elynjacobs

Posts Tagged ‘EMFs and Fertility’

Simple Solutions for EMF Radiation Protection

In Breast Cancer, Cancer, cancer stem cells and recurrence, Cell Phones, EMFs and Health Risks, Uncategorized on January 24, 2019 at 8:10 am

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible areas of energy, known by most of us as radiation, that have been found to cause great harm to the human body. I am not just talking about nuclear fallout, but importantly, cell phone use, WIFI technology, cordless phones, clock radios, hair dryers, X-rays, radiotherapy, air travel-associated radiation, and other exposures that pose day-to-day radiation toxicity. Sadly, we are all exposed to ionizing radiation and could be potentially at increased risk for adverse health effects.

Ionizing radiation causes damage by producing free radicals like reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can randomly react with lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids of cells causing oxidative stress and damage which can lead to molecular and cellular damage. Oxidative stress is considered one of the major factors connected with increased cancer risk and is implicated in cardiovascular events, osteoporosis, male infertility, and more.

Exposure to high doses of ionizing radiation can result in increased rates of genetic mutations. DNA damage caused by oxidative stress may lead to mutations that inactivate tumor suppressor genes and activate oncogenes.[i]

In addition to free radical production, another source of indirect post-irradiation toxicity is inflammatory processes. Radiation-induced damage initiates long-term pro-inflammatory reactions in the surrounding tissue. Exposure to large amounts of ionizing radiation could result in a severe inflammation reaction causing irreparable damage to various tissue and organs, particularly in the heart, lungs and kidneys.

In an attempt to minimize these effects, a small number of compounds in plants have been identified for use as agents that offer some protection against radiation-induced toxicities, and many more are being investigated. These effects are possibly due to free radical scavenging, antioxidant, metal chelating, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and enhancement of the DNA repair processes. Also likely is that certain substances are able to absorb strong energies such as EMFs and convert them into less reactive forms.

dragon-4The Role of Radioprotectants:

The need for protection against the toxic effects of ionizing radiation comes from many different directions: occupational exposure, nuclear accidents, environmental sources, the use of cell phones and other devices, and protection of normal tissue during the therapeutic irradiation of cancer. No matter the source, radioprotectants are important in protecting cells from deleterious radiation-induced side effects.

Radio-protectors are agents that protect the body’s cells and tissues from the undesirable effects of radiation by scavenging radiation-induced free radicals. In the past, synthetic radio-protectors were found to help mitigate or minimize the life-threatening effects of radiation, but they were not put clinical use due to undesirable side effects and inherent toxicity, such as hypotension, vomiting, nausea, sneezing, hot flashes, etc.[ii] Therefore, the exploration of radio-protectors with less toxicity became essential.

The first line of defense from the damaging effects of ROS is antioxidants, which convert strong oxidants to less reactive forms. Antioxidants can minimize the damaging effects of ROS by converting strong oxidants to less reactive forms. For example, the powerful antioxidant lycopene can protect and repair cellular damage from free-radicals, including those induced from ionizing radiation.[iii] This suggests that supplementation of lycopene might be useful in diminishing of negative effect of cancer radiotherapy or in mitigating the effects of possible radiation accidents and exposures on human health. Red fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes (especially when cooked), watermelons, red peppers, pink grapefruits, apricots, pink guavas, dragon fruit, and papaya contain lycopene.

Studies confirm that lycopene and other compounds in fruits, vegetables and associated dietary supplements reduce risk of cancer and inhibit the growth of tumors. Research also shows that nutraceuticals have protective effects against other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, male infertility. These results could be in part due to their protection against damage induced by ionizing radiation, offering yet another reason to consume them copiously.

N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) helps to replenish intracellular glutathione, a vital cellular antioxidant.  Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) also helps boost glutathione levels (see below for more substances that boost glutathione). For brand recommendations, click on the highlighted supplement of interest.

