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The Hidden Dangers of Glyphosate: What You Need to Know

Toxic food
Toxic food

Dr. Reema Zereh


Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides globally, and it’s the main active ingredient in Roundup™ and many other herbicides. But have you ever considered whether you might be consuming this chemical without even realizing it?


Since the 1970s, glyphosate use on food crops has skyrocketed, with estimates suggesting that over 150,000 tons are sprayed annually across the United States. In fact, the amount of glyphosate used in agriculture has increased nearly 100 times since it was first introduced in 1974. Alarmingly, studies show that around 70% of Americans have detectable levels of glyphosate in their urine.


So, should we be concerned about this widespread use of glyphosate? While research on the topic can be conflicting, there are several scientific studies that raise important questions.


For instance, many countries in Europe have either banned or heavily restricted glyphosate. What do they know that we don’t? It’s worth pondering whether there are powerful interests at play that might not want the public to know the full truth about glyphosate.


One significant concern is the more than 100,000 lawsuits filed in the U.S. against the manufacturer of Roundup. Many plaintiffs claim that glyphosate-based herbicides are responsible for their diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. While 80% of these claims have been settled, around 30,000 remain active.


Since its introduction, glyphosate has been hailed as a miracle for agriculture, but emerging evidence suggests it may be linked to serious health issues. Research from the University of Washington indicates that exposure to glyphosate increases the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41%. Additionally, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, has classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” placing it in the same category as arsenic and asbestos.


Beyond cancer, glyphosate exposure has been associated with various chronic conditions. It disrupts the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to digestive issues, and recent studies have suggested a link between glyphosate and heart disease. Glyphosate can enter the body through skin absorption, consumption of treated foods, or drinking contaminated water.


Clinical studies have shown that glyphosate exposure may cause significant changes in heart function, leading to potentially life-threatening arrhythmias. Given these findings, it’s crucial to consider testing for glyphosate exposure, especially in patients with cardiovascular issues.


Foods Likely to Contain Glyphosate


Certain foods are more likely to have glyphosate residues. Here’s a list of common items to be aware of:


Grains and Cereals:

- Oats (especially non-organic, pre-harvest sprayed)

- Wheat (often sprayed before harvest)

- Barley

- Rye

- Corn (especially GMO corn)

- Rice (to a lesser extent)


Legumes:

- Soybeans (especially GMO soy)

- Lentils

- Chickpeas

- Peas

- Dry beans


Corn-Based Products:

- Cornmeal

- Cornflakes

- Corn syrup

- Non-organic popcorn


Processed Foods:

- Snack bars

- Chips

- Cookies

- Crackers

- Infant cereal

- Instant oatmeal


Animal Products:

- Meat

-Eggs

-Dairy from animals fed GMO corn or soy.


Beverages:

- Beer and wine (especially non-organic)

- Fruit juices made from non-organic ingredients.


Reducing Glyphosate Exposure


To minimize your exposure to glyphosate, consider the following steps:


1. Choose Organic:Opt for organic products whenever possible, as glyphosate use is restricted in organic farming.


2. Look for Certifications:Seek out products labeled as "glyphosate residue-free."


3. Wash and Peel:While washing and peeling produce can help reduce residues, glyphosate is systemic in many plants, so this may not eliminate exposure entirely.


4. Avoid GMO Foods:Stay away from genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and animal products from animals fed with GMO feed.


Additionally, you might want to consider incorporating certain supplements into your routine to help detoxify glyphosate from your system, such as:

- Citrus pectin

- Alginates (from kelp)

- Glycine

- Ginkgo biloba

- Organic Icelandic kelp

- Probiotics and prebiotics

- Infrared sauna sessions


If you’re concerned about glyphosate exposure, I recommend considering a comprehensive Environmental Toxin Screen from Vibrant Wellness to assess your levels.


Click here for a sample report which includes glyphosate



Testing for Glyphosate



Stay informed and take proactive steps to protect your health! If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out.


 
 
 

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