Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health

Creatine isn't just for athletes — it fuels brain function, immune response, and recovery from stress and illness by supporting how your cells make and recycle energy Older adults, vegetarians, and those with brain fog or long COVID are especially likely to benefit from creatine, as natural production and intake often fall short Daily creatine supplementation improves memory, learning, and executive function in aging adults, including those with Alzheimer's disease When combined with resistance training, creatine helps build lean muscle, speed recovery, and reduce the risk of frailty-related falls and fractures Grass fed red meat is one of the best food sources, but supplementing 3 to 5 grams of creatine monohydrate daily is a safe and effective way to increase levels

Persistent grief symptoms nearly doubled the risk of death within 10 years, showing that unresolved grief has serious long-term health effects People with high levels of grief were far more likely to use antidepressants, sedatives, and anxiety medications for years after their loss Frequent doctor visits remained elevated for up to seven years in those experiencing unrelenting grief, highlighting the strain it places on both mind and body Long-lasting grief keeps stress hormones high, weakens your immune system, disrupts sleep, and increases your risk of chronic disease Taking steps like honoring your unique grieving process, supporting your body with sleep, healthy diet, and exercise, and using techniques like the Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) helps you move through grief and protect your long-term health

Eating minimally processed foods helped participants lose pounds at nearly double the rate of ultraprocessed diets, even when calories, fat, sugar, and protein were carefully matched Researchers found that people on minimally processed diets improved craving control twofold overall, with a fourfold improvement in resisting savory cravings, making long-term weight management far easier Ultraprocessed foods now make up more than 70% of the U.S. food supply, flooding daily diets with additives, seed oils, and engineered products that undermine health and longevity Large reviews link ultraprocessed foods to a 50% higher risk of heart disease and 32 additional health problems, including sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and digestive disorders Food companies engineer textures, flavors, and even sounds to bypass satiety signals and hook your brain's dopamine response, making ultraprocessed foods as addictive as alcohol or cigarettes

A reanalysis of a study found that fluoxetine alone showed no measurable benefit over placebo in treating adolescent depression after 12 weeks Researchers uncovered 11 additional suicide-related events that were hidden or misclassified, bringing the total to 21 serious incidents Statistical tactics and selective reporting made fluoxetine appear safer and more effective than it really was in clinical trials A different reanalysis mentioned that adverse events and many side effects were minimized or excluded from the original reports Improving gut health, getting regular exercise, undergoing therapy, and optimizing vitamin D are viable approaches for treating depression

Sodium is an essential electrolyte that supports fluid balance, nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and heartbeat coordination; even small drops in blood sodium disrupt these essential functions A Virginia Tech study found that low blood sodium amplifies the effects of flecainide, a common rhythm-control drug, by disrupting key electrical support systems between heart cells Restoring sodium to the normal range reversed conduction delays. This confirms that the effects were due to a temporary sodium imbalance People on sodium channel blockers need to monitor sodium levels closely, as common triggers like diuretics or illness cause dangerous delays in heart signal conduction Most adults do well with around 3,500 milligrams of sodium daily, especially when it comes from unprocessed, mineral-rich sources balanced by adequate potassium intake

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in your body, supporting tissue repair, immune function, and energy production, while also helping protect your eyes from vision loss Research shows your eyes rely on glutamine to fuel photoreceptors, the light-sensing cells in the retina, making it a key nutrient for long-term visual health When glutamine metabolism is disrupted, photoreceptors degenerate rapidly, triggering harmful stress pathways that accelerate retinal thinning and increase the risk of blindness Studies demonstrate that restoring glutamine balance calms cellular stress, preserves retinal thickness, and keeps eye cells alive, offering new strategies for preventing eye disease You can support natural glutamine levels through diet by eating foods such as grass fed beef, wild-caught Alaskan salmon, pastured eggs, raw dairy, spinach, cabbage, beans, and even white rice

For several decades, saturated fat was wrongly blamed for heart disease, while vegetable oils quietly caused a surge in obesity, inflammation, and chronic metabolic disorders Newly appointed FDA commissioner Dr. Marty Makary is now leading efforts to revise outdated dietary guidelines that were built on cherry-picked data from Ancel Keys' Seven Countries Study A 2016 BMJ-published reanalysis found replacing saturated fat with linoleic acid-rich vegetable oils increased cardiovascular deaths, despite lowering cholesterol Investigative journalist Dr. Maryanne Demasi faced vicious backlash after exposing the flawed science behind saturated fat demonization in her documentary “Heart of the Matter” Industrial seed oils like canola and soybean are now linked to mitochondrial damage, inflammation, and chronic illness — while saturated fat is finally being recognized as metabolically supportive

