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Bacterial Gut Disease Connected to Engineered Crop Foods

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Updated: 22 June 2018,

Did you know that your digestive system is at risk of illness, disease and autoimmune disorders when your bacterial colonies are out of balance?

When the good bacteria are overridden by the bad ones, they override the good and begin to produce toxins and destroy tissue by feeding on it. The good bacteria is also known as pro-biotics. Pro-biotics are friendly bacteria that live in the gut and intestines and act to crowd out unfavorable pathogens, such as yeasts and toxic bacteria that may otherwise cause ill-health. Pro-biotics are naturally found in the body. You can also find them in foods and supplements.

Learn how to live the lifestyle you need, want and deserve now.
Good eats are okay for infrequent indulgences. But to do so daily will reap havoc on the intestinal gut system.

Our lower intestine requires at least 85% of friendly bacterial colonies to fight off micro-organisms like E. coli and salmonella. “Poor eating habits, chlorinated drinking water, stress, use of antibiotics, medical treatments can destroy the gastrointestinal micro flora and allow harmful bacteria to multiply. Thus, make the body susceptible to yeast and bacterial infection and other disorders including gas, cramping, or diarrhea (Gupta 2009).” Our colon can maintain health with a 15% balance of bad bacteria. However most people have these percentages reversed.

Within developing countries resistive bacteria to anti-biotics appears to be evolving through engineered foods. Big agriculture now produces most of our food crops and livestock feed from GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) seed. And those seeds are DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) engineered to produce crops that kill pests and thrive through a deluge of chemical spray that otherwise kill everything else around it.

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Today most commercial crop seeds are genetically engineered and farmed in a lab. Whereas the DNA has been modified to produce perfect fruit and vegetables with little sign of imperfection. And at some molecular and insidious level appear to be incompatible with our DNA and gut bacterial balance. The focus here is to examine how GMO foods may have an overall negative effect on bacterial gut and intestinal health. And how our bodies are less resistive to bad bacteria causing ill-health problems.

It is important to understand how GMO food and anti-biotic treatment relates to gut and intestinal health.

When our immune systems become weak, or ravaged with infection often patients use, or request anti-biotics for the wrong pathogenic problem. Or patients save them from a previous prescription to self-treat without doctor approval. In these cases the patient doesn’t understand how improper use of antibiotics may harm them.

For example, if you have a virus i.e., cold, flu, sore throat, bronchitis, and other sinus and ear infection, we often request anti-biotic medicine from a doctor. But treating a virus with an anti-biotic may cause more harm than good. Overuse of the drug is known to cause a resistance to them; thereby rendering an ineffective fight against infection.

Talk to your doctor about the differences between virus vs. bacterial illness and disease and proper drug treatment options. The point here, don’t take anti-biotics unless you need them.

Some of the foods you consume have modified DNA resistant bacterial organisms that appear to cause resistance to anti-biotic drugs. And when taking antibiotics unnecessarily increases bacterial bug resistance to the medication. And if you ever need a lifesaving anti-biotic, that super bug may be immune to it.

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Epidemiological medical evidence shows increasing evidence of resistance to antibiotic treatment in developed countries. The common cause denominator? Big-Ag within developed countries use GMO crop seeds sprayed with thousands of tons of insecticides and herbicides annually which are absorbed into the crops. Then sold within the marketplace. Virtually every processed food you encounter at your local supermarket that does not bear the 100% USDA “Certified Organic label is likely to contain at least one GE [Genetically Engineered] component. If it does not say “100% USDA Organic on the label, for example, if it says just organic or made with Organic, it is highly likely it contains GMO product” (Haug 2011).

GMO seeds produce large crop yields, including crops not fit for human consumption but used to feed livestock and 3rd world countries. The livestock grass, corn and grain feed are also chemically treated and absorbed into livestock through consumption and passed into humans that consume them. These GE foods appear to have an accumulative ill-health effect on the gut and intestinal health, aside from causing immune systems to become resistant to anti-biotics.

Also there is another potential risk associated with GMO crops. Whereas national crop seed shortages could occur if they fail to kill a highly resistive super bug or weed regardless of chemical application used. Nature has a funny way of surviving against all odds. This in genetics is known as survival of the fittest. And super bugs appear to be winning over mans ability to keep them at bay.

