Debi Pearl

MICROWAVE OVENS: A HEALTH RISK?

Household microwave ovens have been in use in the United States for over 40 years. The Food and Drug Administration guidelines state that these appliances are safe as long as the manufacturers’ recommended procedures are followed.

 

Years before microwave ovens were retailed in this country, the US War Department came into possession of German research on microwave ovens. This was research seized at the end of World War II. The Nazis had developed the earliest forms of microwave ovens as a means preparing meals quickly for troops invading Russia. The German research documents were transferred to the US War Department for further study.

 

The Russians acquired some of the German ovens and began their own testing on the biological effects of their use. The Soviets outlawed the use of microwave ovens and issued an international warning on the biological health hazards as well as the environmental health hazards associated with the use of microwave ovens. Eastern European scientists concurred with the Russian findings and urged strict environmental limits.

 

The Russians also tested thousands of workers exposed to microwaves during radar development in the 1950s. They concluded that simple exposure to the energy field was sufficient to cause side effects. These results caused the Russians to limit exposure to 10 microwatts for industry workers and 1 microwatt for civilians.

 

People exposed to microwave radiation experienced microwave sickness characterized by chronic stress, high blood pressure, headaches, memory loss, dizziness, eye pain, sleeplessness, irritability, anxiety, stomach pain, nervous tension, inability to concentrate, hair loss, plus an increase incidence of appendicitis, cataracts, reproductive problems, cancer, adrenal exhaustion, ischemic heart disease. These symptoms are suggestive of inflammatory difficulties.

 

Russian forensic teams observed the many effects on foods cooked in a microwave oven and the effects on individuals consuming those foods. All foods subjected to microwave cooking were molecularly damaged. Micro-waved meats were found to contain cancer causing agents and have destroyed and destabilized proteins. Free radicals were formed in micro-waved fruits and vegetables, especially root vegetables. Metabolic activity of basic substances in fruits and vegetables were lowered, interfering with the human body’s ability to digest and use nutrients. People that ate micro-waved foods had digestive system disorders due to the unstable catabolism of micro-waved foods. These disorders included a higher rate of stomach and intestinal cancers, as well as a general degeneration of peripheral cellular tissues. Tests showed changes in blood and immune function. There was a higher rate of cancerous cells in blood tests and Lymphatic system malfunctions contributed to immune system degeneration.

 

When first introduced in the US, many cooks shunned microwave ovens. It was thought that exciting molecules within foods was an unnatural tampering that would render foods unsafe. Many other countries shared the concerns of the Russian researchers and outlawed the use of microwave ovens. The US government, however, assured citizens that microwave ovens were safe to use in food preparation and heating.

 

With the arrival of Perestroika in 1987, Russia rescinded their restrictions on the use of microwave ovens.

 

 

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In 1991, the surgical staff at Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma believed that microwave ovens were safe. Norma Levitt was a patient that had just undergone successful hip replacement surgery and was still on the operating table. A unit of her blood was warmed in a microwave oven in the employee’s lounge because the blood warming device was not working properly. Minutes after the blood was given to her, Norma died from a blood clot. While the hospital denied that the use of the microwave oven had anything to do with Norma’s death, current FDA guidelines now warn against using any kind of microwave device when heating blood products.

 

Prior to Norma’s death, Dr. Hans Ulrich Hertel conducted a scientific study to test the effects of micro-waved foods on humans. Volunteers submitted blood samples, ate foods on an empty stomach and then had additional blood samples drawn. The blood of those that consumed raw foods and foods cooked conventionally were compared to those of persons that consumed micro-waved foods. The blood samples showed significant changes in the blood of those that consumed micro-waved foods. Dr. Hans found that foods micro-waved foods caused changes in blood similar to the pathological process found in cancer.

 

Dr. Hertel concluded that there were definite health risks associated with consumption of foods cooked in a microwave oven compared to conventionally prepared foods. He went on to say that consuming micro-waved foods had cancerous effects on the blood. His findings were published in 1991 along with an article about him in the Journal Franz Weber.

 

Manufacturers of microwave ovens effectively used trade laws and the Swiss court to silence Dr. Hertel and threaten him with personal ruin if he revealed his findings. In March 1993, Dr. Hertel was convicted for "interfering with commerce" and prohibited from further publishing his results. This decision was reversed in a judgment delivered in Strasbourg, Austria, on August 25, 1998. Switzerland was ordered to pay Dr. Hertel compensation.

 

Retailers, manufacturers and the government continue to assert that these appliances are harmless to humans. However, this is in contrast to the published studies that offer evidence to the contrary. Not only must we consider how our foods are grown and harvested, but how they are prepared.

