Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health

Story at-a-glance Oral diseases now affect 3.5 billion people worldwide, making them the most widespread health conditions, yet many overlook their link to serious diseases Poor oral hygiene contributes to chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation, but simple habits like flossing significantly reduce these risks A study presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Conference found that flossing at least once a week lowers the risk of ischemic stroke by 22% and heart-related strokes by 44% Flossing also reduces the likelihood of atrial fibrillation by 12%, helping prevent blood clots that lead to heart failure and other cardiovascular complications Regular flossing lowers systemic inflammation, reducing cardiovascular mortality risk by 36%, with each additional day of flossing per week decreasing the risk of dying from heart disease by 6%

18/03/2025 • 11:19

Story at-a-glance Our ancestors consumed large quantities of bread (up to 16 pounds weekly for men and 8 pounds for women in the 1880s) without widespread digestive issues seen today. Pre-harvest desiccation with glyphosate (increased 400% in two decades) leaves residues in wheat products that may disrupt gut microbiome and contribute to digestive disorders Modern wheat varieties have been selectively bred for higher yields and industrial processing compatibility rather than nutritional value or digestibility. The shift from slow fermentation methods to quick-rise commercial yeast has also eliminated the microbial diversity and protein breakdown that made traditional bread nutritious and easier to digest "Enriched flour" contains synthetic nutrients and iron shards (ferrous sulfate) that can contribute to oxidative stress and may not provide the intended health benefits Traditional sourdough fermentation breaks down gluten proteins (particularly gliadin) by more than 50% over 24 hours, making bread more digestible for many people with sensitivities Most commercial bread contains hidden additives like inflammatory seed oils and harmful chemicals like potassium bromate (banned in many countries but not the U.S.)

18/03/2025 • 12:01

Story at-a-glance Aspartame triggers unnatural insulin spikes by stimulating the vagus nerve, leading to metabolic dysfunction and increased fat storage Research shows that aspartame-driven insulin surges fuel chronic inflammation in blood vessels, accelerating the progression of atherosclerosis and heart disease Artificial sweeteners alter gut bacteria homeostasis, increasing glucose intolerance that makes blood sugar regulation more difficult over time Cutting out aspartame and other artificial sweeteners is the first step to restore insulin sensitivity and protect your cardiovascular health Natural solutions like targeted carbohydrate intake and adding fermented foods to your diet help reverse the metabolic damage caused by artificial sweeteners

18/03/2025 • 12:06

Story at-a-glance Iron plays essential roles in brain function, helping transport oxygen and create neurotransmitters, but if excess iron accumulates in brain tissue, it disrupts normal cellular processes Research shows higher iron levels in Alzheimer's patients' brains correlate with cognitive decline severity, suggesting iron buildup directly contributes to disease progression Scientists have revealed that malfunctioning amyloid precursor protein and tau proteins in Alzheimer's disease contribute to iron accumulation, creating a harmful feedback loop that accelerates neuronal damage Through advanced imaging, researchers found an imbalance favoring Fe3+ (ferric iron) over Fe2+ (ferrous iron) in Alzheimer's-affected brains, particularly around amyloid plaques Regular blood donation and monitoring ferritin levels (ideally 20 to 40 ng/mL) help manage iron levels, while adequate copper intake is important for proper iron metabolism

17/03/2025 • 12:01

Story at-a-glance Rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer is linked to changes in the gut microbiome, with specific bacterial strains producing mutagenic chemicals that contribute to cancer risk Global studies are underway to identify mutational signatures associated with gut bacteria, highlighting the significant role of dysbiosis in colorectal carcinogenesis Understanding the influence of gut bacteria on cancer development could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies, offering new avenues for prevention and treatment Research has identified a subtype of E. coli producing colibactin, a mutagen associated with cancer, suggesting that early exposure increases the risk of developing cancer at a younger age Dysbiosis, characterized by an imbalance in gut microbiota, is linked to colorectal cancer through mechanisms like genotoxicity, inflammation and oxidative stress, with specific bacteria such as Streptococcus bovis and Fusobacterium spp. playing a central role