Targeted probiotic strains improve endurance, strength, recovery, and mental resilience by supporting gut integrity, reducing inflammation, and enhancing nutrient absorption Intense training damages your gut lining and weakens immunity, but probiotics help maintain barrier function and prevent bacterial toxins from triggering systemic inflammation Specific strains deliver specific benefits, such as Lactobacillus plantarum for endurance, Bacillus coagulans for muscle recovery, and Lactobacillus casei for stress reduction Supporting butyrate-producing bacteria fuels intestinal cells, improves lipid metabolism, and enhances oxidative muscle fibers for sustained aerobic performance Probiotics are most effective when introduced after gut healing, paired with a diet free from linoleic acid–rich vegetable oils and supported by prebiotic foods to maintain microbial balance

A single can of cola floods your system with nearly 100% absorbable inorganic phosphate, triggering hormonal shifts that disrupt vitamin D, calcium balance, and kidney function Phosphate in soda raises levels of FGF23, a hormone that accelerates vascular calcification, weakens bones, and increases your long-term risk of heart attack or stroke, even if your labs are normal Unlike natural sources, phosphate additives in soda are rapidly absorbed and bypass digestive safeguards, placing a silent burden on your kidneys and arteries with every sip When combined with high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), soda creates a metabolic double hit — HFCS promotes liver fat, raises uric acid, and drives insulin resistance, while phosphate sabotages hormonal and mineral balance Replacing soda with sparkling citrus water, magnesium glycinate, and vitamin K2 helps support your bones, protect your heart, and reverse the silent damage phosphate leaves behind

Low GABA levels are linked to anxiety, poor sleep, memory issues, and neurological conditions like epilepsy and Alzheimer's, but boosting GABA through your gut microbiome offers a natural solution A study in NPJ Science of Food found that prebiotics like fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Aspergillus-derived enzymes significantly increased brain GABA and homocarnosine, a compound that protects and stabilizes brain function Specific gut bacteria such as Akkermansia and Parabacteroides were directly linked to higher GABA production, while strains like Blautia and Roseburia were associated with lower levels and gut imbalance If your gut is inflamed, even healthy fibers worsen symptoms — so it's essential to start with low-fermentation carbs and reintroduce prebiotics slowly once digestion improves Strategies like fermented foods, GABA supplements, and natural progesterone further enhance GABA activity and support calm, clear, and stable brain function

People who ate the most ultraprocessed foods had a 41% higher risk of developing lung cancer compared with those who ate the least The increased risk was seen in both smokers and nonsmokers, showing that diet alone influences lung cancer development Processed foods alter nutrient absorption, strip away protective compounds, and add toxic byproducts that fuel inflammation and immune dysfunction Harmful chemicals from packaging and high-heat cooking further raise cancer risk and weaken your body's defenses Choosing whole, unprocessed foods and cutting linoleic acid in vegetable oils down to 2 grams or less daily is one of the most effective ways to protect your lungs

The concept of "brain death," introduced in 1968 to enable organ harvesting, has never been proven equivalent to actual death — it merely defines an irreversible coma Documented cases exist of "brain dead" patients who were conscious, including some who mouthed "help me" as their organs were nearly harvested Global organ shortages have fueled a black market, with an estimated 5% to 20% of transplants involving illegal procurement and added pressure to lower diagnostic standards for “brain death” Recent federal investigations found serious failures in the U.S. organ donation system: 29.3% of reviewed cases showed troubling signs, and 20.8% of patients had neurologic activity incompatible with procurement — yet transplant coordinators still pushed to proceed Safer, ethical alternatives exist — such as natural therapies like DMSO that have revived “brain dead” patients and restored organ function, removing the need for transplant

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, begins subtly in midlife and accelerates with age, increasing your risk of frailty, falls, and fractures As your body ages, muscles become less responsive to training, and physical gains come more slowly, even when effort and consistency remain the same A 2025 study published in Nature Communications found that older muscles fail to activate key growth pathways and repair signals after exercise, explaining the reduced adaptation Despite slower gains, exercise remains essential not just for physical strength but also for brain function, heart health, immune regulation, and metabolic resilience across the aging process Longevity benefits peak at around 40 to 60 minutes of strength training per week; exceeding this reverses the gains and increases the risk of overtraining

