Natural Health News

Arthritis doesn’t have to define your days. If you’re living with stiff, painful joints, there’s hope beyond prescriptions and over-the-counter creams. You can take charge of your wellness starting today with tools from nature that work alongside your regular care. Essential oils, concentrated plant extracts with powerful anti-inflammatory properties, offer welcome relief. In just a few weeks, you could start feeling better naturally. Here’s how to make essential oils part of your daily routine and support your joints the holistic way. Decode the Pain to Take Back Control About 53.2 million Americans live with arthritis.1 That means you’re not alone if you’re dealing with joint pain, stiffness or swelling. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both cause discomfort, but in different ways. • Osteoarthritis is like the tread wearing off your tires — Over time, the cushioning between your joints — called cartilage — breaks down. This leads to bones rubbing together, which causes pain and stiffness. • Rheumatoid arthritis is different — It’s an autoimmune condition, which means your immune system mistakenly attacks your own joints. It causes swelling, fatigue and joint damage if left untreated. • A villain in both types is inflammation — Your body uses inflammation to heal, like when you get a cut. But with arthritis, it becomes chronic — like a fire alarm that won’t stop ringing. This ongoing inflammation leads to more damage and more pain. That’s where essential oils come in. Many contain natural compounds that reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They don’t replace medical treatments, but they help you feel better and support your overall joint health. Nature’s Toolkit to Calm Inflammation and Soothe Pain You have options when it comes to natural support. Here are seven essential oils that help ease arthritis symptoms:2 1. Ginger — The natural painkiller — Ginger oil works like nature’s ibuprofen. In a study from the University of Miami, people with knee arthritis who used ginger extract reported significantly less pain and stiffness.3 Ginger helps block the same pain pathways that common pain relievers target — but without the harsh side effects. 2. Lavender — Relax and release tension — Lavender oil isn’t just for stress. It helps soothe joint pain and relax your muscles. Studies show that people with arthritis who received lavender aromatherapy massages felt better and moved more easily.4 Bonus: It helps ease anxiety and improve sleep, which often suffer when you’re in pain. 3. Frankincense — Ancient relief with modern science — Used for thousands of years, frankincense oil helps slow joint damage. Research suggests it blocks certain chemicals that break down cartilage and trigger swelling.5 Think of it as a shield for your joints. 4. Peppermint — Cooling comfort on contact — That icy-hot feeling you get from peppermint? That’s menthol at work. It creates a cooling sensation that numbs pain. Peppermint oil often works even better when blended with other oils like lavender or rosemary. 5. Turmeric — Spice that fights inflammation — Turmeric oil contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory. One review found it works as well as over-the-counter medications for arthritis relief.6 While most studies use turmeric extract, early research on the oil looks promising. 6. Eucalyptus — Breathe in the relief — Eucalyptus oil has a fresh scent and strong anti-inflammatory properties. A study found that people with rheumatoid arthritis had less pain and improved quality of life after inhaling eucalyptus oil.7 7. Rosemary — Flow and function — Rosemary oil may help numb nerves and improve blood flow. Better circulation means more nutrients reach your joints, which helps with healing and comfort. Your Step-by-Step Guide to Natural Pain Relief Using essential oils the right way makes all the difference. Here’s how to start safely: • Step 1 — Dilute your oils — Essential oils are super concentrated, so don’t use them straight from the bottle. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil, like coconut oil. You need a natural base to blend it all safely. • Step 2 — Choose your application — There are a few ways to use essential oils for arthritis: ◦Massage — Rub diluted oils directly onto sore joints. ◦Aromatherapy — Inhale oils using a diffuser or steam. ◦Bath — Add a few drops to Epsom salts for a warm, soothing soak. • Step 3 — Use regularly for best results — Try applying essential oils twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed. Consistency matters. Some people experience relief relatively quickly, within a few days to a week of consistent use, especially with topical application for localized pain. This initial relief could be due to the anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving properties of certain oils. For more significant and lasting relief, it might take several weeks of consistent and proper use. • Step 4 — Do a patch test — Before using a new oil, test it on a small area of skin. Wait 24 hours to make sure there’s no redness or irritation.8 Small Steps, Lasting Relief — One Week at a Time Follow this four-week plan to build a natural pain relief routine for arthritis using essential oils: • Week 1 — Prep and patch test ◦Pick two to three oils to try, such as ginger, lavender and frankincense. ◦Buy organic, therapeutic-grade products. ◦Test them on your skin and practice mixing with carrier oils. • Week 2 — Start daily massage and inhalation ◦Apply your oils in the morning and evening. ◦Use a diffuser during rest or meditation time. ◦Keep a daily log — Track your stiffness, pain levels and mobility. • Week 3 — Add a soothing bath or compress ◦Add lavender or peppermint oil to your bath. ◦Try a warm compress with diluted oil on sore joints. ◦Alternate hot and cold packs for added relief. • Week 4 — Review and adjust ◦Look back at your journal. What’s improving? ◦Change up your oils or add a third application. ◦Celebrate improvements — even small ones like waking up with less stiffness. Combine Oils for More Powerful Results Some oils work better together. Here are blends that may offer more relief: • Lavender-clary sage-marjoram — This mix helps reduce both pain and stress. Use it at night to relax your body and mind. • Ginger-turmeric-frankincense — This trio goes deep on inflammation. Use during flare-ups or days with extra stiffness. • Eucalyptus-rosemary — This daytime blend helps with swelling and improves blood flow. Remember, everyone’s arthritis is different, so customize your essential oils to meet your needs. Some people feel sharp, stabbing pain. Others feel dull, aching joints. Pick oils that match your main issues: • Sharp pain — Try peppermint or tea tree. • Aching or stiffness — Try rose, bergamot or myrrh. You don’t need to change your whole life to start feeling better. Just add a few drops of nature into your routine. Essential oils offer a safe, supportive way to manage arthritis symptoms. Start with one or two oils, use them regularly and watch what changes. Track your results. Adjust what’s working and what’s not. You’re not just treating symptoms — you’re taking back control of your health, one drop at a time. Ready to get started? Grab your favorite oils and take that first step today. FAQs About Essential Oils for Arthritis Q: What are the best essential oils for arthritis? A: Top oils include ginger, lavender, frankincense, turmeric, eucalyptus, peppermint and rosemary. These oils have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help ease discomfort and support joint function. Q: How long does it take to see results? A: Many users feel less pain and stiffness after two to four weeks of daily use. However, everyone is different, so keep track of your progress and adjust as needed for your body. Q: Can essential oils reduce inflammation? A: Yes, many essential oils like turmeric, frankincense and ginger contain compounds that have been shown in studies to reduce inflammation markers. These oils help calm your body’s inflammatory response and ease chronic swelling in joints. Q: What’s the safest way to use essential oils? A: Dilute with a carrier oil, do a patch test, and apply topically or use in aromatherapy. Avoid applying undiluted oils directly to your skin and don’t ingest them unless directed by a trained professional. Q: Are there side effects of essential oils? A: Some people have skin reactions or allergies. That’s why a patch test is important. If you notice irritation or any unusual symptoms, stop using the oil and consult your health care provider.