17/03/2025 • 10:12

Story at-a-glance Overstimulation is a condition where your brain cannot process sensory information effectively, distinctly different from overwhelm, which is an emotional reaction to stress and responsibilities True sensory overload triggers intense physical and emotional responses, including panic attacks, muscle tension and a strong urge to escape, particularly affecting those with PTSD, autism, ADHD and anxiety disorders Chronic overstimulation often leads to burnout, diminished performance and avoidance behaviors, with even positive life changes triggering overwhelming sensory experiences in sensitive individuals The fight-or-flight response plays a key role in sensory overload, with common triggers including loud noises, bright lights, strong smells and uncomfortable textures Management strategies include creating a personal sanctuary, maintaining proper sleep, taking outdoor walks and nourishing your body with healthy carbohydrates to build resilience against sensory challenges

15/03/2025 • 11:01

Story at-a-glance Ohia Lehua honey demonstrates superior antioxidant properties compared to Manuka honey in vivo, significantly increasing total antioxidant capacity and reducing oxidative stress markers in the body Manuka honey contains 10 times more phenolic compounds than Ohia Lehua honey, yet shows more limited antioxidant activity, suggesting its primary strength lies in antibacterial properties Research shows Manuka honey selectively inhibits breast cancer cell growth while leaving healthy cells unharmed, working through multiple mechanisms Both honeys contain distinct phytochemical profiles: Manuka is rich in hydroxybenzoic acids, while Ohia Lehua contains unique phenolics like phenyllactic acid. These profiles explain their different therapeutic effects Raw, unprocessed versions of both honeys retain maximum therapeutic benefits, but proper sourcing is important as many commercial honeys are heavily processed or adulterated with corn syrup

15/03/2025 • 11:24

Story at-a-glance High blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes overwhelms cellular machinery like a chaotic factory, creating not just oxidative stress as previously thought, but also a more fundamental problem called reductive stress. Reductive stress occurs when there's an oversupply of electron-carrying molecules in cells, creating a "traffic jam" of electrons that can't be processed efficiently by the mitochondria's electron transport chain While traditional views focused on oxidative stress alone, scientists now understand that reductive stress actually triggers oxidative stress. It's the initial spark that sets off a chain reaction of cellular damage in diabetic conditions When the main pathway for processing glucose becomes blocked due to reductive stress, sugar molecules get diverted into harmful alternative pathways, creating additional toxic byproducts and inflammation The combination of reductive and oxidative stress explains many serious complications of diabetes including neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular problems — all stemming from this initial electron overload Understanding reductive stress offers new therapeutic possibilities. Instead of just focusing on lowering blood sugar or fighting oxidative damage after it occurs, effective treatments target the electron transport chain efficiency and/or help cells recycle NADH more effectively

15/03/2025 • 11:42

Story at-a-glance A massive industry exists to prevent pandemics, but despite receiving billions each year, it routinely fails to prevent pandemics or provide viable ways to address those which emerge This industry rests upon the lie that viral diseases cannot be treated, when in reality there are many effective, over-the-counter and unpatentable treatments for viral illnesses The industry engages in cruel and unnecessary animal experimentation, which wastes billions each year and repeatedly creates the pandemics it is supposed to prevent due to how frequently lab leaks occur The "war against bird flu" highlights key issues within the pandemic prevention industry, where billions have now been spent killing over 100 million birds, yet all that has accomplished is raising egg prices This article explores how many forgotten therapies can treat both severe viral illnesses and rapidly address common conditions like colds and flus

14/03/2025 • 11:38

Story at-a-glance Recent studies show toddlers are spending 60 to 90 minutes daily on screens, primarily television, despite recommendations against screen time for children under 2 years old A 2025 Latin American study found that passive TV viewing negatively impacts language development in toddlers Early exposure to screens, particularly before age 2, consistently shows negative effects on both receptive and expressive language skills, with fast-paced content being especially harmful EMF exposure and blue light from screens disrupts cellular health and sleep cycles in toddlers, making it important to limit device exposure, especially before bedtime Parents can protect language development by creating screen-free zones, prioritizing outdoor activities, emphasizing real-world interactions and maintaining dedicated daily reading time with their toddlers

