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STRAIGHTTALK info You can do lots of things with straighttalk phones, and an iPhone!??
WIKIPEDIANS and User Boxes!?
Green Optimistic page with information about:
Butane Fuel Cells!? which are lighter than our usual heavy batteries.. made by Lilliputian Systems.

How to build a Free Magnetic Energy Generator.
and another page with information about
Magnetic "Magniwork Energy" Magnets for less page shows pics of magnets of all types.
Here are some sealed AGM Batteries, 12v, priced $250-525., which are Solar Inverters for home wind turbines.

Circus Glass .. that we are selling.
Brain stuff ! I like that blog


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Info from GreenMed ..  on Sucrolose .. ..:

Is sucralose (aka Splenda) really as safe a sugar alternative as its manufacturers and advertisers claim, or is it really a toxic chemical causing a wide range of health problems including thyroid suppression and weight gain? New research sheds light on this question.

A concerning new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition entitled, "Type of sweet flavour carrier affects thyroid axis activity in male rats,” is the first study of its kind to evaluate the effects of Splenda (Sucralose) on mammalian thyroid function and metabolism. Their findings reveal that sucralose has endocrine disruptive properties on the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis (HPA axis), resulting in thyroid hormone suppression, increased appetite, and weight gain.  

The Many Documented Harms of Sucralose (aka Splenda)

Before we delve into the details of the new paper, it is important for our readers to understand that this study is not novel in finding harm. There is, in fact, an accumulating body of research on sucralose showing this chemical marketed as an artificial sweetener is causing a wide range of adverse health effects. For instance, our sucralose research portal reveals 15 different signals of harm linked to this artificial sweetener, such as neurotoxicity.

When you add to this well-established body of research the recent discovery that sucralose produces carcinogenic dioxins when heated, the bitter truth about this artificial sweetener, namely, that it is a chemical in the same class as highly toxic pesticides like DDT, comes to light.  

This is all the more disturbing when you consider that Splenda is regularly advertised to consumers as a safe sugar alternative specifically for baking applications. For instance, have you seen the TV ads where parents are encouraged to use it presumably to keep their kids healthier than if they used natural sweeteners? If not, you can visit the Splenda Baking and Cooking page which features a picture of a woman holding her son while baking. Also consider that a recent government-funded study found sucralose contaminated 65% of all breast milk samples assayed. In other words, the use of this toxicant is so prevalent that even our most vulnerable populations are incapable of opting out of being exposed to it. 

Sucralose has already been demonstrated to promote weight gain and diabetes which undermines its primary marketed ‘benefit.’ Indeed, the new study also found that it promotes weight gain in comparison to an equally sweet, isocaloric diet that only differed in that the sweet sensation was produced by sugar. So, let’s get to the study details now…

Splenda's Endocrine Disruptive Properties Revealed

The straightforward purpose of the study was described as follows:

"Non-nutritive sweeteners are the most widely used food additives worldwide. However, their metabolic outcomes are still a matter of controversy and their effect on the thyroid activity, a key regulator of metabolism, has not been previously studied. Therefore, we aim to determine the influence of the sweet type flavour carrier on selected parameters of thyroid axis activity."

In order to accomplish this, they studied 105  Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into 3 groups, who were fed at their will (ad libitum) for 3 weeks one of the three different diets. The diets had identical caloric content (isocaloric), comprised of starch (wheat starch)differing in the following ways: Diet #1 contained no sugar.  Diet #2 contained 10% sucrose (10 grams). Diet #3 contained enough Sucralose (.0167 grams)  to create the same sweet flavor intensity as Diet #2 (10% sucrose). 

"The results obtained indicate that both the presence and the type of sweet taste flavour carrier affect thyroid axis activity both at fasting and postprandial state. Compared to diet with sucrose which stimulates thyroid axis activity, sucralose addition diminishes thyroid hormone synthesis as thyroid peroxidase (TPO) activity, plasma thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3) concentration was lower than in SC [sucrose containing] and NS [not sweet] while in non-sweet diet the lowest level of hepatic deiodinase type 1 (DIO1) and the highest reverse T3 (rT3) level indicate on altered thyroid hormone peripheral metabolism."

