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Learn Which Toxins May Be Causing Your Tiredness

Posted by Bold Commerce Collaborator · February 13, 2020

We are exposed to many sources of toxic substances that can accumulate in our body and strain our organs and immune system. These toxins can make you feel chronically tired and cause a range of medical conditions.

The effect of stress on our body goes beyond feeling tired. If we are persistently under severe stress, we are in danger of developing chronic, debilitating and life-threatening diseases. Unfortunately, we are exposed to stressors daily without knowing it. We may be feeling well but are actually under attack from invisible, yet deadly stress inducers. Called environmental stressors, they include toxic substances that go into our body in ways that we may not be aware of.

You'd probably be surprised to learn that sixty to one hundred different toxins can be trapped in our bodies. Perhaps even more shocking is the fact that we do not need to be at an industrial, chemical or nuclear factory to catch these toxins. Toxic substances are present in our food, water, air and every corner of our homes. That means we are regularly exposed to environmental toxins.

Over time these toxins can throw our biochemistry into disarray, setting the stage for a range of medical problems including chronic fatigue, autoimmune diseases and allergies, cancers, and neurological disorders. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that 80% of illnesses are due to environmental and lifestyle factors. Researchers list the following as common sources of toxins: junk foods, genetically modified foods, irradiated foods, and household products.

1. JUNK FOODS

When we talk about the link between lifestyle and disease, our eating habits emerge as an important variable. If junk foods are a regular part of our diet, then we are in effect ingesting chemicals, poisons and toxins that can have damaging effects on our health.

Besides sugar, which fuel our cravings for sweet and salty treats, also present in many junk foods are damaged fats, pesticides and toxic chemicals. They come in the form of additives and preservatives that are added to food in order to enhance flavor and extend shelf-life.

There is a long list of food additives and preservatives that can interfere with our biochemistry. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium benzoate, propylene glycol, potassium bromate, red dye no. 2, lindane, carrageenan, BHA, BHC, BHT and DHA are just a few examples. Aspartame, acesulfame-K, sucralose, saccharin, nitrates and nitrites are also on the list.

Although preservatives and additives make food taste and look mouthwatering, their harmful effects cannot be ignored.

Monosodium glutamate is a popular flavor enhancer. A white, odorless crystalline compound and frequently used in Chinese dishes, MSG, if ingested in large amounts, can cause dizziness and headaches, chest pain, facial pressure, and tingling and burning sensations of the skin. Together these symptoms are called Chinese restaurant syndrome. Other conditions linked to MSG are asthma, palpitations, skin rashes and severe depression.

Chances are you are unaware that MSG is in the food you eat because that information is not required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be placed on food labels unless the manufacturer used 99% pure MSG. But if you are currently rethinking your diet, it would help to know that many food products in supermarkets today contain small amounts of MSG. They include bread, processed meats, frozen yogurt, ice cream, frozen entrees, canned tuna, salad dressings and soup.

Artificial Sweeteners

Aspartame, acesulfame, sucralose and saccharin are considered the four most dangerous artificial sweeteners. Aspartame, which contains, aspartic acid, phenylalanine and methanol, has been shown to cause weight gain, vision problems, memory loss, headaches, brain tumors, seizures, neurological disorders, heart palpitations, abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, depression and fibromyalgia.

Acesulfame-K, a potassium salt, has potential to cause cancer because of its methylene chloride content. The other reported side effects of methylene chloride are liver and kidney damage, eyesight problems, headaches, nausea and mood problems.

Sucralose, a synthetic additive, is produced by chlorinating sugar. The chemical structure of sucralose, despite manufacturer claims to the contrary, resembles that of the pesticide DDT, which was banned in the U.S. and many other countries in the 1970s. The reported side effects of sucralose include skin irritation, bladder problems, diarrhea, stomach cramps, head and muscle aches, inflammation and dizziness. Studies have also shown this artificial sweetener can cause the thymus gland to shrink, and reduces the amount of bacteria in the intestines which aid digestion.

