Redstone Chiropractic & Wellness

21/08/2025

Garden season means fresh organic heirloom tomatoes from Nana’s garden and fresh organic basil from ours. They make the best pomodoro.

Organic gardening not only avoids pesticides and synthetic fertilizers that are damaging to our health, but has many additional benefits. Studies suggest that organically grown fruits and vegetables often contain higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals compared to conventionally grown produce. These compounds help reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and support overall wellness. Also, working in an organic garden provides natural exercise, stress relief, and mental health benefits. Digging, planting, and harvesting support physical activity, while time outdoors increases vitamin D levels and reduces stress hormones, improving mood and resilience. Working with untreated soil in organic gardening exposes you to a rich diversity of beneficial microbes. Contact with this natural “soil microbiome” can help strengthen your own gut microbiota, improving digestion, immune resilience, and even mood regulation through the gut-brain axis.

06/08/2025

Citric acid is widely used in processed foods and beverages like sports drinks, candy, and canned goods. While it sounds like a natural ingredient derived from citrus fruits, the truth is quite different — and more concerning.

Most commercial citric acid today is not sourced from lemons or oranges, but from a genetically modified strain of black mold called Aspergillus niger. This industrial process, known as fermentation-derived citric acid, is cheaper and more efficient for mass production — but it comes with potential health risks.

Studies have linked mold-derived citric acid to:

Inflammation and joint pain
Allergic reactions (especially in those sensitive to mold)
Gut irritation and imbalance
Worsening of autoimmune or histamine-related symptoms
Because it’s in so many processed products, including “healthy” options like electrolyte drinks and energy bars, many people unknowingly consume it daily.
If you’re dealing with chronic inflammation, unexplained fatigue, or sensitivity issues, it may be worth reviewing your labels and reducing exposure to hidden ingredients like this lab-engineered citric acid.

Better options? Choose whole, minimally processed foods, and look for products that clearly state “citric acid derived from citrus” — or avoid it altogether.

09/07/2025

Buldak Ramen, known for its signature heat and cult following, also carries a warning that many consumers overlook: “WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm.” This label, mandated by California’s Proposition 65, is not a marketing gimmick—it signals the presence of substances linked to serious health risks. Among the most concerning is lead, a toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the body over time, potentially impairing fertility, harming fetal development, and increasing cancer risk. Lead contamination may occur through seasoning packets, seaweed garnishes, or packaging materials. In addition, Buldak Ramen contains artificial food dyes such as Red 40 and Yellow 6, which have been implicated in cancer-related studies and are under increasing scrutiny for their long-term effects on human health. Another ingredient of concern is TBHQ (tertiary-butylhydroquinone), a synthetic preservative derived from petroleum that has been linked to immune system disruption and tumor development in animal research. The Proposition 65 warning is a clear signal: Buldak Ramen, though enticing in flavor, comes with potential health costs that should not be ignored. For those mindful of long-term wellness, choosing minimally processed, additive-free alternatives is a far wiser investment in health.

04/07/2025

16/06/2025

Eggs have reclaimed their status as a cornerstone of a healthy diet—and for good reason. Decades of nutritional research have clarified that the cholesterol found in eggs does not significantly raise blood cholesterol levels in most individuals. In fact, the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans removed the previous limit on dietary cholesterol, reflecting updated science that supports the inclusion of whole eggs as part of a nutrient-rich, balanced diet.

Each egg contains approximately 6 grams of complete protein, meaning it provides all nine essential amino acids required for muscle repair, immune support, and cellular health. In addition to protein, eggs are a potent source of micronutrients often lacking in the modern diet, including:

Choline – critical for brain development, liver function, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Many adults fall short of the recommended intake, making eggs a vital dietary source.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin – powerful carotenoids that accumulate in the retina and help protect against macular degeneration and oxidative stress.

Vitamin D – essential for immune regulation and bone health; eggs are one of the few natural food sources.

Vitamin B12, Riboflavin, and Selenium – key cofactors in energy production, metabolism, and antioxidant defense.

The nutritional profile of an egg, however, is significantly influenced by how the hen was raised. Eggs from free-range chickens, especially those kept as pets with access to outdoor foraging and diverse, nutrient-dense diets, are measurably superior to conventional eggs. Numerous studies, including USDA comparisons, show that pasture-raised eggs contain:

- Up to twice the vitamin E
- Two to six times more omega-3 fatty acids
- Up to three times more vitamin D
- Lower ratios of inflammatory omega-6 fats

These enhancements are the result of natural sunlight exposure, insect consumption, and stress-free environments—all of which impact the hens’ metabolic health and, ultimately, the nutrient density of the eggs they produce.

