Use your senses: Expiration dates are more about quality than safety. Labels like "sell by" and "best before" indicate peak freshness, not when food becomes unsafe, leading Americans to toss out billions of pounds of perfectly good food. There’s no universal rule—states set their own policies, and companies use different methods, which is why similar products can have varying labels. The only federally regulated dates are for infant formula. Health experts warn that raw meat, seafood, unpasteurized dairy, and baby food pose the biggest risks, but for most other items, trust your senses—appearance, smell, and taste are better indicators. Until labeling becomes consistent, a little common sense can go a long way in reducing waste and staying safe.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), commonly used to treat heartburn, have been linked to significant health risks, including a 16% higher chance of heart attacks and double the risk of dying from cardiovascular events, even in individuals without prior heart disease. While these drugs are marketed as a quick fix for acid reflux, they suppress stomach acid production entirely, which is problematic since most reflux is actually caused by too little stomach acid, not too much. This suppression exacerbates the underlying issue, leading to fermentation, bloating, and pressure that pushes acid into the esophagus. The risks extend beyond the gut, as PPIs interfere with nitric oxide production, a molecule essential for healthy blood vessels, increasing the likelihood of heart-related complications. Examples of PPIs include esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), and rabeprazole (AcipHex)
The dangers of PPIs don’t stop at cardiovascular risks. Long-term use has been associated with kidney damage, weakened bones, and impaired nutrient absorption. Chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, and even end-stage renal disease have been linked to these medications. Additionally, the suppression of stomach acid hinders calcium absorption, leading to fragile bones and a higher risk of fractures, particularly in older adults or those with pre-existing bone conditions. Stomach acid also plays a critical role in defending against harmful pathogens, and its reduction makes PPI users more susceptible to severe infections like C. diff, pneumonia, and E. coli.
For those relying on PPIs, it’s crucial to understand that these risks can accumulate even with standard doses or over-the-counter use. The FDA advises limiting PPI use to no more than three 14-day treatment periods per year, a guideline often overlooked. A safer alternative is famotidine (Pepcid), an H2 blocker that reduces stomach acid through a different mechanism and doesn’t carry the same cardiovascular risks. Famotidine also helps block excess serotonin, which can disrupt energy levels and drive inflammation, making it a more holistic option for managing reflux.
If you’re currently using PPIs, transitioning off them requires a gradual tapering process to avoid rebound acid production. Full recovery of stomach acid production and digestive function can take months or even years, necessitating targeted nutritional support to rebuild gut health. With over 60 million Americans experiencing heartburn monthly, it’s vital to address the root cause of reflux rather than masking symptoms with medications that may do more harm than good. For all natural symptom relief, we have successfully used Zypan in our offices. Zypan is a whole food supplement that reduces and prevents acid reflux (from Standard Process).
Is your skin aging prematurely? Your skin is a dynamic, multi-layered organ that serves as a protective barrier and reflects your overall health and lifestyle choices. Its structure, comprising the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, is designed to shield against external threats, regulate internal stability, and support immune and metabolic functions. The epidermis forms a water-tight barrier, while the dermis provides strength and flexibility through collagen and elastin. The hypodermis, rich in fat and blood vessels, cushions the body and regulates temperature. This intricate system communicates with the body through nerves, hormones, and bioactive compounds, but its ability to repair and protect diminishes with age, making consistent dietary support essential for maintaining its resilience.
Skin aging is influenced by two overlapping processes: chronological aging and photoaging. Chronological aging is an internal, genetically driven process that slows cell turnover, reduces collagen and elastin production, and alters hydration levels, leading to fine lines, sagging, and thinning skin. Photoaging, on the other hand, results from external stressors like UV exposure, pollution, and smoking, which create oxidative stress and inflammation that degrade skin structure. While sunlight is often blamed for skin aging, the real issue lies in the skin's nutritional preparedness. A well-supported diet can enhance the skin's ability to recover from UV exposure and other environmental stressors, reducing visible signs of aging.
Diet plays a pivotal role in skin health, influencing its hydration, repair, and structural integrity. Nutrients like vitamin C, omega-3s, carotenoids, and fermented foods strengthen collagen networks, improve hydration, and bolster antioxidant defenses. Conversely, diets high in trans fats, sugars, refined carbs, and additives accelerate aging by promoting glycation, disrupting the microbiome, and weakening the skin's repair capacity. Poor dietary choices, particularly those high in linoleic acid, make the skin more vulnerable to UV damage, amplifying the effects of photoaging. This underscores the importance of a nutrient-rich diet in supporting the skin's natural defenses and maintaining its youthful appearance.
External factors such as pollution, harsh weather, smoking, and irritants like strong soaps further strain the skin's barrier, generating free radicals and triggering inflammation that impair its renewal capacity. While the skin is designed to interact with sunlight and even benefits from it in terms of vitamin D synthesis and energy regulation, its ability to handle exposure depends on its internal nutritional state. A well-nourished skin barrier is better equipped to withstand daily wear and environmental stressors, highlighting the critical connection between diet and skin health. By prioritizing a balanced, nutrient-dense diet, you can support your skin's ongoing regeneration and resilience against aging.
Chiropractic Health Tip of the Week: "Keep your spine happy by maintaining good posture throughout the day—whether you're sitting, standing, or sleeping. Regular stretching and movement can help reduce tension and improve spinal alignment, especially if you spend long hours at a desk. And don’t forget to stay hydrated—your spinal discs need water to stay healthy and cushion your movements!"