Saccharin, a sulfa-based sweetener, had been thought to be carcinogenic. In the early 1970s studies showed it can cause bladder cancer in rats, leading to legislation requiring manufacturers to put a warning label on food products containing saccharin. The FDA lifted that requirement in 2000. But experts continue to warn of the side effects of saccharin, such as diarrhea, nausea and allergic symptoms. In addition, studies have shown that saccharin, as well as aspartame, causes greater weight gain than real sugar, putting into question weight reduction claims by makers of artificial sweeteners.

Nitrates and nitrites

These chemicals, commonly used in rat poisons and fertilizers, are dangerous especially to kids. Unfortunately, nitrates and nitrites are also used as preservatives in many ready-to-eat meat products that children love, such as hot dogs, lunch meats, pepperoni and bacon. If you regularly have these chemical-laden foods for breakfast or snack, think of their possible effects on your body, as exposure to high levels of nitrates and nitrites have been associated with increased incidence of cancer in adults.

2. GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS

Substances that are not naturally part of the human diet can be considered unsafe. They include food products that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs are created by introduction of genes from one species into another. Two of the most popular GMO foods are soybeans and corn. It is estimated that around 91% of soybeans and 85% of corns in the U.S. are genetically manipulated. Experts and opponents of GMOs warn of the possible development of new allergies and diseases due to the altered protein structure of plants or animals that have been genetically manipulated. One experiment showed that animals suffered damage to organs and the immune system after being fed genetically manipulated foods. Another study discovered that Bt toxins found in GMO crops damage red blood cells in mice.

3. IRRADIATED FOODS

To remove microorganisms and insects on foods, manufacturers use a technology called irradiation. While it also helps to extend the shelf life of foods, irradiation is believed to cause testicular tumors, kidney damage, cataracts, and higher levels of free radicals in the body, which can lead to cancer and heart disease. Irradiation uses high levels of gamma radiation; so consuming irradiated foods is almost like being exposed to direct radiation. You can avoid irradiated foods by looking for the “radura” symbol and the statement “Treated with ionizing radiation” on the food packaging.

4. HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS

Foods are not the only source of toxins that pose risks to our health. Many products that we use at home also contain substances that have been linked to a host of diseases, including cancer. Skin moisturizers, for example, may contain petrochemicals, which are made from carcinogenic gasoline byproducts. Besides petrochemical-based cosmetics, fluoride toothpaste and aluminum deodorants also contain chemicals that can bring additional harm to people who are already suffering from adrenal fatigue.

When the body has been exposed to long-term stress, the liver is at risk of losing its function to flush out toxic substances. The buildup of toxins in the body can damage cells, including those of the immune system, making you susceptible to allergic reactions. So if you’re adrenals have been working overtime, choose products that are chemical free, biodegradable and environmentally friendly to protect your liver from further stress.

Also beware of electromagnetic pollution, which you can get by exposure to gadgets and appliances that emit extremely low-frequency (ELF) waves, such as television, microwave ovens, electric blankets, and fluorescent lights. Keeping a distance of at least three feet from these devices will minimize your exposure to ELFs.

There’s a chance, however, that the source of toxin is just right under your nose! Silver fillings that dentists use contain 50% mercury, which has been linked to degenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Mercury, aluminum, lead and cadmium are the four most common heavy metals that can build up in your system. There is a long list of symptoms of heavy metal toxicity, and unexplained chronic fatigue is just one of them. If you are experiencing hair loss, metallic taste in mouth, tremors, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea, poor memory and other symptoms that cannot be attributed to a particular condition or disease, have yourself checked for heavy metal poisoning. A common test is hair analysis, which will show how much mercury, aluminum, lead and cadmium has accumulated in your system.

DETOX CAN HELP YOU CLEAN YOUR BODY

Being aware of the common sources of environmental toxins will help you protect your body from substances that can have adverse effects on your health. But avoidance alone may not be sufficient. A more proactive approach like detoxification will help you get rid of toxins that are already residing in your body. There are a plenty of ways to detoxify, including eating only organic food on your detox day, doing 20-30 minutes of aerobic exercise, sitting in a sauna for around 30 minutes, taking detox supplements to ease constipation, and drinking detox tea or eight to twelve glasses of water a day. Start detoxifying and you’re on your road to feeling better.