From a wellness perspective, incorporating eggs—particularly those sourced from ethically raised, backyard hens—offers a simple yet powerful way to improve nutrient intake, support cognitive and cardiovascular health, and maintain lean muscle mass. They represent more than food—they reflect a lifestyle of intention, care, and whole-body nourishment.

15/06/2025

Happy Father’s Day!

12/06/2025

Are seasonal allergies affecting your quality of life? Explore natural, holistic therapies that may support your body’s healing. Call or text 724-245-1614 to schedule a consultation or in-office visit.

08/06/2025

Diet sodas like Diet Coke are often marketed as healthier alternatives to sugary soft drinks—but their ingredient list tells a different story. Behind the zero-calorie label lie a host of chemical additives that may pose serious risks to long-term health. Among the most concerning are aspartame, caramel color, phosphoric acid, sodium benzoate, and the ambiguous category of natural flavors.

Aspartame, the artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, has long been a subject of intense scientific scrutiny. Though approved by regulatory bodies, independent research paints a far more troubling picture. In fact, 100% of non-industry-funded studies have found evidence of aspartame’s toxicity and potential health risks. These include links to neurological symptoms such as headaches, memory loss, and mood disorders, as well as more serious concerns like metabolic disruption, DNA damage, and carcinogenicity. In 2023, the World Health Organization classified aspartame as a “possible carcinogen,” underscoring mounting concerns about its safety with prolonged or high-volume use.

Caramel color, added to give Diet Coke its signature dark hue, can contain 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI)—a byproduct of the manufacturing process that has been shown to cause cancer in animal studies. While some types of caramel coloring are considered safer than others, the version used in sodas (Class III or IV) is the most chemically processed and potentially hazardous.

Phosphoric acid, responsible for the drink's tangy bite, has been associated with bone demineralization, especially in women. High phosphoric acid intake can interfere with calcium absorption, contributing to osteoporosis and increasing the risk of fractures. It also contributes to the erosion of tooth enamel, weakening dental health over time.

Sodium benzoate (or potassium benzoate), used as a preservative, poses another concern. When combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), it can form benzene, a known human carcinogen. Though manufacturers claim the levels are within legal limits, storage conditions like heat or light can increase the risk of benzene formation in the can or bottle.

The term “natural flavors” may sound wholesome, but it often conceals a long list of highly processed chemical compounds. These can include flavor solvents, preservatives, emulsifiers, and even animal-derived ingredients such as castoreum (a secretion from beaver glands). Some natural flavors also contain glutamates or neuroactive compounds that can trigger migraines, allergic reactions, or behavioral symptoms in sensitive individuals.

While diet sodas promise zero calories, the cost to your health may be far greater. With mounting evidence against ingredients like aspartame and other synthetic additives, consumers are urged to be cautious. Choosing whole, unprocessed beverages like filtered water, herbal teas, or naturally flavored sparkling water may be a far safer—and more nourishing—option.

02/06/2025

Microwave popcorn contains a troubling mix of chemicals and additives that have raised serious health concerns in scientific literature. One of the most alarming is perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a synthetic compound used in the nonstick lining of many popcorn bags. PFOA is part of a broader class of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and human body. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to thyroid dysfunction, immune system suppression, decreased fertility, developmental issues, and several types of cancer, including kidney and testicular cancer.

Another hazardous ingredient is diacetyl, a synthetic butter flavoring shown to cause bronchiolitis obliterans, or “popcorn lung,” a severe and irreversible respiratory disease, especially in factory workers exposed to high levels. Animal studies also suggest that inhalation of diacetyl may cause inflammation and neurotoxicity. Additionally, the oils used in many microwave popcorn brands—often partially hydrogenated oils or refined seed oils—are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which promote chronic inflammation when consumed in excess. Combined with artificial preservatives and flavor enhancers, these ingredients may contribute to metabolic dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and cellular oxidative stress. For a healthier option, air-popping organic kernels and using natural fats like coconut oil or ghee helps eliminate exposure to these harmful compounds.

31/05/2025

Local friends! Join us tonight at The Rose Garden Center for the Arts for an unforgettable evening with Strumburgh, starting at 6PM.

Come enjoy live music, beautiful surroundings, and great company as we gather to celebrate local talent and community spirit.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering the magic of The Rose Garden, tonight is the perfect night to connect and unwind.

Supporting the arts is more than just enjoying a performance—it’s an investment in our community’s soul. When we come together to uplift local artists and cultural spaces, we’re not only preserving creativity, we’re strengthening the fabric of our town.

Participating in a vibrant, supportive community has real health benefits, including reduced stress, improved emotional well-being, and a greater sense of purpose and belonging. The arts bring us together—and in doing so, they help us thrive.