Listener questions focus today's agenda: Green tea binds dietary minerals; synthetic fragrance in common products linked to Early Puberty

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 10-03-2024:

• In response to several listener emails, Dr. Dawn expands on the benefits of Nori powder and Rhamnan sulfate, including their effects on cholesterol and the glycocalyx. TheThe type of Nori seaweed species with the high amounts of Rhamnam sulfate is monostroma nitidum (Japanese name Hitoegusa,) and can be obtained online at Https://okume.us.
• She then took a little time to recap the antiviral, anti-glycemic, and cardiovascular benefits of Rhamnan sulfate found in certain seaweeds.
• The doctor then emphasized the importance of hot water extraction for seaweed and mushrooms as dried powders to increase bioavailability of beneficial compounds.
• In response to another email, Dr. Dawn addressed green tea's interaction with iron which binds and prevents absorption and its potential impact on EGCG's antioxidant properties. This lead to a brief reassuring discussion about internet memes around the safety of tea consumption and debunking concerns about lead contamination in most commercial teas.
• We then heard about the potential link between a common artificial fragrance Musk Ambrette, which is implicated in causing early puberty in girls as young as 9 years old.
• Dr. Dawn briefly comments on the need for a new economic model to address the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant superbugs and the need for new antibiotics.
• A discussion on so-called anti-nutrients in foods, including lectins, oxalates, and phytates, and their actual impact on health.
• The importance of cooking methods in reducinganti-nutrients and increasing mineral availability in foods.
• The potential benefits of phytoestrogens, particularly from soy, in reducing cancer risk for young women.
• The risks associated with processed and convenience foods, particularly regarding microplastics.
• In response to a telephone question, the doctor gave some strategies for managing herpes outbreaks and its potential long-term effects on brain health. She also emphasized the importance of sleep and exercise for longevity and overall health.