14/03/2025 • 13:01

Story at-a-glance A 2025 meta-analysis of 46,694 cancer patients found that higher muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness reduced all-cause mortality risk by 31% to 46% across different cancer types and stages The same study showed that each unit increase in muscle strength reduced death risk by 11%, while increases in cardiovascular fitness lowered cancer-specific mortality by 18% Beyond improving cancer outcomes, a 2021 review of 188 studies found that regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing multiple cancer types by 10% to 20% through various mechanisms For cancer patients, intense workouts aren't necessary; simple activities like daily walks or standing up from a chair multiple times meaningfully improve strength and fitness The optimal daily target for walking is 10,000 to 12,000 steps, while strength training is most effective at 40 to 60 minutes weekly, spread across two to three sessions; exceeding 130 minutes negates benefits

14/03/2025 • 12:44

Story at-a-glance Keloids are an extreme overreaction of the body’s wound healing process, causing thick, raised scars that continue to grow beyond the original injury, leading to pain, itching, and discomfort A study published in Burns & Trauma journal found that keloid cells overproduce CYP24A1, an enzyme that rapidly breaks down vitamin D, preventing it from regulating scar formation and inflammation Researchers discovered that inhibiting CYP24A1 allowed vitamin D to remain active longer, reducing excessive collagen buildup and helping keloid tissue behave more like normal skin Even individuals with sufficient vitamin D levels in their bloodstream could still have a functional deficiency in their skin due to rapid breakdown by CYP24A1, which explains why standard supplementation has not been effective for keloid treatment Another recent study found that vitamin D supplementation significantly improved wound healing, increasing skin hydration while reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), which strengthened the skin barrier and sped up recovery

13/03/2025 • 11:54

Story at-a-glance Nebraska study reveals a 10% increase in pesticide exposure is linked to 36% rise in childhood brain cancers, 23% increase in leukemia, and 30% overall increase in pediatric cancers Research analyzing 2,512 cancer cases over 22 years identified herbicides dicamba, glyphosate, and paraquat as significant contributors to childhood cancer development in agricultural regions Children face heightened vulnerability to pesticide exposure through air, water, and soil due to developing organs and frequent hand-to-mouth contact during play The research demonstrates the importance of examining combined effects of multiple pesticides rather than individual chemicals, to represent real-world agricultural exposure more accurately Future research recommendations include human biomonitoring studies measuring pesticide levels in children's blood, plasma, and urine to better understand health impacts

13/03/2025 • 12:01

Story at-a-glance Glucose and fructose, two simple sugars, behave differently in your body. Glucose provides quick energy while fructose goes directly to your liver Fructose in whole fruits is paired with fiber and nutrients that slow absorption, while processed fructose like high-fructose corn syrup flood your liver with sugar Excessive fructose consumption leads to de novo lipogenesis in the liver, resulting in fat buildup and an increased risk of fatty liver disease Processed sugars, unlike whole fruits, create rapid blood sugar spikes that put stress on insulin production and increases the risk of metabolic issues Consuming whole fruits with natural sugars supports a healthier metabolism by delivering fiber, water, and antioxidants that balance sugar absorption

13/03/2025 • 11:10

Story at-a-glance Heart failure affects 6.7 million Americans over the age of 20, and this number is expected to reach 8.5 million by 2030. Globally, it impacts over 37 million people as a life-threatening condition People who are hospitalized for severe infections like pneumonia or sepsis are more than twice as likely to develop heart failure Infections trigger an aggressive immune response that have a chance to become dysregulated, causing persistent inflammation and damage to the heart muscle's ability to pump efficiently The risk of heart failure persists long-term, with most cases appearing about seven years after the initial infection-related hospitalization Vitamin D produces antimicrobial peptides that protect against bacteria, fungi and viruses that cause severe infections, so make sure to optimize your levels through safe sun exposure

