Blog - Believe Big

A Better Way: Navigating Pediatric Cancer with Integrative Care

September 25, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Podcast Comments Off

When it comes to health tips, we all have our favorites. But what if we told you that there’s a secret world of integrative care that’s changing the game for pediatric cancer patients? Dr. Dagmara Beine, a passionate advocate for holistic health, shares her journey and insights into a better way of approaching pediatric cancer treatment. In this listicle-style blog post, we’ll explore her story and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.

A Morning Ritual That Sets the Tone
Dr. Dagmara Beine starts her day with a unique morning ritual that can benefit anyone, not just cancer patients. Instead of jumping straight into a busy schedule, she takes a moment for herself. She begins by listening to a prayer or meditation, followed by her own personal prayer. This simple practice helps her find calm and focus amidst life’s chaos.
A Book That’s Changing Lives
Dr. Beine is on a mission to make a difference in the world of pediatric cancer. She’s working on a groundbreaking book set to be released soon. This integrative guide will fill a crucial gap in resources for families dealing with pediatric cancer. It’s a heartfelt effort to provide support, guidance, and hope to thousands of affected families worldwide.
The Best Advice for Parents Facing Pediatric Cancer
Navigating a pediatric cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Dr. Beine offers a vital piece of advice to parents: pause and breathe before making decisions. Building a comprehensive support team is key. This team should include an oncologist, an integrative practitioner, a nutritionist, emotional support, and more. It’s about making informed choices that can positively impact a child’s cancer journey.
The Power of Nutrition
Nutrition is a game-changer in pediatric cancer care. Dr. Beine emphasizes the importance of nourishing the body with nutrient-dense foods. She encourages families to take small steps towards healthier eating, involving the entire family in the process. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from friends and family, who can contribute nutritious meals during challenging times.
Individualized Care with Supplements
Each child’s cancer journey is unique, and so should be their care. Dr. Beine stresses the significance of individualized supplement plans. Tailoring supplements to a child’s specific needs based on their treatment and genetics can make a substantial difference in their well-being during cancer treatment.
Low Dose Naltrexone and Mistletoe Therapy
Two integrative treatments, low dose naltrexone, and mistletoe therapy have shown promise in pediatric cancer care. These therapies can reduce side effects, enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, and provide a holistic approach to treatment.
The Importance of Terrain and Environment
Dr. Beine encourages parents to explore what contributed to their child’s cancer. It’s often more than “bad luck.” Environmental factors, genetics, and emotional stressors can play a significant role. Understanding these factors can guide families toward healthier choices and a safer environment for their child.
Healing the Gut and Detoxification
Post-conventional treatment, focusing on healing the gut and detoxifying the body is crucial. Dr. Beine underscores the importance of this step in reducing late effects and enhancing a child’s overall health.
Being Your Child’s Advocate
Dr. Beine’s journey reminds us that parents are their child’s most crucial advocates. Don’t be afraid to seek a medical team that supports integrative care, even if it means traveling to find the right team. You are the CEO of your child’s health, and your dedication can make all the difference.
Hope and a Better Way
In the world of pediatric cancer, hope and a better way exist. Dr. Dagmara Beine’s inspiring journey and dedication to integrative care shed light on the possibility of improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients. Her story is a testament to the power of holistic approaches and the potential for a brighter future for those battling this challenging disease.

Dr. Dagmara Beine’s incredible journey through the world of pediatric cancer has illuminated the path to a better way. Her dedication, insights, and passion for integrative care have the potential to transform the lives of countless children and their families facing this formidable challenge.

As we wrap up this eye-opening exploration, we want to remind you that there’s always hope, even in the face of pediatric cancer. The knowledge and strategies shared by Dr. Beine serve as a beacon of light, offering a lifeline to those who need it most. It’s a testament to the power of holistic approaches and the resilience of the human spirit.

But we can’t do it alone. Pediatric cancer care requires a collective effort, a community of support. That’s why we encourage you to consider making a difference today. By donating to organizations like Believe Big, you can help provide vital resources and support to cancer patients and their families.

Believe Big is dedicated to empowering cancer patients with the knowledge and tools they need to embrace integrative care and improve their quality of life. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a significant impact. It’s a way to turn hope into action, making the journey a little bit easier for those facing the unimaginable.

Let’s BELIEVE BIG in the potential of integrative care, in the resilience of pediatric cancer patients, and in the power of our collective efforts. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of these brave children and their families. Thank you for your support, and let’s continue to shine a light of hope on the path to a better way for all.