You might think that if your doctor says your vitamin B12 levels are “normal,” your brain is safe and sound. But what if even “normal” levels could be hiding sneaky problems with your thinking or memory? New research is shaking things up, showing that what’s “normal” might not be enough.1 Vitamin B12 is a nutrient your body needs to keep your blood pumping and your brain sharp. You get it from foods like grass fed meat, eggs, and dairy, and it’s like a power-up for your nerves and cells. As you age, your brain leans on B12 to stay fast and clear. However, a recent study with healthy older adults found that even if your B12 isn’t super low, it could still affect how well your brain works.2 Let’s dig into what this study uncovered, how B12 keeps your brain buzzing and simple steps to protect your mind as you get older. Why Vitamin B12 Is Your Brain’s Best Friend Vitamin B12 is a big deal for your brain health. It’s like a key that unlocks energy in your body. It helps your cells build DNA — think of DNA as your body’s instruction book — and it wraps your nerves in a protective layer, kind of like insulation on electrical wires. This keeps your brain signals moving fast and smooth. But what happens if you don’t have enough B12? It’s like those wires getting frayed — signals slow down, and you might feel it in your hands, legs or even your memory. • What does vitamin B12 do for your brain? You need B12 to keep your nerves healthy and your brain sharp. It builds that protective coating, called myelin, around your nerves. This coating makes sure signals zip from one part of your brain to another without a hitch. Without enough B12, that coating wears thin, and your brain doesn’t work as well as it should. • What happens when your B12 is low? If your B12 dips, your nerves and brain feel the pinch. You might notice tingling in your hands or feet, feel weaker than usual or struggle to remember things. It’s like a phone with a bad signal — messages don’t get through clearly. Low B12 even messes with your mood, leaving you feeling down or jittery. The tricky part? These changes sneak up on you slowly. • Is “normal” B12 really enough? Doctors usually say your B12 is “normal” if it’s above 148 pmol/L — a number they measure in your blood. This cutoff is based on what’s average for most people, not necessarily what keeps your brain at its best. It’s like saying your car’s OK as long as it starts — but is it running smoothly? For older adults, this study, published in Annals of Neurology, hints that “normal” doesn’t cut it for top-notch brain health.3 • Should you rethink “normal”? Here’s the big question: What if “normal” B12 levels aren’t enough as you age? Even if your levels aren’t dangerously low, they might not fully shield your brain from slowing down or wearing out. Think of it like having just enough gas to limp to the next station — you’ll get there, but it’s not the smoothest ride. What Scientists Discovered About B12 and Your Brain Scientists studied 231 healthy older adults, averaging 71 years old, to see how B12 affects the brain. These weren’t people with obvious B12 troubles — their average level was 414.8 pmol/L, well above the “low” mark. But the researchers used some tricks to peek at their brain health. They tested how fast signals travel from the eyes to the brain, how quick these adults were at thinking tasks and used MRI scans to check inside their heads. • What did they find? Lower B12 levels — even if still “normal” — were linked to: ◦ Slower brain signals, like a lagging internet connection. ◦ Slower thinking, especially as you get older. ◦ More white spots on brain scans, showing possible damage or aging. Those spots are like scuff marks on your brain’s wiring, showing wear and tear. • What’s the deal with active vs. inactive B12? B12 has two faces. The “active” form is like a worker fixing your nerves, keeping your brain sharp. The “inactive” form is like that worker taking a nap — it’s there but not helping. The study showed that too much inactive B12 might actually signal trouble, even if your total B12 looks fine. How to Keep Your Brain Happy with Vitamin B12 So, what does this mean for you? If you’ve had a blood test, you might see a B12 number like 300 or 400 pmol/L. That’s above the “low” line, but this study suggests it’s not enough to keep your brain in peak shape as you age. You might feel a bit foggy, take longer to recall names or notice your thoughts aren’t as quick. These could be signs your brain needs more B12. • What signs should you watch for? Your brain might nudge you if your B12’s lagging. Look out for: ◦ Feeling foggy or slow, like your thoughts are stuck in mud. ◦ Struggling to remember names or little details. ◦ Tingling in your hands or feet. ◦ Mood swings, like feeling blue or edgy. These clues are often quiet, so pay attention, as they could mean your brain needs a B12 boost. Not sure where you stand? Talk to your doctor — they can check your levels. • How do you read your B12 number? Your B12 level shows up as a number like 300 pmol/L on a blood test. Above 148 is “normal,” but this study hints that for brain health, you need more, especially as you age. How Can You Boost Your B12? Here are simple tips to optimize your B12: 1. Eat B12-rich foods like grass fed meat, eggs and dairy. 2. Consider supplements — If you’re vegan or your body doesn’t absorb B12 well, a supplement could be your best bet. Oral or intramuscular vitamin B12 supplements help restore adequate levels, depending on the severity of the deficiency.4 Oral supplementation is generally effective for mild to moderate deficiency, with dosages ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 micrograms daily. Intramuscular injections, typically administered monthly, are more suitable for patients with severe deficiency or those with malabsorption issues. 3. Check your levels — Ask your doctor for a test, especially if you’re over 50 or feel off. Routine blood tests every six to 12 months allow for early intervention to maintain B12 levels. 