Explore Ginkgo biloba's brain health benefits, the risks of cancer from hair dyes, and effective mouthwash for bad breath in this podcast. Learn about the potential of Ginkgo biloba for dementia, the harmful components of hair dyes, and the best products for halitosis.
Consuming Ginkgo biloba does not prevent dementia, caution is advised in its usage.
Chemicals in hair dyes can increase cancer risk for hairdressers and beauticians.
Deep dives
Ginkgo Biloba and Cognitive Decline
Ginkgo biloba, a popular brain health supplement, does not seem to prevent cognitive decline or dementia according to scientific research. Although over a third of older Americans use ginkgo supplements, randomized controlled trials involving thousands of participants have shown inconsistent and unreliable evidence of its benefits. Two large-scale trials, funded by different entities, conclusively demonstrated that ginkgo leaf extract does not prevent dementia, highlighting the importance of cautious consumption of such supplements.
Hair Dyes, Aromatic Amines, and Cancer Risk
Hairdressers, beauticians, and barbers may face increased risks of bladder cancer, lung cancer, voice box cancer, and multiple myeloma due to exposure to chemicals in hair dyes. Aromatic amines, common in commercial hair dyes, have been linked to DNA mutations and increased cancer risk. Industry changes in the 1980s aimed to reduce carcinogenic ingredients in hair products, but the long latency period for cancer development complicates the assessment of risk.
Bad Breath and Oral Putrefaction
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by the bacterial breakdown of proteins in the mouth, leading to the production of volatile sulfur compounds. Masking agents offer short-term relief, but addressing the underlying cause requires measures that target oral putrefaction. Mouth rinses containing zinc chloride have shown temporary effectiveness in binding sulfur compounds and reducing bad breath, highlighting the importance of addressing oral hygiene beyond surface-level solutions.