Tag Archives: Research

Retraining the brain for CFS, FMS, MCS, PTSD, GWS

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The brain is not a static, fixed structure, but is highly dynamic and changeable.  Scientists have coined the term “brain plasticity” to describe this lifelong capacity for the brain “to reorganize neural pathways based on new experiences”  and “the changing of neurons, the organization of their networks, and their functions via new experiences.”  This has far-reaching implications, making this area of research a new frontier in science and medicine.

Ashok Gupta is an innovative researcher and therapist, who is applying the principle of brain plasticity to help people recover from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromylagia, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Gulf War Syndrome.  His method, prompted by his own encounter with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and followed by ten years of research and study, is called Gupta Amygdala Retraining.

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When you can’t eat organic

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Understandably, it’s expensive to eat organic.  Or you may have difficulty finding organic produce in your area.  Here are some options when that’s the case.

According to the Environmental Working Group, you can reduce your intake of pesticides significantly by avoiding the 12 most polluted fruits  and vegetables—the dirty dozen—and choosing the 15 cleanest ones.  This is a wise idea given that pesticides have been linked to nervous system issues, cancer, hormonal system effects, and skin, eye and lung irritation.  Here’s the EWG list.

The Dirty Dozen

  • Grapes (Imported)
  • Potatoes
  • Cherries
  • Kale / Collard Greens
  • Spinach
  • Sweet Bell Peppers
  • Nectarines
  • Blueberries (Domestic)
  • Apples
  • Strawberries
  • Peaches
  • Celery (the worst)

The Clean 15

  • Onions (the best)
  • Avocado
  • Sweet Corn
  • Pineapples
  • Mango (Subtropical and Tropical)
  • Sweet Peas (Frozen)
  • Asparagus
  • Kiwi Fruit (Subtropical and Tropical)
  • Cabbage
  • Eggplant
  • Cantaloupe (Domestic)
  • Watermelon
  • Grapefruit
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Honeydew Melon

You might think twice about chowing down on raw celery sticks!  For more information and the full list that ranks 50 fruits and vegetables take a peek at the Environmental Working Group’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides.

Grow your own

Another option is to grow your own organic vegetables and fruits.  If space is an issue, even a few small planters on a balcony can keep you loaded up on strawberries or tomatoes or your other favorites for months.  And some people produce much more in a limited space.  Try your hand at a small garden if you have ample space. It’s incredibly gratifying to watch your garden grow and enjoy the fruit of your efforts.  You might also plant a fruit tree for the years to come.

While the widespread use of pesticides is concerning, there are always options.

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Tips to reduce cancer risk

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The statistics are staggering: according to the Environmental Working Group, “Four of every 10 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, and two of every 10 will die of it.”

Furthermore, “…according to a new report from the President’s Cancer Panel, environmental toxins also play a significant and under-recognized role in cancer, causing “grievous harm” to untold numbers of people. Environmental Working Group’s own research has found that children are born “pre-polluted” with up to 200 industrial chemicals, pesticides and contaminants that have been found to cause cancer in lab studies or in people.

Don’t miss this important advice on nine practical tips for reducing environmental exposures linked to cancer.

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