4. Check your medications — Certain medications, like metformin, are linked to vitamin B12 deficiency. Patients on long-term metformin therapy should discuss supplementation options with their health care providers to determine the best approach based on individual needs and risk factors. Wrapping It Up You’ve seen how vitamin B12 is a superstar for your brain. Even “normal” levels aren’t enough to keep your mind sharp as you age. This study of older adults showed that lower B12 — even if it’s not super low — slows your thinking and leaves wear marks on your brain. Plus, too much “inactive” B12 spells trouble. Your brain deserves better than the bare minimum. By eating B12-rich foods or taking a supplement, you help keep it humming. So, check your B12 — grab some eggs or grass fed meat, think about a supplement if needed and talk to your doctor if you’re wondering where your levels stand. Your brain’s your control center; give it the boost it craves. FAQs — Your B12 Questions Answered Q: What are the best foods for B12? A: Grass fed meat, eggs and dairy. If you’re vegan, consider supplementation. Q: How do I know if my B12 is too low? A: You might feel tired, foggy or tingly in your hands or feet. A blood test is the sure way to find out. Pay attention to subtle symptoms, as they can indicate an early stage of deficiency. Q: Can I get too much B12? A: It’s usually safe — your body flushes out extra. But super high levels hint at other issues, so ask your doctor. Q: Should I take a B12 supplement? A: If you eat B12-rich foods, you might not need one. But if you’re vegan, older or taking medications like metformin, a supplement helps keep your brain happy. Consult with a health care professional to determine the appropriate dosage and form of B12 supplementation for your individual needs. Q: How does B12 help my brain? A: It protects your nerves and speeds up brain signals. Low B12 slows you down and muddles your memory. Optimal B12 levels are important for helping your brain stay sharp. Test Your Knowledge with Today’s Quiz! Take today’s quiz to see how much you’ve learned from yesterday’s Mercola.com article. How might puberty blockers impact your child’s long-term health? They support normal growth and have no lasting effects They can harm physical and psychological health Puberty blockers interfere with natural developmental processes, which can lead to long-term physical issues (like bone density problems) and psychological challenges. Understanding these risks helps you weigh the pros and cons. Learn more. They only affect psychological health, not physical development They enhance physical development with minimal risks

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive condition that targets the central nervous system, especially the brain and spinal cord. Scientists are not entirely sure what triggers this response, but both genetic and environmental factors appear to play a role.1 One consistent finding is the link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of developing MS.2 Interest in vitamin D has surged, not only for its role in immune regulation but also for its ability to protect nerve cells directly. Earlier trials testing vitamin D supplements in MS patients failed to show consistent benefits, often due to small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, or patients already taking other medications. To address these gaps, researchers from France conducted a randomized clinical trial to find out whether high-dose vitamin D alone could slow the early development of MS. It was the first study to show that targeted supplementation at this stage delays the transition from early warning signs to full-blown disease.3 Understanding Multiple Sclerosis MS is considered an autoimmune condition, meaning the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues instead of protecting them. The key target of this attack is myelin, a fatty substance that wraps around nerve fibers and allows electrical signals to travel smoothly from the brain to the rest of your body.4 • Loss of myelin disrupts communication and leaves lasting damage — When myelin is damaged, the underlying nerves become exposed and vulnerable, leading to a breakdown in communication between the brain and muscles, organs, or other systems. This process disrupts normal function and leaves behind scar tissue, known as lesions, which are seen on MRI scans.5 • Symptoms vary widely and depend on where nerve damage occurs — The symptoms of MS vary widely from person to person depending on where the damage occurs in the nervous system. Some people experience numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness, while others develop vision problems, difficulty walking, or cognitive issues like memory loss or brain fog.6 • Relapses and remissions often define early MS — Symptoms often appear in flare-ups, known as relapses, followed by periods of recovery, but over time, the damage becomes more constant and harder to reverse. In more advanced stages, MS leads to significant disability, making early detection and treatment essential.7 • Early MS goes unnoticed until damage is already underway — Another hallmark of MS is that it often begins silently, with damage accumulating in the nervous system before symptoms are noticeable. This early phase is sometimes called clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), and it can be the first sign that a person is on the path to developing MS.8 About 85% of people with CIS eventually go on to develop MS.9 • Current treatments suppress immune activity but don’t repair damage — These include disease-modifying drugs that suppress or regulate immune activity, which reduce relapse frequency and slow the development of new lesions. However, many of these medications come with serious side effects, such as increased risk of infections or liver damage. They also do little to repair existing damage or protect nerves from future injury, highlighting the need for therapies that go beyond immune suppression.10,11 New Insights Into Vitamin D’s Role Against Early-Stage MS Published in JAMA in March 2025,12 the featured study focused on people diagnosed with CIS. Because lesions are already detected on brain scans at this stage, CIS offers a crucial window of opportunity to intervene and slow disease progression before it becomes full-blown MS. • Very high doses of vitamin D were used — Half of the participants received 100,000 IU of vitamin D, specifically cholecalciferol or vitamin D3, every two weeks for two years, while the other half received a placebo on the same schedule. This dose is roughly 20 times higher than what you’d find in an average over-the-counter supplement, given under close medical supervision to monitor safety and effectiveness. • Vitamin D reduced relapse and disease activity on MRI scans — The main goal of the study was to see whether participants developed any new symptoms or signs of disease activity on MRI scans