The Real Dangers of GMOs

The Real Dangers of GMOs

Fact: GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are widespread; largely unavoidable, and highly controversial. Proponents claim they’re revolutionizing our food supply, while opponents assert they’re destroying it, along with our health. And while large scale independent studies on the impacts of GMOs are limited, the studies that have been published show cause for alarm.
 
On the environmental side, there are concerns that genetic modifications are difficult to control and can carry unforeseen consequences. For example, Bt cotton is engineered with a pesticide that kills the worms which destroy crops. While Bt cotton may kill worms, it may also harm the butterfly and bee populations. In addition, modified plant genes can get passed via pollen drift to surrounding plants, with no way to know the impact on ecosystems.
 
GMOs also increase the use of agricultural chemicals. There is an entire class of “Roundup ready” crops specifically designed to withstand increased herbicide use. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, may be linked to cancer and other chronic diseases, and persists in the environment.
 
Health Dangers  
Independent animal studies demonstrate that GM foods can induce organ damage, GI tract and immune disorders, accelerated aging, and infertility, among other issues. Human studies suggest GMOs can contribute to toxic body burden and possibly cause long-term problems.
 
Some point to the dramatic increase in allergies in recent decades as evidence that GM foods can cause an adverse immune response. Clearly much more independent research needs to be done to understand just how GMOs impact health, both immediate and long-term. 
 
Taking Action
For those who are concerned that GMO exposure is affecting their health, there are a number of protective strategies which may mitigate the risk.
 
Certified organic foods do not use GMOs, so that’s a great place to start. It’s not foolproof – as noted, GMO pollen can spread to other crops – but it can certainly moderate much of the exposure.
 
To reduce toxic body burden and support overall health, it’s a good idea to practice regular, gentle detoxification which helps cleanse and revitalize the body. Start with diet, emphasizing organic fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and sprouted legumes and seeds. Avoid processed, refined foods, sugars and non-organic ingredients. Drink lots of purified water and exercise regularly to boost circulation, clear your detox channels and increase metabolism.
 
For total-body detoxification support, ecoNugenics recommends ecoDetox®, which enhances the body’s natural ability to remove toxins. This blend includes targeted minerals, nutrients and botanicals to support the elimination of harmful pollutants from deep within. Ingredients such as astragalus root, Chinese salvia, milk thistle seed, dandelion and ginkgo leaf provide support for the body’s detox pathways; they also work together to boost vital energy, improve antioxidant activity and enhance overall detoxification capacity.*
 
One of the major concerns with GMOs is their impact on digestion. ecoNugenics Integrative Digestive Formula®  contains natural digestive enzymes, minerals and botanicals to support a healthy GI tract, reduce occasional digestive discomfort, and promote optimal nutrient absorption.*
 
Everyday immune support is also important. Mushrooms are an excellent way to optimize immunity, as many species help to “train” the immune system to respond appropriately. This is why many mushrooms are considered “immune modulators” — because of their abilities to balance immune activity. ecoNugenics Ten Mushroom® Formula is an organically-grown blend of ten powerful mushroom species, cultivated in the US in carefully controlled environments. Ten Mushroom® offers nourishment and daily support for immunity and other important areas of health.*
 
More research needs to be done for us to truly understand the health impacts GMOs might have. Meanwhile, the US movement for mandatory labeling of GMO foods is being stalled by politics. Only the State of Vermont has succeeded in passing a GMO labeling law, which is set to go into effect July 2016. Nevertheless, opinion polls state that the majority of US consumers want to know whether their foods contain controversial GMO ingredients.
 
Until we can be sure that GMOs are safe, our best strategy may be to emphasize organic foods along with those that are certified non-GMO. For optimal defense, we should also take active steps to support digestion, detoxification, immune function and other critical areas, in order to safeguard long-term health.