In other words, sucralose significantly altered the thyroid and metabolic functions of the animals in a manner that could overlap with the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

The researchers concluded:

"One principal finding of this study concerns the close relationship between the sweet flavour carrier and the pituitary-thyroid axis activity, which is involved in the meta]bolic adaptation to meal composition. This effect may be observed at various levels. Sucralose intake seems to diminish thyroid axis activity by decreasing TPO activity, TSH, and plasma total TH concentrations, but at the same time, it increases both free T3 and T4 indexes. Those findings confirmed that sucralose is physiologically active and may provoke disturbances in thyroid axis activity."

It is important to understand that this study proves sucralose is not 'metabolically inert' as often claimed when questions of its toxicity are raised. Sucralose also increased appetite and weight gain — two things that run diametrically opposed to consumer perception and the irresponsible marketing of its “benefits.”

The study provides more details:

"Both food intake and body mass gain were significantly affected by the type of diet (for both p < 0.001). In total, the highest food intake was recorded in the SU [sucralose] group. The average daily intake of sucralose with the diet (14.2 ± 0.4 mg/kg body weight/day) did not exceed the acceptable daily intake (ADI, 15 mg/kg body weight/day).

The food intake recorded during the meal before euthanasia did not differ between NS [not sweet], SC [sucrose], and SU [sucralose], and was 3.98 ± 0.5, 4.22 ± 0.41, and 4.71 ± 0.5, respectively.

The total daily body weight gain in the SU group was significantly higher than in SC and NS, which represented the lowest value (for both p < 0.001). Therefore, the highest diet growth efficiency was also recorded in SU, and there were no differences between NS and SC (Table 2).”

Because previous research has established that dietary carbohydrates directly affect thyroid axis activity, the study was designed to keep the carbohydrate content identical in order to isolate only the difference between the artificial and natural sweetener.  The results provide compelling evidence that the difference in thyroid and metabolic effects observed between the study groups were due entirely to sucralose's significant and complex toxicological properties. 

Of Mice and Men

The question often emerges following animal studies, as to whether the findings can be extrapolated to humans. The study addresses this point directly as follows:

"Despite the known species derived differences in thyroid economy between humans and rodents [65, 66], it was demonstrated that total T4 levels in rodents are a valid indicator of thyroid function in relation to effects in humans [67]. Moreover, humans and rats might be equally sensi-tive to TH synthesis disruptors, and even though in rats the response occurs after a shorter exposure time, the final effect could be the same."

So why are studies like this not regularly performed on humans to remove nagging doubt about their relevance? One reason is the prohibitive cost. Another, perhaps more significant hurdle, is that it is unethical to test chemical safety on human subjects. This obviously makes for great regulatory challenges in unequivocally proving human safety.  So, how are the majority of chemicals released onto the market tested for safety? Animals. And so, the argument that animal studies are not sufficient to demonstrate plausible toxicity in humans is absurd, given that the toxicological risk assessments used to justify releasing chemicas like sucralose into the human food supply are invariably based on animal studies. In fact, these animal studies are used to determine an "acceptable level of harm" by extrapolating from them to find the dose that would not cause overt morbidity in a human.  The notion, however, that the dose makes the poison, has been completely undermined, given research on petrochemicals, low-dose radiation, nanoparticles, and other non-linear dose responses observed following exposure to extremely low concentrations of toxicants, whose effects are amplifed because they mimic hormones (endocrine disruptors) or cause DNA damage and subsequent cellular transformation into cancer instead of inducing cell death (apoptosis). The most recent classical example of this is the finding that glyphosate, the main in the herbicide Roundup, exhibits estrogenic/carcinogenic/endocrine disruptive properties in the parts-per-trillion range.

Sucralose: A Sweetener or Pesticide? 

Another highly concerning observation was that sucralose’s effects are similar to those observed with other organochlorine chemicals in its class, which include dangerous pesticides.

"[T]he pattern of HPT axis components—decreased TPO activity, TSH, T4, and T3 plasma concentrations together with increased free-to-total TH ratios in the group on the diet with sucralose—resembles some effects evoked by organochlorine compounds documented in human and animal studies. The inverse relationships between plasma levels of chloroorganic compounds and TSH or the thyroid hormone have been observed [31–35]. The association between high levels of fT4 and the consumption of fish exposed to organochlorinated xenobiotics was found in adults from a certain area in East Slovakia [36]. This could be explained by the binding of chloroorganic compounds residues to transthyretin [37]. In the light of these parallels, our results could raise questions about the physiological inertness of sucralose."

