens were the worst.

What the scientists also discovered is astonishing

Among children who slept with stuffed animals in bed, allergies were much more pronounced than in children who took no soft animals to bed. Factors such as gender, residence in a nursery, or eczema did not matter in the development of allergy, according to the doctors.

Sacrifice not necessary

Children love their stuffed animals, and they give them security. To take them away does not make sense. To make sure a stuffed animal does not lead to allergies, one should purchase a stuffed animal free of pollutants. Some manufacturers have already attempted to make them free of chemicals and other irritating substances. As a further preventive measure, only one stuffed animal should be taken to bed. It is also important for allergy prevention, to remember to wash soft toys regularly.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network

Literature:

Image de Erling G, Mathot M, Agustsson S, Tuerlinckx D, Jamart J, Bodart E. Early skin sensitization to aero-allergens, Clin Exp Allergy. 2008 Apr; 38 (4) :643-8.

Medicine: Causes of nasal polyps discovered

Heredity, allergies, environmental factors, and chemicals on the job

The cause of polyps in the nose has been long regarded as a largely unknown. Children, like adults, may be affected from these benign growths in the nose, making it difficult to breathe and may also lead to significant physical impairments.

The size of the growths vary, ranging from millimeters to a larger size which makes breathing through the nose almost impossible. Previously suspected triggers were chronic inflammation caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi, plus allergies and asthma.

A team of scientists from Greece did a case-control study which revealed further clues and uncovered other causes. Environmental factors and chemicals at work had a considerable significance for the occurrence of polyps.

Study reveals causes of polyps

A Greek research team studied 100 patients from three Athens hospitals and 102 control subjects. The following factors were considered for each study participant: the gender, education level, family history, allergies, smoking, occupational activities and environmental impacts.

Symptoms of nasal polyps

The symptoms caused by nasal polyps depends on the severity and the anatomical features.

The following symptoms are commonly observed:

  • Difficult breathing through the nose
  • Vague, slurred pronunciation, speaking through his nose,
  • poor performance
  • sleep disorders, snoring
  • Decreased sense of smell
  • Frequent inflammation of the sinuses

Inheritance and allergy causes of polyps in the nose

The researchers found that polyps can also be inherited. A total of 13.3% of the patients inherited the polyps. In the control group, however, none of the family members had nasal polyps. The presence of allergies was higher in patients with polyps. In 64% of the patients, different allergies were found, and in 12% there was a probable presence of allergies.

Environmental factors and chemical causes for polyps

In some workplaces, employees experience heavy contact with chemicals and dust. This may also lead to nasal polyps, the researchers found. In particular, exposure to chemicals at work turned out to be a common cause in the patients with polyps. Smoking, however, was not a significant trigger factor; and in addition, the level of education was also irrelevant for the occurrence of polyps.

The scientists concluded from their study results that nasal polyps are often caused by allergies and may be familial. A genetic predisposition is a cause for consideration by the Greek scientists, but also the influence and incidence of chemicals and substances from the environment and the workplace can cause nasal polyps. Patients had more polyps, when confronted with chemicals in the workplace, than when polyps occurred in the family.

Treatment of nasal polyps

The treatment of choice for nasal polyps was previously two options: Long-term treatment with cortisone spray (usually at least 6 months) and / or surgery. The findings of the scientists from Athens however suggest another approach: allergen avoidance, and exposure and eliminating the chemicals in the living and working environment. Where allergens and chemicals cannot be avoided, wearing protective masks with good ventilation would be a good preventive measure of protection to prevent exposures to chemicals and dust.

Autor: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network

Literature:

Alexiou A, Sourtzi P, Dimakopoulou K, Manolis E, Velonakis E., Nasal polyps: heredity, allergies, and environmental and occupational exposure, J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2011 Feb;40 (1):58-63.

MCS stakeholders sign petition to the World Health Organization

WHO receives delegation of representatives for the environmentally ill

On May 13, a petition from the WHO delegation of stakeholders from MCS and EMS patients, physicians, scientists, lawyers and journalists in Geneva will be received. The delegation will be welcomed by Dr. Maria Neira, Director General of Public Health and Environment, WHO confirms.

WHO confirmed hearing from MCS organizations

Dr. Neira will receive the relevant documents from the delegation, a bibliography regarding environmental diseases, a list of countries that already have a ICD-10 code for MCS and / or EMS, and some other relevant documents for the meeting. All documents being submitted support the science-based arguments, and finally create a mandatory basis for environmental health conditions worldwide, so that the medical care of patients can be assured.