Most American adults live with a heart age older than their actual age, which silently raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, and early death long before symptoms appear On average, women's hearts are about four years older than their bodies, while men's are nearly seven years older, with many carrying a cardiovascular risk a full decade beyond their real age The burden of accelerated heart aging is heavier among people with lower income, less education, and minority backgrounds, widening health gaps across communities Researchers developed an online calculator that translates complex health data into an easy-to-understand “heart age,” helping you see if your heart is aging faster than the rest of your body You can take practical steps to rewind your heart age by eliminating vegetable oils, eating enough healthy carbs, walking daily, getting safe sun exposure, and testing for insulin resistance

The Department of Defense (DoD) has tightened military recruitment standards, restricting enlistment for applicants with serious conditions like congestive heart failure and active schizophrenia treatment Heart failure hospitalizations among young adults (18 to 44 years old) increased 23% from 1999 to 2019, driven by rising obesity, metabolic syndrome, pollution exposure, and substance abuse Mental health disorders are surging among youth aged 12 to 25 years old, with one-third experiencing anxiety or depression severe enough to interfere with daily functioning Only 23% of military recruits in 2024 could enlist without medical waivers, indicating widespread health problems among potential soldiers affecting national security readiness Improving cellular health by eliminating processed foods, consuming healthy carbs, reducing EMF exposure, getting proper sunlight, and supporting gut microbiome can help reverse declining youth health

Milk thistle and turmeric are powerful liver-supporting herbs that reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties Green tea catechins can reduce liver inflammation biomarkers by 42% and oxidative stress by 31% within 12 weeks of supplementation Eliminate vegetable oils and alcohol immediately, as they create toxic aldehydes that damage liver cells and promote dangerous fat accumulation Increase choline intake through egg yolks and grass fed liver, or supplement with citicoline to help export fat from liver cells effectively Stay physically active and maintain healthy waist measurements to reduce visceral fat that contributes to liver scarring and fatty liver disease

Instant coffee increases dry age-related macular degeneration risk nearly sevenfold compared to other coffee types, according to genetic studies Each cup of instant coffee causes equivalent of 0.38 years additional biological aging by shortening protective telomeres on chromosomes Instant coffee contains more contaminants like acrylamide, lead, and advanced glycation end products due to intense heat processing methods Filtered coffee using freshly ground beans shows no harmful effects on telomeres or eye disease risk in research studies Experts recommend completely avoiding instant coffee and switching to organic, shade-grown filtered coffee to protect long-term health

Krill oil helps preserve muscle and boost energy in elderly adults and people who are trying to lose weight (especially when reducing calories significantly over time) A recent study found that people taking 4 grams of krill oil daily retained more muscle strength and size while fasting compared to those who took a placebo In adults over 65, krill oil improved grip strength, thigh muscle thickness, and neuromuscular response — even without added exercise — after just six months of use Krill oil helped muscle cells burn fat more efficiently and increased levels of leucine, a key amino acid that signals your body to build new muscle tissue Krill oil also activated genes that help transport sugar into muscle cells for energy use, supporting both metabolic health and muscle performance from the inside out

Older adults who consumed between 1.2 and 1.6 milligrams of copper daily scored higher on memory and processing speed tests, with stroke survivors benefiting the most Higher copper levels in specific brain regions were linked to slower cognitive decline and fewer Alzheimer's-related changes A high-fat diet combined with high copper intake more than doubled the rate of memory loss, especially in language and verbal recall skills Copper regulates enzymes that protect brain cells from oxidative stress and helps shift brain immune cells into a healing state after injury Whole foods like grass fed beef liver, bee pollen, and shiitake mushrooms support copper balance, while strategic supplementation with copper bisglycinate helps restore levels in those with deficiency

E. coli O157:H7 is one of the leading causes of severe foodborne illness, and romaine lettuce has repeatedly been implicated in widespread outbreaks of this pathogen A Cornell University study that traced contamination from field to table found that irrigation practices are the dominant factor in whether lettuce becomes a carrier of E. coli Lettuce irrigated with untreated surface water sprayed overhead carried the greatest contamination risk, while switching to furrow or drip irrigation reduced illness by over 96% The study showed that consumer washing only lowered risk by 28%, reinforcing that on-farm prevention through safer irrigation is essential to protect lettuce before harvest Although prevention starts with better farm practices, there are still strategies to lower your risk at home, including staying updated on recalls, choosing fresher local produce, washing and storing them properly, and even growing your own food

