The Bradford-Hill Criteria is a fundamental tool used in medicine and public health to establish the cause of diseases and conditions, especially when dealing with long-term exposures like cigarette smoking or environmental toxins. Learn how Sir Austin Bradford Hill's framework has influenced research and shaped our understanding of causation, guiding scientists in their fight against chronic diseases. This poste how this critical tool impacts modern medicine.
Read MoreIn my teenage years, I, like many others, dealt with the occasional acne breakout. It wasn't anything too severe—just a few pimples here and there, both on my face and back. However, my mother, concerned about my appearance, decided to take me to a dermatologist. At the time, I had no idea that my journey with acne treatment would involve years of daily antibiotics. The dermatologist quickly prescribed either tetracycline or erythromycin (I can't remember which came first), and I ended up taking antibiotics daily for at least four years. Looking back, I now realize the potential damage this regimen may have caused.
At that time, I naively thought antibiotics were harmless. In my mind, they were just another form of medication, similar to vitamins, with no risk of adverse effects. After all, how could doctors prescribe something harmful? Unfortunately, I now see the bigger picture: antibiotics, while often lifesaving for serious infections, should not be overused, especially for something like acne, a non-life-threatening condition.
My acne never cleared up fully despite the long-term antibiotic treatment. In hindsight, the four-year-long antibiotic regimen may have done more harm than good. I eventually developed anxiety, though I attributed it to junior high school at the time. However, I now wonder if the prolonged use of antibiotics, which can impact gut health, contributed to my anxiety. What I do know for certain is that I developed a chronic yeast infection, which didn't resolve until decades later when I completely changed my diet and cut out processed foods.
The Use of Antibiotics for Acne: Then and Now
In the past, dermatologists commonly prescribed antibiotics to treat acne, especially for mild to moderate cases. Oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline, erythromycin, and doxycycline, were routinely prescribed, sometimes for years on end. The idea was that these medications could reduce the bacterial population on the skin and in the sebaceous glands, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, the bacteria believed to contribute to acne.
While antibiotics can temporarily improve acne by reducing bacterial counts and inflammation, they come with significant risks when used long-term. Many dermatologists continue to prescribe antibiotics for acne today, though there is growing awareness of the potential for harm.
The Dark Side of Long-Term Antibiotic Use
Long-term antibiotic use, especially for non-life-threatening conditions like acne, has been associated with several negative side effects. These side effects include:
Dysbiosis (Gut Imbalance): The gut microbiome is composed of trillions of bacteria that help regulate everything from digestion to mental health. Antibiotics, while effective at killing harmful bacteria, also wipe out beneficial bacteria, leading to a condition known as dysbiosis. Disrupting the balance of the gut microbiome can contribute to various health problems, including digestive disorders, compromised immune function, and even mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Studies have linked long-term antibiotic use with changes in gut flora that persist even after the antibiotic regimen ends .
C. Difficile Infection: A particularly serious consequence of long-term antibiotic use is the development of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection. Antibiotics can kill off the healthy gut bacteria that keep C. diff in check, leading to severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in some cases, life-threatening complications .
Yeast Infections: Antibiotics are also known to trigger yeast infections by disrupting the natural microbial balance in the body. By killing off the beneficial bacteria that normally keep yeast in check, antibiotics can promote the overgrowth of Candida, leading to chronic yeast infections. This was my personal experience, as I struggled with a yeast infection for years until I changed my diet to one that excluded processed carbohydrates .
Resistance to Antibiotics: One of the most concerning consequences of overprescribing antibiotics for acne is the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. With each dose of antibiotics, bacteria have a chance to mutate and develop resistance, which can render antibiotics ineffective for future infections, including potentially life-threatening ones .
Impact on Mental Health: Emerging research shows a connection between gut health and mental health, often referred to as the "gut-brain axis." When antibiotics disrupt the gut microbiome, they may also trigger or exacerbate mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression .
Ironic Contradictions: UV Light and Antibiotic Treatment
One of the most ironic aspects of my treatment was that in addition to antibiotics, I was placed in front of a UV light as part of the therapy. Today, dermatologists universally recommend avoiding UV exposure without proper protection, as it is a known risk factor for skin cancer and premature aging. Yet back then, UV light was considered an acceptable treatment option, demonstrating how medical advice can change as we learn more about the risks and benefits of certain treatments.
The Efficacy of Chronic Antibiotic Use for Acne
Despite the risks, dermatologists continue to prescribe antibiotics for acne, often because they see temporary improvements in their patients' skin. However, research shows that long-term antibiotic use is not an effective solution for many cases of acne. The bacteria responsible for acne can develop resistance, making antibiotics less effective over time. Additionally, acne often returns once antibiotics are stopped, suggesting that the treatment is merely masking the symptoms rather than addressing the root cause of the problem .
A Better Path: Whole Foods and Natural Healing
While antibiotics may offer temporary relief, the real key to addressing acne and other chronic health conditions lies in adopting a whole foods-based diet. A diet free from processed carbohydrates, vegetable oils, and other inflammatory foods can promote healthy skin, gut balance, and overall well-being.