In a previous article, we reported on sucralose's relationship to organochlorine compounds like DDT, and how both compounds have the potential of accumulating in the body and causing adverse health effects: 

"The makers of sucralose/Splenda argue that this "remarkably stable" chemical passes unchanged into the urine and feces, when in fact, up to 11% to 27% is absorbed into the body (FDA, 1999). In fact, the varying degrees to which sucralose is absorbed is used as a marker for gut and intestinal permeability to determine certain disease states. Once absorbed, some portion of this chlorocarbon accumulates in the body (between 1.6% to 12.2%). What effects will these accumulated chemicals have? According to James Bowen, M.D:

"Any chlorocarbons not directly excreted from the body intact can cause immense damage to the processes of human metabolism and, eventually, our internal organs. The liver is a detoxification organ which deals with ingested poisons. Chlorocarbons damage the hepatocytes, the liver's metabolic cells, and destroy them. In test animals Splenda produced swollen livers, as do all chlorocarbon poisons, and also calcified the kidneys of test animals in toxicity studies."

The Body Perceives Splenda To Be Toxic

The study also noted that previous researchers have doubted the safety of sucralose based on observations that sucralose intake alters expression of both  “rat intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P-450 isozymes, which are key components of the detoxification system in first-pass drug metabolism [38].” In other words, sucralose induced responses in the body consistent with the perception that it was doing physical harm, and needed to be removed from the body in the way other toxicants are handled. 

Changes also observed consistent with sucralose as a toxicant are: “Alterations in beneficial intestinal microflora and epithelial border function after long-term sucralose ingestion were also recorded [38, 39].”

The researchers conjecture that sucralose’s adverse effects on the thyorid axis would be reflected in “thyroid hisopathology,” i.e. thyroid lesions/tumnors. Could this be one of the causes behind the mysterious global uptick in thyroid cancer diagnoses? 

Ditch The Chemicals

This study leaves far more questions than answers. First, why are regulators turning a blind eye to the accumulating body of research indicating that sucralose is a highly toxic chemical whose safety has not be established?  Second, why would anyone risk exposing themselves to a chemical when the evidence indicates that artificial sweeteners of all kinds promote weight gain, and increase appetitde -- the last two things those who wish to lose weight, or "cut down on sugar" want? 

Thankfully we live in an age where research like this is now directly available online, the moment it is published. With greater access to information, we can all better exercise informed consent and take control of our health. We are also to better assess the health benefits of natural substances that render the use of synthetic ones unnecessary, such as honey, stevia, and xylitol. Use the GreenMedInfo.com Research Dashboard to learn more about these alternatives.

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a green drink should have ......:

GREENS, VEGGIE, AND FRUIT

• Alfalfa Grass Juice - packed with vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, and K as well as minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Studies show alfalfa has immune supportive and antioxidant properties and can help maintain your health.
• Kiwi Fruit - contains powerful anti-aging compounds and 2x the vitamin C of an orange. Research suggests kiwi may also promote eye, lung, and brain health as well.

ORGANIC FERMENTED BLEND:

• Grape (Skin, Fruit, Sprouted Seed, and Stem) - a rich source of polyphenols and healthy flavonoids, these parts of the grape plant are shown to carry numerous benefits.
• Sprouted Purple Maize - brimming with fiber and vital nutrients, sprouting multiplies the nutritional value of this amazing grain many times over.
• Reishi Mushroom - used for centuries in traditional Chinese herbal medicine, studies show Reishi has several beneficial properties, including immune support and maintaining blood pressure that is already within a normal range.
• Turkey Tail Mushroom - recent studies are reinforcing why Asian cultures have treasured Turkey Tail for ages. Some believe it has powerful abilities to maintain your immune system.
• Oat Grass Juice - loaded with trace minerals that are hard to find in everyday foods. Oat grass juice also contains exceptionally high levels of chlorophyll, which naturally cleanses the system.
• Shiitake Mushroom - a nutritional and medicinal powerhouse. Shiitake mushrooms are shown to promote heart health and a more even skin tone.
• Maitake Mushroom - another traditional medicinal mushroom beloved for millennia, Maitake is shown to be a bountiful source of vitamin D, and it may also help maintain blood sugar levels that are already within a normal range.
• Apple - taken for granted all too often, apples are one of the most beneficial fruits on the planet. A deep body of research shows apples have benefits such as supporting brain health.
• Orange - commonly known as a healthy source of vitamin C, but often overlooked for its other amazing benefits, such as supporting the immune system.
• Tomato - filled with alpha and beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein, tomatoes have been clinically proven to maintain heart health.
• Pomegranate - with origins in the Middle East, research shows pomegranate can support circulatory health.
• Blackberry - a great source of the crucial nutrient vitamin K. Blackberries may also support immunity and keep skin looking younger.
• Blueberry - overflowing with vitamins and antioxidants, blueberries also contain a special kind of polyphenol called anthocyanin, which has incredible brain health benefits. 
• Cherry - more than just a healthy snack, cherries are thought to have unique benefits other fruits can’t match to improving sleep quality.
• Pineapple - this tropical favorite serves as an ample source of a special enzyme called bromelain, which can support GI health and the immune system.
• Lemon - many aren’t aware of this common fruit’s best benefits. Health experts today believe lemon can support a healthy metabolism and help maintain the immune system.
• Papaya - far too many people miss out on the advantages of consuming papaya. Researchers are finding papain, a unique enzyme in papaya, and other key nutrients found in the fruit may support overall health.
• Banana - one of nature’s richest sources of potassium, the vitamins and nutrients in bananas are important for heart health, positive mood, and bone support.
• Acerola Cherry - recognized by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture as the richest source of vitamin C on the planet, these distinctive fruits have also been used for brain and circulatory health.