There are already signs this is occurring. There’s a lot of data that illustrates how it takes significantly more chemicals to kill the super weeds and bugs today because of crop seed DNA genetic manipulation where chemical application is used to boost seed resistance against evolving super bugs and weeds.

If something doesn’t change within our farming practices we may become dependent on other countries to feed us. Although this may sound far-fetched, it’s not outside the realm of possibility. How would this be possible? Let’s break down the GMO and anti-biotic resistive gene concept to better understand how a failure of crop yield could cause a disastrous global food bank shortage and health pandemic.

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A super weed is no match for a North Western nutria.

Aside from super bugs and weeds that become resistive to chemical sprays and genetically engineered seeds that fail to be chemically resistant; there is concern over global, or transatlantic plant manipulation and the antibiotic resistive cause and effect on human health. Antibiotic resistance genes are frequently used at several stages in the creation of genetically engineered plants. “Concern has been raised about the possibility that antibiotic resistance genes used to make transgenic plants [or Genetically Modified Plants] could be transferred to microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tracts of humans or other animals that eat them, and therefore might contribute to the already serious problem of antibiotic resistant pathogens” (CASA 2016). Most specifically on a national and/or global scale.

What is the relationship between GMO foods, bacterial balance in the body and illness and disease? Antibiotic resistance genes from GM foods are taken up by bacteria in the gut during digestion. “If bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes were ever to cause infection, it would be very difficult for doctors to treat. Until now, however, there is no real proof that the antibiotic resistance genes in GM plants pose a threat. Regardless, as a precautionary measure, some experts say that antibiotic resistance genes should not be used” (GMO-Compass 2006).

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There are reasons why organic farming plots are increasing within city urban and suburban areas.

Recall GMO seeds DNA has been changed to kill insects and survive a deluge of chemical sprays designed to kill weeds, molds and other bad microorganisms detrimental to healthy crop yields. Therefor it makes sense a GM-seed-to-crop food makes it possible for us to become host to a super bug, then un-treatable disease becomes more likely. Whereas a medical condition may not be any match against a flesh eating bacteria.

Many believe this has already occurred in the form of any number of bacterial organisms resistive to antibiotic treatment with the potential to cause life-threatening bloodstream infections, pneumonia and surgical site infections. MRSA appears to be such a bacteria. “During the past four decades, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, or MRSA, has evolved from a controllable nuisance into a serious public health concern. MRSA is largely a hospital-acquired infection, in fact, one of the most common. Recently, however, new strains have emerged in the community that are capable of causing severe infections in otherwise healthy people” (NIH 2016).

If you want to know more information on topic simply type into any search engine MRSA, GMO and intestinal bacteria and disease.

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To improve bacterial balance within the body the best bacteria to consume is high in flora from raw vegetables and fruits and now in supplemental pro-biotic formulation. “Some pro-biotic foods date back to ancient times, such as fermented foods and cultured milk products. Interest in pro-biotics in general has been growing; Americans’ spending on pro-biotic supplements, for example, nearly tripled from 1994 to 2003” (MedicineNet.com 2016).

Research continues to explore and find encouraging evidence from specific probiotic formulations that suppress unfriendly bacterial bugs and build healthy gut bug balance. For instance, In November 2005, a conference that was co-funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and convened by the American Society for Microbiology explored this topic.

“According to the conference report, some uses of pro-biotics for which there is encouraging evidence from studies show how specialized pro-biotic formulation alleviates the following symptoms: To treat diarrhea (this is the strongest area of evidence, especially for diarrhea from rotavirus. To prevent and treat infections of the urinary tract or female genital tract. To reduce recurrence of bladder cancer. To shorten how long an intestinal infection lasts that is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium difficile. Prevent and manage atopic dermatitis (eczema) in children, etc.” (MedicineNet.com 2016).

Other symptoms supplemental pro-biotics may help relieve: constipation, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBS), bloat, gas, stomach ulcers, tooth decay, periodontal disease, vaginal infections, skin and respiratory infections that children acquire in daycare, diverticulitis & colitis, etc. They can also ease chronic yeast infections and enhance immunity through improved digestive absorption function and thereby provide essential nutrients to the body. Improve lactose intolerance, alleviate flatulence, rejuvenate healthy radiant skin, nails and hair, etc.

