God’s Prescription – References and Resources
Dig deeper into the research and practical tools mentioned in each chapter.
INTRODUCTION
Introduction References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About chronic diseases. Updated January 31, 2024. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/about/index.html.
Li M, Gong W, Wang S, Li Z. Trends in body mass index, overweight and obesity among adults in the USA, the NHANES from 2003 to 2018: a repeat cross-sectional survey. BMJ Open. 2022 Dec 16;12(12):e065425. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-065425. PMID: 36526312; PMCID: PMC9764609. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/12/e065425
National Cancer Institute. Cancer statistics. Updated October 27, 2023. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics
Carpenter DM, Geryk LL, Chen AT, Nagler RH, Dieckmann NF, Han PK. Conflicting health information: a critical research need. Health Expect. 2016 Dec;19(6):1173-1182. doi: 10.1111/hex.12438. Epub 2015 Dec 28. PMID: 26709206; PMCID: PMC5139056. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/hex.12438.
CHAPTER 1 - REDEFINING NORMAL: THE TRUE COST OF CONFORMITY
Chapter 1 References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Obesity and Overweight. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/obesity-overweight.htm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Childhood Obesity Facts. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/childhood.html
Mental Health
National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Mental Illness. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data and statistics on children’s mental health. CDC. Updated March 28, 2023. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/data-research/index.html
Social Influences
Smith NR, Zivich PN, Frerichs L. Social Influences on Obesity: Current Knowledge, Emerging Methods, and Directions for Future Research and Practice. Curr Nutr Rep. 2020 Mar;9(1):31-41. doi: 10.1007/s13668-020-00302-8. PMID: 31960341; PMCID: PMC7033640. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7033640/?utm
Leahey TM, Gokee LaRose J, Fava JL, Wing RR. Social influences are associated with BMI and weight loss intentions in young adults. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2011 Jun;19(6):1157-62. doi: 10.1038/oby.2010.301. Epub 2010 Dec 16. PMID: 21164501; PMCID: PMC3079776. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1038/oby.2010.301
Groupthink
Blind spots: when medicine gets wrong. The Times. Published February 6, 2024. Accessed February 7, 2025. https://www.thetimes.com/culture/books/article/blind-spots-when-medicine-gets-wrong-what-means-health-marty-makary-review-qp525xmgk
Wilcutt T, Bell H. The Cost of Silence: Normalization of Deviance and Groupthink. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Published November 3, 2014. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://sma.nasa.gov/docs/default-source/safety-messages/safetymessage-normalizationofdeviance-2014-11-03b.pdf
Mediterranean Lifestyle
Maroto-Rodriguez J, Delgado-Velandia M, Ortolá R, Perez-Cornago A, Kales SN, Rodríguez-Artalejo F, Sotos-Prieto M. Association of a Mediterranean Lifestyle With All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: A Prospective Study from the UK Biobank. Mayo Clin Proc. 2024 Apr;99(4):551-563. doi: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2023.05.031. Epub 2023 Aug 16. PMID: 37589638. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(23)00305-1/abstract
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle associated with lower risk of all-cause and cancer mortality. Published August 16, 2023. Accessed February 19, 2025. https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/adherence-to-a-mediterranean-lifestyle-associated-with-lower-risk-of-all-cause-and-cancer-mortality
Diolintzi A, Panagiotakos DB, Sidossis LS. From Mediterranean diet to Mediterranean lifestyle: a narrative review. Public Health Nutr. 2019 Oct;22(14):2703-2713. doi: 10.1017/S1368980019000612. Epub 2019 Jun 3. PMID: 31156076; PMCID: PMC10260601. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/public-health-nutrition/article/from-mediterranean-diet-to-mediterranean-lifestyle-a-narrative-review/71D23D59CF471F0E67C267F073D8BBE1
CHAPTER 2 - POWER AND PROFIT: THE SHAPING OF MODERN HEALTHCARE
Chapter 2 References
Smith, R. (2005). Medical journals are an extension of the marketing arm of pharmaceutical companies. PLoS Medicine, 2(5), e138. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.0020138.
Sismondo, S. (2021). Epistemic Corruption, the Pharmaceutical Industry, and the Body of Medical Science. Frontiers in Research Metrics and Analytics, 6, Article 614013. https://doi.org/10.3389/frma.2021.614013.
Merelli, A. (2024, January 6). Medical journals have incentives to publish positive drug studies. Quartz. Retrieved from https://qz.com/2121448/medical-journals-have-incentives-to-publish-positive-drug-studies.
Wise J, Coombes R. Covid-19: The inside story of the RECOVERY trial. BMJ 2020; 370 :m2670 doi:10.1136/bmj.m2670. https://www.bmj.com/content/370/bmj.m2670.long
Puliyel J. (2020, July 8). Dose Related Toxicity of Hydroxychloroquine. BMJ 2020;370:m2670. https://www.bmj.com/content/370/bmj.m2670/rr-1
The Editors of the Lancet Group. (2020, September 17). Learning from a retraction. The Lancet, 396(10257), 1056. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31958-9.
Kingston, A.M. (2020). Break the Silence: Physician Suicide in the Time of COVID-19. Missouri Medicine, 117(5), 426–429. PMID: 33311744; PMCID: PMC7723130. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33311744/
DeCamp, M., & Snyder Sulmasy, L. (2021, March 16). Ethical and Professionalism Implications of Physician Employment and Health Care Business Practices: A Policy Paper From the American College of Physicians. American College of Physicians. https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M20-7093.
Author, A. (2012). Informed Consent: What Must a Physician Disclose to a Patient? Journal of Ethics. https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/informed-consent-what-must-physician-disclose-patient/2012-07.
Chapter 2 Resources
Epoch Health (The Epoch Times – Health Section)
Epoch Health provides in-depth health news, Essential Guides for specific conditions, and articles on natural medicine and lifestyle. Unlike mainstream outlets, it covers a wide range of integrative and holistic health topics often overlooked elsewhere. This is a subscription-based site, but if you need access to a specific article, feel free to contact me.
Visit Epoch Health
Chris Kresser, M.S., L.Ac. (ChrisKresser.com)
Chris Kresser is a functional medicine expert who focuses on ancestral health, nutrition, and chronic disease prevention. His site offers research-backed articles, podcasts, and educational content for those looking to take a root-cause approach to health.
Visit Chris Kresser’s Website
Dr. Josh Axe, D.C., D.N.M., C.N.S. (DrAxe.com)
Dr. Axe provides natural health advice, herbal remedies, and evidence-based nutrition insights. His site includes detailed food and supplement guides, functional medicine insights, and practical wellness tips based on both traditional healing methods and modern science.
Visit Dr. Axe’s Website
Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) (IFM.org)
The IFM is a leading authority on functional medicine, offering cutting-edge research, practitioner education, and patient resources. While geared toward health professionals, their site includes evidence-based articles and educational materials for those interested in science-driven holistic care.
Visit IFM’s Website
Rupa Health (RupaHealth.com)
Rupa Health makes functional medicine lab testing accessible to both practitioners and patients. Their site offers educational content, webinars, and resources on advanced diagnostic testing for those wanting to go beyond conventional lab work.
Visit Rupa Health
CHAPTER 3 - HOW OUR FOOD WENT FROM WHOLE TO ULTRA-PROCESSED
Chapter 3 References
Progressive Grocer. 100 years of food retailing: 1942-1951. Accessed February 11, 2025. https://progressivegrocer.com/100-years-food-retailing-1942-1951
Ultra-Processed Food Supply
Menichetti, G., Ravandi, B., Mozaffarian, D. et al. Machine learning prediction of the degree of food processing. Nat Commun 14, 2312 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-37457-1. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-37457-1#citeas
Food Additives and Health Effects
Paula Neto HA, Ausina P, Gomez LS, Leandro JGB, Zancan P, Sola-Penna M. Effects of Food Additives on Immune Cells As Contributors to Body Weight Gain and Immune-Mediated Metabolic Dysregulation. Front Immunol. 2017 Nov 6;8:1478. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01478. PMID: 29163542; PMCID: PMC5672138. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2017.01478/full?utm
Witkowski M, Wilcox J, Province V, Wang Z, Nemet I, Tang WHW, Hazen SL. Ingestion of the Non-Nutritive Sweetener Erythritol, but Not Glucose, Enhances Platelet Reactivity and Thrombosis Potential in Healthy Volunteers-Brief Report. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2024 Sep;44(9):2136-2141. doi: 10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019. Epub 2024 Aug 8. PMID: 39114916; PMCID: PMC11338701. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019
Jahan, S. Food additives and brain complications: A risk to public health. (2024). Journal of Applied and Natural Science, 16(1), 146-157. https://doi.org/10.31018/jans.v16i1.5238. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379347565_Food_additives_and_brain_complications_A_risk_to_public_health
Warner JO. Artificial food additives: hazardous to long-term health? Arch Dis Child. 2024 Oct 18;109(11):882-885. doi: 10.1136/archdischild-2023-326565. PMID: 38423749. https://adc.bmj.com/content/109/11/882.long
Shaher SAA, Mihailescu DF, Amuzescu B. Aspartame Safety as a Food Sweetener and Related Health Hazards. Nutrients. 2023 Aug 18;15(16):3627. doi: 10.3390/nu15163627. PMID: 37630817; PMCID: PMC10459792. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/16/3627
Sellem L, Srour B, Javaux G, Chazelas E, Chassaing B, Viennois E, Debras C, Druesne-Pecollo N, Esseddik Y, Szabo de Edelenyi F, Arnault N, Agaësse C, De Sa A, Lutchia R, Huybrechts I, Scalbert A, Pierre F, Coumoul X, Julia C, Kesse-Guyot E, Allès B, Galan P, Hercberg S, Deschasaux-Tanguy M, Touvier M. Food additive emulsifiers and cancer risk: Results from the French prospective NutriNet-Santé cohort. PLoS Med. 2024 Feb 13;21(2):e1004338. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004338. PMID: 38349899; PMCID: PMC10863884. https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1004338
Chassaing B, Compher C, Bonhomme B, Liu Q, Tian Y, Walters W, Nessel L, Delaroque C, Hao F, Gershuni V, Chau L, Ni J, Bewtra M, Albenberg L, Bretin A, McKeever L, Ley RE, Patterson AD, Wu GD, Gewirtz AT, Lewis JD. Randomized Controlled-Feeding Study of Dietary Emulsifier Carboxymethylcellulose Reveals Detrimental Impacts on the Gut Microbiota and Metabolome. Gastroenterology. 2022 Mar;162(3):743-756. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2021.11.006. Epub 2021 Nov 11. PMID: 34774538; PMCID: PMC9639366. https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(21)03728-8/fulltext
Miller MD, Steinmaus C, Golub MS, Castorina R, Thilakartne R, Bradman A, Marty MA. Potential impacts of synthetic food dyes on activity and attention in children: a review of the human and animal evidence. Environ Health. 2022 Apr 29;21(1):45. doi: 10.1186/s12940-022-00849-9. PMID: 35484553; PMCID: PMC9052604. https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-022-00849-9
Potera C. The artificial food dye blues. Environ Health Perspect. 2010 Oct;118(10):A428. doi: 10.1289/ehp.118-a428. PMID: 20884387; PMCID: PMC2957945. https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/ehp.118-a428
Nigg JT, Lewis K, Edinger T, Falk M. Meta-analysis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, restriction diet, and synthetic food color additives. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2012 Jan;51(1):86-97.e8. doi: 10.1016/j.jaac.2011.10.015. PMID: 22176942; PMCID: PMC4321798. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22176942/
Afshar M, Moallem SA, Khayatzadeh J, Shahsavan M. Teratogenic effects of long term consumption of potassium benzoate on eye development in BALB/c fetal mice. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2013 Apr;16(4):584-9. PMID: 24250932; PMCID: PMC3821876. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3821876/?utm
Piper PW. Potential Safety Issues Surrounding the Use of Benzoate Preservatives. Beverages. 2018; 4(2):33. https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages4020033. https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5710/4/2/33?utm