Raw Cacao an Amazing Nitric Oxide Booster

Posted by Bold Commerce · January 20, 2020

[Original Article]

Have you ever wondered if chocolate has any health benefits? Turns out that it does! But this is true for raw cacao as opposed to regular cocoa. Raw cacao is an amazing nitric oxide booster that also contains many nutrients and antioxidants.

What is raw cacao?

Raw cacao is the unprocessed material from which cocoa and chocolate are made. Raw cacao is produced from the bean of the cacao tree also known as theobroma cacao whose origin is the Amazon region. However, most cacao today is grown in countries such as Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Brazil and Indonesia. Cacao has been used as a food, an aphrodisiac or medicine for about 3,000 years.

But, while it is the source of cocoa, raw cacao is different from ordinary cocoa in that raw cacao is unprocessed while cocoa is processed using heat. Processing robs cocoa of some of the nutrients and other health enriching properties like phytochemicals, sulfur and magnesium such that compared to raw cacao, cocoa has minimal healthy properties.

In its raw or semi-processed form, cacao is a rich source of important nutrients like magnesium, selenium, potassium and copper. It also contains antioxidant phytochemicals that are beneficial to health, especially blood circulation by increasing production of nitric oxide.

Benefits of cacao for men

By boosting nitric oxide production, raw cacao greatly enhances men’s health in various ways including the following:

Helps in weight management and bowel movement

Raw cacao is rich in fiber which is necessary for a healthy weight and good bowel movement. By eating fiber-rich food regularly, you end up feeling full for longer so that you don’t have the urge to keep snacking. This can help you lose excess weight. Note, however, that chocolate and regular cocoa contain less fiber. They also contain sugar and milk and therefore cannot help in weight management. It is also worth to note that losing excess weight is important for both your overall health and sexual health in particular. Excess weight, especially around the abdomen besides endangering your cardiovascular health.

Raw cacao improves nervous and muscular functions

Cacao is rich in magnesium and potassium, minerals that are important for proper functioning of muscles and the nervous system among many other functions. Cacao also contains other properties that support muscle and nerve functions. Studies have found that cacao has positive effects on muscles and nerves.

Prevents anemia

Because cacao is rich in iron, its regular consumption can help prevent anemia. Anemia is a condition whereby blood is deficient in red blood cells which are necessary for transport of oxygen throughout the body. This leads to issues like fatigue and malaise and may also affect sexual ability. Be sure to also eat fruits rich in vitamin C for better iron absorption.

Reduces risks of heart disease and other circulatory problems

Raw cacao is a rich source of phytonutrients and antioxidants that are believed to help neutralize free radicals within the body. This reduces the damaging effects of oxidation leading to improved blood circulation. It also reduces the risks of developing cardiovascular diseases including high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Reduces chronic fatigue syndrome

Regular consumption of cacao can help reduce the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition in which a patient suffers from chronic syndrome such that he is unable to function normally. This may include poor sex drive and low energy. A study found that when patients consumed 15 grams of polyphenol-rich cocoa three times per day for eight weeks their chronic fatigue conditions improved.

Helps Relieves depression

Raw cacao contains tryptophan, an amino acid that has mood enhancing properties besides helping the body to produce the feel-good hormone known as serotonin. These compounds are responsible for better sleep and relief from depression.

Nutrition contents of Cacao

Raw cacao is a highly nutritious food. It contains carbohydrate, protein, fat and fiber. It also contains a number of vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, calcium, copper, manganese, selenium, potassium, zinc and phosphorus. Raw cacao is also rich in antioxidant phytonutrients.