Another substance, melanin, has shown to offer radioprotective properties and is being studied. It is already well known for protecting human skin from UV radiation. While found in foods such as seaweed, eggs, cheese, fish (rich sources of tyrosine, an amino acid that aids in the production of melanin), it is most abundantly found in mushrooms, particularly Chaga mushrooms. Compounds in melanin absorb electromagnetic radiation and help deactivate radioactive isotopes, converting them into benign forms.[iv]

To keep this post short and sweet, I have referenced some studies rather than get into depth on them all, but have included some highlights below. This list is not inclusive, but rather illustrative of how eating a significant amount of fruits and vegetables, and at times supplements, throughout the day can be radio-protective (Click on the highlights for a few brand recommendations for supplements–widely available in most stores).

 Fun Facts:

  • Lycopene reduces the negative effect of cancer radiotherapy and other sources of radiation exposure, especially in advance of exposure.
  • Compounds in Chaga mushroom absorb electromagnetic radiation and help deactivate radioactive isotopes, converting them into benign forms.[xvii]
  • Flaxseed, already known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, works as both a mitigator and protector against radiation exposure, including regarding pneumopathy. It not only protects lung tissues before exposure to radiation, but can also significantly reduce damage after exposure occurs.[xviii]
  • The protection afforded by flaxseed may be attributed to the omega-3 essential fatty acids and phytoestrogenic lignans, which appear to play an important role in free radical scavenging.[xix]
  • Asparagus are high in glutathione and also selenium and zinc, which  also help you make glutathione are protective against EMFs.
  • Olive oil and cruciferous vegetables (in particular the sulfur/sulforophane in these veggies) boosts glutathione.
  • Blueberries contain delphinidin, which has strong antioxidant properties that scavenge radiation-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), making them protective against a wide scope of radiation exposures.
  • Radioprotectors such as delphinidin used during cancer radiotherapy could offer some protection to normal tissues around a cancerous tumor, which are unintentionally exposed to radiation during traditional and proton radiotherapy[xx]
  • Blueberry anthocyanins inhibit cell apoptosis and reduce the radiation injury by decreasing gene and protein expression of p53 and other proteins that regulate cancer cell division, growth, and death.[xxi]
  • Apple pectin aids in removing radionuclides, with one study showing a 62% reduction in radionuclides in treated children from the Chernobyl area and another with a 28-39% reduction after just 16 days, improving cardiovascular health in the children.[xxii]
  • Flavonoids in fruits and vegetables offer a variety of beneficial properties including protection from ionizing radiation, DNA protection, immune system protection, hemopoietic system protection, scavenging of free radicals, antioxidant properties, antitumor properties, antiviral properties, antibacterial properties, and anti-inflammatory properties.[xxiii]
  • Intravenous administration of melanin-coated nanospheres has demonstrated protection of bone marrow against radiotoxicity during radioimmunotherapy of cancer. [xxiv]
  • Buckwheat flavonoid offer radio-protective mechanisms on the hematopoietic (bone marrow, spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) and immune systems[xxv]
  • Plant compounds offer substantial protection and do not appear to interfere with therapeutic radiotherapy.
  • DIM may protect against ionizing radiation taken before or up to 24 hours after radiation and does not protect breast cancer tumors against radiotherapy.[xxvi]

Importantly, many compounds, such as the antioxidants lycopene and delphinidin need to be taken before exposure, which means it is best to consume these on a regular basis.  Enjoy in abundance tomatoes (especially cooked), blueberries, dragon fruit, mint (fresh or tea), apples,  flax seed, green tea, and others. Buckwheat is quite versatile and is naturally gluten-free –try this delicious flatbread recipe.

Regarding Radiation Therapy for Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is a highly utilized therapy in the treatment of malignancies with up to 60% of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy as a part of their treatment regimen. However, the radiation-induced damage to the normal tissues often restricts the therapeutic doses of radiation that can be delivered to tumors and thereby limits the effectiveness of the treatment[xxvii] Notably, researchers have found that there are numerous substances that are radio-protective and yet do not interfere with therapeutic radiotherapy.[xxviii] Unfortunately, not all radiation oncologists recommend such substances, so it is imperative that you seek help from a qualified professional.