Kolatorova L, Sramkova M, Vitku J, Vcelak J, Lischkova O, Starka L, Duskova M. Parabens and their relation to obesity. Physiol Res. 2018 Nov 28;67(Suppl 3):S465-S472. doi: 10.33549/physiolres.934004. PMID: 30484673. https://www.biomed.cas.cz/physiolres/pdf/67/67_S465.pdf
Zanfirescu A, Ungurianu A, Tsatsakis AM, Nițulescu GM, Kouretas D, Veskoukis A, Tsoukalas D, Engin AB, Aschner M, Margină D. A review of the alleged health hazards of monosodium glutamate. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2019 Jul;18(4):1111-1134. doi: 10.1111/1541-4337.12448. Epub 2019 May 8. Erratum in: Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2020 Jul;19(4):2330. doi: 10.1111/1541-4337.12569. PMID: 31920467; PMCID: PMC6952072. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6952072/
Sagar N, Lohiya S. A Comprehensive Review of Chloride Management in Critically Ill Patients. Cureus. 2024 Mar 6;16(3):e55625. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55625. PMID: 38586759; PMCID: PMC10995984. https://www.cureus.com/articles/213484-a-comprehensive-review-of-chloride-management-in-critically-ill-patients#!/
Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS). Accessed January 31, 2025. https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FoodSubstances
La Berge AF. How the ideology of low fat conquered america. J Hist Med Allied Sci. 2008 Apr;63(2):139-77. doi: 10.1093/jhmas/jrn001. Epub 2008 Feb 23. PMID: 18296750. https://academic.oup.com/jhmas/article/63/2/139/772615?login=false
Bliss Point
Gearhardt AN, Bueno NB, DiFeliceantonio AG, Roberto CA, Jiménez-Murcia S, Fernandez-Aranda F. Social, clinical, and policy implications of ultra-processed food addiction. BMJ. 2023 Oct 9;383:e075354. doi: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075354. Erratum in: BMJ. 2023 Nov 14;383:p2679. doi: 10.1136/bmj.p2679. PMID: 37813420; PMCID: PMC10561019. https://www.bmj.com/content/383/bmj-2023-075354
Addiction and Mental Health
Schulte EM, Avena NM, Gearhardt AN. Which foods may be addictive? The roles of processing, fat content, and glycemic load. PLoS One. 2015 Feb 18;10(2):e0117959. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0117959. PMID: 25692302; PMCID: PMC4334652. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0117959
Wiss DA, LaFata EM. Ultra-Processed Foods and Mental Health: Where Do Eating Disorders Fit into the Puzzle? Nutrients. 2024 Jun 19;16(12):1955. doi: 10.3390/nu16121955. PMID: 38931309; PMCID: PMC11206753. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/12/1955
Figueiredo N, Kose J, Srour B, Julia C, Kesse-Guyot E, Péneau S, Allès B, Paz Graniel I, Chazelas E, Deschasaux-Tanguy M, Debras C, Hercberg S, Galan P, Monteiro CA, Touvier M, Andreeva VA. Ultra-processed food intake and eating disorders: Cross-sectional associations among French adults. J Behav Addict. 2022 Apr 4;11(2):588–99. doi: 10.1556/2006.2022.00009. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35380986; PMCID: PMC9295249. https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2006/11/2/article-p588.xml#B22
Apples
Crop Trust. Apple. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.croptrust.org/work/projects/outreach-projects/crops-in-color/apple/
Crop Diversity
Watson E. Crop diversity underpins food security: Scientists flag ‘enormous diversity loss’. Food Navigator. October 26, 2021. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2021/10/26/Crop-diversity-underpins-food-security-Scientists-flag-enormous-diversity-loss/
17 Plant Nutrients
University of Minnesota Extension. Quick guide to fertilizing plants. Accessed January 31, 2025. https://extension.umn.edu/manage-soil-nutrients/quick-guide-fertilizing-plants
World War II Labor Shortage
Oregon Secretary of State. World War II Labor Shortage. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://sos.oregon.gov/archives/exhibits/ww2/Pages/services-farm.aspx
Plains Humanities Alliance. Agriculture. Accessed February 1, 2025. http://plainshumanities.unl.edu/homefront/agriculture.html
World War II Chemical Repurposing
Agweb. Agriculture During Wartime: Ingenuity of American Farmers During World War II. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.agweb.com/opinion/agriculture-during-wartime-ingenuity-american-farmers-during-world-war-ii
Monoculture Farming and Synthetic Fertilizers
Challenge. The Dangers of Monoculture Farming. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.challenge.org/knowledgeitems/the-dangers-of-monoculture-farming/
EOS. Monoculture Farming. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://eos.com/blog/monoculture-farming/
DDT
Epstein L. Fifty years since Silent Spring. Annu Rev Phytopathol. 2014;52:377-402. doi: 10.1146/annurev-phyto-102313-045900. Epub 2014 Jun 16. PMID: 25001457. https://escholarship.org/uc/item/9xt7j1rj
Glyphosate and GMOs
Environmental Protection Agency. Glyphosate: Response to Comments, Usage, and Benefits. April 18, 2019. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2019-04/documents/glyphosate-response-comments-usage-benefits-final.pdf
Environmental Working Group. FDA Tests Find US Food Supply Awash in Pesticide Residues. August 10, 2022. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/2022/08/fda-tests-find-us-food-supply-awash-pesticide-residues
Zerrouki H, Hamieh A, Hadjadj L, Rolain JM, Baron SA. The effect of combinations of a glyphosate-based herbicide with various clinically used antibiotics on phenotypic traits of Gram-negative species from the ESKAPEE group. Sci Rep. 2024 Sep 9;14(1):21006. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-68968-6. PMID: 39251613; PMCID: PMC11383965. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44988-5#article-info
Cressey, D. Widely used herbicide linked to cancer. Nature (2015). https://doi.org/10.1038/nature.2015.17181. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature.2015.17181#citeas
International Agency for Research on Cancer. Q&A on Glyphosate. IARC website. https://www.iarc.who.int/featured-news/media-centre-iarc-news-glyphosate/. Published March 20, 2015. Accessed February 21, 2025.
DrugWatch. Roundup Lawsuit. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.drugwatch.com/legal/roundup-lawsuit/
Smith JM. Survey reports improved health after avoiding genetically modified foods. Int J Hum Nutr Funct Med. 2017. Available at: https://www.ichnfm.org/ijhnfm2017smith. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.ichnfm.org/ijhnfm2017smith?utm
EPA Glyphosate Limits
Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Tolerances and Exemptions for Pesticide Chemical Residues in Food. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-I/subchapter-E/part-180/subpart-C/section-180.364
European Union Glyphosate Limits
European Commission. EU Pesticides Database. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://ec.europa.eu/food/plant/pesticides/eu-pesticides-database/start/screen/mrls/details?lg_code=EN&pest_res_id_list=120&product_id_list=
Bhardwaj RL, Parashar A, Parewa HP, Vyas L. An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods: The Biggest Challenge for Future Generations’ Health. Foods. 2024 Mar 14;13(6):877. doi: 10.3390/foods13060877. PMID: 38540869; PMCID: PMC10969708. https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/6/877
Montgomery DR, Biklé A. Soil Health and Nutrient Density: Preliminary Comparison of Regenerative and Conventional Farming. Front Sustain Food Syst. 2021;5:699147. doi:10.3389/fsufs.2021.699147. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sustainable-food-systems/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2021.699147/full?utm
Duke SO, Lydon J, Koskinen WC, Moorman TB, Chaney RL, Hammerschmidt R. Glyphosate Effects on Plant Mineral Nutrition, Crop Rhizosphere Microbiota, and Plant Disease in Glyphosate-Resistant Crops. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 2012; 60 (42), 10375-10397. DOI: 10.1021/jf302436u. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf302436u?utm
Increased Calories but Not Nutrients
Pingali PL. Green revolution: impacts, limits, and the path ahead. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jul 31;109(31):12302-8. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0912953109. Epub 2012 Jul 23. PMID: 22826253; PMCID: PMC3411969. https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0912953109?utm
Regenerative Agriculture
Sher, A., Li, H., ullah, A. et al. Importance of regenerative agriculture: climate, soil health, biodiversity and its socioecological impact. Discov Sustain 5, 462 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-024-00662-z. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43621-024-00662-z?utm
Khangura R, Ferris D, Wagg C, Bowyer J. Regenerative Agriculture—A Literature Review on the Practices and Mechanisms Used to Improve Soil Health. Sustainability. 2023; 15(3):2338. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032338
Rodale Institute. Farming Systems Trial. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://rodaleinstitute.org/science/farming-systems-trial/
Soliman A. How to climate-proof crops: scientists say the secret’s in the dirt. Nature. 2024 Nov 5. doi: 10.1038/d41586-024-03480-5. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39501089. https://www.wbcsd.org/news/these-regenerative-agriculture-trials-prove-that-farming-can-improve-soil-health-without-sacrificing-yield/?utm
Chapter 3 Resources
This investigative book by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Michael Moss exposes how major food companies manipulate ingredients—salt, sugar, and fat—to create highly addictive, ultra-processed foods. It reveals how the food industry prioritizes profits over public health and sheds light on the tactics used to keep consumers hooked.
Environmental Working Group (EWG)
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to exposing harmful chemicals in food, water, and consumer products. Their research-based food databases, clean eating guides, and investigative reports help consumers make informed decisions about pesticides, food additives, and environmental toxins.
Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT)
The Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT) focuses on the impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and biotechnology on health and the environment. Their site provides research, advocacy tools, and educational materials on GMOs, glyphosate, and the food industry’s regulatory loopholes.
CHAPTER 4 - BEYOND MODERATION: HONORING OUR TEMPLES IN A SUPER-SIZED WORLD
Chapter 4 References
1960 Obesity Rates
Fryar CD, Carroll MD, Ogden CL. Prevalence of Overweight, Obesity, and Extreme Obesity Among Adults: United States, 1960–1962 Through 2011–2012. National Center for Health Statistics; 2014. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/hestat/obesity_adult_11_12/obesity_adult_11_12.pdf
Recent Obesity Rates
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Overweight & Obesity Statistics. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/overweight-obesity
Average Credit Card Debt
The Motley Fool. Credit Card Debt Statistics. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.fool.com/money/research/credit-card-debt-statistics/
Screen Time
Exploding Topics. Screen Time Statistics: Average Screen Time in US & More. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://explodingtopics.com/blog/screen-time-stats
Social Media, Dopamine, and Addiction
Pedrouzo SB, Krynski L. Hyperconnected: children and adolescents on social media. The TikTok phenomenon. Arch Argent Pediatr. 2023 Aug 1;121(4):e202202674. English, Spanish. doi: 10.5546/aap.2022-02674.eng. Epub 2023 Jan 26. PMID: 36692353. https://www.sap.org.ar/docs/publicaciones/archivosarg/2023/v121n4a03e.pdf
Hormesis
Mattson MP. Hormesis defined. Ageing Res Rev. 2008 Jan;7(1):1-7. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2007.08.007. Epub 2007 Dec 5. PMID: 18162444; PMCID: PMC2248601. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2248601/
Hara Hachi Bu
Blue Zones. Hara Hachi Bu: Enjoy Food and Lose Weight with This Simple Phrase. Published December 2017. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.bluezones.com/2017/12/hara-hachi-bu-enjoy-food-and-lose-weight-with-this-simple-phrase/
The Most Tolerated Sin
Piper J. America’s Most Tolerated Sin. Desiring God. Accessed February 1, 2025. https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/americas-most-tolerated-sin
Weight and Religion
Koenig HG. Religion, spirituality, and health: the research and clinical implications. ISRN Psychiatry. 2012 Dec 16;2012:278730. doi: 10.5402/2012/278730. PMID: 23762764; PMCID: PMC3671693. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.5402/2012/278730
Chapter 4 Resources
The Social Dilemma
This thought-provoking documentary explores the hidden dangers of social media and its impact on mental health, privacy, and society. Featuring insights from former tech insiders, the film exposes how social media platforms are designed to manipulate behavior, fuel addiction, and influence beliefs—often at the cost of well-being and truth.
