This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
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35% of tattoo inks sold in US contaminated with bacteria: study
The researchers tested 75 tattoo inks from 14 manufacturers for the presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The study authors say they are the first to investigate anaerobic bacteria — known to thrive in low-oxygen environments — in commercial tattoo inks.
The researchers tested 75 tattoo inks from 14 manufacturers for the presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Microgen – stock.adobe.com
“Both types of bacteria, those needing oxygen (aerobic) and those not needing oxygen (anaerobic), can contaminate the inks,” said corresponding study author Seong-Jae (Peter) Kim, a microbiologist for the US Food and Drug Administration in Arkansas.
The FDA considers the inks used in tattoos — including permanent makeup — to be cosmetics, which do not need premarket approval like a drug or medical device does.
“FDA has not approved any inks for injection into your skin,” its website states.
The pigments used in the inks are color additives, which are subject to FDA approval, but the agency admits it has not historically regulated them. State and local jurisdictions, meanwhile, oversee tattooing practices.
The FDA considers the inks used in tattoos — including permanent makeup — to be cosmetics, which do not need premarket approval like a drug or medical device does. mikeosphoto – stock.adobe.com
The FDA notes that it has fielded reports of people getting infected from contaminated tattoo inks over the years and even issued a safety alert in 2019 after identifying six tattoo inks contaminated with bacteria.
Infections can lead to rashes or lesions, and in some cases, permanent scarring.
Last year, the agency issued draft guidance to help tattoo ink manufacturers and distributors recognize potential contamination from bacteria, mold or other microorganisms.
Kim said his research showed “no clear link between a product label claiming sterility and the actual absence of bacterial contamination.”
A Pew Research Center survey last year found that 32% of US adults have a tattoo, including 22% who have more than one. LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS – stock.adobe.com
Kim pointed out that bacterial infections are just one negative outcome of tattoos. Inflammatory reactions, allergic hypersensitivity and toxic responses are potential complications as well.
Kim said his research team plans to develop more efficient contamination detection methods for tattoo inks.
“In light of our study results, we want to emphasize the importance of continuously monitoring these products to ensure the microbial safety of tattoo inks,” he said.
The study results follow research that found 83% of tattoo inks contain substances not on their label, like different pigments or unlisted additives. A separate study highlighted a potential link between tattoos and lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.
In our fast-paced modern world, having the ability to calm the mind is invaluable. By learning to control the breath and withdraw the senses with the practice of Tummo breathing you can tap into an inner stillness. Those who regularly practice Tummo often report feeling more centered, present, and in tune with themselves. Also known as “Inner Fire” meditation, Tummo helps ignite inner “heat,” burning away mental fog while energizing both body and mind. Our contributor Bayu Prihandito, Life Coach, and RYT 200 Yoga Teacher, says, “What we call the “inner fire” Tummo meditation, is known to increase mental clarity, focus, and reduce stress. With practice and patience, you can experience a heightened sense of peace from the ability to manage your emotions more effectively.” With roots tracing back centuries in Tibetan Buddhism, Tummo uses focused breathing and visualization to unlock deep states of relaxation and mental clarity. This Tibetan meditation technique is...
This is a bitter pill to swallow. Many cocoa products in the US contain concerning levels of toxic heavy metals, a new study from George Washington University warns. Many cocoa products in the US contain worrisome levels of lead and cadmium, a new study from George Washington University warns. Picture Partners – stock.adobe.com Researchers analyzed 72 cocoa-based foods — including dark chocolate, often praised as a heart-healthy treat — over eight years. They found that 43% of the products contained an amount of lead that tops recommendations, while 35% exceeded cadmium limits. Surprisingly, organic-labeled products had higher levels of lead and cadmium than non-organic products, the researchers said. Contamination can come from soil or occur during manufacturing. A single serving of these cocoa items may not pose significant health risks, but several servings might. Leigh Frame, director of integrative medicine at GW, led the testing of 72 cocoa-based products. The George Washingto...
English actor, Hugh Bonneville, is best known for his character as Robert Crawley in the hit period-drama called Downton Abbey . During one of his interviews with BBC One TV in August 2020, his fans were confused and created a controversy on social media as the star looked “unrecognizable” and had lost a lot of body weight. So, what led to this incredible Hugh Bonneville weight loss? From his diet plan and workout routine to other secrets — find everything you need to know about how he lost 16 pounds and slimmed down during the pandemic. Who Is Hugh Bonneville? Born on 10th November 1963 in Paddington (London, United Kingdom), Hugh Bonneville is a renowned and classically trained English actor who is renowned for his role as Robert Crawley, 7th Earl of Grantham, in the popular TV series named Downton Abbey . His performance and acting skills in this period drama got him several nominations such as one Golden Globe nomination, two Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and three Screen...
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