MCS and EMS organizations sign the WHO petition

The petition, which seeks to ensure that the situation for people, who are chemically sensitive or electro-sensitive, was improved by the Spanish organization „Asquifyde”. The petition was signed by many organizations, researchers, and practitioners from around the world. The hope is that WHO will implement this petition, which would apply a consistent international code of disease (ICD) in all countries worldwide for those with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and electromagnetic sensitivity (EMS). This ICD code is important because it will allow patients’ doctors to give an accurate diagnosis with expected benefits from the health insurance, which already exists for other disabilities and illnesses. The existence of MCS and EMS has already been demonstrated.

In all countries, binding ICD-10 code for MCS and EMS

Currently, Japan (T65.9) and Germany (T78.4) have the ICD-10 code for MCS. Other German-speaking countries like Switzerland, Luxembourg and Austria ,through their Ministry of Health, say that in their countries the ICD-10 code for MCS, T78.4, is valid and can be used as well.

WHO press conference after hearing

According to the WHO, a press conference will take place after the hearing. It will be headed by Sonia Miguel Jara and journalists. To fund this important press conference following the WHO hearing, Asquifyde and other MCS and EMS organizations, are asking anyone who is concerned about the environmental concerns of those ill from environmental factors to contribute financial support.

Help the environmentally ill

Scientists estimate that about 15-30% of the general population in industrialized countries suffer with MCS. The number of EMS stakeholders increases by the progressive expansion of mobile networks also. These people are almost without exception, without the help and support, which contradicts the international disability convention and applicable laws. Ignoring and negation of environmental diseases in recent years has led to indescribable suffering and to considerable financial losses to the economy. It is hoped that the leaders at the WHO, will respect the suffering of those patients with MCS and EMS and take seriously the international petition and act according to their stated mission which is to provide assistance to those disabled internationally.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network, 2 May 2011

Natural ways to keep bees and wasps off the terrace and balcony

Bees and wasps are also beneficial insects, and do not need to be controlled chemically – use natural alternatives for protection instead

Life shifts to the outdoors as the wonderful warm season begins. The terrace, the garden, and the balcony often replace the living room and dining room for breakfast. Nothing compares to a fresh morning breakfast start, enjoying the first rays of sun out in nature. Unfortunately, quickly pests such as wasps and bees appear, also smelling the delicious things on the patio table from afar. This can also be dangerous if they go unnoticed and fly into a glass or have contact with a food that enters the mouth.

Tips and home remedies for wasps and bees on the patio and balcony

  • Leave no open jam jars or sweets on the table
  • Use mosquito hoods for use sausage plates
  • Cover glasses and cups
  • Screw bottles or always put a closure
  • Hang wasp traps made of glass or clay with attractant (sugar water, beer, etc.) at some distance
  • Grow plants with natural repellents or plant in pots, for example, lavender, thyme, or marjoram
  • Put an orange or lemon studded with cloves on the table
  • Use a fan (insects do not like drafts)
  • Set up the evening blue light bait
  • If it is really bad, hang a summer canopy of netting and set the table underneath. This can also be very decorative

One should do without any type of chemical pesticides (sprays, plugs with pesticide, pesticide-containing candles or incense, stickers with integrated pesticide, etc.). They usually contain nerve poisons that are effective but in the long run, very harmful. Bees and wasps are also beneficial insects, and do not need to be controlled chemically. You have natural pesticide alternatives to use for protection instead.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network

Easter Eggs – Those who want to be safe, will buy organic eggs

Conventional eggs come mostly from chickens fed on GM feed

The scandal of dioxin contaminated eggs was off the table as quickly as it appeared. Will consumers be lulled into security and peace of mind for Easter eggs in the supermarket now? Is every egg now purchased free of dioxin? That remains to be seen. Greenpeace has more serious problems before Easter now. The eggs from the normal supermarkets and discount stores’ shelves, waiting to be colored for Easter, originate mostly from chickens fed with GM feed. The only way to be sure that only pollution-free eggs are in Easter baskets is to purchase eggs only from organic chickens.

Most of the eggs come from GM fed chickens

The environmental organization surveyed 15 supermarket chains in Germany, including Aldi, Lidl and Kaiser’s Tengelmann and the organic markets, Alnatura and Denree. The result? The majority of commercially available eggs are from chickens fed genetically modified plants. The laying hens are fed about 20 percent of GM soya. There is not a labeling requirement for animal products like milk, eggs and meat produced with GM feed.