CHAPTER 5 - THE UNBREAKABLE CONNECTION BETWEEN MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT
Chapter 5 References
Inflammatory Markers and Optimism
Boylan JM, Cundiff JM, Fuller-Rowell TE, Ryff CD. Childhood socioeconomic status and inflammation: Psychological moderators among Black and White Americans. Health Psychol. 2020 Jun;39(6):497-508. doi: 10.1037/hea0000866. Epub 2020 Mar 26. PMID: 32212770; PMCID: PMC7437114. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7437114/
Roy B, Diez-Roux AV, Seeman T, Ranjit N, Shea S, Cushman M. Association of optimism and pessimism with inflammation and hemostasis in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Psychosom Med. 2010 Feb;72(2):134-40. doi: 10.1097/PSY.0b013e3181cb981b. Epub 2010 Jan 25. PMID: 20100888; PMCID: PMC2842951. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2842951/
Oxidative Stress and Mindfulness
Patil Y, Sabbu K, Iyer RB, Philip ST, Armila Nadhar A, Thakur KS, Kadu P, Thakur M. Effect of Heartfulness Meditation on Oxidative Stress and Mindfulness in Healthy Participants. Cureus. 2024 Jun 23;16(6):e62943. doi: 10.7759/cureus.62943. PMID: 39044890; PMCID: PMC11265543. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11265543/
Boutrup RJ, Jørgensen MM, Gregersen N, Frost L, Aagaard H, Djernis D, van der Velden AM, Dahlgaard J. [Psychological, neurological and cell-mediated mechanisms by mindfulness-based therapy]. Ugeskr Laeger. 2019 Jul 22;181(30):V11180784. Danish. PMID: 31364970. https://ugeskriftet.dk/videnskab/psykologiske-neurologiske-og-cellulaere-virkningsmekanismer-ved-mindfulnesstraening
Immune Function and Positive Mood
Dantzer R, Cohen S, Russo SJ, Dinan TG. Resilience and immunity. Brain Behav Immun. 2018 Nov;74:28-42. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.08.010. Epub 2018 Aug 10. PMID: 30102966; PMCID: PMC6545920. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159118304409?via%3Dihub
Morgan N, Irwin MR, Chung M, Wang C. The effects of mind-body therapies on the immune system: meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2014 Jul 2;9(7):e100903. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100903. PMID: 24988414; PMCID: PMC4079606. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0100903
Longevity and Disease Prevention
Pressman SD, Jenkins BN, Moskowitz JT. Positive Affect and Health: What Do We Know and Where Next Should We Go? Annu Rev Psychol. 2019 Jan 4;70:627-650. doi: 10.1146/annurev-psych-010418-102955. Epub 2018 Sep 27. PMID: 30260746. https://www.annualreviews.org/docserver/fulltext/psych/70/1/annurev-psych-010418-102955.pdf?expires=1738511883&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=EF506810C6F32CC7D8198C9B1D07297F
Hormones and Empowered Mindset
Carney DR, Cuddy AJ, Yap AJ. Power posing: brief nonverbal displays affect neuroendocrine levels and risk tolerance. Psychol Sci. 2010 Oct;21(10):1363-8. doi: 10.1177/0956797610383437. Epub 2010 Sep 20. PMID: 20855902. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/46381420_Power_Posing_Brief_Nonverbal_Displays_Affect_Neuroendocrine_Levels_and_Risk_Tolerance
Gene Expression and Mindset
Dusek JA, Otu HH, Wohlhueter AL, Bhasin M, Zerbini LF, Joseph MG, Benson H, Libermann TA. Genomic counter-stress changes induced by the relaxation response. PLoS One. 2008 Jul 2;3(7):e2576. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002576. Erratum in: PLoS One. 2017 Feb 21;12(2):e0172845. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172845. PMID: 18596974; PMCID: PMC2432467. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0002576
Lester, B.M., Tronick, E., Nestler, E., Abel, T., Kosofsky, B., Kuzawa, C.W., Marsit, C.J., Maze, I., Meaney, M.J., Monteggia, L.M., Reul, J.M.H.M., Skuse, D.H., Sweatt, J.D. and Wood, M.A. (2011), Behavioral epigenetics. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1226: 14-33. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06037.x https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3783959/
Generational Health and Mindset
Skinner MK, Anway MD, Savenkova MI, Gore AC, Crews D. Transgenerational epigenetic programming of the brain transcriptome and anxiety behavior. PLoS One. 2008;3(11):e3745. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003745. Epub 2008 Nov 18. PMID: 19015723; PMCID: PMC2581440. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0003745
Negative Mindset Effects:
Smith, T.W., et al. (2004). Hostility, anger, aggressiveness, and coronary heart disease: An interpersonal perspective on personality, emotion, and health. Journal of Personality, 72(6), 1217-1270. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1467-6494.2004.00296.x?sid=nlm%3Apubmed
Wilson RS, Bienias JL, Mendes de Leon CF, Evans DA, Bennet DA. Negative Affect and Mortality in Older Persons. American Journal of Epidemiology, Volume 158, Issue 9, 1 November 2003, Pages 827–835, https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kwg224
Tindle HA, Chang YF, Kuller LH, Manson JE, Robinson JG, Rosal MC, Siegle GJ, Matthews KA. Optimism, cynical hostility, and incident coronary heart disease and mortality in the Women’s Health Initiative. Circulation. 2009 Aug 25;120(8):656-62. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.108.827642. Epub 2009 Aug 10. PMID: 19667234; PMCID: PMC2901870. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.108.827642?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed
Loneliness
Holt-Lunstad J, Smith TB, Baker M, Harris T, Stephenson D. Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for mortality: a meta-analytic review. Perspect Psychol Sci. 2015 Mar;10(2):227-37. doi: 10.1177/1745691614568352. PMID: 25910392. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273910450_Loneliness_and_Social_Isolation_as_Risk_Factors_for_Mortality_A_Meta-Analytic_Review
Antidepressant Use
National Center for Health Statistics. Antidepressant Use in America. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published September 4, 2020. Accessed February 2, 2025. https://blogs.cdc.gov/nchs/2020/09/04/7001/
Health Effects of Stress/Fear/Elevated Cortisol
Mariotti A. The effects of chronic stress on health: new insights into the molecular mechanisms of brain-body communication. Future Sci OA. 2015 Nov 1;1(3):FSO23. doi: 10.4155/fso.15.21. PMID: 28031896; PMCID: PMC5137920. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.4155/fso.15.21
Shchaslyvyi AY, Antonenko SV, Telegeev GD. Comprehensive Review of Chronic Stress Pathways and the Efficacy of Behavioral Stress Reduction Programs (BSRPs) in Managing Diseases. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2024; 21(8):1077. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21081077. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/21/8/1077?utm
Kelly RR, McDonald LT, Jensen NR, Sidles SJ, LaRue AC. Impacts of Psychological Stress on Osteoporosis: Clinical Implications and Treatment Interactions. Front Psychiatry. 2019 Apr 9;10:200. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00200. PMID: 31024360; PMCID: PMC6465575. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00200/full
Palomba, S., Daolio, J., Romeo, S. et al. Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on female fertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 16, 113 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-018-0434-y
Stress-Related Doctor Visits and Missed Work
Nerurkar A, Bitton A, Davis RB, Phillips RS, Yeh G. When physicians counsel about stress: results of a national study. JAMA Intern Med. 2013 Jan 14;173(1):76-7. doi: 10.1001/2013.jamainternmed.480. PMID: 23403892; PMCID: PMC4286362. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1392494
The American Institute of Stress. Workplace Stress. Accessed February 2, 2025. https://www.stress.org/workplace-stress/
Gratitude
Jackowska M, Brown J, Ronaldson A, Steptoe A. The impact of a brief gratitude intervention on subjective well-being, biology and sleep. J Health Psychol. 2016 Oct;21(10):2207-17. doi: 10.1177/1359105315572455. Epub 2015 Mar 2. PMID: 25736389. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273151777_The_impact_of_a_brief_gratitude_intervention_on_subjective_well-being_biology_and_sleep
Cohen C, Pignata S, Bezak E, Tie M, Childs J. Workplace interventions to improve well-being and reduce burnout for nurses, physicians and allied healthcare professionals: a systematic review. BMJ Open. 2023 Jun 29;13(6):e071203. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071203. PMID: 37385740; PMCID: PMC10314589. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/6/e071203.long
Forgiveness
Lutjen LJ, Silton NR, Flannelly KJ. Religion, forgiveness, hostility and health: a structural equation analysis. J Relig Health. 2012 Jun;51(2):468-78. doi: 10.1007/s10943-011-9511-7. PMID: 21691897. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/51237176_Religion_Forgiveness_Hostility_and_Health_A_Structural_Equation_Analysis
Prayer Effects on Depression and Anxiety
Boelens PA, Reeves RR, Replogle WH, Koenig HG. The effect of prayer on depression and anxiety: maintenance of positive influence one year after prayer intervention. Int J Psychiatry Med. 2012;43(1):85-98. doi: 10.2190/PM.43.1.f. PMID: 22641932. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/225071607_The_Effect_of_Prayer_on_Depression_and_Anxiety_Maintenance_of_Positive_Influence_One_Year_After_Prayer_Intervention
Belief
Finniss DG, Kaptchuk TJ, Miller F, Benedetti F. Biological, clinical, and ethical advances of placebo effects. Lancet. 2010 Feb 20;375(9715):686-95. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(09)61706-2. PMID: 20171404; PMCID: PMC2832199. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2832199/
Rankin L. The Nocebo Effect: Negative Thoughts Can Harm Your Health. Psychology Today. Published August 6, 2013. Accessed February 2, 2025. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/owning-pink/201308/the-nocebo-effect-negative-thoughts-can-harm-your-health
Avey H, Matheny KB, Robbins A, Jacobson TA. Health care providers’ training, perceptions, and practices regarding stress and health outcomes. J Natl Med Assoc. 2003 Sep;95(9):833, 836-45. PMID: 14527051; PMCID: PMC2594476. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2594476/
Voelker R. Nocebos contribute to host of ills. JAMA. 1996 Feb 7;275(5):345, 347. doi: 10.1001/jama.275.5.345. PMID: 8568997. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/395391
Religion and Health Outcomes
Li S, Stampfer MJ, Williams DR, VanderWeele TJ. Association of Religious Service Attendance With Mortality Among Women. JAMA Intern Med. 2016 Jun 1;176(6):777-85. doi: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.1615. PMID: 27183175; PMCID: PMC5503841. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2521827?utm
Mueller PS, Plevak DJ, Rummans TA. Religious involvement, spirituality, and medicine: implications for clinical practice. Mayo Clin Proc. 2001 Dec;76(12):1225-35. doi: 10.4065/76.12.1225. PMID: 11761504. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/s0025-6196%2811%2962799-7/fulltext?utm
Koenig HG. Religion, spirituality, and health: the research and clinical implications. ISRN Psychiatry. 2012 Dec 16;2012:278730. doi: 10.5402/2012/278730. PMID: 23762764; PMCID: PMC3671693. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.5402/2012/278730
Essential Oils
Soares GABE, Bhattacharya T, Chakrabarti T, Tagde P, Cavalu S. Exploring Pharmacological Mechanisms of Essential Oils on the Central Nervous System. Plants (Basel). 2021 Dec 22;11(1):21. doi: 10.3390/plants11010021. PMID: 35009027; PMCID: PMC8747111. https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/11/1/21
Chapter 5 Resources
Books
Holy Bible: Holman Christian Standard Version (Notetaking)
This notetaking edition of the Holman Christian Standard Bible provides space for journaling, reflections, and deeper study of Scripture.
Right & Wrong Thinking – Kenneth E. Hagin
This book explores how our thoughts shape our beliefs, behaviors, and faith. Kenneth Hagin provides biblical principles for renewing the mind and living in alignment with God’s Word.
The Body Keeps Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
A groundbreaking book on how trauma reshapes the brain and body, offering insights into healing through therapy, movement, and self-awareness.
The Emotion Code: How to Release Your Trapped Emotions for Abundant Health, Love, and Happiness – Dr. Bradley Nelson
Dr. Nelson explains how emotional baggage can impact health and well-being, offering techniques to release trapped emotions for healing and restoration.