Florida announced it will eliminate every school vaccine mandate, making it the first state to fully separate public education from government-enforced vaccinations Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo described vaccine mandates as oppressive, declaring that only parents — not the state — should decide what goes into their child's body Families will gain the freedom to send their children to school without facing exclusion for refusing vaccines, restoring control over personal medical decisions Governor Ron DeSantis acknowledged that some vaccines are written into state law, meaning the repeal will roll out in stages through both administrative rules and legislative action Parents are encouraged to strengthen their children's health through lifestyle choices and rely on informed consent rather than government pressure when making medical decisions

Receiving a smartphone before age 13 is strongly linked to poorer mental health in young adulthood, including higher rates of suicidal thoughts, aggression, and detachment from reality Early smartphone ownership often leads to earlier social media access, which raises the risk of cyberbullying, harmful content exposure, poor family relationships, and disrupted sleep The most severe effects are seen in females, with nearly half of those given a phone at age 5 or 6 reporting severe suicidal thoughts compared to less than a third who received one at age 13 English-speaking countries face greater risks due to earlier average ages of phone and social media access and more exposure to harmful, exploitative online content Delaying smartphone and social media access, teaching digital literacy before use, and setting phone-free times significantly improve emotional resilience and self-worth over the long term

Flossing takes only minutes yet slashes health risks, with regular flossers showing up to 44% lower odds of certain strokes and reduced chances of irregular heart rhythms Long-term research following more than 6,000 adults found flossing even once a week is linked to healthier arteries, fewer strokes, and protection against atrial fibrillation (AFib), a dangerous heart rhythm disorder Scientists concluded that flossing itself stood out as protective, offering benefits independent of brushing, dentist visits, or other lifestyle habits that usually influence cardiovascular and overall health outcomes Gum bacteria that escape into the bloodstream trigger inflammation, artery hardening, and clots; flossing interrupts this chain reaction, giving your heart and brain measurable protection over time Beyond heart health, studies show flossing daily reduces all-cause mortality by lowering systemic inflammation, suggesting this habit not only extends life but also safeguards brain function and memory

Common pesticides don't just kill pests — they disrupt how your gut bacteria function, leading to inflammation, metabolic stress, and immune imbalance Even small amounts of pesticides in food or water damage your microbiome, blocking the production of protective compounds like butyrate that keep your gut lining intact Research shows that some gut bacteria absorb and store pesticides, turning into toxic reservoirs that trigger long-term inflammation throughout your body Damaged gut bacteria have been linked to higher rates of autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, especially in people with repeated exposure You can protect your gut by choosing organic foods, filtering your water, sweating out toxins, and supporting regenerative farms that don't rely on harmful chemicals

Microplastics were found to trigger cancer-like changes in healthy lung cells, including increased mobility, DNA damage, and activated survival pathways Inhaled particles bypass your body's defenses and embed deep in your lungs, where they silently disrupt cellular function without causing obvious inflammation A review of 31 studies confirmed that microplastics harm your lungs, gut, and reproductive organs even at exposure levels that mimic everyday life Smaller nanoplastics are especially dangerous because they cross into your bloodstream, reaching your liver, brain, and other organs where they cause long-term damage Natural strategies like psyllium, chitosan, probiotics, and autophagy-enhancing nutrients help trap and remove plastic particles before they're absorbed

In this interview, Tyler LeBaron, founder of the Molecular Hydrogen Institute, shares insights about molecular hydrogen's science, delivery methods, and clinical use

Story at-a-glance Ultraprocessed foods are designed to melt in your mouth and bypass the need for chewing, which blocks your brain's ability to register fullness and drives you to overeat Food companies use sound, smell, appearance, and packaging to stimulate your senses and condition your brain to crave their products through a marketing tactic called sonic branding Snack products are marketed to dominate your day — from breakfast shakes to bedtime treats — fueling constant grazing that rewires your brain and leads to compulsive eating Seemingly “healthy” snack foods like veggie straws and protein bars are loaded with empty calories that trick you into thinking you're making better choices, when in fact they disrupt hunger and satisfaction cues These foods trigger the same dopamine-driven reward pathways in the brain as addictive substances like alcohol and nicotine, which explains why it's so hard to stop eating them — even when you know they're harming your health

