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 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 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 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 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.
Read MoreI recently heard an interview with Calley and Casey Means that really resonated with me regarding my concerns about the state of health in America. Their message struck a chord with me, and I believe it's crucial for everyone to hear. Casey Means, a physician who left a thriving career in traditional medicine, and her brother Calley, a whistleblower advocating against the corruption in the food and pharmaceutical industries, have joined forces to address what they see as the root cause of America’s health crisis: our toxic food environment.
Casey and Calley have a compelling story. Casey was frustrated with the medical profession's approach to treating illness, as she found herself constantly treating symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes of her patients' ailments. Calley, on the other hand, was disturbed by the overwhelming influence of big food and big pharma on both doctors and patients. Together, they concluded that our poor health is due to the modern processed foods dominating our diets, and the reason we remain sick is because the pharmaceutical and medical industries benefit from this steady stream of unhealthy patients. This post will discuss their concerns and recommend the solutions.
Read MoreAs a dentist, I encounter a variety of oral health issues, some of which can be quite alarming to patients. One such condition is "hairy tongue," a benign but often distressing condition that can affect the appearance and texture of the tongue. Despite its dramatic appearance, hairy tongue is usually harmless and can be effectively managed with proper oral hygiene and care. In this post, we will explore what hairy tongue is, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
Read MoreWhen it comes to dental cavities, most of us instinctively point fingers at sugar. We've all heard the warnings about candy, soda, and sweets being the main culprits behind those pesky cavities. But what if I told you that sugar isn't the only player in this game? Enter salivary amylase, a digestive enzyme found in our saliva, plays a significant role in the development of dental caries, particularly through its interaction with starches like those found in bread, pasta, crackers, etc.
Read MoreRecently, I had the delightful opportunity to chat with Dr. Robert Lustig at a conference where he delivered the main address. We had previously collaborated on a panel at UCLA in 2022. If you're interested, you can watch his presentation starting at 34:15 here. Dr. Lustig is a renowned expert on metabolism, so I took the chance to discuss my recent post on the lipid energy model with him. He shared a research paper he contributed to, promising it would clear up any confusion. The post below is a summary of that paper, which you can read here. This research brings together four main theories into a single OBS/Redox model of obesity.
Read MoreThis post will relate to an encounter with one of my patients that recently made me very happy. When most patients come to me, they often assume that I am just like any other dentist. However, what they don't realize is that my practice is unique. I specialize in treating the root cause of gum disease, tooth decay, and facial development issues, taking a holistic approach that considers the entire body. This approach, which is often new and intriguing to them, sets my practice apart. Despite my recommendations, my free-range patients often continue with their unhealthy lifestyles. But I'm used to it. After all, people should be free to live their lives as they see fit. However, many of my patients implement my recommendations and transform their health. When I hear their stories, I am overjoyed.
Read MoreThis post will discuss six dental care basics that your dentist may not be aware of but you should know about. I want to start by saying that if it was just about brushing twice daily, flossing, having two cleanings per year, and adding fluoride, why do so many patients suffer from cavities, gum disease, crooked teeth, no room for wisdom teeth, breathing problems, obesity, high blood pressure, and GERD? This post will explain it all.
Read MoreThe association between senior citizens falling and shorter life spans has been well-established for years. What is less well-known is that one of the most important factors in preventing falls is toe strength. This post will cover recent research on older adults that has brought attention to the importance of toe flexor strength as a predictor of falls, specifically in the dominant foot.
Read MoreQuite often, I speak about human nutrition in very specific ways. While potentially helpful, the overall impact of my message can get lost in the details. However, I do have a basic stance on the basic human diet that is one sentence long and aimed at encapsulating my core beliefs. This post will let you know what it is and give you the information it is based on.
Read MoreWhen I started out as a dentist, I believed that if people would simply avoid sugar, brush twice daily, floss once a day, come in every six months for their cleaning and check-up, and use fluoride, they would be fine. I was wrong. I had good company; many dentists believe that the problems our patients suffer are their fault. There is much more to understand, and it has been omitted from dental education curriculums, leaving dentists and their patients bewildered. This post will explain why this is so, why it happened, and what we can do to solve the problem.
Read MoreRecent studies have shown that insulin is not only important for regulating glucose levels, but also plays a significant role in maintaining healthy mitochondria, particularly in terms of fission. New research suggests that insulin spikes, which often occur after consuming processed carbohydrates, can increase the activity of two substances, RalA and Drp1, leading to the fragmentation of mitochondria. This process highlights a key mechanism through which dietary choices can impact metabolic health and the risk of obesity. This post will cover the mechanism and what we can do to avoid damaging our mitochondria.
Read MoreA very close family member was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis and was not keen on taking medication. They approached me for advice. I was inspired to write this post on what osteoporosis is, how to avoid it, and how to live with it, hopefully without medication if possible. It includes both dietary and lifestyle suggestions.
Read MoreBecause I have seen over and over again the poor outcomes of non-treatment, I know many people will regret their decision not to receive treatment. The reasons people don't seek healthcare treatment are innumerable. If they were taking good care of themselves at the same time, things would not be so bad for them. But most people, through no fault of their own, have been fed a veritable pack of lies when it comes to aspects of self-care. So even when they put in an effort to be healthy, the results are minimal. The combination of lack of professional care coupled with lack of self-care is a powerful one-two punch for America. This post will cover the reasons why people don't seek care, refuse treatment when they do, and don’t care for themselves properly.
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