12/03/2025 • 11:17

Story at-a-glance Gut bacteria called Morganella morganii produce unusual fats that contain diethanolamine (DEA), an environmental micropollutant; the fats trigger inflammation that contribute to major depressive disorder The gut-brain axis operates bidirectionally — gut dysbiosis causes systemic inflammation that affects your brain while brain inflammation disrupts gut health Disruptions in gut bacteria lead to increased intestinal permeability, or "leaky gut," which allows harmful substances to enter your bloodstream and trigger systemic inflammation Neuroinflammation shifts tryptophan metabolism toward the kynurenine pathway, which produces substances that contribute to glutamate excitotoxicity, in turn damaging brain cells and contributing to depression Restoring gut health requires a comprehensive approach, including eliminating seed oils, avoiding endocrine disruptors, optimizing carbohydrate intake and carefully introducing beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia muciniphila

12/03/2025 • 11:50

Story at-a-glance Vitamin K is crucial for bone health beyond its role in blood clotting, with deficiencies linked to increased fracture risk and osteoporosis Vitamin K works synergistically with vitamin D to enhance bone mineral density, highlighting the importance of maintaining adequate levels through diet or supplementation The gut microbiome plays a significant role in vitamin K production, impacting bone health by supporting the formation and maintenance of bone tissue Vitamin K influences energy metabolism through osteocalcin, affecting insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which are essential for preventing osteoporosis and diabetes Strategies to help optimize vitamin K levels including consuming more food sources of both vitamin K1 and K2, strategically timing your vitamin K2 supplement intake, and nourishing your gut microbiome with probiotics and prebiotics

12/03/2025 • 11:22

Story at-a-glance Marigolds are a rich source of lutein, tocopherols and phytosterols, which support eye health, immune function and cardiovascular wellness when incorporated into your diet The Superboy Orange and Durango Red varieties contain the highest concentrations of carotenoids, making them the best options for functional foods and dietary supplements Marigolds provide cholesterol-lowering phytosterols, particularly β-sitosterol, which reduces cholesterol absorption and supports heart health without the need for pharmaceutical interventions Some marigold cultivars contain antinutrients like tannins and alkaloids, but soaking, drying or fermenting the flowers significantly reduces these compounds and improves nutrient absorption To maximize their health benefits, consume marigolds with healthy fats such as ghee or grass-fed butter to enhance the bioavailability of lutein and other fat-soluble nutrients

11/03/2025 • 13:34

Story at-a-glance Childhood cardiovascular risk factors, such as higher body mass index and rapid weight gain, are associated with structural differences in the brains of young adults, particularly in regions vulnerable to dementia later in life Studies show a direct link between better cardiovascular health in adolescence and enhanced cognitive functions like executive function and increased brain volume Fostering healthy habits early in life, like sufficient sleep, daily movement, stress management and a whole-food diet, is important for children’s long-term brain health, even reducing dementia risks Simple lifestyle changes focused on improving mitochondrial function, such as reducing seed oils, minimizing endocrine-disrupting chemicals and EMF exposure, and eating whole foods, positively impacts brain health at any age Prioritizing cardiovascular health from childhood through adulthood is not just about heart health; it's a key strategy for building and maintaining a healthy brain and reducing the risk of cognitive decline

11/03/2025 • 12:13

Story at-a-glance Conventional chicken is often soaked in chemical baths, including chlorine solutions, to reduce bacterial contamination — a practice banned in the European Union since 1997. Chlorine-washed chicken may absorb chemical residues through its porous muscle tissue, which raises safety concerns U.S. regulations do not require processors to disclose the use of chemical washes or antimicrobial treatments on chicken packaging, keeping consumers unaware of what their food has been exposed to Industrial chicken processing prioritizes speed over hygiene, with some facilities handling up to 2 million chickens daily, creating conditions that require chemical interventions to compensate for poor sanitation Many conventional chickens are injected with water, salt, and phosphates to increase their weight by up to 15%, meaning consumers are paying for added liquid rather than actual meat Choosing pasture-raised, naturally processed chicken supports humane farming, cleaner processing practices, and higher-quality nutrition while reducing reliance on chemical interventions