Radiation therapy does, however, cause a wide range of adverse effects that can be severe and cause permanent damage to the patient.[xxix] Radiotherapy also does not target cancer stem cells and can actually make them more aggressive.

Radio-protective Devices

UPDATE: STARTING TODAY AND RUNNING THROUGH MAY 1, 2022, THE CODE ELYNJ25 WILL GET YOU 25% OFF.  USE THIS LINK AND THE CODE ELYNJ25

If you don’t see yourself consuming radio-protective foods and supplements on a regular basis or feel that you are particularly exposed (aren’t we all?) you may want to take advantage of the plethora of devices that offer EMF protection.  There are also many lovely and inexpensive shungite pendants and bracelets available online that help balance energy, as well as other items that can be attached to your cell phone, hair dryer, clock, laptop, etc., and to your own jewelry. Please note that since my previous post, Aries Tech has discontinued their older generation Aires Black Crystal and Aires Defender and replaced them with more effective and powerful protection, all made in the EU.

Aires Shield Pro – Powerful enough for all devices from phones to large smart TVs. [Aries Shield Pro]

Aires Defender Pro – To be used on the person for full body protection. [Defender]

Aires Guardian – To be used in all areas of a typical home or office as an area protector. [Guardian]

Update: Two more reputable products that I have come across are SafeSleeve anti-radiation cases for your phone and Lambs radiation-proof and anti-EMF underwear to protect your privates and testosterone levels (as featured in Mens’s Health, Forbes, GQ, and more). You may laugh at that one, but it is important to protect your privates (and ladies, need I remind you to keep your phone out of your bra and pockets? Lambs for ladies coming soon).

In your good health,

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a holistic cancer strategist and speaker specializing in the prevention and treatment of cancer. She is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn has written for numerous journals and publications. She was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation and the creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show. To contact Elyn, visit www.elynjacobs.com. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone, or in person.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a recommendation to forgo medical advice and treatment.  This post is not intended to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease or condition. This post does not represent medical advice nor should it be considered to be medical advice or a replacement for medical advice.  I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist, naturopathic doctor, or conventional oncologist. The information provided is from my research and not to be taken as scientific evidence.

Affiliate Links Disclosure:

Some product links on some posts are affiliate links. This website is monetized in part through the use of affiliate links. This means that if you were to click on a link that is an affiliate link, and purchase an item after clicking on that link, I may receive a small percentage of the sales price. I only recommend products that I love and use often. Thank you for your support!

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[i] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655585/#CR40

[ii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419622/#R13

[iii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4297477/

[iv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx

[v]  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25526570

[vi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5039571/

[vii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17486687

[viii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792255/

[viii] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[ix] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21119249

[x] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579918/

[xi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3586922/

[xii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4419622/#R13

[xiii] http://naturalsociety.com/malanin-fungi-compound-radioprotective-68349/#ixzz5dA4ds2Md
[xiv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24127581

[xv] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25361477

[xvi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24820157

[xvii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28256187; https://www.news-medical.net/news/20110824/Melanin-also-protects-from-ionizing-radiation.aspx

[xviii] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/08/110809111821.htm

[xix] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17486687; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23106213; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2745149/

[xx] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792255/

[xxi] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[xxii] http://naturalsociety.com/malanin-fungi-compound-radioprotective-68349/#ixzz5dA4ds2Md
[xxiii] http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v15i5.28

[xxiv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20421152

[xxv] file:///C:/Users/elyn/Downloads/136380-365119-1-SM.pdf

[xxvi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24127581

[xxvii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21119249

[xxviii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5039571/

[xxix] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/08/110809111821.htm

[xxx] https://elynjacobs.com/2015/01/09/cancer-stem-cells-could-they-be-the-key-to-metastasis/

Why EMF Exposure is a BIG DEAL

In Breast Cancer, Cancer, Cell Phones, EMFs and Health Risks, Fertility and Sperm Counts, Radiation, Uncategorized on March 18, 2018 at 10:25 am

Like it or not, exposure to health-challenging radiation is part of our lives these days. There is now little doubt that prolonged exposure to high levels of EMFs can affect our health. What researchers are trying to determine is just how severe the cumulative effects of EMFs are on our health.