Zuza’s Way Integrative Care

Connect with Dr. Dagmara Beine:
https://www.zuzasway.com/dr-dagmara-beine

Suggested Resource Links:

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Announcement to Our Believe Big Community

September 11, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Story of Hope Comments Off

Hello, Believe Big family.

I hope that you all had a wonderful summer. I recently received some news that I wanted to share with you all personally. As many of you know from hearing my story, I have something called Lynch Syndrome. One in 300 people have this syndrome that predisposes them to several types of cancer and at an earlier age.

Because of this, I am monitored very closely with additional tests like yearly colonoscopies, ultrasounds, and endometrial biopsies. Recently, I got this year’s pathology report that shows that I have cancerous cells in my endometrium. The good news is because of my close monitoring. It is very, very early.

So early that nothing suspicious showed up in my labs. Jimmy and I have explored my best options along with our medical team, and it looks like I’ll be going in for surgery. At is, as it has a 95 percent cure rate, my integrative physicians have given me an amazing pre- and post-surgery protocol that’s going to help my body prepare and heal better after the surgery.

I’ll be sharing more about that in an upcoming podcast this year. I never thought I would have to battle another cancer again. But it’s exactly why Believe Big exists, to help people face, fight, and overcome cancer. I am so grateful that this time I am coming from a place of strength and peace with the knowledge I have gained over the last 15 years.

And I have an incredible network of physicians who are already helping me with off label drugs, tweaking my diet, increasing my mistletoe, and more to cut off the cancer pathways. What switched this gene on? I believe the coming weeks will bring more clarity as to why my immune system’s vigilance struggled, but I do know it’s partly due to the influx of estrogen from perimenopause as endometrial cancer is estrogen driven.

Here are three things that I have learned through this recent news that I believe are beneficial to us all.

Be your own advocate. Whether you have had cancer or not, don’t miss your yearly exams and monitoring because should something change, you catch it early.
Keep a healthy lifestyle. Because I’ve kept up with mine all these years. I am coming from a place of strength.
Your emotional, mental, and spiritual health are equally important. I had an opportunity this summer to slow my pace and work with a spiritual director who helped me uncover that I had been moving through life so fast, without proper rest, and it prevented me from having time to attend to my disappointments, my losses, and grief. When we don’t process an emotion, we delay grief. And our bodies take on the burden when hard things happen. We shouldn’t feel like we need to put on a happy face because a certain time has passed, and we feel we should be over it. We need to say this hurts and it’s hard Jesus. I need you. We need to keep talking to him about it.

We are real. We are human. If tears come, we shouldn’t hold them back.

https://youtu.be/5Lmy6FUErlgThough this news was a surprise to me. I know it wasn’t to the Lord. Jimmy and I walk into the days ahead with peace, knowing that he is our strength. He is my healer, and he has already gone before us in the days ahead. Jimmy and I would greatly appreciate your prayers.

Much love to you. Ivelisse Page

Watch this video on YouTube

Green Smoothie Popsicles

August 14, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Recipes Comments Off

These Green Smoothie Popsicles will definitely become a family favorite, and you won’t even realize you’re eating a variety of nourishing vegetables. Full recipe below!

Source: https://drhyman.com/kitchen

Ingredients:

4 celery sticks

½ small avocado

3 handfuls baby spinach

10 medium romaine leaves

½ bunch parsley leaves (small stems are ok)

1 organic lemon, quartered seeds removed (leave peel on)

2-inch piece fresh ginger root, peeled

1 kiwi, peeled

1 medium green apple

1 cup coconut yogurt (unsweetened or plain Greek yogurt)

Method:

1. Blend all the ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth.

2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds. Drink the remaining smoothie if you have extra left!

3. Freeze for 3 hours or overnight.

Embracing the Final Weeks of Summer Break: Intentional Parenting through Faith for Families Navigating Cancer Battles

August 8, 2023 BelieveBig Blog Comments Off

As the final weeks of summer break approach, many parents find themselves reflecting on the season that has passed and looking ahead to the start of a new school year. For parents facing the challenges of cancer, preparing their children for back to school can be overwhelming. Balancing their own health and cancer treatments while ensuring their kids have a smooth transition back to school may seem daunting.