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Organic flora provides everything needed to keep us healthy.

When a healthy balance of intestinal micro flora, or probiotics is maintained within the body the bad bacteria (or pathogens) are in proper balance and typically improve overall body health. Talk to your naturopath or doctor about the right probiotic formulation to alleviate ill-health symptoms.

Pro-biotics are also widely used to alleviate Candida [a yeast species] symptoms where formulations vary for a specific application. Candida syndrome occurs when the normal population of intestinal yeast suddenly explodes. Overgrowth of one species of yeast called Candida Albicans supposedly causes candida syndrome, which is characterized by chronic fatigue, weight gain, a white coating on the tongue and joint pain.

“Taking pro-biotics such as Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Casei GG and bifidobacteria creates a hostile environment for candida yeast, returning your gut yeast population to normal levels” (Adams 2013).

Research and medical data shows a complex and complicated connection relative to gut-intestinal health, anti-biotic resistance and pre-pro-biotic treatment [discussed below], engineered food crops and illness and disease. But there is no doubt there is a connection.

The following recommendations should help to provide a healthy bacterial balance within the gut and intestines as a preventative health strategy to alleviate what ails you. It is recommended you consult with your physician prior to applying any of the “How to’s” listed below.

How to Improve Good Bacterial Gut and Intestine Health

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No doubt about it “Pickles” is going to get some good organic eats.

1. Increase flori balance through pro-biotic supplementation to include a daily vitamin and mineral (V/M). Especially if diet alone can’t be radically changed to a healthier one. In this way you’ll ensure anti-oxidant benefits while maintaining a healthy balance of pro-biotics to decrease and manage bad bacteria colonies. The best anti-biotic flori products seem to be in capsules, tablets, or powders.

These three supplements: A daily V/M, antioxidants and pro-biotic work in harmony to provide improved nutrient absorption, immune system function and intestinal gut health. You’ll then begin to look and feel better immediately once started. Of course ask your physician which products they’d recommend is right for you.

2. Ask your doctor about a pre-biotic which is different than a pro-biotic. Choosing or guessing which pro-biotic may be right may not be the 100% solution to alleviate what ails you. That is “the pre-biotic is a specialized plant fiber that beneficially nourishes the good bacteria already in the large bowel or colon. While pro-biotics introduce good bacteria into the gut, pre-biotics act as a fertilizer for the good bacteria that’s already there. They help your good bacteria grow, improving the good-to-bad bacteria ratio. This ratio has been shown to have a direct correlation to your health and overall well-being, from your stomach to your brain” (Prebiotin 2016).

3. If your drinking water is heavily chlorinated, filter it or buy bottled water. Chlorine kills good bacteria.

4. Improve your eating habits to receive optimum nutrients and consume less processed foods. Avoid “over-consumption of yeast-feeding foods such as simple carbohydrates, sugars, peanuts, and alcohol and milk products can encourage Candida growth” (Adams 2009).

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Walk and talk with company you enjoy.

5. Reduce daily stress through yoga, meditation and low aerobics exercise [walk, bike, low intensity aerobics dance, etc.].

6. Avoid, or lesson dependency of antibiotics as medical treatment when possible or not needed when you have a virus. Antibiotics not only kill the bad bugs, they also take a heavy toll on the good ones. Ask your doctor for natural alternative pre-probiotic supplements and applicable medications.

7. Purchase 100% USDA organic foods when possible. Read labels and avoid purchasing foods you suspect contain GMO products.