Here is a list of the nutrition contents of cacao courtesy of the USDA: Calories 228 kcal – Total carbohydrate 9 g – Sugars 8 g – Total fat 7 g – Protein 6 g – Fiber 2 g

Vitamins: Vitamin E 1 mg – Caffeine 230 mg – Theobromine 2057 mg -Vitamin K 5 mcg -Niacin 2 mg – Riboflavin 2 mg -Thiamin 1 mg -Vitamin B6 1 mg -Pantothenic acid 3 mg – Folate 32 mcg – Choline 0 mg

Minerals: Potassium 1524 mg – Phosphorus 734 mg – Magnesium 499 mg – Calcium 128 mg – Sodium 21 mg – Iron 9 mg – Zinc 8 mg -Manganese 8 mg -Copper 8 mg – Selenium 3 mcg

According to figures from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), based on a 2000 calorie daily diet, 100 grams of raw cacao provides 39% daily value (DV) of protein, 21% DV of total fat, 125% DV of magnesium, 77% DV of iron, 189% DV of copper, 192% DV of manganese, 20% DV of selenium and 133% DV of dietary fiber.

How to use raw cacao

You can use cacao in various ways to enhance your virility, energy and general health. Note that only raw and minimally processed cacao contains all the nutritional benefits of theobroma cacao.

Here are a few ways to use raw cacao:

Add one or two tablespoons of raw cacao powder to smoothies.
Add cacao nibs, also known as cacao chips, to smoothies or trail mixes.
Blend a tablespoon of cacao powder in a cup of cold or warm coconut or nut milk to make a great anti-oxidant drink. You may add some honey, maple syrup, stevia or vanilla for flavor.
Eat a piece of minimally processed bar of raw cacao to get its maximum benefits.

5 Inflammation-Causing Foods To Avoid

Posted by Bold Commerce · January 06, 2020

[Original Article]

We all know that eating healthfully is important. However, one thing that few people talk about is the risks associated with foods that cause inflammation. While this is well-known to people suffering from arthritis (inflammation of the joints), inflammation has also been linked to many other diseases including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer.

Food is medicine and fuel for the body. And just as using poor quality fuel can negatively impact your vehicle, your body is no different. So it’s important to be aware of which foods cause inflammation – some may seem obvious, while others you may find surprising. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Sugar

It may be hard to avoid, but sugar is one of the leading causes of inflammation. Sugar causes the release of inflammatory proteins known as cytokines. While these proteins are important in fighting against inflammation, there are both pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and sugar releases the pro-inflammation variety.

2. Saturated Fats

Studies show that saturated fats trigger inflammation of fat tissue. This has a negative effect on arthritis and is also an indicator for heart disease. Saturated fats are most often found in cheese, red meat, fast food, and high fat dairy products.

3. Processed / Refined Carbohydrates

White flour such as bread is the main culprit here, with fried foods, and white rice included as well. These foods contribute to the production of advanced glycation end products which triggers inflammation in the body. There is also evidence to suggest that refined carbohydrates may be worse than fats in contributing to obesity.

4. Additives & Artificial Sweeteners

Your body cannot process artificial ingredients well, so substances such as aspartame and mono-sodium glutamate may trigger an immune response. Aspartame is a neurotoxin that the body frequently “attacks” therefore causing inflammation. Artificial ingredients are often hidden in processed food, condiments, and spice mixes. Aspartame in particular is commonly found in soft drinks, especially “diet” or “healthier” beverages.

Another familiar additive is MSG (which you may be used to associating with Chinese food). But you may be surprised to know that this well-known flavor enhancer is also commonly found in a large number of canned and prepared foods, fast food, and deli meats. In addition to contributing to chronic inflammation, MSG has been shown to negatively impact the liver.

5. Gluten

One of the most common sensitivities and allergic reactions that people have is to the gluten protein in grains and processed foods, which can cause inflammation of the intestinal tract. Symptoms and reactions may vary between individuals, but a new study links the protein found in wheat (amylase-trypsin inhibitors or ATIs) to inflammation even beyond the gut. The evidence suggests that ATIs can cause inflammation in the “lymph nodes, kidneys, spleen and brain” and can “worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, lupus and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.”

***

Symptoms such as chronic fatigue, muscle or joint pain, rashes, weight gain, digestive issues, and high blood pressure may be signs of inflammation. So be aware of your body’s responses to certain foods and when in doubt, consult your physician to determine the best recourse for controlling the symptoms you are experiencing.