• Purple Carrot - like blueberries, the purple color of these carrots demonstrates their anthocyanin content, an amazing polyphenol known to support brain health and fight free radicals.
• Celery - a wonderful source of fiber and vitamin K, celery could also help maintain blood pressure that is already in a normal range.
• Carrot - one of the richest natural sources of vitamin A and beta-carotene, an essential nutrient for eye health, immune function, and much more.
• Red Beet - packed with b-vitamins, manganese, and betaine, red beets support emotional and nervous system health.
• Red Leaf Lettuce - unlike its iceberg cousin, red leaf lettuce has a variety of essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, and iron.
• Kale - an ultimate green superfood. Kale has several times the recommended daily amount of vitamins A, K, and C, plus a healthy dose of protein.
• Spinach - another nutrient dense leafy green, spinach could improve digestion, flush bodily toxins, and encourage healthy skin.
• Watercress - a light tasting, delicate green with serious benefits. One study showed visible wrinkle reduction in women who added watercress to their daily diet.
• Parsley - has one surprising benefit most have never heard. Parsley can actually help cleanse your system.
• Broccoli - belonging to a group of veggies known as cruciferous vegetables, broccoli is a true miracle food, thought to support immunity, support bone health, maintain cholesterol levels that are already within a healthy range, and cleanse the body.
• Cranberry - known for their impressive amount of vitamin C and antioxidants, cranberries also have the unique ability of helping maintain urinary health and supporting healthy gut bacteria.
• Green Leaf Lettuce - similar to red leaf lettuce, green leaf lettuce puts regular iceberg lettuce to shame. While iceberg’s nutritional value is little to none, green leaf lettuce offers an assortment of important nutrients like vitamins B-6, A, C, E, and K.
• Collard Greens - also known as marrow-stem kale, collard greens are an often overlooked nutritional treasure, believed to possibly improve sleep and mood, support digestive tract health, and promote healthy hair and skin.
• Squash - like carrots, squash are another fantastic source of vitamin A and beta-carotene, an extremely important nutrient for eye and vision health.
• Sweet Pepper - among nature’s strongest sources of vitamin C, sweet bell peppers also supply lutein for eye health and vitamin E for skin, hair and nails. They may also help support the immune system.
• Rose Hip - possesses a potent combination of vitamin C, antioxidants, polyphenols, and other beneficial natural compounds, rose hips are believed by many to oxygenate the body, help maintain blood sugar levels that are already within a healthy range and support the immune system.
• Passionfruit  - a valuable source of soluble fiber, which helps you feel less hungry between meals, maintains blood sugar levels that are already within a normal range, and supports digestive health.
• Peach - in addition to their impressive nutrient profile, peaches could also help maintain hair growth, cleanse the body and serve as a natural stress reliever.
• Garlic - a member of the allium family, garlic is clinically shown to support the immune system.
• Jalapeno Pepper - contains a special compound called capsaicin that can invigorate the system. 
• Cayenne Pepper - has several surprising benefits. Cayenne pepper may actually support circulatory health.
• Aloe Vera - commonly used externally to soothe burns and abrasions, aloe can also work wonders when taken internally, offering benefits like supporting GI health and maintaining blood sugar levels that are already within a normal range.