Stomach Issues and GMO's

It seems like more and more people are having stomach issues.  My friends, family and acquaintances, especially the younger generation, have complained of stomach pains and digestion problems.

Young adults and children have been eating foods with GMOs since they were born.  I don't think it is a coincidence that younger people are having stomach issues.

The Institute for Responsible Technology reports that many health problems have increased since GMOs were introduced in 1996.  The percentage of Americans with three or more chronic illnesses jumped from 7% to 13% in 9 years, food allergies increased and disorders such as autism, reproductive disorders and digestive problems are growing.  Although there is not sufficient research to confirm GMOs are a contributing factor, the American Academy of Environmental Medicine recommends we start protecting ourselves and children who are most at risk. Responsible Technology

GMOs are Genetically Modified Organisms whose genetic materials have been altered using genetic engineering (GE).  GMOs (or GE foods) are created in the laboratory.  Scientists change the plant or animal's DNA by inserting genes (typically from an unrelated species) to produce specific traits.

The FDA indicates that "Credible evidence has demonstrated that foods from the GE plant varieties marketed to date are as safe as comparable, non-GE foods".   FDA

China, Australia and the European Union require GMO foods to be labeled.  Regulations for a new labeling law in the US are being developed.  GMO Labeling 

More than 93% of corn, soy, and cotton in the US is genetically modified.  95% of sugar beets are also genetically modified.  US GMO crops

So you might think that if you avoid corn on the cob, soy sauce and sugar beets you are not eating  foods with GMOs.  Not True!  

Any processed foods that includes canola oil, corn syrup and soy protein probably have GMOs.  

Also most of our sugar comes from sugar beets (not sugar cane) and most of the sugar beets are genetically modified.  So if you are hungry for something sweet look for desserts that have evaporated cane juice in the ingredients rather than sugar beets.  Also be aware that sugar is added to many foods that are not even considered sweet:  ketchup, potato salad, tomato sauce and salad dressings.  Many juices and soda have corn syrup.

Canola and soy oils are added to many processed foods: breads, bagels, frozen pizza and sandwiches, crackers, chips and cereals.  Soybean oil has been the leading fat in processed food for the past five or six decades. It’s so prevalent that it up to 10 percent of our total daily calories could from from soybean oil.  Alternet article  Foods with Corn and Soy Oils

Nearly 50% of the GMO corn and 70% of the GMO soybeans grown in the US go to livestock and poultry feed. This means that GMOs could be in yogurt and milk.  GMO's in dairy

Until more scientific studies are completed regarding the impact of GMOs on human health you should consider reducing GMOs in your diet.  Perhaps stomach issues will be reduced.  

1.  Eat fresh, whole, unprocessed foods marked "certified organic" or "USDA organic" 

2.  Purchase foods with a non-GMO seal

3.  Skip soybeans, canola, cottonseed, corn and sugar from sugar beets, which are at highest risk of being genetically modified  

4.  Eat grains, seeds, nuts and beans which are non-GMO. CNN non-GMO diet List of non-GMO foods/brands