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ASPARTAME HEALTH EFFECTS

The Food & Drug Administration has approved Aspartame as a chemical additive in foods consumed by humans. Before you decide to add it to your diet, there are some things you should know.

Aspartame will break down into a chemical known as Diketopiperazine when stored for long periods of time. This reaction can also occur after Aspartame has been ingested. Diketopiperazine is believed to be causative in the incidence of brain tumors and cancer in humans and animals.

In the body, three primary components emerge as Aspartame is broken down.

PHENYLALANINE
Because the body does not recognize Phenylalanine as a natural food substance, it is difficult for the human digestive system to metabolize and remove this substance. In large doses, this chemical can build up in the brain and cause damage that results in difficulties such as depression, schizophrenia and seizures.

ASPARTIC ACID
Aspartic Acid makes up about half of Aspartame. Another name for Aspartic Acid is Aspartate. The brain can be over stimulated by high levels of Aspartic Acid and this can result in a loss of cells. Long term damage to the neurons can result in neurological conditions such as memory loss and Parkinson’s Disease.

METHANOL
Methanol, A Naturally Occurring Substance
Methanol occurs naturally in fruit. Yet, fruit was also created with pectin that binds itself to Methanol. Because the human body was not created with the enzyme necessary to break Methanol off from pectin, Methanol in this form is passed harmlessly out of the body.

Methanol, Part of Aspartame
Ten percent of Aspartame is unbound Methanol. When Methanol is not bound, it is considered a toxic substance. The process by which the human body tries to metabolize Methanol results in the production of formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is stored indefinitely in the human body, making it a cumulative toxic substance.

If Aspartame is exposed to temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit, Methanol is released. This reaction can also be caused when Aspartame is used in hot foods and cooking. Many believe that symptoms of Desert Storm Syndrome can be traced back to formaldehyde poisoning resulting from heavy consumption of sodas containing Aspartame which were stored in hot temperatures. A loss of coordination, nausea, confusion, dizziness, headache, blindness, depression of the central nervous system and in large doses, loss of consciousness and death can result from Methanol poisoning.

The list of possible side effects resulting from the consumption of aspartame can be found by typing ‘aspartame side effects’ into your internet search engine.

I’VE CONSUMED ASPARTAME! NOW WHAT?
* Stop consuming sugar-free products and products that contain Aspartame.
* Begin to use natural sweeteners moderately like honey and stevia leaf.
* Record changes in your health in a journal and understand this is the way your body communicates important information.
* Detoxify.
* Work up a sweat every day in order to help your body flush toxins.
* Eat nutrient dense foods to replenish your body’s stores.
* Sleep in total darkness.
* Drink lots of CLEAN water.

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This article is no substitute for medical advice and is only intended for information. The reader bears the responsibility to carefully consider and weigh the risks of decisions that are related to health.

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CYTOKINE STORM STRATEGIES

Your immune system is controlled by little messengers called cytokines that regulate the immune response. A Cytokine Storm occurs when the immune response is over stimulated by too many cytokines in response to a pathogen invader.

 

 

Cytokine Storms are very serious. Redness, inflammation, nausea, weakness and high fever are indications of a Cytokine Storm. Death can be caused by a Cytokine Storm that is located in the lungs because the resulting inflammation and mucus could block airways. The strong Cytokine Storm response in young people is thought to be the reason for the high death rate among that group during the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic.

 

DURING A CYTOKINE STORM AVOID IMMUNE BOOSTERS

It is not good to take immune boosters during a serious viral infection. At first there would be temporary relief after using these types of herbs (such as Pau d’arco, Echinacea, Elderberry, Aloe Vera and Oregano) but this would be followed by an increase in the severity of the symptoms. Some foods such as Chocolate, Kimchi, Chlorella Algae, Spirulina and Elderberry Juice (Sambucol) will also increase the production of cytokines and should be avoided during a Cytokine Storm. For less severe flu or colds, these foods are helpful, but they are best avoided when symptoms are severe.

 

UTILIZE ANTI-VIRALS TO FIGHT PATHOGENS

Viral infections can be fought using anti-viral (Antipathogenic) herbs. Several helpful anti-virals include Pine Needles, Mullein, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Ginger, Garlic, Eucalyptus (inhaled) and Apple Cider Vinegar.

 

IMMUNE RESPONSE BROUGHT INTO BALANCE WITH IMMUNOMODULATORS

Herbs and foods can also be immunomodulators. These aid the body in regulating the immune response. Olive Leaf Extract, Chamomile and Ginseng fall into this category.