Controversy does surround some foods, such as diary, which many people suggest avoiding due to the sensitivity and allergic reactions people can have to the lactose or casein in dairy products. However, studies actually show that there isn’t enough evidence to draw conclusive determinations as to the detriment versus benefit of dairy on inflammation bio‑markers. In general, experts agree that a well-balanced diet focusing on plant-based nutrition is always a good choice for reducing inflammation and living a healthy life.

New Splenda Studies Confirm Its Dangers

Posted by Bold Commerce Collaborator · January 03, 2020

[Original Story]

Story at-a-glance

The artificial sweetener industry has defended the safety of sucralose (Splenda), stating that it rapidly passes unmetabolized through your body and therefore has no biological effects
Recent research reveals sucralose is in fact metabolized and that it accumulates in your fat cells. The study found two new metabolites that have not previously been identified
As these findings were not part of the original regulatory decision process for sucralose, the researchers are calling for a review of its safety and regulatory status
Other recent research found sucralose causes definite changes in the liver of treated rats, suggesting toxic effects. According to the researchers, sucralose should be used with caution to avoid liver damage
Previous research found sucralose reduces gut bacteria by 50 percent, preferentially targeting bacteria known to have important human health benefits

By Dr. Mercola

Sucralose (sold under the brand name Splenda) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1998 as a tabletop sweetener and for use in products such as baked goods, nonalcoholic beverages, chewing gum, frozen dairy desserts, fruit juices and gelatins.

It's also permitted as a general-purpose sweetener for processed foods. (In the European Union, sucralose is known under the additive code E955.) The approval was given after the FDA supposedly reviewed more than 110 animal and human safety studies, but of these 110 studies, only two were done on humans, and the longest one lasted just four days.

I knew the approval of sucralose was a nearly identical mistake that the FDA made with aspartame, which is why I wrote my book, "Sweet Deception," in 2006, despite the fact Johnson & Johnson threatened to sue me if I published it. It is certainly vindicating to see the studies confirm what I wrote about in my book over 12 years ago. And the video I made above was shot over seven years ago.

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose may have zero calories, but your body isn't fooled. When hit with a "sweet" taste, your body expects calories to follow, and when this doesn't happen, it causes biochemical distortions that can result in weight gain, metabolic dysfunction and other health problems.

Sucralose Decimates Your Gut Microbiome

Different artificial sweeteners have been found to wreak havoc in a number of different ways. Aspartame, for example, has a long list of studies detailing harmful effects ranging from brain damage to preterm delivery. Sucralose, meanwhile, has been found to be particularly damaging to your gut. Research¹ published in 2008 found sucralose:

Reduces gut bacteria by 50 percent, preferentially targeting bacteria known to have important human health benefits (consuming as few as seven little Splenda packages is enough to have a detrimental effect on your microbiome)
Increases the pH level in your intestines
Is absorbed into and accumulates in fat tissue

In response to this study, James Turner, chairman of the national consumer education group Citizens for Health issued the following statement:²

"The report makes it clear that the artificial sweetener Splenda and its key component sucralose pose a threat to the people who consume the product. Hundreds of consumers have complained to us about side effects from using Splenda and this study ... confirms that the chemicals in the little yellow package should carry a big red warning label."

New Study Finds Sucralose Is Metabolized and Stored in Your Body

Needless to say, the industry has vehemently defended sucralose (and all other chemical sweeteners), stating that it rapidly passes unmetabolized through your body and therefore has no biological effects. Alas, recent research has punched yet another giant hole in the argument that sucralose is a biologically inert chemical, showing it is in fact metabolized and that it accumulates in fat cells.

The study^3,⁴ in question was published in the online version of the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health August 21, 2018. An interview with the authors can be found on Inverse.⁵

Ten rats were given an average dose of 80.4 milligrams (mg) of sucralose per kilo per day (k/day) for 40 days. According to the researchers, this dosage is "within the range utilized in historical toxicology studies submitted for regulatory approval in North America, Europe and Asia."

Urine and feces were collected daily from each rat, and were analyzed using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS), which "revealed two new biotransformation products that have not previously been reported."