during the 24-month period. In the vitamin D group, 60.3% experienced either a relapse or new lesions on MRI, compared to 74.1% in the placebo group. • Vitamin D doubled the time before new disease activity appeared — Even more telling, those on vitamin D went an average of 432 days before showing disease activity. Meanwhile, those on placebo showed activity after just 224 days, revealing a far quicker disease progression. • MRI scans show vitamin D reduced inflammation and nerve damage — Imaging results offered additional support for vitamin D’s impact on slowing disease progression. Only 46.2% of people in the vitamin D group developed new lesions, compared to 59.2% in the placebo group. When it came to more aggressive disease activity, just 18.6% of those on vitamin D showed these signs, versus 34% in the placebo group. These differences show that vitamin D not only delayed the symptoms, but it also reduced inflammation and nerve damage that could be seen on brain scans. • High-dose vitamin D was safe and well tolerated — Importantly, the treatment appeared safe even at high doses. Although there were more severe adverse events in the vitamin D group compared to the placebo group, none of these were linked to the supplement itself. In other words, the events were unrelated to the high-dose vitamin D and were likely due to other causes. Overall, the study offers strong evidence that early intervention with high-dose vitamin D slows the transition from CIS to MS. These findings are especially important for people who don’t yet qualify for MS drug treatment or who lack access to expensive medications. How Does Vitamin D Exert Neuroprotective Actions? A 2023 analysis published in the journal Nutrients13 provided further insights into how vitamin D’s active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, interacts with specific brain and immune cells to repair myelin, reduce inflammation, and prevent cell death. Their findings suggest that vitamin D supports nervous system resilience in ways that go far beyond its basic immune-calming effects. • Vitamin D stimulates the cells that rebuild myelin — One of vitamin D’s most important roles in MS is its ability to stimulate the growth of oligodendrocytes, the cells that produce myelin. In laboratory and animal studies, vitamin D boosted the number of neural stem cells and increased their conversion into myelin-producing cells. In rats with damaged myelin, treatment with vitamin D3 raised the number of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells at the injury site and increased levels of key myelin proteins like MBP (myelin basic protein) and PLP (proteolipid protein). This effect was seen in toxin-based injury models as well as in autoimmune MS-like models, which more closely mimic the human disease process. • It boosts neurotrophins that drive brain repair and cell survival — Neurotrophins are specialized proteins that help brain cells grow, survive, and repair themselves. These molecules are known to enhance both neurogenesis (new neuron formation) and oligodendrogenesis (new myelin cell formation). In essence, vitamin D creates a more nurturing environment for repair by promoting the production of molecules that heal damaged brain tissue. • Vitamin D reprograms microglia from destroyers to healers — Another key finding involves vitamin D’s influence on microglia, the immune cells that patrol the brain. In MS, microglia often switch into a destructive state (called the M1 phenotype) that releases inflammatory signals and toxins. Vitamin D shifts these cells away from that pro-inflammatory state and toward a healing one (the M2 phenotype), which helps clear debris and supports regeneration. Studies showed that vitamin D reduced markers of inflammation like TNF-α and IL-6 while boosting anti-inflammatory signals like IL-10 and TGF-β1, both of which help protect nerve cells and support remyelination. • It calms astrocytes and helps protect the blood-brain barrier — Astrocytes, another type of brain cell involved in MS, also respond positively to vitamin D. When brain tissue becomes inflamed, astrocytes multiply and contribute to scarring and further damage. Vitamin D helps dial down this response, decreasing the number of reactive astrocytes and reducing their production of harmful molecules like nitric oxide and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This shift reduces direct damage to neurons and stabilizes the blood-brain barrier, the brain’s defense system that is often compromised early in MS. • Vitamin D strengthens the brain’s first line of defense — The review also highlighted vitamin D’s ability to reinforce the blood-brain barrier itself. The active form of the vitamin increased the expression of tight junction proteins that seal the spaces between endothelial cells and block harmful substances from entering the brain. It also reduces the production of cell adhesion molecules that would normally allow immune cells to sneak into the brain. In mouse models of MS, vitamin D treatment led to fewer immune cells entering the central nervous system, lower rates of demyelination, and reduced oxidative stress. • It helps defend brain cells from oxidative stress — In both animal and cell studies, vitamin D lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. It also increased the expression of Nrf2, a master regulator of your body’s internal antioxidant defenses. These changes reduce cellular wear and tear and create a biochemical environment that supports healing instead of degeneration. Taken together, the evidence supports vitamin D’s emerging role as a powerful neuroprotective agent in MS. Vitamin D supports far more than just neurological health — it also offers wide-ranging benefits to your body. Learn more in “2024 International Virtual Vitamin D Forum Unlocks the Power of Vitamin D.” Strategies to Optimize Your Vitamin D Levels Vitamin D deficiency has been consistently linked to a higher risk of developing MS, making it an essential nutrient for nervous system protection. Keeping your vitamin D levels in the optimal range help reduce your risk of this disease or delay early signs of its activity. Here are strategies I recommend to optimize your vitamin D level: 1. Sensible sun exposure is the ideal way to optimize vitamin D — Research shows that people who live closer to the equator and are exposed to higher amounts of sunlight all year-round have a lower risk of MS.14 However, if your diet contains large amounts of