8. Consume more yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh, soy beverages, and garlic.

References,

Adams, Lawrence. “Best Probiotics for Treating Candida.” LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 29 Aug. 2013. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

Adams, Mike. “Using Probiotics to Prevent or Eliminate Candida.” Natural News. The Natural News Network, 28 Oct. 2009. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

CASA (Center for Advising Student Achievement. “Transgenic Crops: An Introduction and Resource Guide.” Transgenic Crops: An Introduction and Resource Guide. Health Professions Advising Colorado State University, n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

GMO Compass. “Antibiotic Resistance Genes: A Threat?” Antibiotic Resistance Genes: A Threat? GMO Compass, 12 Dec. 2006. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

Gupta, Rupali. “Probiotics-small Bacteria Huge Health Benefits.” Healthy Living. Healthy Living, 30 July 2009. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

Haug, Catherine. “How GMOs Destroy Life, Soil and Your Gut Probiotics.” Essential Stuff Blog. The Essential List, 11 Dec. 2011. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

MedicineNet.com. “Probiotics.” MedicineNet. MedicineNet, Inc., n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

NIH. “Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA).” National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. NIH, 22 June 2015. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

Prebiotin. “What Is a Prebiotic vs Probiotic | Prebiotics and Probiotics.” Prebiotin. Jackson GI Medical, n.d. Web. 23 Mar. 2016.

Marc T. Woodard, MBA, BS Exercise Science, ARNG, CPT, RET. 2016 Copyright. All rights reserved, Mirror Athlete Inc., www.mirrorathlete.org, Sign up for your Free eNewsletter.

 

Identify and Treat Trigger Cause of Skin and Scalp Rash

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Updated, Marc Woodard 27 April 20

If you suffer from a rash that also produces flaky, or dry oily, or thicken skin you may have been diagnosed by a dermatologist with seborrhea, eczema or psoriasis. Many skin conditions occur as a result of an overactive immune system where internal or external environment toxin and allergen triggers cause the inflamed and irritated skin condition. Learn how to determine the cause and best treatment course of various skin and scalp irritant sources.

Skin inflammation (dermatitis) is often misdiagnosed as Seborrhea Dermatitis caused from toxicity issues within the body. Seborrhea is commonly called dandruff and the most common form of dermatitis in adults.

Seborrhea can present itself in the form of thick oily or dry skin on the scalp, armpits, face, or red patches under the breasts. Even though the skin appears dry, it is also oily at the same time. Most moisturizing creams on the market will only make the dry scales redder and more irritable, usually only smoothing out the scaly disorder.

“Treatment options include application of selenium sulfide, pyrithione zinc or ketoconazole-containing shampoos, topical ketoconazole cream or terbinafine solution, topical sodium sulfacetamide and topical corticosteroids. ‘Hygiene issues play a key role in controlling seborrheic dermatitis. Frequent cleansing with soap removes oils from affected areas and improves seborrhea. Patients should be counseled that good hygiene must be a lifelong commitment. Outdoor recreation, especially during summer, will also improve seborrhea, although caution should be taken to avoid sun damage” (Johnson and Nunley 2000).

Dandruff is a form of seborrhea dermatitis that results from neither too little moisture, nor too much oil. The cause of this type of skin dermatitis is unknown. The positive news on this, dermatologists do have medication for this condition.  Medicated shampoos and topical creams are prescribed at first to avoid health risk typically associated with orals. However in severe skin symptom cases, the benefits out weight the risks of medication use.

Like seborrhea; eczema and psoriasis the exact cause of disease is unknown. However a common denominator appears to trigger each surface rash and inflammation and skin condition event. And appears to be the result of an overactive response of the immune system. Whereas a genetic predisposition to sensitivities of allergen or chemical toxin consumed, absorbed or inhaled appear to trigger these skin conditions.

“The most common type of eczema is known as atopic dermatitis, or atopic eczema. Atopic refers to a group of diseases with an often inherited tendency to develop other allergic conditions, such as asthma and hay fever.”  The itching can begin before the rash appears. Then the skin can become a thickened, dry crusted scaly layer. These skin area effected “most commonly appears on the face, back of the knees, wrists, hands, or feet. It may also affect other areas as well, including the scalp” (WebMD 2016).

Atopic Dermatitis is a common form of eczema. Atopic means having a predisposition and reaction to irritants or allergens upon contact which causes a hypersensitive skin condition, or inflammation to the skin. “The skin gets red, itchy, and weepy because it touches something that the immune system knows is foreign, like poison ivy. ‘This condition results as a unique combination of three factors: first, environmental influences, such as irritants and potential allergens; second, your immune system and, in particular, your immune system’s sensitivity to irritants in the environment; and, third, your family history of atopic dermatitis” (Healthgrades Editorial Staff 2014).