11/03/2025 • 11:40

Story at-a-glance Cigarette smoke weakens your body's immune cells, making it harder to fight off respiratory infections and increasing the risk of lung diseases Maternal smoking during pregnancy triggers abnormal immune responses in children, leading to higher risks of allergic conditions such as asthma and atopic dermatitis Smoking alters immune system function, causing prolonged inflammation and genetic damage that creates an environment conducive to malignant cell growth Smoking impacts both innate and adaptive immune responses, with some short-term inflammatory changes reversing after quitting, while adaptive immune modifications persist longer Quitting smoking requires identifying personal triggers, avoiding e-cigarettes, maintaining an active lifestyle and using mind-body techniques to manage cravings

10/03/2025 • 10:58

Story at-a-glance Butyrate is a crucial short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) that fuels colon cells, supports gut barrier function, and promotes a balanced microbiome. Colon cells rely on butyrate for up to 80% of their energy needs, helping maintain normal gut function and a healthy intestinal lining Your gut bacteria produce butyrate by fermenting fiber from whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains Butyrate supports gut barrier integrity by regulating tight-junction proteins and contributing to mucus production, which protects the colon wall Diet and lifestyle significantly impact butyrate production — a high-fiber diet, exercise, hydration, sleep and avoiding processed fats all support SCFA production Common misconceptions about butyrate include the idea that fiber supplements alone suffice — whole foods provide a wider variety of fiber, nutrients and benefits. If gut health is compromised, gradual fiber introduction is key — eliminating gut-damaging factors first allows for better microbial balance and butyrate production

10/03/2025 • 11:50

Story at-a-glance Research reveals lycopene's antidepressant properties, showing it reverses stress-induced synaptic damage and enhances brain plasticity, thereby improving mood and emotional resilience Lycopene demonstrates significant anticancer effects against multiple types of cancer, including pancreatic, ovarian, cervical, and liver cancers Lycopene offers powerful protection for digestive and neurological health, including combating H. pylori infections, preventing peptic ulcers and reducing age-related cognitive decline, memory loss and neuroinflammation Lycopene has benefits for cardiovascular health, including reducing inflammation markers, improving blood pressure and protecting against heart damage while enhancing vascular health Studies indicate lycopene effectively combats metabolic disorders by neutralizing harmful reactive oxygen species and reducing inflammatory mediators, making it a natural intervention for conditions like obesity and Type 2 diabetes

08/03/2025 • 11:30

Story at-a-glance Plyometric training, which includes jumping and hopping exercises, helps older adults improve muscle strength and balance, as well as bone density, reducing their risk of falls and fractures Older adults who engage in supervised plyometric exercises experience significant improvements in lower-body power, making everyday movements like standing up and walking safer and easier Even short-term plyometric training — lasting as little as four weeks — results in measurable gains in strength, agility and balance, with the most significant results seen in those who start with lower baseline strength Upping the intensity of exercise stimulates bone growth by triggering your body’s natural bone-building processes, making plyometric training an effective way to combat osteoporosis and maintain skeletal health When combined with resistance training, plyometric exercises provide the best overall benefits for muscle function and fall prevention, helping older adults maintain independence and mobility as they age

08/03/2025 • 11:14

Story at-a-glance A body without cellular energy is like a car without fuel. Providing your body with the right nutrition is essential to maintaining and replenishing these vital energy reserves Nutrition is foundational; whole-food carbohydrates, clean proteins and healthy fats support mitochondrial function and provide essential nutrients for cellular energy production Carbohydrates fuel mitochondrial energy production. Whole-food sources like ripe fruits and white rice provide glucose that supports your cellular metabolism without overwhelming metabolic pathways Micronutrients like magnesium, B vitamins and polyphenols enhance mitochondrial function and protect against destructive reactive oxygen species Avoid dietary components that sabotage your mitochondrial function, such as vegetable oils, refined sugars and ultraprocessed foods