seed oils, extra caution is needed. These oils, rich in linoleic acid (LA), an omega-6 fatty acid, oxidize quickly under UV light. This reaction on your skin’s surface generates breakdown byproducts that promote inflammation and damage cellular structures, including DNA. If you’ve been consuming seed oils regularly, it’s best to reduce your intake for four to six months before increasing sun exposure. During this time, limit sunlight to early morning or late afternoon, avoiding peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. People with higher body fat may require additional time for LA to clear from tissues, since LA is stored in fat and released slowly. Those with darker skin will also need longer exposure times to produce the same amount of vitamin D as those with lighter skin. Use the “sunburn test” as a guide — monitor your skin and avoid any redness. Staying below that threshold helps ensure you’re getting the benefit without harm. 2. Take high-quality vitamin D3 if necessary — For individuals living in northern climates or those with limited sun exposure, supplementing with high-quality vitamin D3 is often necessary to achieve and maintain optimal vitamin D levels. Vitamin D3 is synthesized naturally in your skin when it’s exposed to sunlight, specifically ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. On the other hand, vitamin D2 is typically derived from plant sources, including yeast and mushrooms exposed to UV light. While both forms are available as supplements, research has uncovered distinct differences in their effectiveness. Vitamin D3 is significantly more effective than D2 at raising blood vitamin D levels.15 Testing your vitamin D levels is necessary to ensure you’re taking the right amount of vitamin D3. 3. Maintain optimal vitamin D levels through regular testing — Testing your vitamin D status twice per year allows you to adjust your sun exposure and supplementation to stay in the optimal range. For neurological health and immune balance, aim for serum levels of 60 to 80 ng/mL (150 to 200 nmol/L). 4. Optimize vitamin D metabolism with synergistic nutrients — It’s important to understand that magnesium, calcium, vitamin D3, and vitamin K2 must be properly balanced for optimal overall health. Focus on a nutrient-dense diet with foods rich in these synergistic nutrients, but consider supplementation if needed. To learn more about safely increasing your vitamin D levels, read “Understanding the Effects of Vitamin D Toxicity.” Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Multiple Sclerosis and Vitamin D Q: What is multiple sclerosis, and what are its symptoms? A: MS is an autoimmune disease that damages the protective coating around the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting the communication between the brain and body. Symptoms vary and appear in unpredictable flare-ups called relapses. It often includes muscle weakness, numbness, vision changes, coordination problems, and cognitive issues. Q: Why is it important to catch MS early, during CIS? A: Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is often the first detectable sign that MS is developing, and at this stage, there’s still a chance to intervene before long-term damage occurs. Early treatment, especially with a low-risk option like vitamin D, could buy time and reduce the severity of future progression. Q: Why is vitamin D important for people at risk for MS? A: Low vitamin D levels have been consistently linked to a higher risk of developing MS. Vitamin D helps regulate immune function, reduce inflammation, and protect the brain and spinal cord, all of which are vital in slowing early disease activity. Q: Does sun exposure actually help with MS prevention? A: Yes. Areas closer to the equator, where sun exposure is higher year-round, tend to have lower MS rates. Sunlight triggers vitamin D production in the skin, which is one reason safe, regular sun exposure is a core recommendation for MS prevention. Q: What’s the best way to raise vitamin D levels? A: Sensible sun exposure is ideal, but if that’s not possible due to climate or lifestyle, high-quality vitamin D3 supplements may be necessary. Regular testing ensures your levels stay within the optimal range of 60 to 80 ng/mL.

More than 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson’s disease today, and this neurodegenerative disorder affects nearly 10 million people worldwide.1 But even as diagnoses surge, industries tied to manufacturing and defense are fighting to keep one of the most well-documented environmental triggers on the market — trichloroethylene (TCE). A clear, volatile solvent used for industrial degreasing, TCE is a damaging chemical that seeps into groundwater, lingers in soil, and vaporizes into homes from contaminated sites. Today, it’s already banned or restricted in Europe and several other countries, and in December 2024, the U.S. followed suit, after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a final rule banning all uses of TCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). However, there’s tremendous industry pressure for the EPA to reverse this ban — a move that will threaten and endanger the lives of millions who are unknowingly being exposed to this neurotoxin, putting them at risk of Parkinson’s disease and other health effects. EPA Is Caving to Industry Pressure While TCE Continues to Poison Communities An investigative report published by ProPublica2 (and reposted on the Children’s Health Defense website3) details how corporate lobbying and political maneuvering caused the EPA to delay the ban on TCE. Even after the agency has concluded that TCE posed an “unreasonable risk to human health,” their findings were quietly overruled behind closed doors. • Multiple political efforts are working to dismantle the ban — After President Donald Trump began his second term, Republican lawmakers in both chambers of Congress filed resolutions aimed at repealing the EPA’s rule to ban TCE. Because the rule was finalized just before the new administration took office, it became vulnerable to reversal under the Congressional Review Act. • Industry lawsuits and executive action have stalled enforcement — In addition to political attacks, the ban’s implementation is tied up in legal battles. Industry groups have filed lawsuits seeking to block the rule, while a Trump executive order put the ban on hold until March 21, 2025. Not long after, the EPA asked a federal court to extend that delay until the