Updates

 Some quick updates:

Prop 37

   In the recent election, Prop 37 (California) failed to pass.  Basically, it would have required all companies to disclose any GMOs in their products.  This was a serious blow for those of us who need, or even want, to know what is in our food supply.

Tests Are Back

The results on my son's C-1 blood tests came back.

HAE

I took my son to the allergist, because the facial swelling greatly worried me.

The allergist said, "I want to send your son to the hospital for some blood work.  I don't think it's an allergic reaction.  I think it's Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)."

MSG'd Grape

The other day we wanted grapes.  At the store, they were out of organic ones, so I grabbed regular grapes since I knew we were okay with them.

Reaction To ???

I had several topics to write about.  While in the process of researching, at 1 a.m on the 5th., my 17 year old son came downstairs.  His top lip was swollen.  He has always reacted worse than most when bit by insects.  Due to our location and "critter" population, my first assumption was "spider bite".  

The Evils of Kale?

My Story

Monosodium Glutamate.

Maltodextrin.

Aspartame.

Natural and Artificial Flavoring.

High Fructose Corn Syrup.

How many see those words on an ingredient list, yet don't think twice about giving them to your family?

I certainly didn't.

Triclosan

I've long been an opponent of anti-bacterial soaps for daily use.  It causes more harm then good.  Then I discovered that Triclosan, a key ingredient in many soaps, is in many beauty and hygiene products, towels, and other items. Since I also have a heart condition, I found this of interest:

Fox News Article: Triclosan Linked to Impaired Muscle Function

ABC News Article: Triclosan Safety Questioned

The FDA posted two years ago that they were looking into the possible hazards to humans.

FDA Reviewing Triclosan

Last year, ABC news reported that the FDA was looking into it:

FDA Reviews Triclosan's Safety

I'm waiting to see if the FDA says that they are reviewing it again this year.   I have little to no confidence the FDA will do anything.  The FDA has been more interested in money than the well-being of our country for a long time.

The bottom line is that it can build up in a person's system impairing their muscle contractions.  This includes cardiac rhythm.   For those with muscle and/or cardiac disorders, this is a huge deal.   It is something to be avoided.

Sources of Soy

My daughter and I have been getting sick for years.   After I discovered what my problem was (separate post), we worked on finding out what was wrong with my 22 year old.

Not Just Food

My friends seem to always be talking about losing weight.  Don't get me wrong.  There is nothing wrong with losing weight.  However, a few seem to be a bit obsessed with it.  It's always "I've lost 5 pounds!" or "Why can't I lose weight?!"   If someone is having trouble, there is always someone else to suggest a new diet to try.