German Consumers reject GM

“Consumers need information in order to opt for a GM-free food production. This information is provided by the new Mini-Guide,” says Sandra Blessin, a genetic engineering expert for Greenpeace. “The majority of consumers rejected the use of GM crops for food. Production and distribution of shell eggs from non-GM feed are still a large potential for development.”

Survey Shows

The consumer can be sure that no genetic engineering is used in the feed of hens in organic production. The supermarkets and Tegut Country are also pioneers for a GM-free feed of their conventional eggs. In May (Kaufland) or June (Tegut), all their eggs will be produced without GM feed.

Supermarket chains suffer

The majority of the dealers, however, including Rewe, Penny, Aldi, Kaiser’s Tengelmann, Edeka, Real and Norma are not doing well because they are using 20-30 percent GM feed. Lidl and Globe didn’t respond or give information on the extent of their use of GM-free eggs. This lack of transparency is unnecessary, since both chains have GM-free organic eggs in the range. Globe also offers a conventional eggs brand with the label “welfare check”, which also requires a GM-free feed.

Range of halogen-free eggs produced expand

The Federal Association of the German food trade on request from Greenpeace argued, in principle, for a GM-free feeding method. The environmental organization also welcomed the news that Rewe and Netto want to change and get rid of their GM feed eggs by late 2011. Rewe would like to get rid of these eggs by more than 70 percent and net up to 100 percent.

Live without GM crops

“The new-found awareness of trade is a first step. The goal should be to protect human health and the environment, however, be assured that no genetically modified plants are the best, “says Blessin. “The cultivation of these crops threatens the biological diversity and leads to increased pesticide use.”

Pollutant-free eggs without genetic engineering

Production depends on the demand. If consumers insist on pollution-free eggs on their breakfast table, the market will act accordingly. It is not necessary for the hens to be fed with GM feed. If the providers are under increasing pressure, there remains little choice but to deliver a perfect product. This pressure should not be only from environmental groups and consumer groups, but also from ordinary housewives and consumers. Ask the store if the eggs are GMO-free whether they are tested for harmful substances, etc., each time you make a purchase.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network, 04/17/2011

Literature: Greenpeace, too many eggs from GM feed in the trade, 04.17.2011

Use of hair dye chemicals can affect the immune system

Hair dyes are involved in the development of autoimmune diseases and cancer

The first gray hairs indicate our aging and many have only one thought: The gray hairs must disappear. There are many hair dyes on the market, but most contain questionable chemicals to produce their coloring effect. Recently scientists at the University of Copenhagen showed that commercial -p-phenylenediamine (PPD)-contained in the hair dye composition is a potent activator on the immune system. When animal models were in contact with PPD, severe hypersensitivity reactions resulted.

With the discovery of these research scientists, the result leaves only two alternatives to consider: either accept the gray hair, or resort to a harmless lichen hair dye with active ingredients from plants.

Why doesn’t everyone react to the chemicals in hair color products?

With their new study, scientists from Copenhagen wanted to find out why only a minority of the population suffers with hypersensitivity to permanent hair dyes. The scientific research team found that the majority of people are indeed sensitized to hair dyes or the rest of the users develop an immunological tolerance.

Consumer tests simulated situation

To investigate whether an immune response takes place, the researchers exposed mice repeatedly to PPD-containing hair dyes in a manner as it is exposed to the consumer in a similar way. For this purpose, a commercial hair dye that contains PPD, was tested on animals. The local immune response was evaluated by ear swelling and by histological examinations. The immune response in the lymph nodes was analyzed by the researchers using flow cytometry, a still relatively new laboratory technique.

Inflammation and swelling worsened by repeated contact

Hair dye caused local inflammation, which was determined by swelling and cell infiltration of the treated ears. In addition, contact with the hair dye caused T-cell activation, as evidenced by the T-cell proliferation and the production of IFN gamma and IL-17 which was detected in the lymph nodes. The inflammatory reaction was at its peak after the fourth contact with the hair dye.