end of May 2025. • Delays in enforcement leave workers without key protections — As the ban’s future hangs in limbo, employers remain off the hook when it comes to implementing new workplace safety standards. The EPA’s court filing to extend the delay also postpones required changes to how employers protect workers from TCE exposure on the job. TCE Is Strongly Associated with Serious (and Often Irreversible) Health Risks Used in degreasers, dry cleaning, and industrial processing, TCE is an industrial solvent that was commercially produced in 1925 (Read more about its history in my article, “Toxic Water Contaminants Implicated in Parkinson’s Disease.”) However, recent reports have linked TCE to multiple types of cancer, liver and kidney damage, and increased risk of fatal heart defects in infants. Repeated exposure to TCE has also been linked with immunological, endocrine, and developmental effects.4 Both independent researchers and the EPA have confirmed that exposure significantly raises the risk of Parkinson’s disease as well.5,6 • Millions of Americans are drinking TCE-contaminated water — According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), over 17 million people in the U.S. are using tap water containing TCE. This widespread contamination underscores how far-reaching the health risks truly are. • Office workers unknowingly exposed to TCE later developed Parkinson’s — The featured article also tells the story of Daniel Kinel and three of his coworkers who were diagnosed with Parkinson’s after spending years working next to a dry cleaning business that had improperly disposed of TCE. Kinel was diagnosed at just 43 years old after seven years in that office. • TCE has polluted the environment around major U.S. communities — Investigations have documented TCE vapor plumes in cities like Woburn, Massachusetts; Wichita, Kansas; and on military installations such as Camp Lejeune. In these areas, service members and civilians have been diagnosed with cancers and Parkinson’s after prolonged exposure. • People with TCE-related health conditions are speaking out against the rollback — Dr. Sara Whittingham, a retired Air Force flight surgeon diagnosed with Parkinson’s in her mid-40s, said she was stunned to learn the ban might be reversed. Given the established health risks, she couldn’t believe officials were considering undoing the rule. “I thought it was a done deal. What the heck, how can nobody care about this?” she said. “This should be a nonpartisan issue.”7 • Trust in regulators continues to erode among impacted families — Residents living in communities with confirmed TCE contamination say they feel misled and abandoned by federal regulators. As the fight over the ban unfolds, many are questioning why public health was ignored for so long in favor of corporate interests. The Camp Lejeune Scandal – A Cautionary Tale About TCE’s Toxicity Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps Base Camp at the mouth of the New River on the Atlantic Ocean in North Carolina, is likely the site of the largest TCE contamination and scandal in the U.S. It was determined that drinking water at the base was contaminated between 1953 and 1985.8 • Marine and Naval personnel and civilian workers were exposed to TCE-contaminated drinking water — These individuals ingested, inhaled, and washed and bathed in the contaminated water. A Marine in training may consume as many as 6 liters of water daily, but the combined dose from inhalation and dermal exposure were likely higher.9 • TCE increased the risk of cancer among those stationed in Camp Lejeune — Studies found several cancers among Marine and Naval personnel and civilian workers who were likely exposed to the camp’s contaminated drinking water.10 • A recent study also detected increased risk of Parkinson’s disease — A cohort study of 340,489 service members found the risk of Parkinson’s was 70% higher for those stationed at Camp Lejeune versus those stationed at California’s Camp Pendleton.11 • Many also had Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms — Former Lejeune residents who did not have Parkinson’s also developed mood disorders, resting tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment, and postural instability.12 In 2012, the Honoring America’s Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act was passed by Congress, and it created a $2.2 billion fund to compensate survivors. The law compels the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to provide health benefits to eligible veterans and family members who develop any of the specific medical conditions associated with TCE contamination.13 Recent Study Highlights How TCE Triggers Brain Damage Associated with Parkinson’s Disease A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease analyzed decades of research to explore the link between environmental toxins — including TCE — and the rise of Parkinson’s disease.14 The paper asserts that environmental exposures, not aging or genetics, are the leading factor driving the global surge in Parkinson’s cases. • The paper examined both how and where TCE exposure happens — The authors highlighted how exposure occurs not just in factories, but in homes, schools, and communities — especially in areas near contaminated air, water, or soil. The paper did not claim a universal cause-effect relationship but made a strong case that environmental exposures, such as TCE, play a significant role in increasing Parkinson’s risk. • TCE damages the same brain cells affected in Parkinson’s patients — One of the standout points is that TCE causes selective damage to dopaminergic neurons, the exact brain cells that degenerate in Parkinson’s. These neurons reside in the substantia nigra, a region that regulates movement and motor control. The authors cited multiple studies, including human and animal data, showing that TCE exposure leads to damage in this brain area consistent with Parkinson’s pathology. • Exposure happens at work or in the environment, with delayed effects — They noted that some individuals, including veterans, industrial workers, and residents near polluted groundwater, who were exposed years or even decades ago are now developing symptoms, supporting a long latency between exposure and disease onset. This delayed effect was called out as particularly concerning because it obscures the connection between cause and outcome, making regulatory action even more urgent. • TCE disrupts mitochondrial function and causes