Healing Basics: The Tools You Need to Get Well – Mark Boer
A faith-based guide to understanding the biblical foundations of healing and the practical steps to restoring health.
Identity & Destiny: 7 Steps to a Purpose-Filled Life – Tom and Pam Wolf
A structured, faith-based approach to discovering God’s unique purpose for your life, using self-reflection, spiritual guidance, and actionable steps.
Videos
Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are – Amy Cuddy (TED Talk)
In this powerful TED Talk, Amy Cuddy explores how body language influences confidence, stress levels, and how we present ourselves to the world.
Oils
DoTerra Essential Oils
DoTerra provides high-quality essential oils and resources on natural wellness, aromatherapy, and holistic health.
CHAPTER 6 - EVERY PART MATTERS: THE GUT-BRAIN-HEART CONNECTION
Chapter 6 References
Sjöstedt P, Enander J, Isung J. Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and the Gut Microbiome: Significance of the Gut Microbiome in Relation to Mechanism of Action, Treatment Response, Side Effects, and Tachyphylaxis. Front Psychiatry. 2021 May 26;12:682868. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.682868. PMID: 34122195; PMCID: PMC8187765. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.682868/full?
Dopamine production
Xue R, Zhang H, Pan J, Du Z, Zhou W, Zhang Z, Tian Z, Zhou R, Bai L. Peripheral Dopamine Controlled by Gut Microbes Inhibits Invariant Natural Killer T Cell-Mediated Hepatitis. Front Immunol. 2018 Oct 17;9:2398. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02398. PMID: 30386344; PMCID: PMC6199378. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2018.02398/full
Sleep, death, and cardiovascular events
Yin J, Jin X, Shan Z, Li S, Huang H, Li P, Peng X, Peng Z, Yu K, Bao W, Yang W, Chen X, Liu L. Relationship of Sleep Duration With All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Events: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies. J Am Heart Assoc. 2017 Sep 9;6(9):e005947. doi: 10.1161/JAHA.117.005947. PMID: 28889101; PMCID: PMC5634263. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.117.005947
Enteric nervous system
Wood JD. Enteric neuroimmunophysiology and pathophysiology. Gastroenterology. 2004 Aug;127(2):635-57. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2004.02.017. PMID: 15300595. https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085%2804%2900197-0/fulltext?
Heart rate variability (HRV)
Capilupi MJ, Kerath SM, Becker LB. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and the Cardiovascular System. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2020 Feb 3;10(2):a034173. doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a034173. PMID: 31109966; PMCID: PMC6996447. https://perspectivesinmedicine.cshlp.org/content/10/2/a034173.long
Larkey L, Kim W, James D, Kishida M, Vizcaino M, Huberty J, Krishnamurthi N. Mind-Body and Psychosocial Interventions May Similarly Affect Heart Rate Variability Patterns in Cancer Recovery: Implications for a Mechanism of Symptom Improvement. Integr Cancer Ther. 2020 Jan-Dec;19:1534735420949677. doi: 10.1177/1534735420949677. PMID: 32783546; PMCID: PMC7425257. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1534735420949677?rfr_dat=cr_pub++0pubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org
Hilgarter K, Schmid-Zalaudek K, Csanády-Leitner R, Mörtl M, Rössler A, Lackner HK. Phasic heart rate variability and the association with cognitive performance: A cross-sectional study in a healthy population setting. PLoS One. 2021 Mar 1;16(3):e0246968. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246968. PMID: 33647023; PMCID: PMC7920382. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0246968&utm
Pinna T, Edwards DJ. A Systematic Review of Associations Between Interoception, Vagal Tone, and Emotional Regulation: Potential Applications for Mental Health, Wellbeing, Psychological Flexibility, and Chronic Conditions. Front Psychol. 2020 Aug 5;11:1792. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01792. PMID: 32849058; PMCID: PMC7419655. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01792/full?
Vagus nerve and vagal tone
Browning KN, Verheijden S, Boeckxstaens GE. The Vagus Nerve in Appetite Regulation, Mood, and Intestinal Inflammation. Gastroenterology. 2017 Mar;152(4):730-744. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2016.10.046. Epub 2016 Dec 15. PMID: 27988382; PMCID: PMC5337130. https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(16)35487-7/fulltext
Westphal WP, Rault C, Robert R, Ragot S, Neau JP, Fernagut PO, Drouot X. Sleep deprivation reduces vagal tone during an inspiratory endurance task in humans. Sleep. 2021 Oct 11;44(10):zsab105. doi: 10.1093/sleep/zsab105. PMID: 33895822. https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/44/10/zsab105/6251428?login=false
Jonathan Verderame, M. Shakib Arslan (2024). Pathophysiological Mechanisms and Clinical Implications of Upper Cervical Vertebral Subluxations (Neurological Disorders with Craniocervical Dysfunction). Biosensors and Nanotheranostics, 3(1), 1-8, 9795. https://publishing.emanresearch.org/CurrentIssuePDF/EmanPublisher_5_5540biosensors-319795.pdf?
Bonaz B, Bazin T, Pellissier S. The Vagus Nerve at the Interface of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis. Front Neurosci. 2018 Feb 7;12:49. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00049. PMID: 29467611; PMCID: PMC5808284. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2018.00049/full
Zouali M. Pharmacological and Electroceutical Targeting of the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway in Autoimmune Diseases. Pharmaceuticals. 2023; 16(8):1089. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16081089. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/16/8/1089
Breit S, Kupferberg A, Rogler G, Hasler G. Vagus Nerve as Modulator of the Brain-Gut Axis in Psychiatric and Inflammatory Disorders. Front Psychiatry. 2018 Mar 13;9:44. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00044. PMID: 29593576; PMCID: PMC5859128. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00044/full
Zouali M. Pharmacological and Electroceutical Targeting of the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway in Autoimmune Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023 Jul 31;16(8):1089. doi: 10.3390/ph16081089. PMID: 37631004; PMCID: PMC10459025. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/16/8/1089
Traumatic brain injury and intestinal permeability
Oyovwi MO, Udi OA. The Gut-Brain Axis and Neuroinflammation in Traumatic Brain Injury. Mol Neurobiol. 2024 Oct 28. doi: 10.1007/s12035-024-04585-8. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39466574 (Available on researchgate.net). https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-024-04585-8
Reduction in gut bacterial species
Rosas-Plaza S, Hernández-Terán A, Navarro-Díaz M, Escalante AE, Morales-Espinosa R, Cerritos R. Human Gut Microbiome Across Different Lifestyles: From Hunter-Gatherers to Urban Populations. Front Microbiol. 2022 Apr 26;13:843170. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.843170. Erratum in: Front Microbiol. 2024 Jul 03;15:1435763. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1435763. PMID: 35558108; PMCID: PMC9087276. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.843170/full?
National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Cells by the Numbers. BioBeat blog. Published September 2024. Accessed January 4, 2024. https://biobeat.nigms.nih.gov/2024/09/cells-by-the-numbers-2/
Microbiota and metabolic disease
Pimentel, G.D., Micheletti, T.O., Pace, F. et al. Gut-central nervous system axis is a target for nutritional therapies. Nutr J 11, 22 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-11-22. https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-11-22
Psychobiotics
Kim N, Yun M, Oh YJ, Choi HJ. Mind-altering with the gut: Modulation of the gut-brain axis with probiotics. J Microbiol. 2018 Mar;56(3):172-182. doi: 10.1007/s12275-018-8032-4. Epub 2018 Feb 28. PMID: 29492874. -4. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12275-018-8032-4
Antibiotics and the microbiome
Anthony WE, Wang B, Sukhum KV, D’Souza AW, Hink T, Cass C, Seiler S, Reske KA, Coon C, Dubberke ER, Burnham CD, Dantas G, Kwon JH. Acute and persistent effects of commonly used antibiotics on the gut microbiome and resistome in healthy adults. Cell Rep. 2022 Apr 12;39(2):110649. doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110649. PMID: 35417701; PMCID: PMC9066705. https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/fulltext/S2211-1247(22)00401-6?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flinkinghub.elsevier.com%2Fretrieve%2Fpii%2FS2211124722004016%3Fshowall%3Dtrue
Diet and the microbiome
Satokari R. High Intake of Sugar and the Balance between Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Gut Bacteria. Nutrients. 2020; 12(5):1348. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12051348. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/5/1348
Alcohol and the microbiome
Wolstenholme JT, Duong NK, Brocato ER, Bajaj JS. Gut-Liver-Brain Axis and Alcohol Use Disorder: Treatment Potential of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation. Alcohol Res. 2024 Feb 1;44(1):01. doi: 10.35946/arcr.v44.1.01. PMID: 38322428; PMCID: PMC10843328. https://arcr.niaaa.nih.gov/volume/44/1/gut-liver-brain-axis-and-alcohol-use-disorder-treatment-potential-fecal-microbiota
Sleep and the microbiome
Wang Z, Wang Z, Lu T, Chen W, Yan W, Yuan K, Shi L, Liu X, Zhou X, Shi J, Vitiello MV, Han Y, Lu L. The microbiota-gut-brain axis in sleep disorders. Sleep Med Rev. 2022 Oct;65:101691. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2022.101691. Epub 2022 Aug 31. PMID: 36099873. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1087079222001046?via%3Dihub
Stress and the microbiome
Zhang H, Wang Z, Wang G, Song X, Qian Y, Liao Z, Sui L, Ai L, Xia Y. Understanding the Connection between Gut Homeostasis and Psychological Stress. J Nutr. 2023 Apr;153(4):924-939. doi: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.01.026. Epub 2023 Jan 31. PMID: 36806451. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316623055293?via%3Dihub#sec4
Metabolic dysfunction in mental disorders
Ho CSH, Zhang MWB, Mak A, Ho RCM. Metabolic syndrome in psychiatry: advances in understanding and management. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment. 2014;20(2):101-112. doi:10.1192/apt.bp.113.011619. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/advances-in-psychiatric-treatment/article/metabolic-syndrome-in-psychiatry-advances-in-understanding-and-management/3DCAE6F6F107F29C5AA16D7BDBD5C249
Strain-specific effects of probiotics
Murphy E, Groeger D, Dinan T, Quigley E. PTH-103 Bifidobacterium longum 35624(R)and1714(R) in adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome–relationships to symptom severity and co-morbidity. Gut 2021;70:A164-A165. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2021-BSG.306. https://gut.bmj.com/content/70/Suppl_4/A164.2?utm
Factors that increase intestinal permeability
Macura, B., Kiecka, A. & Szczepanik, M. Intestinal permeability disturbances: causes, diseases and therapy. Clin Exp Med 24, 232 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10238-024-01496-9. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10238-024-01496-9?
Vanuytsel T, van Wanrooy S, Vanheel H, Vanormelingen C, Verschueren S, Houben E, Salim Rasoel S, Tόth J, Holvoet L, Farré R, Van Oudenhove L, Boeckxstaens G, Verbeke K, Tack J. Psychological stress and corticotropin-releasing hormone increase intestinal permeability in humans by a mast cell-dependent mechanism. Gut. 2014 Aug;63(8):1293-9. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2013-305690. Epub 2013 Oct 23. PMID: 24153250. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258039223_Psychological_stress_and_corticotropin-releasing_hormone_increase_intestinal_permeability_in_humans_by_a_mast_cell-dependent_mechanism
Fasano A. Zonulin and its regulation of intestinal barrier function: the biological door to inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer. Physiol Rev. 2011 Jan;91(1):151-75. doi: 10.1152/physrev.00003.2008. PMID: 21248165. https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/physrev.00003.2008?rfr_dat=cr_pub++0pubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori%3Arid%3Acrossref.org&checkFormatAccess=true
Camilleri, Michael MD1. Human Intestinal Barrier: Effects of Stressors, Diet, Prebiotics, and Probiotics. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology 12(1):p e00308, January 2021. | DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000308. https://journals.lww.com/ctg/fulltext/2021/01000/human_intestinal_barrier__effects_of_stressors,.19.aspx
Khalili H. Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Oral Contraceptives and Menopausal Hormone Therapy: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Drug Saf. 2016 Mar;39(3):193-7. doi: 10.1007/s40264-015-0372-y. PMID: 26658991; PMCID: PMC4752384. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4752384/
Testing for Intestinal Permeability
Schoultz I, Keita ÅV. The Intestinal Barrier and Current Techniques for the Assessment of Gut Permeability. Cells. 2020; 9(8):1909. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells9081909. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/9/8/1909
Probiotics for barrier protection
Macura, B., Kiecka, A. & Szczepanik, M. Intestinal permeability disturbances: causes, diseases and therapy. Clin Exp Med 24, 232 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10238-024-01496-9. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10238-024-01496-9?
