GMO’s and Breast Cancer Awareness
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month making it a perfect time to explore the largely ignored and seldom discussed link between GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms) and the diagnosis most feared by women. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women age 40 to 55 and about 80 percent of those diagnosed have no family history of the disease. One in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime with nearly 40,000 losing their lives each year. And, approximately 1,700 men will develop breast cancer each year too.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk? And, what do GMO’s have to do with Breast Cancer? The answer to both questions is plenty. Proactive prevention through positive lifestyle choices is key. An organic diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, (there is a strong association between being overweight and breast cancer among postmenopausal women) exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking and supporting a strong immune system through foods and supplementation are the basics. But, we must also examine and reduce our chemical exposure.
We want to bring your awareness to the link between breast cancer and the toxic chemicals found in Genetically Modified crops, specifically glyphosate, the active ingredient in the herbicide “Roundup”. Dr. Stephanie Seneff, the Senior Research Scientist at MIT, states that “glyphosate is possibly the most important factor in the development of multiple chronic diseases and conditions that have become prevalent in Westernized societies.” One study revealed that glyphosate has estrogenic properties that causes dramatic breast cancer proliferation which explains why rats fed Roundup developed massive breast tumors. Other recently published studies demonstrate glyphosate’s toxicity to aquatic life, animals, and humans.
GMOs are plants or animals created through the process of genetic engineering. This technology forces DNA of one species into another, resulting in unstable combinations that do not occur in nature. Almost all commercial GMOs are engineered to withstand herbicide and/or produce an insecticide. GMOs are present in 75% of conventional processed foods. The United States produces 48% of all GMO food, more than any other country. The use of Roundup has increased 15 times since the introduction of GMOs in food.
The Breast Cancer Fund released a publication, “State of the Evidence” that connects chemical toxins to breast cancer. According to recent research published in the National Institutes of Health Journal, you can reduce your risk of breast cancer by avoiding certain chemicals found in common, everyday products. GMOs expose us to endocrine disrupting herbicides, fungicides and pesticides. Some of these pesticides have been identified as Mammary Gland Carcinogens. Dr. Julia Brody, PhD of Silent Spring Institute writes; “Every woman in America has been exposed to chemicals that may increase her risk of breast cancer. Unfortunately, the link between toxic chemicals and breast cancer has largely been ignored. Reducing chemical exposures could save many, many women’s lives.”
High-Risk GMO foods:
Currently, the most high risk GMO foods are corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, alfalfa, sugar beets, papaya and squash. Tomatoes, apples, rice and potatoes are in the research and development stage but are not yet found in the market. Also, keep in mind that the farmers and ranchers that provide our meat, milk and eggs depend on genetically enhanced crops in their animals feed.
Other Sources of GMOs include:
Dairy products from cows injected with the GM hormone rbGH
Food additives, flavorings, and processing agents, including aspartame (NutraSweet) and rennet.
Meat, eggs, and dairy products from animals that have eaten GM feed
Honey and bee pollen that may have GM sources of pollen
Vegetable oil, vegetable fat and margarines (made with soy, corn, cottonseed, and/or canola)
Soy flour, soy isolates, soy isoflavones, soy lecithin, tofu, tamari, tempeh, and soy protein supplements
Corn flour, corn gluten, corn masa, corn starch, corn syrup, cornmeal, and High-Fructose Corn Syrup.
Research on rats fed GMO corn by French molecular endocrinologist Gilles-Eric Seralini found that:
Females developed large mammary tumors
Females died 2-3 times more rapidly than the control groups
The pituitary gland was disabled
The sex hormone balance was modified
The American Academy of Environmental Medicine published the adverse effects of GMO foods including:
Altered structure and function of the liver including lipid and carbohydrate metabolism
Increased oxidative stress
Accelerated aging
Changes in the kidney, spleen and pancreas
GM corn caused infertility and lower birth weight in litters
Altered over 400 gene expressions
Intestinal damage
Increased cell growth
Disruption of the Immune System
Most personal care products contain GMO ingredients including cosmetics, soaps, body lotions, shampoos, conditioners, bodywash, bubble bath, etc. These, along with parabens, petroleum (and its derivatives) and phthalates (a class of chemicals known to contribute to a wide range of health problems) can be carcinogenic and affect health, behavior and reproductive systems. Make the chemical, fragrance, gluten and GMO free products your healthy choice.
We also recommend reading Dr. John Lee’s bestselling book, “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life” to learn more about the breast health benefits of Feminine Balance Therapy, chemical, fragrance, gluten and GMO free bio-identical progesterone cream.
Steps to help reduce GMO ingredients and lower your breast cancer risk:
Avoid GMO corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, alfalfa, sugar beets, papaya and squash.
Choose chemical and GMO free personal care products.
Keep a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid excessive alcohol and do not smoke.
Avoid pesticide use in your home, in your yard and on your pets.
Choose organically grown fruits and vegetables whenever possible.
If your drinking water contains contaminants, use a water filter.
Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber and reduce your intake of meat and high-fat dairy products.
Choose meat and milk products that do not contain added hormones, antibiotics, and additives.
When medical radiation (X-ray, CT scan) is recommended, ask if it is necessary and insist on proper shielding.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a licensed medical doctor. we do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect a mental or physical health condition, please see your healthcare provider.
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