Story at-a-glance Research shows consuming more than seven sweetened drinks per week reduces sperm concentration by 22% and negatively impacts sperm count, shape, and movement Higher intake of sugary beverages lowers testosterone and key fertility hormones while increasing DNA damage in sperm — making conception harder and raising the risk of miscarriage Animal studies found that sucralose, aspartame, and saccharin reduce sperm count and harm the cells responsible for producing sperm and male hormones Sugary and artificial drinks increase oxidative stress, aging cells faster. They flood your body with damaging molecules that wear down sperm membranes, disrupt energy production, and accelerate aging at the cellular level Cutting out sweetened drinks, avoiding processed foods with hidden sweeteners, and choosing whole foods high in vitamins and minerals will help restore your reproductive health

Story at-a-glance Eating more than 300 grams of ultraprocessed food per day significantly increases your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, regardless of your weight or calorie intake Just one extra serving of ultraprocessed food per day, such as a granola bar or soda, raises your diabetes risk by 4%, and the risk climbs rapidly with each additional serving Processed meats and sugary beverages are among the most dangerous categories, with deli meats increasing diabetes risk by 34% and sweet drinks by over 200% in some studies Many “healthy” plant-based products are actually ultraprocessed and loaded with inflammatory vegetable oils and additives that disrupt insulin function and gut health Cutting linoleic acid (LA) from your diet — found in vegetable oils in most ultraprocessed foods — is one of the most powerful ways to lower your diabetes risk and repair your metabolism

Story at-a-glance The widespread promotion of vaccination is predicated upon having profound benefits and no risks. As vaccines frequently injure their recipients, sustaining this paradigm requires suppressing all evidence of vaccine harm and psychologically programming vaccine supporters to be incapable of seeing injuries all around them Because of this, Senator Ron Johnson recently held a historic Senate hearing where discarded individuals with vaccine injuries could testify on their injuries In many cases, these promotions have been directly tied to the CDC taking money from industry. Unfortunately, despite both CDC employees and members of Congress demanding investigations, the matter has been largely swept under the rug The CDC delegates vaccine recommendations to an impartial panel of (paid-off) experts who consistently support vaccination. Recently, RFK Jr. replaced them with scientists free of conflicts of interest At the first ACIP meeting, the CDC repeated its existing playbook, both making a number of truly remarkable statements defending the COVID vaccine at odds with public data, while simultaneously admitting they did not know numerous fundamental questions about the COVID vaccines that should have been figured out years ago. Fortunately, times have changed, and many immediately saw these lies for what they were

Story at-a-glance Exercise stops your immune system from overreacting after a muscle injury, helping prevent short-term pain from becoming chronic Daily physical activity, even as simple as swimming or walking, switches off inflammatory signals that keep pain going Your brain's pain control system is retrained through consistent movement, reducing sensitivity, and interrupting the chronic pain cycle Studies show that even low-intensity exercise improves function and quality of life for people with arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions Movement is one of the safest and most effective ways to calm pain, improve resilience, and restore your body's natural ability to heal

Story at-a-glance People with recent-onset tinnitus scored significantly lower on cognitive tests measuring memory, focus, and processing speed, even after accounting for age, stroke, diabetes, and other risk factors Tinnitus hijacks your brain's attention system, draining cognitive resources and making it harder to concentrate, switch tasks, or remember details Women and those with lower education levels face a higher risk of cognitive impairment when tinnitus is present, suggesting certain groups need earlier intervention Brain imaging studies show that hearing loss causes shrinkage in areas tied to memory and decision-making, especially the hippocampus — a key region also affected by tinnitus You can lower your risk by avoiding loud noise exposure, improving sleep, boosting magnesium, supporting gut health with fruit and fiber, and calming your nervous system with daily relaxation practices

Story at-a-glance Most people with liver damage have no symptoms and receive a diagnosis only after irreversible scarring has occurred, making early detection and lifestyle changes essential Standard blood tests often miss early-stage liver fibrosis, even when enzyme levels are "normal," delaying diagnosis until complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer appear The real threat isn't liver fat, but fibrosis — scar tissue that silently builds up from insulin resistance, inflammation, toxic fats like vegetable oils and alcohol Choline is a key nutrient that helps your liver move fat out before it causes damage; pastured egg yolks are the best source, but many people don't get enough from food alone Removing vegetable oils and alcohol, eating choline-rich foods, trimming belly fat, and moving daily help reduce liver stress and reverse fibrosis before it's too late