08/03/2025 • 11:34

Story at-a-glance Over 99% of people worldwide live in areas exceeding WHO air pollution guidelines, and research shows that fine particulate matter air pollution contributes to 20% of global Type 2 diabetes cases A 2025 study found that chronic low-dose exposure to traffic-derived air pollution triggers fatty liver disease, causing inflammation, reduced glycogen storage and liver scarring in mice Human studies confirm the link between air pollution and liver damage, with exposure leading to significant elevations in liver enzymes Air pollution disrupts metabolic health through multiple pathways, including oxidative stress, systemic inflammation and interference with the autonomic nervous system and key metabolic organs While outdoor air quality is often beyond individual control, using air purifiers, proper ventilation and water filtration — due to chlorine vapors — significantly reduces exposure to harmful indoor air pollutants

07/03/2025 • 12:29

Story at-a-glance Obesity is not just about weight — it's a chronic condition that impacts organ function and metabolic health, requiring more precise diagnostic tools than body mass index (BMI) alone Many people with a normal BMI still suffer from severe metabolic dysfunction due to hidden fat accumulation Researchers are now pushing for definitions of “preclinical” and “clinical” obesity. Clinical obesity refers to instances where excess fat is actively harming organs or limiting daily function Effective strategies that will help address obesity include eliminating vegetable oils, improving insulin sensitivity with the right carbohydrates and fixing micronutrient deficiencies Strength training and walking help restore metabolic function by improving mitochondrial efficiency, reducing inflammation and shifting your body’s energy balance toward muscle instead of fat storage

07/03/2025 • 12:46

Story at-a-glance Childbirth is one of the most important life events, but over the last two hundred years, it has become highly medicalized and is no longer viewed as a natural life event. That shift has greatly harmed us Routine hospital interventions have many real risks that will be covered here The overuse of interventions often results in needing more interventions, including C-sections, all of which can be harmful to both the mother, the mother’s bond to the child, and the long-term health of the child Immediate post-birth practices like skin-to-skin contact and delayed cord clamping provide significant benefits, yet hospitals often prioritize quick procedures over these evidence-based approaches The article will explore some of the most critical things to know about the home and hospital birthing process so that you can make the best decision for your family's health

07/03/2025 • 12:51

Story at-a-glance A study in the journal Nutrients examined how juicing affects gut and oral microbiomes, finding that removing fiber significantly decreases beneficial microbial diversity and increases inflammation-linked bacteria Participants who consumed whole foods with higher fiber showed increased beneficial microbes that protect gut lining and reduce inflammation, while the juice-only group experienced negative microbial changes within three weeks Removing fiber through juicing disrupts SCFA (short-chain fatty acid) production and weakens gut barrier integrity, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome where harmful substances enter the bloodstream The oral microbiome is particularly susceptible to rapid changes from juicing, as the sudden increase in simple sugars without fiber's buffering effects promotes harmful bacterial growth Instead of juicing, consider eating whole fruits and vegetables, blending produce to retain fiber, adding pulp to juices and gradually increasing fiber intake to support your gut microbiome

06/03/2025 • 10:34

Story at-a-glance Research has found that even mild hearing impairment significantly increases Parkinson's disease risk, suggesting hearing problems could be an early warning sign of neurodegeneration Parkinson's patients experience difficulties with both basic hearing and complex auditory processing, impacting their ability to understand speech and process sounds effectively in daily life Scientists discovered strong connections between hearing loss, dementia and Parkinson's disease severity, with hearing impairment being more prevalent in individuals with severe Parkinson's and dementia The relationship between hearing loss and neurodegeneration could be due to shared underlying mechanisms, including mitochondrial dysfunction and protein changes that affect both conditions Protecting cellular health through diet, toxin reduction and lifestyle modifications helps prevent neurodegenerative conditions by supporting mitochondrial function

06/03/2025 • 10:26