At Believe Big, we believe in the power of faith and intentional parenting to nurture children’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, especially during this crucial time. In this blog post, we will share how parents facing cancer battles can embrace the remaining weeks of summer with purposeful intent, fostering a deeper connection with their children through faith-inspired activities and meaningful moments.

Nature Walks and Gratitude:
As summer nears its end, take advantage of the warm weather, and immerse yourself in nature with your children. Plan family nature walks, hikes, or picnics in local parks or natural settings. As you stroll together, encourage your children to express gratitude for the beauty around them, fostering a sense of appreciation for God’s creation. Use this time to discuss the importance of being mindful of nature’s gifts and how gratitude can enrich our lives, especially during challenging times.

Engage in Creative Faith-Based Activities:
Consider crafting gratitude journals where you can jot down daily blessings or prayers. You can also plan simple art projects centered around biblical themes or stories. These activities not only promote bonding but also nurture your children’s spiritual growth through imaginative expressions of their faith. As you face your own health challenges, involving your children in faith-based activities can provide comfort and strength for the entire family.

Meaningful Discussions and Reflections:
Take advantage of relaxed summer evenings to engage in meaningful discussions and reflections with your children. Encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings, and questions about faith and spirituality. Use this time to impart your values, answer their inquiries, and reinforce the importance of faith in navigating life’s challenges. As you navigate your own cancer journey, open and honest discussions can create a supportive and understanding environment for your children.

Foster Acts of Kindness:
Intentional parenting involves nurturing compassion and empathy in our children. Encourage them to perform acts of kindness and selflessness. Volunteer together as a family or engage in random acts of kindness within your community. Teach your children that spreading love and kindness aligns with the teachings of faith and can have a profound impact on the lives of others.

Seek Support:
Reach out for support from family, friends, or support groups. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network when you need assistance with school preparations or any other aspect of parenting. Surround yourself with understanding and caring individuals who can help ease the load during this time.

As we approach the final weeks of summer break, let’s embrace intentional parenting through faith, creating a nurturing and spiritual environment for our children. By engaging in nature walks, creative faith-based activities, and meaningful discussions, we can instill in them a strong foundation of values and beliefs. For parents facing cancer battles, these intentional efforts can deepen the connection with your children and strengthen your bonds through shared beliefs and experiences. May faith be your guiding light in every season of life, providing comfort, hope, and a sense of purpose as you navigate your journey together.

Embracing the Radiant Spirit of Sunflowers in the August Season

August 1, 2023 BelieveBig Blog Comments Off

Dear Sunflowers,

As the vibrant petals of August unfold, I’m reminded of your enchanting presence and the wisdom you impart upon us. Your resilient stems stand tall, reaching for the heavens, basking in the warm embrace of the sun’s golden rays. How beautifully you demonstrate the art of blooming where you are planted!

Just like you, dear Sunflowers, we too have the power to embrace the seasons of life with grace and resilience. In this August season, let us reflect on the lessons you teach us and find inspiration in your radiant spirit.

Embrace your uniqueness: Each sunflower stands tall with its distinctive beauty, a testament to the remarkable diversity found in nature. Likewise, let us celebrate our individuality and recognize the unique gifts and talents we possess. We are all part of a grand design, woven together by the Creator’s loving hands.

Turn toward the light: Sunflowers, your vibrant faces follow the path of the sun, seeking its nourishment and warmth. In our lives, let us also turn our hearts toward the light, seeking guidance and inspiration from the Divine source. As we do so, we are filled with renewed strength and the assurance that we are never alone.

Radiate joy and positivity: Your bright and cheerful countenance brings smiles to our faces and joy to our hearts. In the same way, let us strive to be a beacon of light in the lives of those around us. Through acts of kindness, compassion, and encouragement, we can uplift others and illuminate their paths.

Bloom in every season: Sunflowers, you remind us that beauty can be found in every season of life. Just as you bloom magnificently in the warmth of summer, we too can find moments of growth and fulfillment amidst life’s challenges. By staying rooted in faith and hope, we can bloom wherever we are planted.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NIV)

This verse encourages us to let our light shine and share acts of kindness and positivity with others. Just as sunflowers radiate their beauty and bring joy to those around them, we are called to shine our light and reflect the love of our Heavenly Father. By doing so, we can inspire others to glorify God and find hope in His presence.

So, dear friends, let us embrace the spirit of sunflowers as we step into the August season. May we celebrate our uniqueness, turn toward the light, radiate joy, and bloom in every season. As we do, we become a reflection of the Creator’s love and grace in this beautiful world.

