October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to explore the widely ignored and rarely discussed link between GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) and women’s most feared diagnosis. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women ages 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 and nearly 40,000 will lose their lives each year. And, approximately 1,700 men will develop breast cancer each year as well.
So what can you do to reduce your risk? And what do transgenics have to do with breast cancer? The answer to both questions is sufficient. 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 consumption, not smoking, and supporting a strong immune system through food and supplements are the basics. But, we must also examine and reduce our chemical exposure.
We want to draw your attention to the link between breast cancer and toxic chemicals found in genetically modified crops, specifically glyphosate, the active ingredient in the herbicide “Roundup.” Dr. Stephanie Seneff, a senior research scientist at MIT, states that “glyphosate is arguably the single most important factor in the development of multiple diseases and chronic conditions that have become prevalent in Westernized societies.” One study revealed that glyphosate has estrogenic properties that cause dramatic proliferation of breast cancer, which explains why Roundup-fed rats developed massive breast tumors. Other recently published studies demonstrate the toxicity of glyphosate to aquatic life, animals and humans.
GMOs are plants or animals created through the process of genetic engineering. This technology forces the DNA of one species into another, resulting in unstable combinations that do not occur in nature. Almost all commercial GMOs are designed to resist herbicides and/or produce insecticides. GMOs are present in 75% of conventional processed foods. The United States produces 48% of all GMO foods, more than any other country. The use of Roundup has increased 15-fold since the introduction of GMOs in food.
The Breast Cancer Fund published a publication, “State of the Evidence” linking 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 carcinogenic to the mammary glands. Dr. Julia Brody, PhD of the Silent Spring Institute writes; “All women in the United States have been exposed to chemicals that can increase their risk of breast cancer. Unfortunately, the link between toxic chemicals and breast cancer has been largely ignored. Reducing exposure to chemicals chemicals could save the lives of many, many women.
High-risk GM foods:
Currently, the GM foods most at risk are corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, alfalfa, sugar beets, papaya, and squash. Tomatoes, apples, rice, and potatoes are in the research and development stage, but not yet on the market. Also, keep in mind that the farmers and ranchers who provide our meat, milk and eggs rely on genetically improved crops to feed their animals.
Other sources of GMOs include:
Dairy products from cows injected with the transgenic hormone rbGH
Food additives, flavorings, and processing agents, including aspartame (NutraSweet) and rennet.
Meat, eggs, and dairy products from animals that have eaten genetically engineered foods
Honey and bee pollen that may have transgenic pollen sources
Vegetable oil, shortening, 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 dough, corn starch, corn syrup, corn flour, and high-fructose corn syrup.
Research on rats fed GM corn by French molecular endocrinologist Gilles-Eric Seralini found that:
The females developed large mammary tumors
Females died 2-3 times faster than control groups
The pituitary gland was disabled.
The balance of sex hormones was altered.
The American Academy of Environmental Medicine published the adverse effects of GMO foods, including:
Altered liver structure and function, including lipid and carbohydrate metabolism
Increased oxidative stress
Accelerated aging
Changes in the kidney, spleen, and pancreas
GM maize caused infertility and lower birth weight in litters
Altered more than 400 gene expressions
bowel damage
Increased cell growth
Immune system disruption
Most personal care products contain GMO ingredients, including cosmetics, soaps, body lotions, shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, bubble baths, etc. These, along with parabens, petroleum (and their 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 chemical-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, and GMO-free your healthy choice.
We also recommend reading Dr. John Lee’s best-selling book, “What Your Doctor Can’t Tell You About Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life” for more information on the health benefits of breast cancer. feminine balance therapy breasts, chemicals, fragrances, gluten. and GMO-free bioidentical progesterone cream.
Steps to help reduce GMO ingredients and reduce breast cancer risk:
Avoid GM corn, soybeans, cotton, canola, alfalfa, sugar beets, papaya, and squash.
Choose chemical-free and GMO-free personal care products.
Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid excess alcohol, and don’t smoke.
Avoid the use of pesticides in your home, in your garden 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 dairy products that do not contain added hormones, antibiotics, or additives.
When medical radiation (X-rays, CT scans) is recommended, ask if it is necessary and insist on adequate protection.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a licensed physician. We do not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have or suspect a physical or mental health condition, see your health care provider.