Effects observed on the immune system

From that point on, the team of scientists observed an up-regulation of regulatory T cells and IL-10 producing cells. The study thus shows that PPD-containing hair dyes strongly influence the immune system. In addition, it became clear that they are potent skin sensitizers that activate the inflammatory T-cells and to induce PPD-containing hair dyes and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. This may explain why many consumers using hair dye can be use the dyes repeatedly without significant development of allergies. Scientists from Denmark, however, believe that one cannot feel entirely safe doing this because facts have been raised concerning the question of whether the influence of the immune modulatory effects of hair dyes are involved in the development of autoimmune diseases and cancer.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network

Literature:

Rubin IM, Dabelsteen S, Nielsen MM, White IR, Johansen JD, Geisler C, Bonefeld CM., Repeated exposure to hair dye induces regulatory T cells in mice, Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark, Br J Dermatol., May 13, 2010.

Allergists warn to pay attention to the drug allergies

One in every three drug-allergy patients, takes the medicine again

Drugs can not only relieve symptoms but can also cause them. More than seven percent of the population suffers from a drug incompatibility, many of which are allergic problems. Common triggers of drug allergies are penicillin and other antibiotics. Painkillers like aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) are the cause of urticaria, shock, or asthma. The allergist, Professor Thomas Fuchs, and his team at the Dermatology University Medical Clinic at Goettingen stated in a recent study that drug allergies may have long term risks. “Every third patient, a year after diagnosis, will take a drug with the allergic trigger. Patients with allergies to drugs will forget or ignore the recommendations of their allergists over time. It is frightening that even doctors ignore our recommendations and prescribe the allergic triggers,” criticizes Fuchs. The consequences can be severe, and in the worst case, a reaction can threaten and endanger life.

Fuchs interviewed 80 patients with allergies to non-steroidal painkillers such as aspirin, paracetamol, diclofenac, or ibuprofen. He spoke with them regarding their experiences a few years after diagnosis. Forty-one percent had taken the painkillers despite the known allergy-causing effects of the drug. The most common causes for taking the allergy causing drugs again were that the people knew about the allergens or safe alternatives, but after a few years, or as they were no longer taking any medication, they forgot to check the informational leaflet for possible reactive ingredients. In some cases even doctors prescribed a drug with the allergic trigger. Also several patients were deliberately triggering a medicine allergy just out of curiosity to see if a reaction would occur again.

The skin clinic at Goettingen demonstrated the importance of intensive education for people with drug allergies. According to Fuchs, the person should meet with their allergist again a year after the original diagnosis. He also advises patients to always carry an allergy “passport”. In this “passport” the drug trigger(s) is/are recorded so that any attending doctors can immediately recognize which medicines can cause dangerous reactions. “People with a drug allergy should inform their doctors as well, to ensure is that no medication is prescribed with those reactive allergens,” the allergy specialist Thomas Fuchs recommended at the Skin Clinic of Goettingen.

Author: Association of German Allergists Association (AEDA) www.aeda.de

Literature:

Buhl T, Meynberg HC, Kaune KM, Hünecke P, Schoenberg MP, Fuchs D, Long-term follow-up of patients with hypersensitivity to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs reveals shortcomings in compliance and care, J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011: 127 (1): 284-285

Nuclear phase-out now, customers have energy options

Drawing conclusions from the nuclear accident in Fukushima

The news of the nuclear accident in Japan is incredible. The situation escalates and the Tokyo metropolitan city is at risk of serious radioactive contamination. In Germany, protests increase against nuclear power, and politicians have agreed to a moratorium, in which the life extension of some German nuclear power plants will be suspended for three months. This however is just a political move to keep the campaign positive as experts and public voices are raised. On the night of March 17th, the nuclear power plant in Phillipsburg left the network. It is uncertain what exactly will happen after the three-month moratorium when the nuclear power plants are on the grid again.

There is a legitimate growing concern in the population about the safety of nuclear power. Currently clients have the opportunity to change to a nuclear-free electrical provider at any time. They may change to a renewable energy which may help to phase out nuclear energy and even to encourage further community projects.

Nuclear power, an incalculable risk

The out of control Fukushima nuclear power plant proves unequivocally to the people that nuclear power is anything but under control. From the very beginning Japan needed international support to assist with the earthquake and tsunami damaged nuclear power plant to bring it back under control.

The news from Japan, on the other hand, brought news of rising pressure in several reactors, explosions, the drying out of the cooling tank for fuel, increasing the release of radioactivity, and the desperate battle of 50 brave people to avert a nuclear meltdown. Assistance from the U.S. and Europe were interrupted because of rising radioactivity, and thus the assistants were removed. In the meantime, the capital of Tokyo, with its 35 million residents, was told not to evacuate.