With love and blessings, the Believe Big team.

4 Hidden Dangers of Cell Phone Use and 5G: Protect Your Health in a Wireless World

July 17, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Podcast Comments Off

Living in a digital age comes with its own set of health concerns, particularly when it comes to cell phone use and the emerging 5G network. In this eye-opening blog post, we’ll explore five hidden dangers associated with wireless technology and provide practical tips to protect your health in a wireless world.

1. The Pulsating Radiation Effect: Contrary to popular belief, cell phones emit radiation that can potentially harm our bodies. It’s not just the power but also the pulsating nature of the signal that poses a risk. This irregular pulse weakens cell membranes, releases damaging oxidants, and triggers a cascade of reactions in our bodies. To minimize exposure, consider keeping a safe distance from wireless devices and reading the fine print warnings that often advise maintaining at least an inch of distance from your body.

2. Connection to Cancer: The link between cell phone use and cancer is a cause for concern. A Yale University study discovered that heavy cell phone users with a specific genetic alteration had a significantly higher risk of thyroid cancer. Moreover, studies conducted in Sweden have shown that children who start using cell phones at a young age have four to eight times higher rates of brain cancer in adulthood. Stay informed about the potential risks associated with cell phone use, as the most recent study on this topic in the United States was published in 2001.

3. Living Near Cell Phone Towers: Living close to cell phone towers can also pose health risks. Proximity to these towers increases the potential for exposure to radiation. While many countries have regulations to protect citizens from close-range antennas, the United States is lagging behind. It’s important to advocate for stricter regulations and public notice of radiation levels. If you live near a cell phone tower, consider taking measures to minimize your exposure and protect your health.

4. The Emerging 5G Network: The arrival of the 5G network brings new concerns. Due to its close proximity to residences, with antennas as close as eight feet off the ground, 5G poses a greater risk compared to previous networks. To ensure safer exposure levels, it’s crucial to limit the distance between 5G towers and residential areas. Stay informed about the deployment of 5G in your community and advocate for safer exposure limits.

Taking Action:
Now that you’re aware of the potential dangers, it’s time to take action to protect your health in a wireless world. Here are a few practical tips:

• Keep a safe distance from wireless devices, including cell phones and routers.
• Turn off your router at night to minimize exposure while sleeping.
• Use low-power settings on your devices whenever possible.
• Advocate for safer technology and regulations regarding cell phone towers and 5G deployment.
• Stay informed by visiting reputable sources such as the Environmental Health Trust’s website, where you can find fact sheets and checklists for minimizing electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure.

While wireless technology has undoubtedly transformed our lives, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with cell phone use and the 5G network. By understanding these hidden dangers and taking practical steps to minimize exposure, you can protect your health and the well-being of your loved ones in this wireless world. Stay informed, stay proactive, and prioritize your well-being in the digital age.

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7 Inspiring Lessons from the Believe Big Podcast with Mark Batterson

June 20, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Podcast Comments Off

The Power of Bold Prayers: Mark Batterson, a lead pastor and author, shares how God delights in answering our heart’s deepest desires and God-given dreams through bold prayers. He encourages listeners to pray for things beyond their abilities, resources, and education.
Setting Goals for Health: Mark emphasizes the importance of setting goals to stay in shape. He personally takes on annual challenges like a bike century or a marathon, which not only contributes to his physical health but also strengthens relationships, as he involves his family in these activities.
The Role of Faith in Healing: Mark recounts his personal experience with asthma, which he had for 40 years. Despite decades of praying for healing, it wasn’t until July 2nd, 2016, that he was miraculously healed. He highlights the importance of participating in your own healing journey and combining faith with natural means.
Persistence in Prayer: Mark encourages listeners not to give up on praying for miracles, even if the answers are not immediate. He shares the example of praying for someone who is far from God, emphasizing the need to keep pressing in, praying through, and entrusting it to God’s hands.
The Power of Mind and Belief: Drawing from a study shared by Ivelisse Page, a cancer survivor and podcast host, Mark discusses the impact of our thoughts on our health. He highlights the placebo effect and the importance of nurturing a positive mindset and filling our minds with the capabilities of what God can do.
Honoring God with Big Dreams: Mark emphasizes that nothing honors God more than having a big dream that is beyond our means and abilities. He encourages listeners to step out in faith when God gives them a vision, trusting that God will provide the means to accomplish it. By relying on God, we can’t take credit for the miraculous outcomes, making it clear that it was God’s doing.
Ebeneezer’s Coffee House Miracle: Mark shares the story of Ebeneezer’s Coffee House, a project that seemed impossible but became a reality. Through God’s provision, his church is able to own multiple properties worth $83 million without any debt. This serves as a reminder that God can use the unlikely and accomplish the impossible when we trust in Him.