Story at-a-glance Research shows vitamin B12 rapidly replenishes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in pancreatic cells, preventing destructive enzyme activation that causes acute pancreatitis inflammation People with naturally higher vitamin B12 levels show significantly lower risk of developing acute pancreatitis, independent of lifestyle factors Vitamin B12 enhances energy metabolism by converting methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA, stabilizing cell membranes and containing digestive enzymes properly Early vitamin B12 administration provides greatest protection, with 1,000-2,000 micrograms daily recommended for supplementation or monthly injections for severe deficiency Combine vitamin B12-rich foods like grass fed liver alongside minimal vegetable oil intake and regular exercise to support overall pancreatic health

Story at-a-glance Adrenal fatigue isn't recognized as a real medical condition, but the symptoms people report — chronic exhaustion, salt cravings, brain fog — are very real and deserve closer investigation The adrenal glands don't “burn out” from stress, but persistent overload disrupts your brain's communication with them, leading to hormone imbalances and daily exhaustion Studies show no evidence that fatigue is caused by adrenal impairment; however, chronic stress does impact your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, affecting energy, sleep, and mood Caffeine doesn't directly damage your adrenal glands, but overuse combined with stress and poor recovery can mimic the symptoms often blamed on adrenal fatigue Low energy might not be from your adrenals at all — thyroid issues, iron deficiency, poor sleep, or emotional stress could be the real reasons you're always tired

Story at-a-glance Heat domes are large areas of intense high pressure that trap hot air and humidity, creating dangerous temperatures reaching 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit with health risks for vulnerable populations Proper hydration is crucial for sweating effectively; drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily during heat waves, adding electrolytes if sweating heavily Arteriovenous anastomoses (AVAs) in your hands, feet, and face act as natural radiators, flooding blood to your skin's surface to help cool your body during overheating Linoleic acid (LA) from processed foods increases skin cancer risk when exposed to sunlight; replace with C15:0 from grass fed dairy to reduce oxidative damage Emergency signs include confusion or collapse indicating core temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit; call 911 immediately and cool with fans, wet towels on wrists and forehead

Story at-a-glance Stress is one of the most powerful disruptors of sleep. However, recent research shows it also paradoxically triggers sleep instead of insomnia Acute stress sometimes activates brain circuits that promote non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep as recovery This stress-induced sleep is short-lived. With repeated stress, sleep becomes fragmented or suppressed, reflecting patterns seen in stress-related disorders Specific brain regions like the ventral tegmental area orchestrate stress-induced sleep by activating GABAergic neurons that promote sleep while suppressing stress hormones While stress may sometimes trigger sleep, true restorative rest is better achieved through consistent routines like daily exposure to morning sunlight, blocking blue light after sunset, and improving your sleep environment

Story at-a-glance A French government study found that glass bottles contain five to 50 times more microplastics than plastic bottles, mostly from the painted caps that seal them Researchers discovered that the microscopic plastic fragments in glass-packaged drinks matched the chemical makeup of the bottle cap paint, not the glass itself When bottle caps were pre-cleaned with filtered air and ethanol, microplastic levels dropped by over 60% — showing this problem is avoidable with simple changes Many people now consume roughly 5 grams of plastic per week — the weight of a credit card — from foods, drinking water, and even from breathing polluted air Microplastics accumulate in your organs, especially the brain, where they trigger inflammation, obstruct blood flow, and accelerate cognitive decline and neurodegeneration

Story at-a-glance Linoleic acid (LA), once a trace nutrient in the human diet, now makes up as much as 25% of daily calories for many Americans, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and long-term metabolic stress LA transforms into harmful byproducts called OXLAMs that damage DNA, impair cellular energy production, and drive inflammation linked to heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and neurodegeneration This polyunsaturated fat embeds in your body for years; it requires up to six years of low-LA eating to replace 95% of what's already stored in your tissues Common sources of LA include vegetable oils, processed foods, poultry, pork and even many products marketed as healthy, like organic nut butters and salad dressings Reducing your LA intake by eliminating vegetable oils and switching to stable animal fats gives your mitochondria a chance to recover and helps lower your chronic disease risk over time