Numerous studies show that mobile phone radiation causes brain tumors and should be classified as a probable human carcinogen.[i] There has also been an alarming trend over the past fifty years showing rapidly declining fertility rates. Many researchers attribute this in part to lower sperm counts from EMF exposure. EMFs have been linked to everything from eye and ear pain, impaired vision and hearing, and neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory and concentration difficulties, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

Sources of EMF Exposure:

hair dryer bio dotMost everyone these days knows that routine medical tests such as mammograms, CT, PET scans, and cellphones subject the body to significant doses of radiation. Even a mere trip to the dentist can result in a hefty dose.  But did you know that flying at high altitudes, sitting in front of a computer screen, placing a laptop on your lap, using a clock radio near your bed, using a cordless phone, blow-drying your hair—all of these seemingly innocuous activities are fraught with danger.

EMFs aren’t going anywhere. We need to begin to think seriously about how to find safe ways to use all of our electronics. Importantly, new 5G cellular technology in cell phones will have put the population at increased risk for many serious health problems with its ultra-high microwave frequencies. They use higher frequency bands than previously thought possible, increasing the health risks.

A Few Key Points and Studies:

  • Exposure to radiofrequency energy from mobile phones held next to the ear is associated with an increased incidence of brain cancers such as malignant gliomas
  • A strong correlation has also been found in women who tend to carry their cell phones in their bras with a high incidence of breast cancer in the area closest to the phone—many have reported the area of concern to ‘copy’ the form of the phone
  • The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that, “electromagnetic fields produced by mobile phones are possible carcinogenic to humans. A very recent study suggested that wireless transmitting devices (WTDs)–mobile phones, cordless phones, mobile phone-based stations, and Wi-Fi routers–be classified as a “probable human carcinogen”[ii]
  • EMFs from laptops directly impact DNA in reproductive organs and tissues, especially since there is no bone to protect this fragile area that houses the ovum or testicles[iii]
  • A 2014 study revealed that use of cell phones decreases human sperm mobility and increases sperm DNA fragmentation[iv]
  • A 2007 U.S. study found that the use of cell phones reduces the sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology of sperm in men[v]
  • A 2009 study confirmed that cell phone radiation leads to oxidative stress in human semen and that keeping a cell phone in pockets around the area of the genitalia can negatively impact male fertility[vi]
  • A 2102 study determined that laptops should be renamed as when these mobile devices are used on one’s lap, adverse health effects to adults and significant harm to a child in the womb can occur. [vii]
  • A 2014 study found that use of a laptop connected to internet through WiFi decreases human sperm motility and increases sperm DNA fragmentation.[viii]
  • A recent 25 million-dollar government study by the National Toxicology Program has concluded that wireless radiation causes cancer

 What You Can Do to Lower Risk

First and foremost, it is extremely important to lower our exposure to these risks by keeping a distance from harmful devices. Also key is limiting the strength and length of time we are exposed to EMFs. It is recommended to eat a diet high in antioxidant-rich foods in order to minimize the adverse effects of EMFs. Dietary iodine helps to reduce the effects of radiation.

For those interested in fathering children, it would be best to avoid storing your cell phone in your pants pocket or putting that laptop on your lap (if you read the fine print, manufacturers warn about the dangers, likely as they see lawsuits on the horizon).

