Too little too late, FDA

FDA changes position on BPA: Agency acknowledges new science, concerns over effect on infants and children's health

January 15, 2010


WASHINGTON - Today, after years of insisting that the hormone-mimicking chemical bisphenol A (BPA) was “safe for all uses,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revised its stance.
The FDA says has “some concern” after assessing new scientific data on the affects BPA may have on the development of infants and fetuses. The agency says it will support voluntary efforts to take the chemical out of infant formula cans and baby bottles and encourage research into alternatives. It also reiterated the need to expedite further research and announced support for a "more robust regulatory framework" for BPA.
The FDA’s decision adds momentum to legislative efforts to reform federal policy on toxic chemicals. Representative Markey and Senator Feinstein have led efforts to strengthen FDA oversight of BPA. Meanwhile, Senator Lautenberg and Congressman Waxman have led effort to revise the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976.
While FDA has authority over chemicals when they are used in food packaging, food additives and cosmetics, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has authority under TSCA over those same chemicals when used in other products, including the many other uses of BPA. EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson has previously announced her intention to develop an “action plan” to reduce BPA exposure, which is expected soon.
“Today’s FDA announcement should hasten efforts to move away from this dangerous chemical, but it also highlights the dysfunction in federal policy that is driving consumers crazy. On the one hand, FDA’s statement highlights the science showing the dangers of some chemicals, on the other hand, it’s a “cry for help” for greater authority. The heavy lifting is still being left to consumers.”
Source: Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families

Can Love Really Cure a Broken Heart?

Move over, babies. The anti-inflammatory benefits of Oxytocin can contribute to greater mental and physical health for all of us!

The hormone Oxytocin has been known to have a variety of unmatched benefits in the human body, especially for infants and mothers.  Recent literature has shown Oxytocin as having potential benefits for those with injured hearts, such as after a heart attack.  The potent neurochemical was shown to reduce many inflammatory factors, which in turn helped to improve healing of these injured hearts.
How can we reap the benefits of Oxytocin?  Other than going into labor, the next best way to produce the hormone is through skin-to-skin touch with another individual.  Contact with animals has shown to have some benefit, but is not nearly as beneficial as human touch and closeness. 


See the original study here:   NCBI

Got Drain Pain?

Need a natural and inexpensive way to clear a clogged or slow-moving drain?  Try this.  Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the problematic drain, followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar.  Cover the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes.  Flush the drain with boiling water (a small pot's worth, if you can).  Most average drain clogs will be cleared through this process.  If not, or if only partial improvement is seen, repeat the process until the sink drains smoothly.  Be sure to prevent future problems by placing a drain guard over the sink or tub to catch any loose debris or hair which may have been original the source of your problem.  Good luck!

Wait 30 minutes after eating to watch this...