Listening to the Believe Big podcast and the insights shared by Mark Batterson can inspire and empower individuals to embrace bold prayers, set goals for their health, persist in their faith, and pursue big dreams with unwavering trust in God’s provision. Listen to the full episode below.

The Trouble with Ingredients in Sunscreens

June 8, 2023 BelieveBig Blog Comments Off

Download the guide >

Source: https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/the-trouble-with-sunscreen-chemicals/

Sunscreen products are intended to be applied to the body every day, for a lifetime. The companies that make and sell sunscreen ingredients and products should test them thoroughly for potential short-term and long-term health effects. This includes toxicity testing for irritation and skin allergies, as well as testing for skin absorption and the potential to cause cancer, disrupt the hormone system and cause harm during reproduction and development.

In 2021, the Food and Drug Administration, which governs sunscreen safety, proposed its most recent updates to sunscreen regulations. It found that only two ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, could be classified as safe and effective, based on the currently available information.

Twelve other ingredients were proposed as not generally recognized as safe and effective due to insufficient data: avobenzone, cinoxate, dioxybenzone, ensulizole, homosalate, meradimate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, padimate O, and sulisobenzone.

The FDA has required additional safety data because of health concerns and studies by the agency that show these ingredients can be absorbed through the skin. But in recent years, many studies have also raised concerns about endocrine-disrupting effects of three ingredients: homosalate, avobenzone and oxybenzone.

In 2021 the European Commission published preliminary opinions on the safety of three organic ultraviolet, or UV, filters, oxybenzone, homosalate and octocrylene. It found that two of them are not safe in the amounts at which they’re currently used. It proposed limiting concentration to 2.2 percent for oxybenzone and 1.4 percent for homosalate.

U.S. sunscreen manufacturers are legally allowed to use these two chemicals at concentrations up to 6 and 15 percent, respectively. Hundreds of sunscreens made in the U.S. use them at concentrations far above the European Commission’s recommendations.

The ingredients oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and avobenzone are all systemically absorbed into the body after one use, according to the studies published by the FDA. The agency also found they could be detected on the skin and in the blood weeks after they had last been used.

Other studies have reported finding sunscreen ingredients in breast milk,urine and blood plasma samples. And it’s possible for sunscreen users to inhale ingredients in sunscreen sprays and ingest some of the ingredients they apply to their lips, so the ingredients must not be harmful to the lungs or internal organs.

This constant exposure to sunscreen chemicals raises concerns, especially because there is not enough safety data for most ingredients. We have even more concerns about ingredients such as oxybenzone, which many studies have linked to hormone disruption.

Active ingredient toxicity

This table outlines human exposure and hazard information for eight common FDA-approved sunscreen chemicals, often referred to as active ingredients because they provide UV protection. Sunscreen products typically include a combination of active ingredients, except for those formulated with zinc oxide.

Chemical	FDA 2019 proposed classification as safe and effective	Skin penetration	Hormone disruption	Skin allergy or other concerns
Oxybenzone	No	+	+	+
Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate)	No	+	+	+
Homosalate	No	+	+	+
Octisalate	No	+	–	–
Octocrylene	No	+	–	+
Avobenzone	No	+	+	+
Titanium dioxide	Yes	–	–	+ Inhalation concerns
Zinc oxide	Yes	–	–	+ Inhalation concerns

+ = evidence; – = no or weak evidence

The science on ingredient toxicity

Oxybenzone

The most worrisome sunscreen active ingredient is oxybenzone, according to publicly available scientific research. It is readily absorbed through the skin and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found it in nearly all Americans, with higher levels in those who report applying sunscreen. It causes allergic skin reactions , behaves like a hormone disruptor in many studies and may cause more harm to children.