Some of the best ways to protect yourself from the negative impacts of EMFs are:

  • Reduce the time you are exposed to EMFs
  • Create distance between you and your electrical devices—keep routers, especially, in another room
  • Try not to put a cell phone directly to your head, in your bra, on your hip, or in your pocket. If you do store your cell phone against your body, try to limit how much time you do so and use protective devices
  • Use speaker phones or radiation-free headset devices for listening privately
  • Turn cell phones, tablets, and laptops on airplane mode whenever you can
  • Turn off Wi-Fi and use ethernet cables to wire your devices to the internet
  • Eat a diet rich in organic fruits, vegetables and other foods rich in antioxidants
  • Eat iodine-rich foods such as watercress, kale, kelp, broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. An iodine supplement can also be helpful.

As time goes on, there will likely be more and more conclusive studies emerge about the effects of devices such as headphones, laptops, cellphones, and WiFi upon human health. To me, there are enough studies –you don’t have to wait for the damage to be done.

Recommended Devices (that I love):

BIO-SMART-DUO

Energy Dots —The duo pack bioDOT-smartDOT  includes a self-adhesive bioDOT and a self-adhesive smartDOT.  Wear the bioDOT to strengthen and support your energy.  Stick the smartDOT to your mobile device (or hairdryer, as pictured above) to re-tune the toxic emissions.  Use the two to protect yourself from radiation and increase your energy levels. Use this link and the code energy10 for 10% off all products.

Radiation-Free-Air-Tube-Headset-Stereo-Blue1-1024x706AirTube Headsets

Use code MHPQMWSMS4KS for 10% off on all orders (offer expires 11/30/2018).

 

Vibes Up Earth Grounding, EMF Protection and Sleep Aids (they have an excellent selection of remedies for sleep and EMFs).

EMF Detector (There are more expensive versions, for my needs, this works great)

This post has been updated to include an additional option for EMF protection.

Aires Shield series devices were designed to be used with small devices such as cell phones, cordless phones, tablets, and baby monitors.  Aires Defender product range includes devices that provide universal protection for the human body. These devices are designed as personal protectors, which are worn by the individual. Utilizing the full range of devices will help you reduce the harmful effects of electromagnetic radiation that are impacting your health today. Right now AiresTech has a 30% off sale going on. Once this sale is over, enter the code elyn10 to get get 10% off.

 For More Information:

Are Your Headphones An EMF Health Risk?

How to Protect Yourself From EMF Radiation

Can Cell Phones Cause Cancer, Infertility; Are Our Children at Risk?

 Podcasts:

Dr Devra Lee Davis, PhD MPH shares with us the truth about cell phone radiation, what the industry has done to hide it, and how to protect your family: http://hipcast.com/podcast/HNqVpywQ

Lloyd Burrell talks about EMF’s and Your Health:  http://hipcast.com/podcast/Hr4YrrWs

[i] International Journal of Oncology, 46(5): 1865-1871. Morgan LL, Miller AB, Sasco A, Davis DL (2015); https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/electromagnetic-fields-fact-sheet

[ii] International Journal of Oncology, 46(5): 1865-1871. Morgan LL, Miller AB, Sasco A, Davis DL (2015)

[iii] http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(11)02678-1/abstract

[iv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4074720/

[v] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17482179

[vi] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19578660

[vii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22315933

[viii] http://www.fertstert.org/article/S0015-0282(11)02678-1/abstract

Information on hairdryers and other personal care items:

Hairdryers, electric shavers, electric toothbrushes and similar personal grooming products can create very high (20-200 milligauss) magnetic fields at their normal operating distance. By comparison, EMF strengths as low as 2 milligauss are thought to increase the risk of leukemia and cancer in susceptible people[i]

[i] http://emwatch.com/emf-radiation-from-domestic-appliances/; https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/161/2/136/256503; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK232733/

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. Elyn is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Contact Elyn via her website. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

Affiliate Links Disclosure:
Some product links on some posts are affiliate links. This website is monetized in part through the use of affiliate links. This means that if you were to click on a link that is an affiliate link, and purchase an item after clicking on that link, I may receive a small percentage of the sales price. I only recommend products that I love and use often. Thank you for your support!

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