The scenario that is broadcast worldwide on news channels can cause people around the globe to faint. The question is legitimately being asked, why can’t the leading nuclear experts and brilliant scientists of Japan come up with adequate solutions to avert an absolute nuclear disaster? One must not be at the Fukushima nuclear power plant to find solutions. High technology operations can assist and offer ideas from anywhere in the world.

Total security is unrealistic

Accidents at nuclear power plants can happen in any country that uses this technology. To believe that Germany’s nuclear power plants and safeguards for emergencies are better equipped than those of the high technological country of Japan, is measured by environmental organizations, and was long ago disproved by the facts as nothing more than a wishful belief.

Green power, power without nuclear power

Germany can get along without their nuclear power plants, as specified by experts and environmental organizations. Namely Germany produces excess electricity which is sold abroad. Nuclear power plants shut down and a targeted shift to renewable energies is not a utopia, but easily doable for Germany, the leader in the world in environmental technology.

The switch to a nuclear-free option is easy and straightforward

Demand determines the market. When more and more electrical customers choose nuclear-free electricity, the power company will follow.

The current customer has much more influence than he suspects, and it is easy to change to electrical suppliers who provide green electricity produced entirely without nuclear energy. A decision can be made at any time with little formalities by the providers. Being afraid that suddenly there would be no power during the change is unfounded. The non-nuclear power company can guarantee this would not occur.

Some suppliers for nuclear-free electricity and informational websites on green

Nuclear-free green power does not have to be more expensive than nuclear power, and thus the consumer would not experience any unpleasant surprises. There are internet platforms on which to calculate the costs.

What many do not know is that the green power providers are available for the current customers. Also, electricity from different renewable resources are available to choose from, and one has the additional option to opt for providers that support social projects.

Some examples:

Verivox green calculator

On the website of „Verivox” (german) one can take a close look at prices for green power and at the same time determine charge differences between the current provider and changing to a green electrical provider.

Green Electricity Price Comparison

Nuclear-free electricity“ (german) is another platform for individuals and business customers to compare prices. One can calculate costs for one’s own electricity use.

Greenpeace Energy

The environmental organization Greenpeace has specially created a cooperative to offer green power called “Greenpeace Energy” (german) and at the same time is developing more innovative projects. One project is the hamburger “car-sharing pilot project,” using green energy-powered electric cars.

Ray of Hope

The provider “bright spot” (german) provides electricity from renewable energy sources, ensuring that electricity does not come from nuclear power or coal power plants.

There are many other providers and it is worthwhile to research the different options of renewable energy sources that power actually comes from, and one can read the interesting facts of how the different green electrical providers contribute to the local and international community and the environment.

Author: Silvia K. Müller, CSN – Chemical Sensitivity Network, March 17th, 2011

Pure Nature has completed the power switch to nuclear-free three years ago . There were no problems while switching to “bright spot”. The employees of Pure Nature are very enthusiastic in helping find ways to save energy, be more energy efficient, and whenever possible, to conserve resources.

Gluten-free diet reduces bone problems in children with celiac disease

Celiac disease is a congenital intestinal disorder that is characterized by a lifelong intolerance to the ingestion of gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Celiac illness can occur at any age, but most of the intolerance occurs during early childhood (between the 9th and 24th month of life). Frequently, people who suffer from celiac problems have a decrease in bone density. A current article published in the medical journal, Nutrition Reviews, has reviewed the existing literature on the subject and revealed that a gluten-free diet can strongly influence recovery in children.

Celiac disease can reduce bone density

Metabolic bone disease is among the most significant and frequent complication of celiac disease. Decreased bone mineral density in children can lead to the fact that they are not in a position to develop optimal bone mass and bone loss in adulthood. Both increase the risk of developing, osteoporosis. People with celiac disease, also run an additional risk of bone fractures.

Gluten-free diet can lead to recovery

However, there is evidence that a gluten-free diet can promote an increase of bone density quickly. This can lead to complete recovery of bone mineralization in children. A gluten-free diet improves bone mineral density in adults, but normalization is rare. Children can get normal bone mass if the diagnosis and treatment were carried out before puberty. This also prevents the development of osteoporosis in later life.

Moreover, nutrients which contain calcium and vitamin D seem to improve bone mineral density in children and adults who suffer from celiac disease.

Conclusion

“Our findings reinforce the importance of a strict gluten-free diet, which currently appears to be the only scientifically proven treatment for celiac disease,” said the study authors. “Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to complications from celiac disease, such as preventing reduced bone density.”

Literature: Wiley-Blackwell, gluten-free diet Reduces bone problems in children with celiac disease, October 8, 2009