Chapter 6 Resources
The Mind-Gut Connection: How the Hidden Conversation Within Our Bodies Impacts Our Mood, Our Choices, and Our Overall Health by Emeran Mayer, MD
The Gut-Immune Connection: How Understanding the Connection Between Food and Immunity Can Help Us Regain Our Health by Emeran Mayer, MD
Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind: A Powerful Plan to Improve Mood, Overcome Anxiety, And Protect Memory for a Lifetime of Optimal Mental Health by Georgia Ede, MD
A Mind of Your Own: The Truth About Depression and How Women Can Heal Their Bodies to Reclaim Their Lives by Kelly Brogan, MD
HeartMath Institute
The HeartMath Institute provides research-based tools and technologies for measuring and improving heart rate variability, reducing stress, and enhancing emotional resilience through heart-brain coherence techniques. Their work bridges science and self-regulation practices to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Leaky Gut Testing – Rupa Health
If you suspect intestinal permeability (leaky gut) is impacting your health, specialized lab testing can provide valuable insights into gut barrier function. This guide from Rupa Health explains how to interpret intestinal permeability tests and what they reveal about digestive health, inflammation, and immune response.
CHAPTER 7 - FROM MOUTH TO BODY: THE ORAL HEALTH CONNECTION
Chapter 7 References
Settineri, S., Rizzo, A., Liotta, M., & Mento, C. (2017). Clinical Psychology of Oral Health: The Link Between Teeth and Emotions. Sage Open, 7(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244017728319. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2158244017728319
Julian Center for Comprehensive Dentistry. Meridian Tooth Chart. Julian Dental. Published [date of publication if available]. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://juliandental.com/meridian-tooth-chart/
Fluoride and Reduced IQ
Veneri F, Vinceti M, Generali L, Giannone ME, Mazzoleni E, Birnbaum LS, Consolo U, Filippini T. Fluoride exposure and cognitive neurodevelopment: Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Environ Res. 2023 Mar 15;221:115239. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115239. Epub 2023 Jan 10. PMID: 36639015. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935123000312?via%3Dihub
Food & Water Watch, Inc. v. EPA, No. 17-cv-02162-EMC, 2024 WL 4291497 (N.D. Cal. Sept. 24, 2024. https://www.foodandwaterwatch.org/2024/09/26/fluoride-drinking-water-lawsuit-victory/
Mercury Off-Gassing in Amalgam Fillings
Bernhoft RA. Mercury toxicity and treatment: a review of the literature. J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:460508. doi: 10.1155/2012/460508. Epub 2011 Dec 22. PMID: 22235210; PMCID: PMC3253456. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2012/460508
Demineralization and Remineralization
Abou Neel E, Aljabo A, Strange A, Ibrahim S, Coathup M, Young A, Bozec L, Mudera V. Demineralization–remineralization dynamics in teeth and bone. Int J Nanomedicine. 2016;11:4743-4763. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S107624. https://www.dovepress.com/demineralizationndashremineralization-dynamics-in-teeth-and-bone-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-IJN?utm
Botelho J, Machado V, Proença L, Delgado AS, Mendes JJ. Vitamin D Deficiency and Oral Health: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 2020 May 19;12(5):1471. doi: 10.3390/nu12051471. PMID: 32438644; PMCID: PMC7285165. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/5/1471
Gasmi Benahmed A, Gasmi A, Arshad M, Shanaida M, Lysiuk R, Peana M, Pshyk-Titko I, Adamiv S, Shanaida Y, Bjørklund G. Health benefits of xylitol. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol. 2020 Sep;104(17):7225-7237. doi: 10.1007/s00253-020-10708-7. Epub 2020 Jul 7. PMID: 32638045. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00253-020-10708-7
Kiselyova N, Dychko Y, Petryayeva A, et al. The Influence of Salivary pH on the Prevalence of Dental Caries. In: Saliva: Secretion and Functions. IntechOpen; 2022. doi:10.5772/intechopen.101234. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362336106_The_Influence_of_Salivary_pH_on_the_Prevalence_of_Dental_Caries
Atkinson FS, Khan JH, Brand-Miller JC, Eberhard J. The Impact of Carbohydrate Quality on Dental Plaque pH: Does the Glycemic Index of Starchy Foods Matter for Dental Health? Nutrients. 2021 Aug 6;13(8):2711. doi: 10.3390/nu13082711. PMID: 34444871; PMCID: PMC8401118. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8401118/
Nutrients for Oral Health
Cagetti MG, Wolf TG, Tennert C, Camoni N, Lingström P, Campus G. The Role of Vitamins in Oral Health. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020 Feb 3;17(3):938. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17030938. PMID: 32028631; PMCID: PMC7037089. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/3/938
Hans M, Malik PK, Hans VM, Chug A, Kumar M. Serum levels of various vitamins in periodontal health and disease- a cross sectional study. J Oral Biol Craniofac Res. 2023 Jul-Aug;13(4):471-475. doi: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2023.05.009. Epub 2023 May 24. Erratum in: J Oral Biol Craniofac Res. 2024 Jul-Aug;14(4):360-361. doi: 10.1016/j.jobcr.2024.05.009. PMID: 37266109; PMCID: PMC10230257. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212426823000611?via%3Dihub
Luca MM, Buzatu R, Bumbu BA. Evaluating the Protective Role of Vitamin A Supplementation in Periodontal Health: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med. 2024 Aug 14;13(16):4775. doi: 10.3390/jcm13164775. PMID: 39200917; PMCID: PMC11355615. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/16/4775
Uwitonze AM, Rahman S, Ojeh N, Grant WB, Kaur H, Haq A, Razzaque MS. Oral manifestations of magnesium and vitamin D inadequacy. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2020 Jun;200:105636. doi: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105636. Epub 2020 Feb 18. PMID: 32084549. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0960076019301815?via%3Dihub
Li XY, Wen MZ, Liu H, Shen YC, Su LX, Yang XT. Dietary magnesium intake is protective in patients with periodontitis. Front Nutr. 2022 Aug 25;9:976518. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.976518. PMID: 36091240; PMCID: PMC9453259. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.976518/full
Olszewska-Czyz I, Firkova E. A Case Control Study Evaluating the Relationship between Vitamin K2 Serum Level and Periodontitis. Healthcare (Basel). 2023 Nov 10;11(22):2937. doi: 10.3390/healthcare11222937. PMID: 37998429; PMCID: PMC10670967. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/11/22/2937
Southward K. A hypothetical role for vitamin K2 in the endocrine and exocrine aspects of dental caries. Med Hypotheses. 2015 Mar;84(3):276-80. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2015.01.011. Epub 2015 Jan 19. PMID: 25636605. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306987715000328?via%3Dihub
Oral Health and Systemic Disease
Dominy SS, Lynch C, Ermini F, Benedyk M, Marczyk A, Konradi A, Nguyen M, Haditsch U, Raha D, Griffin C, Holsinger LJ, Arastu-Kapur S, Kaba S, Lee A, Ryder MI, Potempa B, Mydel P, Hellvard A, Adamowicz K, Hasturk H, Walker GD, Reynolds EC, Faull RLM, Curtis MA, Dragunow M, Potempa J. Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors. Sci Adv. 2019 Jan 23;5(1):eaau3333. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.aau3333. PMID: 30746447; PMCID: PMC6357742. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aau3333
Niazi SA, Bakhsh A. Association between Endodontic Infection, Its Treatment and Systemic Health: A Narrative Review. Medicina. 2022; 58(7):931. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58070931. https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/58/7/931
Lechner J, von Baehr V. Impact of endodontically treated teeth on systemic diseases. Dentistry. 2018;8(3):1000476. doi:10.4172/2161-1122.1000476. https://www.walshmedicalmedia.com/open-access/impact-of-endodontically-treated-teeth-on-systemic-diseases-2161-1122-1000476.pdf
Li XKolltveit KM, Tronstad L, Olsen I. 2000. Systemic Diseases Caused by Oral Infection. Clin Microbiol Rev. 13:4. https://doi.org/10.1128/cmr.13.4.547. https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/cmr.13.4.547
Holmstrup P, Poulsen AH, Andersen L, Skuldbøl T, Fiehn NE. Oral infections and systemic diseases. Dent Clin North Am. 2003 Jul;47(3):575-98. doi: 10.1016/s0011-8532(03)00023-5. PMID: 12848466. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0011853203000235?via%3Dihub
Root Canals
Sobieszczański J, Mertowski S, Sarna-Boś K, Stachurski P, Grywalska E, Chałas R. Root Canal Infection and Its Impact on the Oral Cavity Microenvironment in the Context of Immune System Disorders in Selected Diseases: A Narrative Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2023; 12(12):4102. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12124102. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/12/4102
Weston A. Price Foundation. Root Canal Dangers. International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). Available at: https://iaomt.org/wp-content/uploads/Root-Canal-Dangers-_-Weston-A-Price.pdf. Accessed January 9, 2025.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomograph (CBCT)
Song D, Zhang L, Zhou W, Zheng Q, Duan X, Zhou X, Huang D. Comparing cone-beam computed tomography with periapical radiography for assessing root canal obturation in vivo using microsurgical findings as validation. Dentomaxillofac Radiol. 2017 Jul;46(5):20160463. doi: 10.1259/dmfr.20160463. Epub 2017 Mar 23. PMID: 28332866; PMCID: PMC5595040. https://academic.oup.com/dmfr/article-abstract/46/5/20160463/7263660?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=false
Khanna, A.B. Applications of cone beam computed tomography in endodontics. Evid.-based endod 5, 1 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41121-020-00020-4. https://evidencebasedendodontics.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41121-020-00020-4
Oil Pulling
Peedikayil FC, Diwakar N, Chandru TP, Kottayi S, Vardhanan YS, Narasimhan D.(2022). Effect of Oil Pulling on pH, Buffering Capacity and Total Antioxidant Capacity of Saliva in Children: AÂ Randomised Control Study, J Clin of Diagn Res. 16(6), ZC21-ZC26. https://www.doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2022/55365/16487. https://jcdr.net/article_abstract.asp?id=16487
Mouth Breathing
Ramirez-Yanez GO. Mouth breathing: Understanding the pathophysiology of an oral habit and its consequences. Eur Soc Med. 2023;11(1). doi:10.18103/mra.v11i1.3478. https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/download/3478/99193546630/
Lin L, Zhao T, Qin D, Hua F, He H. The impact of mouth breathing on dentofacial development: A concise review. Front Public Health. 2022 Sep 8;10:929165. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.929165. PMID: 36159237; PMCID: PMC9498581. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2022.929165/full
Jung JY, Kang CK. Investigation on the Effect of Oral Breathing on Cognitive Activity Using Functional Brain Imaging. Healthcare (Basel). 2021 May 29;9(6):645. doi: 10.3390/healthcare9060645. PMID: 34072444; PMCID: PMC8228257. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/9/6/645
Watso JC, Cuba JN, Boutwell SL, Moss JE, Bowerfind AK, Fernandez IM, Cassette JM, May AM, Kirk KF. Acute nasal breathing lowers diastolic blood pressure and increases parasympathetic contributions to heart rate variability in young adults. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2023 Dec 1;325(6):R797-R808. doi: 10.1152/ajpregu.00148.2023. Epub 2023 Oct 23. PMID: 37867476; PMCID: PMC11178300. https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpregu.00148.2023?utm_source=AJPRegu&utm_medium=PressRelease&utm_campaign=1.17.2024
Chapter 7 Resources
Books
Cure Tooth Decay: Heal and Prevent Cavities with Nutrition – Ramiel Nagel
This book explores the role of nutrition in reversing cavities and improving oral health, based on traditional dietary principles and modern research.