oxidative stress — Findings from lab and animal studies also showed that TCE exposure leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are the parts of your cells that produce energy, and when they stop functioning properly, oxidative stress builds up. The paper explained that oxidative stress is a major driver of neuron death, especially in dopamine-producing regions of the brain. The authors also discussed how mitochondrial damage is a consistent finding across many environmental toxins linked to Parkinson’s, including TCE. • Neuroinflammation caused by TCE exposure worsens brain damage over time — TCE and other toxins also activate microglia, which are the immune cells of the brain. While these cells normally protect the brain, prolonged exposure to toxins causes them to overreact, leading to chronic inflammation and further neural damage. The paper emphasized that this inflammation often continues long after the initial exposure, creating a vicious cycle of degeneration. • Most Parkinson’s cases are not genetic or caused by aging — In fact, the study notes that purely genetic causes were said to account for only 2% to 3% of cases. Instead, most cases arise from a combination of environmental exposure and genetic vulnerability. The authors described TCE and similar chemicals as among “the most likely” causes of the disease and urged that action to limit exposure would be a decisive step toward prevention.15 This study provides robust, evidence-backed argument that TCE, along with other pesticides and air pollutants, plays a major role in triggering the biological processes that result in the Parkinson’s disease. These findings are consistent across multiple lines of research and must be taken seriously as part of any public health strategy. Protect Yourself from TCE Exposure and Its Neurological Risks Even if you don’t live near a factory or work with industrial solvents, it doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. As with other pervasive environmental chemicals, TCE stealthily moves through air, water, and soil, hides in building materials, old cleaning products, and could even be found in the water lines beneath your home. Once it’s in your body, it interferes with your mitochondria, triggers inflammation, and attacks the exact brain regions that control movement and cognition. To prevent problems down the road, here are five strategies I recommend. 1. Find out if your home or workplace is near a known contamination site — If you live near an old military base, dry cleaner, or industrial zone — especially one that used degreasers or solvents — your odds of exposure go up dramatically. Check with your local water utility for TCE testing results, ask for a full contaminant report, and request air quality assessments if you’re on or near a known vapor intrusion site. 2. Filter your water — Keep in mind that filtering your bathing, cooking, and drinking water is the goal. Ideally, you will have a system that offers a wide variety of methods, including reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and carbon block filters. Read my article on how to properly filter your water for a more detailed guide. 3. Ventilate and seal to avoid indoor vapor intrusion — TCE seeps through concrete foundations and enter your indoor air from contaminated soil or groundwater. If you’re living near a known exposure zone, your best move is to increase ventilation and seal any foundation cracks. A vapor barrier helps, but it’s most effective when combined with air exchangers or ventilation fans. Even simple actions like running exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen will help lower airborne levels inside your home. 4. Support your body’s detox pathways with mitochondrial nutrients — TCE targets your mitochondria, so you want to give your cells the cofactors they need to maintain function and defend against damage. I recommend supplementing with niacinamide and thiamine — both help fuel mitochondrial processes and curb oxidative stress. Magnesium threonate is also key here, not just for detox but for protecting your brain and improving mitochondrial function. Read about the brain health benefits of this nutrient in “Cognitive Benefits of Magnesium L-Threonate.” 5. Push for policy changes and local testing — Remember, your voice carries weight. Contact your city council, health department, or state environmental agency and demand that they test indoor air and drinking water for TCE. ProPublica’s report shows that companies lobbied to weaken EPA rules, so local action matters now more than ever. You might not reverse national policy overnight, but you can help change what happens in your zip code. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Dangers of Trichloroethylene (TCE) Q: What is trichloroethylene (TCE) and why is it dangerous? A: TCE is a chemical solvent used in industrial degreasing, dry cleaning, and manufacturing. It’s been linked to cancer, organ damage, and neurological conditions — most notably Parkinson’s disease — due to its ability to damage brain cells and disrupt mitochondrial function. Q: Was TCE banned in the United States? A: Yes, in December 2024 the EPA issued a final rule banning all uses of TCE under the Toxic Substances Control Act. However, industry and political pressure — especially following the start of President Trump’s second term — have delayed enforcement and are actively working to repeal the ban. Q: How might I be exposed to TCE? A: Exposure happens through drinking contaminated water, inhaling vapor seeping into buildings from polluted soil, or working in environments that use industrial solvents. Millions of Americans are exposed without realizing it, including those near military bases, factories, and old dry cleaning sites. Q: What health risks are associated with TCE exposure? A: TCE is known to cause liver and kidney damage, several cancers, and congenital heart defects. It is strongly linked to Parkinson’s disease due to its ability to destroy dopamine-producing brain cells and trigger chronic brain inflammation, even years after initial exposure. Q: What steps can I take to protect myself and my family from TCE? A: Check whether your home is near a contamination site, filter your water (especially with reverse osmosis systems), seal foundation cracks, improve indoor ventilation, and support your mitochondria with nutrients like niacinamide and thiamine. You can also advocate for local testing and stronger public health protections.