 

WAYS TO TREAT SYMPTOMS

Anti-inflammatories help lessen the symptoms of excess mucus and inflammation that occur in some Cytokine Storms. A list of helpful anti-inflammatories includes: Yarrow, Red Clover, Pleurisy Root, Pine Needles, Plantain, Onions, Mustard, Mullein, Marshmallow, Ginger, Curcumin (from Turmeric), Apple Cider Vinegar and Eucalyptus (inhaled).

 

REMEDIES

Most herbs can be made into a pleasant tea to drink. Inhaling the steam of herbs and/or Apple Cider Vinegar simmering in water is another way to receive the beneficial properties of herbs. In a plaster, onions and mustard can yield their benefits. A well-made soup can deliver the benefits of onions. By smouldering the herbs as incense, their essential oils can be carried by the smoke into the air and inhaled into the lungs.

 

Staying hydrated with lots of water and rest will help in your recovery. If you believe it is a life-threatening situation, seek medical assistance.

 

 

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This article is for information purposes; it is no substitute for medical care. All liability is assumed by the individual employing these methods. Said readers should exercise common sense, educate themselves on the procedures and risks and exercise common sense when applying methods described.

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PARENTS PREPARING FOR UNEXPECTED CIRCUMSTANCES

When the unexpected happens, a parent will want to protect children. Whether utility service has been interrupted or you’ve been unexpectedly stranded, there are ways to be prepared.

PLAN NOT TO PANIC
Panic is a great danger in an emergency – as mentioned in the article: RULE OF 3'S TO SURVIVE. Children will pick up on your emotion. Your preparation will make you confident so that your children will draw strength from you. (see RULE OF 3'S TO SURVIVE)

ROUTINES ARE IMPORTANT
Look for ways to create a routine for children in the upheaval of the unexpected. This will give them a sense of stability and show that you are still able to function as parent and protector.

ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment is a must when you are stranded for a time. Batteries and generators won’t likely be available for games. Keep craft supplies on hand: crayons, markers, paper, play dough, scissors, tape, etc. Spend time with your children working puzzles, board games, dolls, blocks, toy cars, and reading books so that they have an appreciation for ‘low-tech’ entertainment. Have educational materials (workbooks, etc.) on hand in case organized schooling is not an option.

PREPARE FOR GOOD HEALTH
While you have access to treatments, make sure you are maintaining your health and dental care. By taking preventive measures now, you can meet the unexpected without neglected physical ailments. If you require certain medicines, be sure that you have a supply in stock. Observe closely the eating, sleeping and toilet patterns of your loved ones in order to catch and treat illness early and decisively. Train yourself to take note of the impact of circumstances on those around you. It is easy to become consumed with your own difficulties and overlook warning signals that others may need help.

EAT REAL FOODS
Today’s diet is in an investment in tomorrow’s health. Picky eaters can become ill if they refuse nutritious foods. A pallet can be taught to appreciate the taste and texture of REAL foods, but the exercise is complicated by taste buds dulled on sugars and processed foods. Take the time to introduce children to a wide spectrum of foods. Now is the time to learn about nutrition and food preparation.

BABIES AND INFANTS
Babies don’t require a lot of equipment in order to be healthy and safe In an emergency.. Contrary to advertisements, babies can thrive without cribs, bouncy chairs, carriers, disposable diapers, pacifiers, music boxes, and other assorted gadgets. What babies DO require is nourishment, and to be kept warm and dry.

Breastfeeding is a learned skill. Even if you should choose to give your infant bottled formula, it is in mother and baby’s best interest to invest the time to breastfeed during those crucial first months. This insures that the littlest members of your family will have a ready (and mobile) supply of nourishment if you aren’t able to secure formula. Keep a good supply of formula stocked and on hand for bottle-fed babies.

Infants need help regulating body temperature and should be protected from extremes of heat and cold. In summer, protect babies from direct sun. An umbrella is a good tool for this. In the winter, dressing little ones in layers protects them from the cold. Long-sleeved thermal underwear can be worn beneath zippered fleece sleepers for nighttime warmth. Sharing a bed with 2 or 3 others helps everyone stay warm at night. During the day, wool socks and a hat help little ones keep warm along with a zippered fleece jacket.

HYGIENE
When water is in short supply or the temperature becomes very cool, it isn’t necessary to enjoy the luxury of a daily bath. Find the warmest spot in your living quarters and teach your children that they should wash their faces, hands, feet and privates every day. Before meals, have them wash their hands. This is important for healthy hygiene in rustic conditions. Explain to older children the importance of a well positioned latrine and show them how to dispose of waste well away from living areas.

SKILLS
Children become more confident as they gain life skills. Give your children the gift of learning how to do such things as shop wisely, stock a pantry, pitch a tent, build a camp fire, cook, sew, garden, repair small engines, perform first aid, CPR, and swim. Knowing self defense, what to do in a fire drill and practicing other scenarios builds confidence. A prepared child is also less likely to panic.

