Radiation Poisoning from the Inside Out

As a clinical nutritionist and author, it is a constant challenge to prioritize issues and actions. In the 22+ years that I have been in practice, several issues stand out. My top priorities are those that address how clean and safe our food, air and water are. Without clean food, clean air, clean water (and clean democracy!), we cannot achieve optimal health. Perhaps our very survival depends on it!

Since 1997, my number one concern has been the release of radioactive elements into our food, air and water and how they contribute to cancer incidence This fact basically blew me away... it was discouraging to know that something known to cause cancer could be released and subsequently ingested by us. Okay, so I was naive!

I first met Dr. Ernest Sternglass in 1997 and learned about the "Tooth Fairy Project" and its predecessor the "Baby Teeth Study (1950-1960's). CLICK HERE to learn more about the Tooth Fairy Project. These studies collected children's teeth and measured them for a radioactive element called Strontium 90 (Sr90). Strontium is actually a little know nutrient important to bone structure and health. However, Sr90 is radioactive and is man made, produced as a result of nuclear fission. It gets taken up into bones, teeth, neuronal synapses and even in places where its "look-alike" calcium may go. The presence of Sr90 itself is also a marker for other radioactive elements including radioactive iodine, known to cause thyroid cancer.

Dr. Sternglass discussed the health effects of low level radiation in his article about childhood cancer in the June 1963 issue of the journal Science. CLICK HERE to link to the article abstract. Dr. Sternglass presented his paper and findings to John F. Kennedy and Congress in 1963, contributing to the scientific argument that led to a partial Nuclear Bomb Test Treaty with the USSR.

After long discussions with Dr. Sternglass, I learned that Sr90 is released into the air and water and finds its way into drinking water, milk and other foods. It is taken up into teeth and bones where it basically radiates the bone marrow. This constant bombardment damages red blood cells and white blood cells (the foundation of our immune system!). Obvious results would be anemia, immune deficiency, leukemia and other types of cancer, as well as osteoporosis.

That is a compelling argument. Then why are we still seeing high levels of Sr90 in drinking water and in children's teeth today? Why is childhood cancer incidence on the rise in "clusters" in certain parts of the country? Why don't we stop generating nuclear waste, at least until we know how to deal with it safely? Lots of questions, but I haven't found all of the answers. CLICK HERE to read more on my website NutritionMission.org.

The bottom line is this: Ingestion of radioactive elements, especially those that mimic essential nutrients, increases risk of cancer. Period. That fact alone should mobilize leaders to call for the cessation of radioactive contamination. However, I found that the truth does not always reveal itself, people must be exposed to it! I no longer naively think that I can stop radioactive contamination but I can educate people about how to protect themselves from it (to the extent possible).

First and foremost try to remove the Sr90. Dr. Sternglass told me that REVERSE OSMOSIS and DISTILLATION will both remove Sr90. Be sure to eat lots of mineral rich foods (grown from healthy soil) to replace any lost minerals. I use Willard Water with Lignite for a trace element source.

Secondly, consume lots of antioxidants from FOOD SOURCES such as fresh, vine-ripened fruits and vegetables to protect against free radical damage from the radiation. Antioxidant superstars include pinto beans, blueberries, prunes, raisins, cranberries, pomegranates, kiwi fruit, red bell pepper, kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli just to name a few!

CLICK HERE for a list of 277 foods analyzed by the USDA. See, they are paying attention! You can also get a pamphlet from the AICR on antioxidants. CLICK HERE to see the PDF or visit AICR.ORG. Ingestion of seaweed such as kelp appears to be protective as well.

Good luck and remember that just a few small steps can enhance your Journey to Optimal Health!