Research Calls for New Safety Review of Sucralose

The two metabolites are acetylated forms of sucralose that are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve in and combine with fats. Sucralose itself is far less lipophilic, which has been part of the safety argument. According to the authors:

"These metabolites were present in urine and feces throughout the sucralose dosing period and still detected at low levels in the urine 11 days after discontinuation of sucralose administration and six days after sucralose was no longer detected in the urine or feces.

The finding of acetylated sucralose metabolites in urine and feces do not support early metabolism studies, on which regulatory approval was based, that claimed ingested sucralose is excreted unchanged (i.e., not metabolized).

The historical metabolic studies apparently failed to detect these metabolites in part because investigators used a methanol fraction from feces for analysis along with thin layer chromatography and a low-resolution linear radioactivity analyzer.

Further, sucralose was found in adipose tissue in rats two weeks after cessation of the 40-day feeding period even though this compound had disappeared from the urine and feces."

So, not only is sucralose metabolized, these metabolites accumulate in your fat tissues, where they remain for "an extended period of time" after you stop consuming sucralose. In all, these findings led the authors to conclude:

"These new findings of metabolism of sucralose in the gastrointestinal tract and its accumulation in adipose tissue were not part of the original regulatory decision process for this agent and indicate that it now may be time to revisit the safety and regulatory status of this organochlorine artificial sweetener."

Sucralose Is Not an Inert Compound

Previous research has also noted that sucralose is not a biologically inert compound, as claimed. In the 2013 paper,⁶ "Sucralose, a Synthetic Organochlorine Sweetener: Overview of Biological Issues," the authors state, in part:

"Sucralose and one of its hydrolysis products were found to be mutagenic at elevated concentrations in several testing methods … Both human and rodent studies demonstrated that sucralose may alter glucose, and glucagon-like peptide 1 levels. Taken together, these findings indicate that sucralose is not a biologically inert compound."

Importantly, the study also notes that "Cooking with sucralose at high temperatures … generates chloropropanols, a potentially toxic class of compounds." Yet, Splenda is frequently recommended for cooking and baking,⁷ and is often used in processed foods in which high heat was involved.

Chloropropanols, which are still poorly understood, are thought to have adverse effects on your kidneys and may have carcinogenic effects.⁸ However, it's worth noting that chloropropanols are part of a class of toxins known as dioxins, and dioxins are known to cause cancer and endocrine disruption.

Sucralose May Cause Liver Damage With Regular Use, and More

Another study⁹ published online August 2, 2018, in the journal Morphologie, found sucralose caused "definite changes" in the liver of treated rats, "indicating toxic effects on regular ingestion." According to these researchers, their findings suggest "sucralose would be taken with caution to avoid hepatic damage."

In other words, regularly using Splenda could damage your liver. Here, adult rats were given a much higher (yet nonlethal) oral dose of sucralose — 3 grams (3,000 milligrams) per kilo body mass per day for 30 days, after which the animals' livers were dissected and compared to the livers of unexposed controls. According to the authors:

"Experimental rats showed features of patchy degeneration of hepatocytes along with Kupffer cells hyperplasia, lymphocytic infiltration, sinusoidal dilatation and fibrosis indicating a definite hepatic damage on regular ingestion of sucralose. Sinusoidal width was also found to be increased in experimental animals as compared to controls."

Studies have also linked sucralose consumption to:

Genotoxicity (DNA damage) and potentially adverse epigenetic effects.¹⁰ According to this paper, the acceptable daily intake set for sucralose may in fact be hundreds of times too high to ensure safety

Shrinkage of the thymus, up to 40 percent^11,¹²

Enlargement of the liver and kidneys^13,¹⁴

Calcification of the kidneys^15,¹⁶

Increased leukocyte populations (immune system cells) in the thymus and lymph nodes¹⁷

Migraines¹⁸

Altered glucose, and glucagon-like peptide-1 levels and responses,¹⁹ which raises your risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Alterations in P-glycoprotein (P-gp) levels, which could result in medications used in chemotherapy, AIDS treatment and treatments for heart conditions being shunted back into the intestines, rather than being absorbed by your body²¹