Tips to avoid eczema contact dermatitis: Avoid sweating and overheating, wearing of wooly scratchy clothes and cover up when working in the yard or out in the woods. Then change clothes and remove vegetative irritant oils by washing clothes. Moisturize effected skin often and stay dry.

Psoriasis on the other hand can look a lot like a chronic case of contact dermatitis or eczema. However it is different in that the hard skin plaques begin forming under the skin.

Plaque Psoriasis Source, diseasespictures.com

“When your body has plaque psoriasis, your immune system is overactive, triggering skin inflammation and causing skin cells to be produced faster than normal. New skin cells are pushed to the skin’s surface in 3 to 4 days instead of the usual 28 to 30. ‘But your body can’t shed the new skin cells at that fast of a rate. So while new skin cells are being produced, the old, dead skin cells pile up on top of each other. ‘As more and more new skin cells are produced rapidly, the old skin cells are pushed to the surface, forming the thick, red, itchy, flaky patches known as plaques” (AbbVie 2015).

Since dermatitis acute and chronic conditions have a connection to weaken immune system… through identification and avoidance of toxin or allergen triggers, skin inflammation and irritation may abate, or go away completely. To help assist in determining what might be the cause of exasperating a dermatitis disease, I’ve provided a few former client examples who identified triggers that caused a dermatitis reaction. And after identification and avoidance of the irritant trigger the symptoms were greatly alleviated or disappeared.

For example, I had a client that worked within the construction industry. He had what appeared to be dry flaky and itchy skin on various parts of his body. His doctor first diagnosed him with heat rash, than hives and at one point thought shingles before referring to a dermatologist. The treatment prescribed prior to seeing the dermatologist was Benadryl and anti-itch cream.

What’s in your Laundry Room? Everyday laundry products could be the cause of your contact dermatitis.

After further diagnosis from a medical specialist the identified irritant trigger was a reaction to heavy detergents used to wash his clothes. That allergic reaction became more severe while perspiring throughout the day. The anti-itch medications kept the itching at bay but had an unwanted drowsy-side effect. The lesson learned, seek a referral to a dermatologist if your primary care physician repeatedly prescribes medications that don’t resolve inflamed skin irritation, or symptoms worsen, or won’t go away.

Another past client had a bad skin reaction to something consumed. During medical history consultation and while developing a customized fitness program, the client talked about a skin rash that mostly manifested on her face. I did noticed her face would get blotchy with red spots then dry up and flake on certain days. After doing a nutrition assessment I identified a trigger toxin. She was allergic to a brand of red wine with high sulfites in it.

Although she drank infrequently it had more to do with the quality of the wine than how much she drank. The rash condition on her face was observed Monday through Wednesday after having drinks with friends over the weekend. Then the rash dissipated Thursday and Friday. Her doctor had prescribed hydrocortisone and Benadryl to alleviate the symptoms. After she changed to a more organic wine selection the skin condition never reappeared.

“Sulfites are preservatives used in some drinks, foods and occasionally medication. Sulfites can cause allergy like reactions (intolerances), most commonly asthma symptoms in those with underlying asthma, sometimes allergic rhinitis (hay fever) like reactions, occasionally urticaria (hives) and very rarely, anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction). Wheezing is the most common reaction. ‘Most people with sulfite sensitivity do not have positive allergy tests and there is currently no reliable blood or skin allergy test to test for sulfite intolerances. ‘At times, it may be important to undertake a supervised food challenge with sulfites under medical supervision to confirm or exclude sensitivity (ASCIA 2014).”

Another client had a skin reaction to a particular clothing material. Most don’t know clothing and bedding materials are a number one contributor of contact dermatitis.  “Read clothing labels and try to avoid synthetic materials such as Rayon, Nylon, Polyester, Acrylic, Acetate or Triacetate as much as possible. Also avoid no-iron, wrinkle free and preshrunk items. Even used clothing purchased from thrift stores such as Goodwill may be sprayed with some skanky chemical before they’re put up for sale. Wash and dry them at least once. Stay away from dry cleaners that use perchloroethylene. There are some that don’t” (Tags 2012).