Processed carbohydrates, such as refined sugars and flours, can spike blood sugar levels and trigger inflammation, both of which are linked to acne breakouts. Vegetable oils, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids, also promote inflammation and are associated with a host of chronic health problems. By eliminating these harmful ingredients and focusing on nutrient-dense, animal-based foods that include their natural fats, individuals can support healthy skin from the inside out.
A diet rich in whole foods, such as grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, pastured eggs, and organic vegetables, can help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy gut microbiome. In fact, there is increasing evidence to suggest that a healthy gut is key to maintaining clear skin and overall health .
Conclusion
In my case, after years of battling both acne and its side effects, I finally found relief not through antibiotics, but through a change in my diet. I eliminated processed foods and focused on eating whole, natural foods, including animal-based products rich in their inherent fats. My yeast infection finally cleared up, and my skin improved dramatically.
The lesson I learned is that while antibiotics can be a valuable tool for treating bacterial infections, they should not be overused for non-life-threatening conditions like acne. A better, more holistic approach to health lies in nourishing the body with the right foods and supporting its natural healing processes. By focusing on a whole foods diet devoid of processed carbohydrates and vegetable oils, we can achieve better health without the risks associated with long-term antibiotic use.
Read MoreWith Robert F. Kennedy Jr. poised to take a prominent role in the next administration, there’s a renewed sense of hope for tackling America’s chronic health crisis head-on. Known for his relentless advocacy against the influence of Big Food and Big Pharma, RFK Jr. has long sounded the alarm on the toxic food environment that fuels a national epidemic of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and more. Now, in partnership with Donald Trump, RFK Jr. brings the promise of a health-focused agenda dedicated to cutting through corporate interests to prioritize public well-being. Could this alliance be the catalyst for restoring America's health? Here’s what we might expect from this unique collaboration.
Read MoreThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into medical and dental diagnostics has shown immense potential for improving patient care by enhancing the speed and accuracy of identifying health issues. In my dental practice, AI aids in analyzing radiographs to detect subtle conditions like early-stage decay, and I find it particularly valuable for spotting abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed. However, AI is not without its limitations. As much as it has helped refine diagnostic processes, it also produces false positives that require human expertise to discern. This post delves into the role of AI in medical diagnostics, highlighting its benefits and limitations, while emphasizing the critical importance of human judgment to avoid potential pitfalls.
Read MoreI just started doing "sun salutations" in the morning after a prolonged layoff from doing them. I had moved on to other forms of dynamic stretching, especially when I was doing CrossFit. I have been doing more sprinting, bicycle riding, and farmer's carries, and my back and legs were starting to get very tight, especially in the morning. I did a few minutes of what they call sun salutations this morning, and the results were immediate and close to miraculous. In this post, I will describe what they are and why they are a very worthwhile addition to my morning routine.
Read MoreThe conventional belief that light skin evolved as humans migrated north out of Africa has been widely accepted for many years. However, recent research suggests that the origin of light skin may be more closely tied to the advent of agriculture rather than merely the result of migrating to higher latitudes. This shift in understanding revolves around the crucial role of vitamin D and dietary changes, such as a shift from a diet rich in animal-based foods to one reliant on cereal crops prompted by agricultural practices.
Read MoreIn the United States, data has consistently shown that individuals with a college education tend to live longer than those with only a high school education. A report from the National Center for Health Statistics found that in 2017, men with a college degree lived an average of 8.6 years longer than those with just a high school diploma, while college-educated women lived 4.2 years longer than their less-educated counterparts. The factors contributing to this disparity are multifaceted, with diet, lifestyle, healthcare access, and socioeconomic factors playing key roles. This post will cover some of the reasons why the disparity exists and what to do about them.
Read MoreThe Carnivore Diet has gained attention for its ability to significantly improve health and well-being. While much of the focus is on eliminating natural pesticides found in plant-based foods, an often overlooked but crucial factor contributing to these benefits is the complete removal of vegetable oils from the diet. Vegetable oils, which are high in linoleic acid, have been increasingly linked to the rise in chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The Carnivore Diet may unintentionally offer a "happy accident" by excluding these harmful oils, as pointed out by Dr. Chris Knobbe, author of The Ancestral Diet Revolution. This post will explore how the Carnivore Diet and the removal of vegetable oils can lead to better health outcomes.
Read MoreIn recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact that different types of fats and oils have on our health. While vegetable oils made from seeds, such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, have been staples in many households, evidence suggests that oils like olive, avocado, and coconut are far healthier options. As you may have read numerous times on this site, I stress diets of whole-foods, devoid of processed carbohydrates and seed oils that contain animal-based foods with their fats. But what are the plant-based alternatives to seed oils? This blog post will explore why these oils are superior, delving into their health benefits, the processes behind their production, and the issues with the high omega-6 content in seed oils.
Read MoreIn today's post, I will explore the complex realities behind the claim of a cruelty-free diet, highlighting how all forms of food production impact animal and plant life. I delve into the hierarchical value humans place on different animals, the often-overlooked significance of plant life, and the interconnectedness of the global food web. The discussion extends to the importance of humane treatment in food production, featuring Temple Grandin's innovations in livestock handling. By examining these facets, I advocate for sustainable and ethical practices in our dietary choices.