Story at-a-glance Common medications like NSAIDs, antibiotics, acid blockers, and laxatives quietly damage your kidneys, even when used as directed Kidney symptoms often show up late, so damage is underway before you feel anything, especially if you're older or taking multiple prescriptions NSAIDs reduce blood flow, antibiotics clog, or inflame kidney filters and proton pump inhibitors trigger immune reactions that harm kidney tissue Imaging contrast dyes used in CT or MRI scans sharply reduce kidney function in vulnerable people, particularly those with diabetes or dehydration Reviewing your medications regularly, leading a healthy lifestyle and using natural alternatives help reduce your kidney burden and prevent long-term harm

Story at-a-glance Taurine, a common ingredient in energy drinks, was found to fuel the growth of leukemia cells by activating a powerful growth switch called mTOR In animal studies, blocking taurine's entry into leukemia cells dramatically slowed disease progression and extended survival by up to sixfold Taurine supports healthy aging in animals, but too much, especially from synthetic sources, poses serious risks if cancer is already present The same compound that helps your cells stay young is hijacked by cancer, making the source, dose, and context important The safest way to use taurine is through whole foods like grass fed beef and pastured eggs; avoid overdoing supplements and skip energy drinks, especially if you're at risk for leukemia

Story at-a-glance The “caveman method” is a viral TikTok trend that involves skipping all skincare, including water, to let your untouched skin restore its natural balance While the skin is naturally self-regulating, its design evolved in a world without air pollutants, cosmetic residues, or synthetic chemicals. Today, a simple rinse or gentle cleanse helps reduce exposure to these toxins Trends like the “caveman method” may suit individuals with minimal daily exposure to pollutants or products, but in most modern environments, it allows external inputs to interact with the skin for longer than ideal Cleansing too often or too aggressively also has consequences. It weakens the skin's barrier, disrupts microbial balance, and leaves your skin more reactive over time An ancestral-friendly approach to cleansing includes a once-daily evening wash with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to clear makeup, and daily buildup

Story at-a-glance A study found that just three 30-minute walking sessions a week significantly reduced repetitive negative thinking and improved brain function in adults with depression Movement stimulates brain chemicals like dopamine, helping you feel calmer, more focused, and less reactive to everyday stressors Mindful forms of movement, such as walking, cycling, or swimming while focusing on breath and body, shut down looping thoughts and promote mental clarity Harvard researchers confirm that regular aerobic activity helps rewire your stress response system, making it easier to bounce back from emotional triggers Sitting too much slows brain oxygenation and worsens mood, so daily movement — not just formal exercise — is key to protecting your mental health

Story at-a-glance Chronic respiratory diseases remain profitable but poorly treated, subjecting patients to expensive healthcare, impaired stamina, and painful decline DMSO is an "umbrella remedy" treating diverse ailments through therapeutic properties including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and reviving dying cells These properties uniquely address underlying causes of chronic respiratory diseases by reducing fibrosis and inflammation, restoring damaged organs, and improving circulation DMSO addresses respiratory infections through antimicrobial activity, reduced lung inflammation, and potentiation of antimicrobial therapies Extensive published data and user reports demonstrate DMSO's remarkable results for asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and pneumonia, including cases in which transplant was no longer necessary due to significant organ recovery

Story at-a-glance Micro workouts are brief, high-intensity exercise sessions that last 10 to 15 minutes. They're accessible for people with busy schedules or limited exercise options Research shows that doing just one high-intensity workout per week lowers cardiovascular death risk by 39% in men and 51% in women A Danish study found that just 10 minutes of workplace exercise reduced long-term sick leave, preventing 13% of extended absences The benefits of high-intensity workouts level off after a point. Doing more than one to two sessions per week doesn't offer added protection and may slightly reduce cardiovascular gains To begin structuring your micro workout routine, aim for two to three short cardio sessions and two strength workouts per week, focusing on core and large muscle groups

Story at-a-glance Fabric softeners and dryer sheets release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into your indoor air and laundry, exposing your lungs and skin to hormone-disrupting and carcinogenic chemicals Chemicals like benzene, acetaldehyde, quaternary ammonium compounds, and synthetic musks are common in scented laundry products and have been linked to asthma, migraines, reproductive harm, and nervous system damage These toxic substances don't wash away; instead, they cling to your clothes, build up inside your washer and dryer, and continue releasing harmful vapors long after the laundry is done Vague ingredient labels allow manufacturers to hide thousands of chemicals under terms like “fragrance,” leaving you unknowingly exposed to compounds that accumulate in your body and the environment Safer, nontoxic alternatives like wool dryer balls, vinegar rinses, and DIY fabric softener recipes offer the same softness and freshness without compromising your health or polluting your home and the environment