Making preparedness a part of your life will help your children avoid panic when moments are crucial. Rather than face the unknown with desperation, you will have a plan and your little ones will know what to expect. These measures help families face uncertainty with strength.

NEWBORN CARE

It can be difficult for a new parent to know when a baby is sick. Medical professionals field so many questions from mothers of newborns that they often treat concerns as nothing more than just new-mama nerves. Mothers can begin to doubt whether or not to trust their instincts.

 

The good news is that there are tangible and objective measures of a baby's health.

 

THE FIRST WEEK

During the first week of life a baby should nurse at least 8 times a day for more than 15 minutes at each feeding. You should be able to hear the baby swallowing milk. Baby's first sticky-black stool -- called meconium  -- should pass. You should see it progress from greenish-black to a brown soft play-dough consistency. By the fourth or fifth day, this will appear yellow. During the first two days of life, a child should begin to have wet diapers. At first this will be 2 or 3 per day and increase in number by the week's end.

 

That first week will also give you clues if a baby isn't doing well. If a baby has no desire to nurse, has a weak suck, feeds less than 8 times per day and can't manage to feed for at least 15 minutes, these are reasons for concern. If a baby falls asleep before nursing for 15 minutes, makes a clicking sound when nursing, and has dimpled cheeks when sucking, these are also indications that there is some difficulty. When the baby's diapers don't show stools progressing as they should and you don't see wet diapers within 48 hours after birth, there is something out of the ordinary. More than 2 days of these symptoms indicate that you should seek medical help.

 

THE FIRST MONTH

The signs that your baby is healthy will be pretty much the same throughout the next month. For weeks 2 through 4, the baby will continue to nurse at least eight times a day and have 2 to 4 yellow bowel movements per day. Wet diapers will likely occur between six to eight times per day with clear, not yellow, urine. The suck will strengthen and you should see milk and continue to hear swallowing during feedings. The baby should increase in weight and alertness.

 

However, in this 2nd to 4th week, you should make a note of anything that is out of the ordinary such as a baby not eating at least 8 times per day, infrequent or small stools, too few wet diapers, or if the urine becomes bright yellow. Measure your baby's length and weight; these should increase. Should the baby have a weak or tired sucking reflex, if you can't hear swallowing, if the baby becomes sluggish, slow to respond or refuses to sleep between feedings, these are all indications that something is not right. Should you observe these behaviors for a couple of days in a row, seek out a health care provider.

 

WEEKS 5 TO 10

In the second month of life, a baby might reduce the number of feedings to seven times per day. This is because he is growing and can take in more milk. Again, you will notice a change in bowel movements to either several small stools per day or a large one as infrequently as every couple of days. This is normal for a breastfed baby as the body is able to assimilate much of mama's milk with little waste. Six to eight wet diapers will continue daily, but check to be sure there isn't a concentrated yellow color. Along with increasing alertness, you should continue to see a strong suck, milk dribbles, and hear an audible swallowing at feeding time.

 

During the 5 to 10 week mark a baby that doesn't nurse at least seven times a day and produce the right amount of wet diapers (without dark yellow color) should be watched carefully. Make a note if your child stops gaining weight or doesn't grow in length. Weak, tired sucking without an audible swallow indicates the baby is not getting proper nourishment. Should the baby become sluggish, slow to respond and be unable to sleep between feedings, seek medical assistance in rectifying this problem. Two consecutive days of these behaviors indicate something is wrong.

 

KEEPING TRACK

Remembering how often and when a baby ate can be a challenge when you are well-rested. Asking this of a post-natal mama can be daunting. One simple way to remedy this is to leave a notebook and pencil near the baby's sleeping area. Whenever mama feeds or changes the baby, note the time and what was done along with your observations. An example might be: “2:00 a.m. Nursed 20 minutes, wet diaper/clear, bm -- greenish yellow. For clarity, you may want to start a new page each day with the date written at the top.”

 

This way, should anything seem out of the ordinary, you can refer to your notes and present them to a doctor if needed. This is also a good way for a new mama to bond with her baby. You may be too tired to figure out why your baby is crying, but a quick check of your notes will tell you if it's been too long since he ate (hunger) or if he hasn't had a bowel movement that day (constipation). In turn, you begin to interpret your baby's cries and what they mean. This goes a LONG ways towards helping a new mama learn to trust her instincts when it comes to her baby.

 

The BEST advice for new mamas, however, comes from not-so-new mamas. Enjoy these first few weeks to their fullest. Don't worry about filling your day with anything more than getting to know this new little one. Too soon, they are no longer little.