In an evaluation of CDC-collected exposure data for American children, researchers found that adolescent boys with higher oxybenzone measurements had much lower total testosterone levels . Three other studies reported statistically significant associations between oxybenzone exposure during pregnancy and birth outcomes. One reported shorter pregnancy in women carrying male fetuses, two reported higher birth weights for baby boys and one found lower birth weights for baby girls. According to the latest proposed FDA sunscreens monograph, the agency needs further data to determine whether oxybenzone can be considered safe and effective, since:

[the] available literature … indicat[es] that oxybenzone is absorbed through the skin to a greater extent than previously understood and can lead to significant systemic exposure.… The significant systemic availability of oxybenzone … is a concern, among other reasons, because of questions raised in the published literature regarding the potential for endocrine activity.

Four studies published in 2020, after the FDA released its draft proposal, support previous findings that oxybenzone can act as an endocrine disruptor and may increase the risk of breast cancer and endometriosis. In addition, the National Toxicology Program found equivocal evidence of carcinogenicity in rats after observing increases in thyroid tumors and enlargement of the uterus in females with high exposure to oxybenzone.

Investigators at the University of California at Berkeley reported a dramatic drop in teen girls’ exposure to oxybenzone in cosmetics when they switched from their usual products to replacements that did not contain this chemical.

Recently, the European Commission found current human exposure levels to oxybenzone to be unsafe and proposed a concentration restriction of 2.2 percent – lower than the limited amount allowed in U.S. sunscreens, which is up to 6 percent. Several countries ban the sale of sunscreens that contain this ingredient, because it may harm aquatic life.

EWG recommends consumers avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone.

Octinoxate, or octyl methoxycinnamate

Octinoxate is an organic UV filter. It is readily absorbed into the skin and continues to be absorbed after the sunscreen has been applied. It has been found in blood samples 16 times above the proposed FDA safety threshold.

Animal studies have shown the chemical has hormone effects on the metabolic system and affects thyroid hormone production, with some evidence for other endocrine targets, including androgen and progesterone signaling. Octinoxate can also cause allergic reactions after the person who has applied it is exposed to ultraviolet light.

Several countries ban the sale of sunscreens made with octinoxate, because they may harm aquatic life.

Homosalate

Homosalate is an organic UV filter widely used in U.S. sunscreens. The FDA has proposed that there is insufficient data to evaluate whether it is safe and effective to use in sunscreens. Homosalate has been found to penetrate the skin, disrupt hormones and produce toxic breakdown byproducts over time .

A recent opinion from the European Commission found that homosalate was not safe to use at concentrations up to 10 percent and recommended a maximum concentration of 1.4 percent, because of concerns for potential hormone disruption. The FDA allows U.S. sunscreen manufacturers to use it in concentrations up to 15 percent.

Octisalate

Octisalate, an organic UV filter, readily absorbs through the skin at levels 10 times more than 0.5 nanograms per milliliter, the FDA’s cutoff for systemic exposure. This cutoff is the maximum concentration that may be found in blood before there are potential safety concerns. The FDA has requested additional safety tests when a sunscreen is absorbed above this level.

The FDA 2019 proposed update suggests there is insufficient data to determine whether octisalate can be classified as safe and effective to use in sunscreens. A case report showed that the chemical has been linked to allergic contact dermatitis. Analysis by the Environmental Protection Agency suggests octisalate may have endocrine effects, weakly binding to the estrogen receptor.

Octocrylene

Octocrylene readily absorbs through the skin at levels about 14 times the FDA cutoff for systemic exposure. But the agency suggested there is not enough data to determine whether it can be classified as safe and effective.

Octocrylene has been linked to aquatic toxicity, with the potential to harm coral health. It is often contaminated with benzophenone, which is known to cause cancer. According to one study, benzophenones levels can increase in products over time. The European Commission recently concluded that although there was some evidence of octocrylene’s hormone-disrupting potential, current use concentrations up to 10 percent were considered safe.

Avobenzone

Avobenzone is a widely used organic filter that provides protection from UVA rays and is often used with other organic active ingredients in products offering broad spectrum protection.

Because avobenzone is not stable, it must be paired with other ingredients that act as stabilizers to prevent it from breaking down in the sun. Breakdown products of avobenzone have been shown to cause allergic reactions. Avobenzone can disrupt the endocrine system and has been shown to block the effects of testosterone in cellular studies.

In one study, avobenzone was detected on average in samples at levels nine times above the FDA’s cutoff for systemic exposure.

Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide

Mineral sunscreens are made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, usually in the form of nanoparticles. The FDA proposed that both titanium dioxide and zinc oxide be classified as safe and effective. Evidence suggests that few, if any, zinc or titanium particles penetrate the skin to reach living tissues.

