Are GMO foods making you sick?

Americans have been consuming genetically modified foods for nearly 30 years.  But now, as more scientific studies begin to surface, both scientists and consumers are starting to question the effects of GMO’s on our health. From severe allergies, cancer, and yes, even weight gain, concerns regarding the effects of GM foods are triggering a closer look.

The concern about GMOs is related mainly to “Bt” toxins, which are toxins produced by a particular bacteria and genetic modification has given crops the ability to make the toxins themselves. Research has shown that the Bt toxins actually get into our blood stream.

It was originally thought that Bt toxins could not survive the digestive process, now there is proof it does not.

So what do Bt toxins do to our health? Well, studies are underway in determining just how much these toxins are affecting us, but meanwhile, we are lab rats whether we like it or not.

There are things you can do, however, to protect yourself from potentially harmful affects of GM foods such as eating organic foods, shopping at food stores that care about your health, such as Whole Foods and Trader Joes, and avoid processed, packaged, fast and most institution foods. I also suggest shopping locally so you can talk to your farmers, ask questions, and support organic farming practices.

As of 2011, up to 88 percent of the corn planted in the United States, and 94 percent of the soybeans, are genetically modified. According to the Non-GMO Project:

“In 30 other countries around the world, Including Australia, Japan, and all of the countries in the European Union are significant restrictions or outright bans on the production of GMO’s, because they are not considered proven safe. In the U.S., on the other hand, the FDA approved commercial production of GMOs based on studies conducted by the companies who created them and profit from their sale.”

Unfortunately, today we must know where our food comes from. Don’t be afraid to ask questions at your local food store, local restaurants, and farmers markets.

You can also get involved with political movements in support of labeling GM foods. One of my favorite organizations is called the Non-GMO Project. Find them on the internet and sign up to stay informed. The implications of GM foods on health are looking serious enough to warrant public demands for answers. You CAN avoid GM foods by shopping at farmers markets. Whole Foods and Trader Joes, and mostly by getting informed and eating local and organic.

Check out the Non-GMO Project today and learn more about how you can avoid GM foods and their effect on your health.