Find it here
Nutrition and Physical Degeneration – Weston A. Price
A foundational text on the impact of modern diets on dental and overall health, this book documents Dr. Price’s research on indigenous diets and their effects on tooth decay and degenerative disease.
Find it here
Biological Dentist Registry
International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT)
An organization focused on holistic and biological dentistry, offering a registry of practitioners who follow evidence-based, toxin-free dental care principles.
Visit IAOMT
Websites
The Weston A. Price Foundation
A nonprofit dedicated to ancestral nutrition and holistic health, offering insights into the connection between root canals and systemic health.
Visit The Weston A. Price Foundation
Pottenger-Price Nutrition Foundation
An organization continuing the research of Dr. Weston A. Price and Dr. Francis Pottenger, focusing on nutrition and disease prevention. This article explores the health implications of root canals.
Visit the Pottenger Price Nutrition Foundation
Documentary
Root Cause (2019) – Directed by Frazer Bailey
This documentary explores the controversial link between root canals and chronic health conditions, featuring interviews with experts in holistic and biological dentistry. It can be viewed on various streaming platforms.
Oral Hygiene Products
Dream Tape
Mouth tape designed to promote nasal breathing during sleep, supporting better rest, improved oxygen intake, and enhanced morning alertness.
Find it here
Banyan Botanicals Mint Daily Swish
Inspired by Ayurvedic oil pulling, this coconut and sesame oil-based mouthwash is infused with fennel and peppermint to freshen breath and support microbial balance.
Find it here
MouthFlora Probiotic & Prebiotic Mouthwash
A powder-based mouthwash featuring 17 probiotic strains and 7 prebiotics to balance the oral microbiome, maintain optimal pH levels, and support long-term gum health.
Find it here
Designs for Health PerioPull – Pulling Oil
A nutrient-enriched oil-pulling blend containing coconut oil, MCTs, Coenzyme Q-10, bromelain, and annatto-derived antioxidants to support gum health and oral microbiome balance.
Find it here
Designs for Health PerioBiotic Silver Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste
A fluoride-free toothpaste that combines oral probiotics and whitening hydroxyapatite to promote gum health and remineralization.
Find it here
Boka Fluoride-Free Toothpaste – Nano Hydroxyapatite
Designed for adults and kids, this nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste helps whiten, remineralize, and strengthen sensitive teeth without fluoride.
Find it here
CHAPTER 8 - STRONG FOUNDATIONS: THE BONE-BODY CONNECTION
Chapter 8 References
Taylor AK, Lebwohl B, Snyder CL, Green PHR. Celiac Disease. 2008 Jul 3 [updated 2019 Jan 31]. In: Adam MP, Feldman J, Mirzaa GM, Pagon RA, Wallace SE, Amemiya A, editors. GeneReviews® [Internet]. Seattle (WA): University of Washington, Seattle; 1993–2025. PMID: 20301720.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1727/
Wieser H, Ciacci C, Gizzi C, Santonicola A. Otorhinolaryngological Manifestations and Esophageal Disorders in Celiac Disease: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med. 2023 Nov 10;12(22):7036. doi: 10.3390/jcm12227036. PMID: 38002650; PMCID: PMC10672081.
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/12/22/7036
Karunaratne D, Karunaratne N. ENT Manifestations of Celiac Disease: A Scholarly Review. Ear Nose Throat J. 2022 Nov;101(9):600-605. doi: 10.1177/0145561320972604. Epub 2020 Nov 6. PMID: 33155859.
Osteoporosis Statistics
Lungaro L, Manza F, Costanzini A, Barbalinardo M, Gentili D, Caputo F, Guarino M, Zoli G, Volta U, De Giorgio R, Caio G. Osteoporosis and Celiac Disease: Updates and Hidden Pitfalls. Nutrients. 2023 Feb 22;15(5):1089. doi: 10.3390/nu15051089. PMID: 36904090; PMCID: PMC10005679.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/5/1089
International Osteoporosis Foundation. Key statistics for North America. International Osteoporosis Foundation. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/facts-statistics/key-statistic-for-north-america#ref_8
Osteoporosis Risk Factors
International Osteoporosis Foundation. Modifiable Risk Factors for Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis Foundation. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/health-professionals/about-osteoporosis/risk-factors/modifiable-risks
International Osteoporosis Foundation. Fixed Risk Factors for Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis Foundation. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/health-professionals/about-osteoporosis/risk-factors/fixed-risks
National Health Service. Osteoporosis: Causes. NHS website. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/causes/. Published February 10, 2022. Accessed January 9, 2025.
McCloskey EV, Odén A, Harvey NC, et al. A meta-analysis of trabecular bone score in fracture risk prediction: Evidence for added value to clinical risk assessment across cohorts from ISCD and IOF. Osteoporos Int. 2022;33(1):39-49. doi:10.1007/s00198-021-05900-y.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00198-021-05900-y?utm
Zdrojowy-Wełna, A., Stachowska, B. & Bolanowski, M. Cushing’s disease and bone. Pituitary 27, 837–846 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11102-024-01427-7.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11102-024-01427-7
Yong EL, Logan S. Menopausal osteoporosis: screening, prevention and treatment. Singapore Med J. 2021 Apr;62(4):159-166. doi: 10.11622/smedj.2021036. PMID: 33948669; PMCID: PMC8801823.
http://www.smj.org.sg/article/menopausal-osteoporosis-screening-prevention-and-treatment
Bijelic R, Milicevic S, Balaban J. Risk Factors for Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women. Med Arch. 2017 Feb;71(1):25-28. doi: 10.5455/medarh.2017.71.25-28. Epub 2017 Feb 5. PMID: 28428669; PMCID: PMC5364787.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5364787/
Pouresmaeili F, Kamalidehghan B, Kamarehei M, Goh YM. A comprehensive overview on osteoporosis and its risk factors. Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2018 Nov 6;14:2029-2049. doi: 10.2147/TCRM.S138000. PMID: 30464484; PMCID: PMC6225907.
Luz Rentero M, Carbonell C, Casillas M, González Béjar M, Berenguer R. Risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures in postmenopausal women between 50 and 65 years of age in a primary care setting in Spain: a questionnaire. Open Rheumatol J. 2008;2:58-63. doi: 10.2174/1874312900802010058. Epub 2008 Nov 14. PMID: 19088873; PMCID: PMC2588091.
https://openrheumatologyjournal.com/VOLUME/2/PAGE/58/FULLTEXT/
Li H, Sun T, Han D, Gong W, Mao W, Gan X, Shu D, Zhou Q, Xu L, Hou L, Zhou M, Cai M, Lai X. Risk factors of osteoporosis in elderly inpatients: A cross-sectional single-centre study. Front Aging. 2023 May 9;4:1126172. doi: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1126172. PMID: 37229241; PMCID: PMC10204113.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging/articles/10.3389/fragi.2023.1126172/full
Tański W, Kosiorowska J, Szymańska-Chabowska A. Osteoporosis – risk factors, pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatment. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2021 May;25(9):3557-3566. doi: 10.26355/eurrev_202105_25838. PMID: 34002830.
https://www.europeanreview.org/article/25838
Kubota Y, Nagano H, Ishii K, Kono T, Kono S, Akita S, Mitsukawa N, Tanaka T. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth as a cause of protracted wound healing and vitamin D deficiency in a spinal cord injured patient with a sacral pressure sore: a case report. BMC Gastroenterol. 2020 Aug 24;20(1):283. doi: 10.1186/s12876-020-01423-8. PMID: 32831031; PMCID: PMC7444194.
https://bmcgastroenterol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12876-020-01423-8
Micronutrient Insufficiencies
Linus Pauling Institute. Micronutrient inadequacies: Overview. Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University. Published 2023. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/micronutrient-inadequacies/overview
Bone Health and Nutrients
Linus Pauling Institute. Bone Health: Micronutrient Information Center. Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/bone-health
Price CT, Langford JR, Liporace FA. Essential Nutrients for Bone Health and a Review of their Availability in the Average North American Diet. Open Orthop J. 2012;6:143-9. doi: 10.2174/1874325001206010143. Epub 2012 Apr 5. PMID: 22523525; PMCID: PMC3330619.
https://openorthopaedicsjournal.com/VOLUME/6/PAGE/143/
Chen M, Jia L, Gao R. Association between dietary copper, iron, zinc, selenium intake and osteopenia or osteoporosis in elderly hypertensive patients: a retrospective cohort study. Front Nutr. 2024 Aug 14;11:1419379. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1419379. PMID: 39206314; PMCID: PMC11351564.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1419379/full
Pepa GD, Brandi ML. Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least. Clin Cases Miner Bone Metab. 2016 Sep-Dec;13(3):181-185. doi: 10.11138/ccmbm/2016.13.3.181. Epub 2017 Feb 10. PMID: 28228778; PMCID: PMC5318168.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5318168/
Supplementation
Greger M. Lead contamination in calcium supplements. NutritionFacts.org. Published May 9, 2017. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://nutritionfacts.org/blog/lead-contamination-in-calcium-supplements/
Myung SK, Kim HB, Lee YJ, Choi YJ, Oh SW. Calcium Supplements and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Nutrients. 2021 Jan 26;13(2):368. doi: 10.3390/nu13020368. PMID: 33530332; PMCID: PMC7910980.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/2/368
Li K, Wang XF, Li DY, Chen YC, Zhao LJ, Liu XG, Guo YF, Shen J, Lin X, Deng J, Zhou R, Deng HW. The good, the bad, and the ugly of calcium supplementation: a review of calcium intake on human health. Clin Interv Aging. 2018 Nov 28;13:2443-2452. doi: 10.2147/CIA.S157523. PMID: 30568435; PMCID: PMC6276611.
Maresz K. Proper Calcium Use: Vitamin K2 as a Promoter of Bone and Cardiovascular Health. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2015 Feb;14(1):34-9. PMID: 26770129; PMCID: PMC4566462.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4566462/
Sun Exposure
Holick MF. Biological Effects of Sunlight, Ultraviolet Radiation, Visible Light, Infrared Radiation and Vitamin D for Health. Anticancer Res. 2016 Mar;36(3):1345-56. PMID: 26977036.
https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/36/3/1345?utm
Wang J, Wei Z, Yao N, Li C, Sun L. Association Between Sunlight Exposure and Mental Health: Evidence from a Special Population Without Sunlight in Work. Risk Manag Healthc Policy. 2023 Jun 14;16:1049-1057. doi: 10.2147/RMHP.S420018. PMID: 37337544; PMCID: PMC10277019.
Kent ST, McClure LA, Crosson WL, Arnett DK, Wadley VG, Sathiakumar N. Effect of sunlight exposure on cognitive function among depressed and non-depressed participants: a REGARDS cross-sectional study. Environ Health. 2009 Jul 28;8:34. doi: 10.1186/1476-069X-8-34. PMID: 19638195; PMCID: PMC2728098.
https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1476-069X-8-34
Weller RB. Sunlight: Time for a Rethink? J Invest Dermatol. 2024 Aug;144(8):1724-1732. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.12.027. Epub 2024 Apr 24. PMID: 38661623.
https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(24)00280-X/fulltext
Chandra P, Wolfenden LL, Ziegler TR, Tian J, Luo M, Stecenko AA, Chen TC, Holick MF, Tangpricha V. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency with UV light in patients with malabsorption syndromes: a case series. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2007 Oct;23(5):179-85. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0781.2007.00302.x. PMID: 17803596; PMCID: PMC2846322.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2846322/
Gut-Bone Connection
Ding K, Hua F, Ding W. Gut Microbiome and Osteoporosis. Aging Dis. 2020 Mar 9;11(2):438-447. doi: 10.14336/AD.2019.0523. PMID: 32257552; PMCID: PMC7069453.
https://www.aginganddisease.org/EN/10.14336/AD.2019.0523
Yuan-Cheng Chen, Jonathan Greenbaum, Hui Shen, Hong-Wen Deng, Association Between Gut Microbiota and Bone Health: Potential Mechanisms and Prospective, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, Volume 102, Issue 10, 1 October 2017, Pages 3635–3646, https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2017-00513
https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/102/10/3635/4036354?login=false
Chen Y, Wang X, Zhang C, Liu Z, Li C, Ren Z. Gut Microbiota and Bone Diseases: A Growing Partnership. Front Microbiol. 2022 May 6;13:877776. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.877776. PMID: 35602023; PMCID: PMC9121014.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.877776/full
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Estradiol and Progesterone in Menopausal Hormone Therapy
Silva, B. C., & Hipólito Rodrigues, M. A. (2023). Estrogen hormone therapy and postmenopausal osteoporosis: does it really take two to tango? Women & Health, 63(10), 770–773. https://doi.org/10.1080/03630242.2023.2278211.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03630242.2023.2278211
Progesterone and Bone
Seifert-Klauss V, Prior JC. Progesterone and bone: actions promoting bone health in women. J Osteoporos. 2010 Oct 31;2010:845180. doi: 10.4061/2010/845180. PMID: 21052538; PMCID: PMC2968416.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2968416/
DHEA and Bone Health
Mohamad NV, Razali NC, Shamsuddin NM. Dehydroepiandrosterone and Bone Health: Mechanisms and Insights. Biomedicines. 2024 Dec 6;12(12):2780. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines12122780. PMID: 39767687; PMCID: PMC11673555.