Because of the potential of exposure through inhalation, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified titanium dioxide as possibly causing cancer in humans. For this reason, powdered or spray formulations containing titanium dioxide are a concern. Zinc oxide is also a cause for inhalation concerns when used in spray and powder products

In general, mineral sunscreens tend to rate better than chemical sunscreens in the EWG sunscreen database. But to reduce its response to sunlight, manufacturers use forms of minerals coated with inert chemicals. To lower the risks to sunscreen users and maximize these products’ sun protection, EWG supports stronger guidelines and restrictions on the types of zinc and titanium used in sunscreens, including nanoparticles, which we have analyzed in detail.

Other active ingredients

Mexoryl SX, an uncommon active ingredient in U.S. sunscreen, offers strong UVA protection. The FDA’s analysis showed there wasn’t enough data to classify the ingredient as safe and effective. Public research provides no evidence of hormone disruption and rare incidence of skin allergy.

Aminobenzoic acid, or PABA, and trolamine salicylate are active ingredients that are no longer commonly used in U.S. sunscreens. The FDA’s 2019 proposal concluded that the risks of these chemicals outweigh their benefits and proposed classifying them as unsafe.

Inactive ingredients

The FDA should look closely at the so-called inactive ingredients in sunscreens, which typically make up half to 70 percent of a sunscreen. EWG recommends the FDA launch a thorough investigation of the safety of all sunscreen ingredients to ensure none of them damages skin or harms health in other ways.

Finding Hope in Hard Times

May 16, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Hope, Podcast Comments Off

Hope is defined as an optimistic state of mind based on an expectation of positive outcomes; a feeling of trust; or confident expectation.

This week I am joined by author Andrea Herzer and Andrea knows all about hope, growing it and maintaining it. Andrea shares her story of managing extreme challenges and finding hope in difficult times, primarily through chronic health issues. Despite her hardships, Andrea has been able to find hope and resilience by relying on her faith, leaning on her support system, and focusing on gratitude.

Listen in as Andrea shares her insights and experiences on how to overcome adversity and find hope in life’s toughest moments. She emphasizes the importance of staying positive and focusing on the good things in life, even when things seem bleak. This episode provides an inspiring and uplifting message for listeners who may be going through their own struggles and need some encouragement to keep going.

Connect with Andrea Herzer on her website:
https://www.andreaherzer.com/

Suggested Resource Links:

BOOK: Incurable Faith, 120 Devotions of Lasting Hope for Lingering Health Issues
PODCAST: Believe Big podcast interview with Kim Hamer
LINK: Believe Big Spotify playlist

CANCER EVOLUTION – The Metabolic Therapy Journey

May 10, 2023 BelieveBig Blog, Podcast Comments Off

A Discussion on Cancer Treatment and Research

Ivelisse Page, the founder of Believe Big, spoke with cancer survivor and advocate Maggie Jones and her husband Brad, about the importance of being your own advocate when it comes to cancer treatment and research. The conversation centered around the upcoming release of the docu-series, Cancer Evolution, which focuses on the need for more research into integrative cancer treatments. Ivelisse, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer in 2013, shared her personal journey and the challenges she faced when seeking alternative treatments. Listen to the full episode below:

Here are some key takeaways from the conversation:

Be Your Own Advocate: When it comes to cancer treatment, it’s important to do your own research and be your own advocate. While doctors and oncologists can provide guidance and advice, ultimately, it’s up to you to make informed decisions about your care.

Seek a Supportive Team: Building a team of supportive doctors and practitioners can be invaluable in navigating cancer treatment. Just as there are different specialties in oncology, there are also specialists in integrative medicine who can provide unique perspectives and treatments.

Embrace Integrative Treatments: Integrative cancer treatments combine conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, and meditation. While more research is needed in this area, many cancer patients have found relief from side effects and improved quality of life through integrative treatments.

Participate in Research: By participating in clinical trials and research studies, cancer patients can contribute to the advancement of cancer treatments and help future patients access new therapies.

The Cancer Evolution docu-series, set to be released in September, it aims to raise awareness about the need for more research into integrative cancer treatments. By sharing personal stories and insights from experts in the field, the series hopes to inspire patients and caregivers to explore all options when it comes to cancer care.

In conclusion, being your own advocate and seeking a supportive team are essential in navigating cancer treatment. Integrative treatments and participation in research can also provide additional options and hope for cancer patients.

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