Imagine you’re handed a medicine for your child that promises to pause puberty — but no one’s fully checked if it’s safe. Puberty blockers are drugs that delay puberty, often used for children questioning their gender. But recent reports show over 70,000 side effects — from headaches to brain swelling — haven’t gotten the attention they deserve from the people in charge.1 Whether you’re a parent, a teen or just curious, this matters to you. Your health — or your loved one’s — could hinge on understanding the risks and who’s looking out for you. Pausing Puberty — A Quick Guide to These Powerful Drugs Puberty-blocking drugs are given to children who have not yet entered puberty. These drugs delay the onset of sex characteristics associated with the gender you were at birth. Often, the adults steering children toward gender reassignment don’t make it a point to thoroughly inform them about the difficulties they might face. Puberty-blocking drugs are strong, but they’re not magic, and that’s why you need to know more. • How do puberty blockers work? Puberty blockers hit pause on your body’s changes. They stop it from releasing hormones like estrogen and testosterone, which kickstart things like growing taller or getting a deeper voice. • Who uses them? You might think puberty blockers are just for children who hit puberty too early, but today, they’re often used by teens exploring their gender identity. • What’s the catch? Here’s the thing: pausing puberty isn’t as simple as pausing a video game. Your body’s a complex machine, and stopping hormones causes trouble. Think of it like pausing your phone’s updates — eventually, glitches stack up. There are risks, both physical and psychological, and not everyone’s shouting about them. You deserve to know what could go wrong before jumping in, so let’s dig into that next. Why You Should Be Concerned About Puberty-Blocking Drugs In the last 20 years, over 70,000 reports of trouble have been tied to puberty blockers.2 That’s huge — like filling a football stadium with people who’ve had issues with these drugs. The safety of puberty-blocking drugs and other forms of “gender-affirming care” has not been established. If you’re considering this for your child, this should make you sit up and pay attention. • How serious are these side effects? Some side effects are serious enough to change your life. Children have reported brain swelling, which brings brutal headaches or trouble thinking. Others have lost vision out of nowhere or developed “tumor-like masses” in the brain.3 These are big red flags you shouldn’t ignore. • Why is safety being questioned? Some experts say stopping hormones throws your body off balance — like hitting the brakes and gas on your car at the same time. Your brain and bones need those hormones to grow right, and pausing them harms long-term development. • Why aren’t warnings louder? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the group that’s supposed to keep you safe, knew about these risks but didn’t make a fuss. With other drugs, they’d sound the alarm, but here? It’s been more like a whisper instead of a siren. You’d expect them to shout if 70,000 adverse event reports came up, but they didn’t. That lack of action is why you need to ask questions and dig deeper yourself. Why Safety Slipped Through the Cracks The FDA is supposed to spot trouble with medicines and keep you safe. Think of them as lifeguards at the pool, watching for danger so you don’t drown. When a drug’s risky, they should blow the whistle and let you know loud and clear. That’s their job, and you count on them to do it right. • How did they miss this? With puberty blockers, the FDA dropped the ball. They didn’t focus on those 70,000 reports, even though they vilified other drugs like hydroxychloroquine. It’s like fixing a leaky faucet while your basement floods. You’d think that many side effects would light up their radar, but they stayed quiet. That’s a problem when you’re trusting them to protect you. • Why should you care? If the FDA isn’t warning the public about risks, you’re left in the dark. It’s like buying a car with no crash test rating — would you drive it? You need clear info to decide what’s safe for your family, but right now, it’s murky. That’s why you’ve got to take charge and not just hope someone else is watching out for you. How to Stay Safe and Informed If puberty blockers come up, don’t be shy — speak to your children about the health risks. By using puberty-blocking drugs or taking hormones to feminize or masculinize the body, you’re wreaking total havoc on your entire system. The only predictable outcome is health problems. • Affirm children’s biology from the start — It’s important for parents to affirm the biology of their children from the start. By teaching them the value and permanence of their biological sex, you effectively “inoculate” them against ideas being brought in later. • Become educated on transgender ideology — “Lost in Trans Nation,” written by Dr. Miriam Grossman, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and board-certified medical doctor, provides parents with the required knowledge and tools to protect their children from the transgender ideology contagion. While I believe the transgender movement poses a severe threat to mental, emotional and physical health, it can be counteracted by level-headed discourse and the sharing of truthful information. • Understand the transhumanist agenda connection — Many believe the trans movement and gender-affirming medical care for youth is a stepping stone in the transhumanist agenda. Ultimately, the goal is to get rid of flesh and blood bodies altogether and have our existence either within a synthetic body or as disembodied avatar in cyberspace, or both. Turning humanity into misgendered people incapable of natural reproduction is a first step in that direction. • Demand the truth — You deserve straight answers about safety — not vague promises. If something feels off, speak up. Your voice matters, and it could help make sure the truth comes about puberty-blocking drugs. FAQs About Puberty-Blocking Drugs Q: What are puberty blockers? A: Puberty blockers are drugs that stop your body from making hormones like estrogen and testosterone. These hormones stop puberty — think growth spurts or voice changes. They’re often used for children questioning their gender or hitting puberty too soon. These medications are powerful and their effects are not always reversible. Q: Are puberty blockers safe? A: They carry significant risks. There are over 70,000 reports of side effects like headaches, mood swings and brain swelling. Many worry about long-term damage to your bones and brain. The long-term effects on fertility and overall health are still largely unknown, adding to the concern. This lack of transparency undermines public trust and highlights the need for independent research and scrutiny. Q: Why didn’t the FDA warn us? A: The FDA knew about the risks but didn’t make them a priority. They focused elsewhere, even with 70,000 reports of harm piling up. Leadership changes didn’t help either. That’s why you’ve got to dig for the truth yourself. Q: How can parents affirm their child’s biological sex and protect them from harmful ideologies? A: Parents can affirm their child’s biological sex by consistently reinforcing the value and permanence of their birth sex from an early age. This includes open and honest conversations about biological realities and healthy development. To protect them from harmful ideologies, parents should educate themselves on these ideologies, foster thinking skills in their children and provide access to diverse perspectives. Resources like Dr. Miriam Grossman’s “Lost in Trans Nation” offers valuable insights. Q: What is the connection between gender-affirming care and the transhumanist agenda? A: Some individuals believe that gender-affirming care, particularly medical interventions for youth, is a step toward a transhumanist agenda. This perspective suggests that the ultimate goal is to transcend biological limitations and eliminate the need for traditional human bodies. Test Your Knowledge with Today’s Quiz! Take today’s quiz to see how much you’ve learned from yesterday’s Mercola.com article. What’s the smartest way for you to boost your physical resilience and avoid early frailty? Follow a strict gym routine with heavy weights every day Rely on supplements to strengthen your muscles and bones Incorporate regular movement like walking, stretching, or light chores into your daily life Past generations stayed resilient through consistent, natural movement like manual labor. Regular activities like walking or stretching keep your body strong and mobile without overtaxing it. Learn more. Limit physical activity to short bursts once a week to save energy