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/12/12/2780
Medications
Bisphosphonates, Denosumab, Raloxifine, Teriparatide, Romozosumab, and Exercise
Stevenson J; medical advisory council of the British Menopause Society. Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women. Post Reprod Health. 2023 Mar;29(1):11-14. doi: 10.1177/20533691221139902. Epub 2022 Nov 10. PMID: 36357006; PMCID: PMC10009319.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10009319/
Teriparatide and Other Drugs Safety Issues
McGreevy C, Williams D. Safety of drugs used in the treatment of osteoporosis. Ther Adv Drug Saf. 2011 Aug;2(4):159-72. doi: 10.1177/2042098611411012. PMID: 25083210; PMCID: PMC4110860.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2042098611411012
Abaloparatide Characteristics and Risks
European Medicines Agency. Eladynos: EPAR – Product Information. Updated [date of last update if available]. Accessed January 9, 2025. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/eladynos-epar-product-information_en.pdf
Exercise
LeBoff MS, Greenspan SL, Insogna KL, Lewiecki EM, Saag KG, Singer AJ, Siris ES. The clinician’s guide to prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Osteoporos Int. 2022 Oct;33(10):2049-2102. doi: 10.1007/s00198-021-05900-y. Epub 2022 Apr 28. Erratum in: Osteoporos Int. 2022 Oct;33(10):2243. doi: 10.1007/s00198-022-06479-8. PMID: 35478046; PMCID: PMC9546973.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00198-021-05900-y?utm
Phillips C. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Depression, and Physical Activity: Making the Neuroplastic Connection. Neural Plast. 2017;2017:7260130. doi: 10.1155/2017/7260130. Epub 2017 Aug 8. PMID: 28928987; PMCID: PMC5591905.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2017/7260130
Bones and Uranium
Kurttio P, Komulainen H, Leino A, Salonen L, Auvinen A, Saha H. Bone as a possible target of chemical toxicity of natural uranium in drinking water. Environ Health Perspect. 2005 Jan;113(1):68-72. doi: 10.1289/ehp.7475. PMID: 15626650; PMCID: PMC1253712.
Chapter 8 Resources
Free Download
Downloadable Sample Meal Plan: Build Strong Bones Naturally
Struggling to get enough calcium without dairy? This free meal plan shows you exactly how to meet your daily calcium needs using whole, nourishing foods—no milk required! Plus, get a quick-reference list of calcium-rich foods to make meal planning effortless.
Download Your Free Copy Here (Coming soon)
Books
Great Bones: Taking Control of Your Osteoporosis — McCormick K. (2023)
This book is a practical and empowering guide to osteoporosis prevention and management. McCormick breaks down the latest research on bone health, offering straightforward strategies to strengthen bones, improve mobility, and take control of your skeletal health naturally.
Find it on Amazon.
Osteoporosis: The Silent Epidemic — Dr. Marilyn Glenville, PhD
Did you know osteoporosis often goes undetected until a fracture occurs? In this eye-opening book, Dr. Marilyn Glenville—one of the UK’s leading nutritionists—uncovers the hidden causes of bone loss and shares evidence-based nutritional strategies to naturally prevent and manage osteoporosis.
Find it on Amazon.
The Wisdom of Menopause — Dr. Christiane Northrup, M.D.
More than just a book about menopause, this groundbreaking guide by Dr. Christiane Northrup explores the physical, emotional, and spiritual shifts women experience during this phase of life. With a focus on holistic health, she discusses hormone balance, bone health, and overall vitality during midlife and beyond.
Find it on Amazon.
CHAPTER 9 - THE INFLAMMATION CONNECTION: A MODERN EPIDEMIC
Chapter 9 References
Vita AA, Zwickey H, Bradley R. Associations between food-specific IgG antibodies and intestinal permeability biomarkers. Front Nutr. 2022 Sep 6;9:962093. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2022.962093. PMID: 36147305; PMCID: PMC9485556.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.962093/full?utm
Kiecolt-Glaser JK, Preacher KJ, MacCallum RC, Atkinson C, Malarkey WB, Glaser R. Chronic stress and age-related increases in the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2003 Jul 22;100(15):9090-5. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1531903100. Epub 2003 Jul 2. PMID: 12840146; PMCID: PMC166443.
https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1531903100
Steptoe A, Hamer M, Chida Y. The effects of acute psychological stress on circulating inflammatory factors in humans: a review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav Immun. 2007 Oct;21(7):901-12. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2007.03.011. Epub 2007 May 1. PMID: 17475444.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889159107000839?via%3Dihub
Kawai T, Autieri MV, Scalia R. Adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic dysfunction in obesity. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol. 2021 Mar 1;320(3):C375-C391. doi: 10.1152/ajpcell.00379.2020. Epub 2020 Dec 23. PMID: 33356944; PMCID: PMC8294624.
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpcell.00379.2020
Kantor ED, Lampe JW, Kratz M, White E. Lifestyle factors and inflammation: associations by body mass index. PLoS One. 2013 Jul 2;8(7):e67833. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0067833. PMID: 23844105; PMCID: PMC3699492.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0067833&utm
Zhu X, Chen Z, Shen W, Huang G, Sedivy JM, Wang H, Ju Z. Inflammation, epigenetics, and metabolism converge to cell senescence and ageing: the regulation and intervention. Signal Transduct Target Ther. 2021 Jun 28;6(1):245. doi: 10.1038/s41392-021-00646-9. PMID: 34176928; PMCID: PMC8236488.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-021-00646-9
Kapila YL. Oral health’s inextricable connection to systemic health: Special populations bring to bear multimodal relationships and factors connecting periodontal disease to systemic diseases and conditions. Periodontol 2000. 2021 Oct;87(1):11-16. doi: 10.1111/prd.12398. PMID: 34463994; PMCID: PMC8457130.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/prd.12398
Cáceda R, Griffin WST, Delgado PL. A probe in the connection between inflammation, cognition and suicide. J Psychopharmacol. 2018 Apr;32(4):482-488. doi: 10.1177/0269881118764022. Epub 2018 Mar 19. PMID: 29552947; PMCID: PMC9230995.
Intestinal Permeability (Leaky Gut)
Fasano A. All disease begins in the (leaky) gut: role of zonulin-mediated gut permeability in the pathogenesis of some chronic inflammatory diseases. F1000Res. 2020 Jan 31;9:F1000 Faculty Rev-69. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.20510.1. PMID: 32051759; PMCID: PMC6996528.
https://f1000research.com/articles/9-69/v1
Ihnatowicz P, Wątor P, Drywień ME. The importance of gluten exclusion in the management of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Ann Agric Environ Med. 2021 Dec 29;28(4):558-568. doi: 10.26444/aaem/136523. Epub 2021 May 28. PMID: 34969211.
Terato K, Do CT, Shionoya H. Slipping through the Cracks: Linking Low Immune Function and Intestinal Bacterial Imbalance to the Etiology of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Autoimmune Dis. 2015;2015:636207. doi: 10.1155/2015/636207. Epub 2015 Mar 12. PMID: 25861466; PMCID: PMC4377354.
Bischoff SC, Barbara G, Buurman W, Ockhuizen T, Schulzke JD, Serino M, Tilg H, Watson A, Wells JM. Intestinal permeability–a new target for disease prevention and therapy. BMC Gastroenterol. 2014 Nov 18;14:189. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12876-014-0189-7. PMID: 25407511; PMCID: PMC4253991.
English, J., Connolly, L. & Stewart, L.D. Increased Intestinal Permeability: An Avenue for the Development of Autoimmune Disease? Expo Health 16, 575–605 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12403-023-00578-5
Helms S. Celiac disease and gluten-associated diseases. Altern Med Rev. 2005 Sep;10(3):172-92. https://altmedrev.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/v10-3-172.pdf. PMID: 16164373.
Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes Data and Research. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data-research/index.html. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Lee JM, Okumura MJ, Davis MM, Herman WH, Gurney JG. Prevalence and determinants of insulin resistance among U.S. adolescents: a population-based study. Diabetes Care. 2006 Nov;29(11):2427-32. doi: 10.2337/dc06-0709. PMID: 17065679.
Saklayen MG. The Global Epidemic of the Metabolic Syndrome. Curr Hypertens Rep. 2018 Feb 26;20(2):12. doi: 10.1007/s11906-018-0812-z. PMID: 29480368; PMCID: PMC5866840.
Obesity
Trust for America’s Health. State of Obesity 2022. Trust for America’s Health website. https://www.tfah.org/report-details/state-of-obesity-2022/. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Childhood Obesity Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/php/data-research/childhood-obesity-facts.html. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Economic Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Adult Obesity Prevalence Increased During the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic. USDA Economic Research Service website. https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2022/july/adult-obesity-prevalence-increased-during-the-first-year-of-the-covid-19-pandemic/. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT)
Shuster A, Patlas M, Pinthus JH, Mourtzakis M. The clinical importance of visceral adiposity: a critical review of methods for visceral adipose tissue analysis. Br J Radiol. 2012;85(1009):1-10
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Younossi ZM. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – A global public health perspective. J Hepatol. 2019;70(3):531-544
Cancer
Khedkar S, Ahmad Khan M. Aqueous Extract of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.): Role in Cancer and Inflammation. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2023 May 11;2023:5467342. doi: 10.1155/2023/5467342. PMID: 37215636; PMCID: PMC10195174.
Multhoff G, Molls M, Radons J. Chronic inflammation in cancer development. Front Immunol. 2011;2:98
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Alzheimer’s Association website. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Subjective Cognitive Decline — A Public Health Issue. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/data/subjective-cognitive-decline-brief.html. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. Global Prevalence of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. Alzheimer’s Association International Conference website. https://aaic.alz.org/releases_2021/global-prevalence.asp. Accessed May 26, 2024.
Li X, Li C, Zhang W, Wang Y, Qian P, Huang H. Inflammation and aging: signaling pathways and intervention therapies. Signal Transduct Target Ther. 2023 Jun 8;8(1):239. doi: 10.1038/s41392-023-01502-8. PMID: 37291105; PMCID: PMC10248351.
Chapter 9 Resources
Free Download
The Elimination Diet Guide
If you’re struggling with chronic inflammation, fatigue, joint pain, or digestive issues, the foods you eat could be part of the problem. An elimination diet helps you temporarily remove common inflammatory foods, calm your immune system, and identify which foods support—or sabotage—your health.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, so you’ll know:
- Which nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods you can enjoy
- Which common inflammatory foods to avoid
- How to track your symptoms and improvements using my Food, Mood, and Poop Journal
- The right way to reintroduce foods so you can confidently identify your personal triggers
When you follow this process, you’ll gain clarity on what truly works for your body, reduce inflammation, and make informed choices that support your long-term health.