Commonly Reported Side Effects of Splenda

If you start searching for adverse events reports, you'll find scores of people reporting a variety of side effects from using Splenda. The following are common symptoms, usually noticed within a 24-hour period following consumption of a Splenda product:

Skin — Redness, itching, swelling, blistering, weeping, crusting, rash, eruptions or hives (itchy bumps or welts)

Lungs — Wheezing, tightness, cough or shortness of breath

Head — Swelling of the face, eyelids, lips, tongue or throat; headaches and migraines (severe headaches)

Nose — Stuffy nose, runny nose (clear, thin discharge), sneezing

Eyes — Red (bloodshot), itchy, swollen or watery

Stomach — Bloating, gas, pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea

Heart — Palpitations or fluttering

Joints — Joint pains or aches

Neurological — Anxiety, dizziness, spaced-out sensation, depression

Are You Having a Reaction to Splenda?

To determine if you're having a reaction to artificial sweeteners — be it Splenda, aspartame or any of the others — take the following steps:

Eliminate all artificial sweeteners from your diet for two weeks
After two weeks, reintroduce your artificial sweetener of choice in a significant quantity (about three servings daily)
Avoid other artificial sweeteners during this period
Do this for one to three days and take notice of how you feel, especially as compared to when you were abstaining from artificial sweeteners
If you don't notice a difference in how you feel after reintroducing your primary artificial sweetener for a few days, it's a safe bet you're able to tolerate it acutely, meaning your body doesn't have an immediate, adverse response. Just know that this doesn't mean your health won't be damaged in the long run
If you've been consuming more than one type of artificial sweetener, repeat steps 2 through 4 with the next sweetener on your list

If you do experience side effects from an artificial sweetener (or any other food additive for that matter), please report it to the FDA (if you live in the U.S.). It's easy to make a report — just go to the FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator page, find the phone number for your state and make a call to report your reaction.

Keep in mind that some medications may contain sucralose as well, even if it's not listed on the label. If you continue to experience any of the symptoms above even though you're avoiding Splenda and other artificial sweeteners, then it may be worth investigating whether any of the medications you're taking contain artificial sweeteners.

Splenda Has Never Been Proven Safe for Human Consumption

The FDA claims they reviewed over 100 studies conducted on Splenda. What they don't tell you is that: a) only six of these studies were human trials — and only two of them were published before the FDA approved sucralose for human consumption — and b) the remaining animal studies actually revealed potential health problems, including:²²

Decreased red blood cells (a sign of anemia) at levels above 1,500 mg/kg/day
Increased male infertility by interfering with sperm production and vitality, as well as brain lesions at higher doses
Spontaneous abortions in nearly half the rabbit population given sucralose, compared to zero aborted pregnancies in the control group
A 23 percent death rate in rabbits, compared to a 6 percent death rate in the control group

What's more, the two human trials had a grand total of 36 subjects, only 23 of whom were actually given sucralose, and the longest of these trials lasted just four days and looked at sucralose in relation to tooth decay, not human tolerance.²³

Even more shocking, the absorption of Splenda into the human body was studied on a grand total of six men. Based on that study,²⁴ the FDA allowed the findings to be generalized as being representative of the entire human population, including women, children, the elderly and those with any chronic illness — none of whom were ever examined.

Healthier Sugar Substitutes

Two of the best sugar substitutes are from the plant kingdom: Stevia and Lo Han Kuo (also spelled Luo Han Guo). Stevia, a highly sweet herb derived from the leaf of the South American stevia plant, is sold as a supplement. It's completely safe in its natural form and can be used to sweeten most dishes and drinks.

Lo Han Kuo is similar to Stevia, but it's a bit more expensive and harder to find. In China, the Lo Han fruit has been used as a sweetener for centuries, and it's about 200 times sweeter than sugar. A third alternative is to use pure glucose, also known as dextrose.

Dextrose is only 70 percent as sweet as sucrose, so you'll end up using a bit more of it for the same amount of sweetness, making it slightly more expensive than regular sugar. Still, it's well worth it for your health as it does not contain any fructose whatsoever. Contrary to fructose, glucose can be used directly by every cell in your body and as such is a far safer sugar alternative.