Read MoreUnderstanding the difference between bacterial colonization and infection is crucial for appreciating the dynamics of our body's interaction with microbes, particularly in the context of oral health. Bacterial colonization refers to the presence of bacteria on a surface without causing disease or harm. These bacteria exist in a balanced relationship with their host, contributing to various physiological processes. Infection, on the other hand, occurs when bacteria invade tissues, multiply, and trigger an immune response, leading to symptoms of illness. This post will discuss how healthy colonization can turn into an infection and the ways to avoid it.
Read MoreLast week, I mentioned that olive oil is safe for consumption. Olive oil has long been celebrated for its health benefits and culinary versatility. However, not all olive oils are the same. In fact, many olive oils on the market are mixed with cheap, toxic seed oils, which can mislead consumers and potentially harm their health. This blog will explore the history and implications of mixed olive oil, the increasing use of vegetable oils, and how to ensure you're getting authentic olive oil.
Read MoreOn average, people spend about 60 to 90 minutes each day eating, which translates to approximately 15 to 30 minutes with food in their mouths. While this might seem like a small portion of the day, the impact of the food we consume on our oral health can be significant. But what happens once we swallow our food? The consequences extend far beyond the mouth, affecting our entire body in ways that are often devastating. I will explore the profound effects of diet on both oral and overall health and highlight the importance of a whole-food diet devoid of processed carbohydrates and vegetable oils.
Read MoreCarnosine is a small but mighty molecule with significant therapeutic potential and crucial roles in muscle function, antioxidant defense, and overall health. The molecule is classified as a dipeptide because it is composed of beta-alanine and histidine and is predominantly found in animal-based foods, which is one of the many reasons I suggest including animal-based foods in our diets. It is also why carn, being a Latin root word for meat, is in its name. While it offers numerous health benefits, those following vegan and vegetarian diets are at risk of carnosine deficiency, which can lead to several health and performance issues. This post delves into the importance of carnosine, its sources, the consequences of low carnosine levels in plant-based diets, and strategies to mitigate these risks.
Read MoreThe Tukisenta tribe, residing in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, presents a fascinating case study in nutrition and health. Despite deriving 90% of their traditional diet from sweet potatoes, the Tukisenta people exhibit none of the chronic diseases that plague modern societies, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. This fact would not have been surprising because, since the '90s, high carb-low fat diets have been most popularly recommended. However, this intriguing paradox challenges the newly prevailing "low carb" diet trend and raises important questions about the true culprits behind these health issues. In this post, I will cover their diet and a few other “extreme” traditional diets and discuss the real culprits behind the ever-increasing amount of chronic illnesses.
Read MoreMany of us are efficient at storing energy and inefficient at burning it when it comes to our metabolism. For instance, I see lots of frustrated people eating what appear to be healthy salads, yet they continue to gain weight. Two things in our diets harm our metabolic efficiency. At the end of this post, I will explain what they are and why most people have a metabolism stuck in growth mode while a decreasingly small minority can readily burn the calories they consume.
Read MoreIn this post, I am using type 2 diabetes as an example to highlight the increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses despite significant research and pharmaceutical intervention. The true cause is often overlooked due to the enormous profits associated with treating the illness, leaving prevention and the actual cure sidelined. I will explain the reasons behind this phenomenon later in this post. First, let's examine some type 2 diabetes statistics.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines were developed and deployed much faster than usual, taking only about a year instead of the typical decade. Unsurprisingly, the quick trials have raised safety concerns. A systematic review titled "A Systematic Review of Autopsy Findings in Deaths After COVID-19 Vaccination," published in Forensic Science International, explores potential connections between COVID-19 vaccination and deaths. This review carefully analyzes autopsy reports to understand the causes of adverse events linked to the vaccines. The results are frightening, if true.
Read MoreA recent legal victory in the battle over fluoridation of public water supplies has brought attention to a long-debated public health issue. In a case initiated by Food & Water Watch and other advocacy groups, a federal court ruled that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must revisit its stance on the addition of fluoride to drinking water. Historically seen as a safe and effective measure to combat dental decay, the fluoridation of water has now raised concerns about its potential long-term effects on human health. Recent studies indicate that fluoride, particularly in high concentrations, could be harmful, especially to children and vulnerable populations. This blog post explores the court ruling, the health risks associated with fluoride, and what this development means for future public health policies.
Read MoreThe European Union's decision to ban mercury dental fillings (amalgams) by January 2025 marks a significant step in public health and environmental safety. Justin Silverman covered some aspects of the ban in The New York Times on September 17, 2024, in an article called Mercury Dental Fillings and a New E. U. Ban. The author mentioned that removing mercury-containing fillings would cause further mercury toxicity. However, he neglected to tell readers that mercury-containing fillings, called amalgams, can be safely removed, leaving readers to believe they are stuck with their fillings. I will cover the ban, provide information on amalgams, explain the reasons for removing them, and explain how to do it safely.
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