What Nanoparticles in your food are harming your body?
Recent research coming from the University of Sydney yesterday raised some alarming facts about the effects the commonly used Titanium Dioxide can have on human health.
The study investigated the health impacts of food additive E171 (titanium dioxide nanoparticles) which is commonly used in high quantities in foods and some medicines as a whitening agent (to make foods look better). Found in more than 900 food products such as chewing gum and mayonnaise, E171 is consumed in high proportions everyday by the general population.
Published in Frontiers in Nutrition, the mice study found that consumption of food containing E171 has an impact on the gut microbiota (defined by the trillions of bacteria that inhabit the gut) which could trigger diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer.
While nanoparticles have been commonly used in medicines, foods, clothing, and other applications, the possible impacts of nanoparticles, especially their long-term effects, are still poorly understood.Co-lead author Associate Professor Wojciech Chrzanowski said the study added substantially to a body of work on nanoparticle toxicity and safety and their impact on health and environment.
Titanium Dioxide in Food
Here are some of the foods that may have titanium dioxide. Be sure to check the ingredient lists of foods in both your pantry and fridge:
Condiments including mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish cream, and vinegar
Nut spreads such as almond and peanut butter
Icing sugar
Desserts such as custard, tapioca pudding, sherbet, and sorbet
Sausages
Energy drinks labelled as “sport,” “energy,” or “electrolyte” beverages with a water base
Cottage, cream, and processed cheeses
Processed deli meats
Canned fish products
Dairy drinks including chocolate milk, eggnog, kefir, or whey-based drinks
Prepared foods such as potato and macaroni salad, and foods containing battered fish or poultry
Processed snacks such as Twinkies and powdered donuts
Although not a food, oral supplements can also contain titanium dioxide
The increase of nanoparticles in food and the rise of disease
Titanium dioxide consumption has considerably increased in the last decade and has already been linked to several medical conditions, and although it is approved in food, there is insufficient evidence about its safety.
Increasing rates of dementia, auto-immune diseases, cancer metastasis, eczema, asthma, and autism are among a growing list of diseases that have been linked to soaring exposure to nanoparticles.
In light of this latest research Chrzanowsky stated, “there is increasing evidence that continuous exposure to nanoparticles has an impact on gut microbiota composition, and since gut microbiota is a gate keeper of our health, any changes to its function have an influence on overall health.”
“This study presents pivotal evidence that consumption of food containing food additive E171 (titanium dioxide) affects gut microbiota as well as inflammation in the gut, which could lead to diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer," he said.
What does this all mean for me and my family?
As always, it is important to read ingredient lists even in so-called health foods, supplements, and drugs to ensure your products don’t contain this potential disease-causing additive. Many families and individuals will consume these packaged products for convenience, but it is best to avoid them as much as possible.
Manufacturers do respond to public pressure. Earlier this year the giant food chain Dunkin’ Donuts announced that it was eliminating nano-titanium dioxide from its powdered sugar donuts. This shows that some manufacturers are aware of titanium dioxide dangers and are willing to eliminate this ingredient when pushed to do so.
As far as I’m concerned, it is further evidence to confirm we need to consume a wholefoods natural diet (nothing from a packet), that supports healthy microbiota in our gut all the more as we see the increase of harmful nano-particles added to our processed foods.
Please help bring more awareness about titanium dioxide as a common cancer, inflammation causing additive by sharing this article with your friends and family.
In health and love,
Deena x