Story at-a-glance Varicose veins affect over 40 million Americans and are often mistaken for a cosmetic issue, even though they signal deeper problems in circulation that worsen silently over time These enlarged, twisted veins usually appear on the legs. They form when blood begins to flow backward and collect in the veins, increasing pressure and causing the vessel walls to stretch and swell Risk increases with age, hormonal shifts, pregnancy, prolonged standing or sitting, obesity, sedentary behavior, connective tissue disorders, and a family history of vein problems or clotting disorders Treatment options for varicose veins include the use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to reduce swelling and support healing, and inclined bed therapy to restore circulation overnight Prevention focuses on daily walking, regular leg elevation, proper footwear, weight control, hydration, and avoiding prolonged sitting, standing, or restrictive clothing that places unnecessary pressure on the lower body

Story at-a-glance Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, especially in northern regions with limited sunlight. At Vibra Hospital in North Dakota, 44% of patients had dangerously low levels below 20 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) To correct vitamin D deficiency, Vibra Hospital implemented a structured vitamin D protocol that significantly improved patient recovery, reduced complications, and supported better overall outcomes Maintaining vitamin D levels between 60 and 80 ng/mL supports immune function, cardiovascular health, cognitive performance, hormone balance, and blood sugar regulation, as well as lowers risk of certain cancers Sun exposure is the most natural vitamin D source. Make sure to detox vegetable oils from your diet before spending time under peak sunlight hours, as they increase your risk of sunburn and skin damage If you need to take vitamin D3, start by testing your blood levels to find the right dose. Take it with a meal rich in healthy fats, and balance with magnesium and vitamin K2 to help your body absorb and use it properly

Story at-a-glance Black mold's toxic reputation stems from a debunked 1990s study that falsely linked it to infant deaths — subsequent reviews exposed major flaws in the study's data and methods Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) rarely becomes airborne and doesn't grow well in the human body, making it unlikely to cause lung toxicity or systemic infections in healthy individuals While it does not directly cause deaths, black mold still causes significant health issues, especially allergies, asthma, respiratory irritation, and fungal infections in sensitive or immunocompromised individuals Mold thrives in damp indoor environments like wallpaper, drywall, and insulation — detecting it often requires inspecting hidden spots, checking for musty smells, or using moisture meters Effective mold remediation involves more than cleaning — avoid using bleach or ammonia (use vinegar and baking soda instead) and call certified professionals for serious infestations to prevent regrowth and contamination

Story at-a-glance Sepsis affects over 1.7 million U.S. adults annually, causing 350,000 deaths. It is characterized by an overwhelming immune response leading to widespread inflammation and organ failure An Iranian study of 66 ICU patients showed curcumin (500 mg) plus piperine (5 mg) reduced inflammation markers by 34.29% to 37.36% within seven days A meta-analysis revealed curcumin alone dramatically increased survival rates up to 90% and protected multiple organs including lungs, liver, and kidneys Adding black pepper to golden milk, a traditional turmeric-based drink, increases curcumin's bioavailability by 2,000% and effectively addresses metabolic syndrome symptoms through anti-inflammatory action Dr. Paul Marik's combination of vitamin C, hydrocortisone, and thiamine protocol is another life-saving option for those suffering from sepsis

Story at-a-glance People with the highest consumption of ultraprocessed foods had a 23% higher risk of developing psoriasis compared to those who ate the least, based on a 12-year study of 121,019 participants Replacing just 5% of UPFs with unprocessed foods lowered psoriasis risk by 14%, and replacing 20% dropped it by 18%, making this a powerful prevention strategy Seed oils and additives in UPFs fuel chronic inflammation and increase body mass index (BMI) — two factors that significantly raise your chances of developing autoimmune skin disorders like psoriasis If you're genetically at risk for psoriasis, eating a high-UPF diet increases your likelihood of developing the condition by 2.7 times compared to those with low genetic risk and low UPF intake Reducing seed oil intake and restoring vitamin D levels through safe sun exposure or supplementation helps repair immune function and strengthens your skin's natural defenses