Download the Elimination Diet Guide Here (Coming Soon)
Books
The Autoimmune Answer – Dr. John Bartemus
Chronic inflammation is the driving force behind autoimmune disease, yet many conventional approaches only mask symptoms instead of addressing the root cause. In The Autoimmune Answer, Dr. John Bartemus explains how immune dysfunction develops, the role of inflammation in autoimmune disease, and practical steps to reverse it through functional medicine principles. This book is particularly valuable for those dealing with brain inflammation, gut issues, and chronic symptoms that haven’t been resolved with traditional treatments.
Find it on Amazon.
The Inflamed Mind – Dr. Edward Bullmore
The link between inflammation and mental health is gaining attention in the scientific community, yet many still overlook the role chronic inflammation plays in depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Dr. Edward Bullmore, a neuroscientist and psychiatrist, presents compelling research connecting immune system dysregulation to mood disorders. This book challenges conventional thinking and provides a deeper understanding of how reducing inflammation can support mental well-being.
Find it on Amazon.
CHAPTER 10 - THE MYTH OF THE PERFECT DIET: EMBRACING A FLEXIBLE APPROACH
Chapter 10 References
Thomson JL, Landry AS, Walls TI. Can United States Adults Accurately Assess Their Diet Quality? Am J Health Promot. 2023 May;37(4):499-506. doi: 10.1177/08901171221137056. Epub 2022 Nov 2. PMID: 36325649.
Phytonutrients by Color
Blumfield M, Mayr H, De Vlieger N, Abbott K, Starck C, Fayet-Moore F, Marshall S. Should We ‘Eat a Rainbow’? An Umbrella Review of the Health Effects of Colorful Bioactive Pigments in Fruits and Vegetables. Molecules. 2022; 27(13):4061. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27134061
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/13/4061
Herbs and Spices
Vázquez-Fresno, R., Rosana, A.R.R., Sajed, T. et al. Herbs and Spices- Biomarkers of Intake Based on Human Intervention Studies – A Systematic Review. Genes Nutr 14, 18 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12263-019-0636-8
https://genesandnutrition.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12263-019-0636-8?utm
Yu X, Pu H, Voss M. Overview of anti-inflammatory diets and their promising effects on non-communicable diseases. British Journal of Nutrition. 2024;132(7):898-918. doi:10.1017/S0007114524001405
Wheat
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. APHIS Issues Regulatory Status Review Responses for University of Florida and Bioceres GE Plants. Published January 18, 2024. Accessed January 20, 2025. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/aphis-issues-regulatory-status-review-responses-university-florida-bioceres
Pizzuti D, Buda A, D’Odorico A, et al. Lack of intestinal mucosal toxicity of Triticum monococcum in celiac disease patients. Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. 2006;41(11):1305-1311.
Blue light exposure
Cheung IN, Zee PC, Shalman D, Malkani RG, Kang J, Reid KJ. Morning and Evening Blue-Enriched Light Exposure Alters Metabolic Function in Normal Weight Adults. PLoS One. 2016 May 18;11(5):e0155601. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155601. PMID: 27191727; PMCID: PMC4871543.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0155601
Chapter 10 Resources
Free Downloads
(Coming soon)
Podcast
The Christian Nutritionist Podcast – Episode 106 (Listen here.)
Explore the biblical, historical, and health perspectives on pork and shellfish with Chelsea Thomlinson Blackbird, The Christian Nutritionist. In this episode, she unpacks Scripture, nutritional science, and practical advice to help Christians navigate these often-debated foods.
Books
Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
A groundbreaking exploration of traditional diets and their profound impact on dental and overall health, written by pioneering researcher Weston A. Price.
Find it on Amazon.
CHAPTER 11 - SUSTAINABLE LIVING: MANAGING YOUR TOXIC LOAD
Chapter 11 References
Planning and time management
Aeon B, Faber A, Panaccio A. Does time management work? A meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2021 Jan 11;16(1):e0245066. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245066. PMID: 33428644; PMCID: PMC7799745.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0245066
Liu S, Song M, Teng H. Postgraduates’ time management disposition and mental health: mediating role of life satisfaction and moderating role of core self-evaluations. BMC Psychol. 2023 Oct 6;11(1):316. doi: 10.1186/s40359-023-01349-2. PMID: 37803401; PMCID: PMC10559621.
https://bmcpsychology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40359-023-01349-2
Fasting
Anton SD, Moehl K, Donahoo WT, Marosi K, Lee SA, Mainous AG 3rd, Leeuwenburgh C, Mattson MP. Flipping the Metabolic Switch: Understanding and Applying the Health Benefits of Fasting. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2018 Feb;26(2):254-268. doi: 10.1002/oby.22065. Epub 2017 Oct 31. PMID: 29086496; PMCID: PMC5783752.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.22065
Mattson MP, Longo VD, Harvie M. Impact of intermittent fasting on health and disease processes. Ageing Res Rev. 2017 Oct;39:46-58. doi: 10.1016/j.arr.2016.10.005. Epub 2016 Oct 31. PMID: 27810402; PMCID: PMC5411330.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163716302513?via%3Dihub
Elias A, Padinjakara N, Lautenschlager NT. Effects of intermittent fasting on cognitive health and Alzheimer’s disease. Nutr Rev. 2023 Aug 10;81(9):1225-1233. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad021. PMID: 37043764; PMCID: PMC10413426.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/81/9/1225/7116310?login=false
Szypowska A, Regulska-Ilow B. Significance of low-carbohydrate diets and fasting in patients with cancer. Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2019;70(4):325-336. doi: 10.32394/rpzh.2019.0083. PMID: 31960664.
https://roczniki.pzh.gov.pl
Cleveland Clinic. Intermittent Fasting for Women: Benefits, Risks & Best Practices. Cleveland Clinic. Updated June 27, 2023. Accessed January 24, 2025.
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/intermittent-fasting-for-women.
Forest Bathing
Hansen MM, Jones R, Tocchini K. Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017 Jul 28;14(8):851. doi: 10.3390/ijerph14080851. PMID: 28788101; PMCID: PMC5580555.
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/8/851
Capaldi CA, Passmore H, Nisbet E, Zelenski JM, Dopko RL. Flourishing in nature: A review of the benefits of connecting with nature and its application as a wellbeing intervention. Int J Wellbeing. 2015;5(1):1-16.
https://www.internationaljournalofwellbeing.org/index.php/ijow/article/view/449/509
Grounding/Earthing
Chevalier G, Sinatra ST, Oschman JL, Sokal K, Sokal P. Earthing: health implications of reconnecting the human body to the Earth’s surface electrons. J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:291541. doi: 10.1155/2012/291541. Epub 2012 Jan 12. PMID: 22291721; PMCID: PMC3265077.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2012/291541
Sleep Hygiene
Brower KJ. Assessment and treatment of insomnia in adult patients with alcohol use disorders. Alcohol. 2015 Jun;49(4):417-27. doi: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2014.12.003. Epub 2015 Jan 7. PMID: 25957855.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0741832914202102
Laughter
Akimbekov NS, Razzaque MS. Laughter therapy: A humor-induced hormonal intervention to reduce stress and anxiety. Curr Res Physiol. 2021;4:135-138. doi: 10.1016/j.crphys.2021.04.002. Epub 2021 Apr 30. PMID: 34642668; PMCID: PMC8496883.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266594412100016X?via%3Dihub
Si S Çeli K A, Kılınç T. The effect of laughter yoga on perceived stress, burnout, and life satisfaction in nurses during the pandemic: A randomized controlled trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2022 Nov;49:101637. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101637. Epub 2022 Jul 5. PMID: 35810525; PMCID: PMC9254653.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1744388122001050?via%3Dihub
Sound Therapy
Çift A, Benlioglu C. Effect of Different Musical Types on Patient’s Relaxation, Anxiety and Pain Perception during Shock Wave Lithotripsy: A Randomized Controlled Study. Urol J. 2020 Jan 26;17(1):19-23. doi: 10.22037/uj.v0i0.5333. PMID: 31953834.
https://journals.sbmu.ac.ir/urolj/index.php/uj/article/view/5333
Bradt J, Dileo C. Music interventions for mechanically ventilated patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;2014(12):CD006902. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD006902.pub3. Epub 2014 Dec 9. PMID: 25490233; PMCID: PMC6517146.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006902.pub3/full?cookiesEnabled
Sex
Liu H, Waite LJ, Shen S, Wang DH. Is Sex Good for Your Health? A National Study on Partnered Sexuality and Cardiovascular Risk among Older Men and Women. J Health Soc Behav. 2016 Sep;57(3):276-96. doi: 10.1177/0022146516661597. PMID: 27601406; PMCID: PMC5052677.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5052677/
Luke Curtis, Sex saves lives, European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, Volume 29, Issue 1, January 2022, Page e38,
https://doi.org/10.1093/eurjpc/zwaa102
https://academic.oup.com/eurjpc/article/29/1/e38/6000660?login=false
Oesterling CF, Borg C, Juhola E, Lancel M. The influence of sexual activity on sleep: A diary study. J Sleep Res. 2023 Aug;32(4):e13814. doi: 10.1111/jsr.13814. Epub 2023 Jan 16. PMID: 36646500.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsr.13814
Gianotten WL, Alley JC, Diamond LM. The Health Benefits of Sexual Expression. Int J Sex Health. 2021 Sep 25;33(4):478-493. doi: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564. PMID: 38595776; PMCID: PMC10903655.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564
Movement
Szuhany KL, Bugatti M, Otto MW. A meta-analytic review of the effects of exercise on brain-derived neurotrophic factor. J Psychiatr Res. 2015 Jan;60:56-64. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.10.003. Epub 2014 Oct 12. PMID: 25455510; PMCID: PMC4314337.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022395614002933?via%3Dihub
Blumenthal JA, Babyak MA, Moore KA, Craighead WE, Herman S, Khatri P, Waugh R, Napolitano MA, Forman LM, Appelbaum M, Doraiswamy PM, Krishnan KR. Effects of exercise training on older patients with major depression. Arch Intern Med. 1999 Oct 25;159(19):2349-56. doi: 10.1001/archinte.159.19.2349. PMID: 10547175.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/485159
Heat Therapy
Glazachev OS, Zapara MA, Dudnik EN, Samartseva VG, Susta D. Repeated hyperthermia exposure increases circulating Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor levels which is associated with improved quality of life, and reduced anxiety: A randomized controlled trial. J Therm Biol. 2020 Apr;89:102482. doi: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2019.102482. Epub 2019 Dec 19. PMID: 32365000.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306456519305066?via%3Dihub
Patrick RP, Johnson TL. Sauna use as a lifestyle practice to extend healthspan. Exp Gerontol. 2021 Oct 15;154:111509. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2021.111509. Epub 2021 Aug 5. PMID: 34363927.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0531556521002916?via%3Dihub
Laukkanen T, Kunutsor S, Kauhanen J, Laukkanen JA. Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in middle-aged Finnish men. Age Ageing. 2017 Mar 1;46(2):245-249. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afw212. PMID: 27932366.
https://academic.oup.com/ageing/article/46/2/245/2654230?login=false
Cold Therapy
Buijze GA, Sierevelt IN, van der Heijden BC, Dijkgraaf MG, Frings-Dresen MH. The Effect of Cold Showering on Health and Work: A Randomized Controlled Trial. PLoS One. 2016 Sep 15;11(9):e0161749. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161749. Erratum in: PLoS One. 2018 Aug 2;13(8):e0201978. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201978. PMID: 27631616; PMCID: PMC5025014.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0161749
Tipton MJ, Collier N, Massey H, Corbett J, Harper M. Cold water immersion: kill or cure? Exp Physiol. 2017 Nov 1;102(11):1335-1355. doi: 10.1113/EP086283. Epub 2017 Sep 21. PMID: 28833689.
https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1113/EP086283
Lombardi G, Ziemann E, Banfi G. Whole-Body Cryotherapy in Athletes: From Therapy to Stimulation. An Updated Review of the Literature. Front Physiol. 2017 May 2;8:258. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00258. PMID: 28512432; PMCID: PMC5411446.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2017.00258/full
Chapter 11 Resources