Toxins, allergens and bacteria may also be the cause of unhealthy hair and nail conditions. If you are concerned about these things also consider the nutrients your body may be lacking. Try taking a daily vitamin mineral to boost immune system.

What irritant trigger might your immune system be overacting to? The first thing you might consider before making medical referral decisions and probably the most important step is to talk to your mother, father, siblings and cousins. Why?

Chances are they’ve likely dealt with a similar skin condition and know what their allergic or sensitive too.

Genetics can almost always predict relative immune sensitivity and preventative treatment solutions. Therefor similar lifestyle changes recommended by family and relatives may provide relief and abate an inflamed skin condition. There are many cases in which once lifestyle habits or avoidance of irritant triggers are avoided, unhealthy skin conditions including hair and nails clear up. However this is not always the case dependent upon genetic makeup and disease. Chronic cases will require referral to medical specialists to receive specialized treatment that may persist throughout a lifetime but can be managed through medical intervention.

If you are having severe and chronic skin irritant symptoms request a referral to a dermatologist immediately to diagnose and treat the symptoms. Thereafter start looking at diet and environment to determine what might exasperate inflammation, itching or cause skin condition to worsen.

Now imagine all the environmental toxin possibilities of things that could cause a skin irritant and inflammation and bad skin condition. Then begin the process of removing suspected irritant allergens or toxins from your environment. Try removing hygiene, laundry, home cleaning, and clothing fabric and highly processed food products with toxic chemicals and replace them. Go as organic and whole food as possible for a period of time and then see if there is a difference in symptoms.

Keep in mind, like sulfite triggers in wine, the foods you consume have hyper-palatable food chemical trigger allergens. For example, High Fructose Corn Syrup, MSG (Monosodium Glutamate], Aspartame, partially hydrogenated oils, etc., (Sherpa 2010). Many food chemicals like these are also known to cause diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Make a list of consumables you suspect your body may be allergic to with the help of medical advisement. Then through time, you may be able to isolate and remove what triggers inflammatory skin, poor hair and nail condition.

You can also request a doctor perform a skin allergy test to determine what you’re allergic to. The doctor may order allergy skin tests if you have: hay fever, hives and skin rashes, etc. “The skin prick test may also be used to diagnose food allergies. Intradermal tests are not used to test for food allergies because of high false-positive results and the danger of causing a severe allergic reaction” (NIH 2016).

By living a healthy lifestyle that includes clean green home and hygiene products and balanced whole foods you provide a healthier environment for the immune system. These changes will decrease the toxic load on the body which bodes well for healthy skin, hair and nails. And of course this allows anyone to live life to the fullest while comfortable within their own skin.

Marc T. Woodard, MBA, BS Exercise Science, ARNG, CPT, RET. 2016 Copyright. All rights reserved, Mirror Athlete Inc., www.mirrorathlete.org, Sign up for your free monthly newsletter.

References

AbbVie. “What Is Psoriasis.” What Is Psoriasis? ABBVIE INC., 2015. Web. 24 June 2016.

ASCIA. “Sulfite Sensitivity.” Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), 2014. Web. 24 June 2016.

Healthgrades Editorial Staff. “Dermatitis – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments – Causes.” Dermatitis – Symptoms, Causes, Treatments – Causes. Healthgrades Operating Company, Inc., 26 June 2014. Web. 24 June 2016.

Johnson, Betty Anne, M.D., PH.D, and Julia R. Nunley, M.D. “Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis.” American Family Physician. American Academy of Family Physicians, 1 May 2000. Web. 24 June 2016.

NIH. “Allergy Testing – Skin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.” U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health, 7 June 2016. Web. 24 June 2016.

Sherpa, Coupon. “Top 15 Chemical Additives in Your Food.” Top 15 Chemical Additives in Your Food. Phys.org, 19 Jan. 2010. Web. 24 June 2016.

Tags, Louis. “Beware of Hidden Toxin Sources in New Clothes – Always Wash Them before Wearing.” NaturalNews. The Natural News Network, 1 Sept. 2012. Web. 24 June 2016.

WebMD. “Eczema and Your Skin | Eczema Types, Symptoms, Causes, and More.” WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 24 June 2016