In our last blog, we introduced you to GM foods and GMOs, why they came about and one of the most prevalent GM Crops around: corn.
One type of genetically engineered corn is Bt Corn. The crop essentially has its own built-in pesticide and when a bug bites into it, the toxin from the GMO splits open their stomach.
Although genetic engineers claim the Bt toxin is destroyed in our stomach when we eat the GM corn, research is showing that the Bt corn toxin may be causing an increase of digestive disorders and allergies.
A recent study suggests that the Bt-toxin and other components of GMOs in our food are linked to digestive issues and may actually initiate or exacerbate gluten-related disorders.
These conditions caused in part by Bt toxin exposure:
- Intestinal permeability (also known as “leaky gut”). According to The Institute of Responsible Technology, “the Bt-toxin produced by genetically modified corn kills insects by punching holes in their digestive tracts, and a 2012 study confirmed that it punctures holes in human cells as well.” This may contribute to higher amounts of gluten sensitivity.
- Imbalanced gut bacteria. Consuming GMOs can lead to an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria, increase inflammation, leaky gut and negative immune reactions.
- Immune activation and allergies. When mice were exposed to the Bt-toxin they had a direct immune response to it and they also began reacting to foods that had not triggered a response previously.
- Impaired digestion. GMOs and GM crops have been shown to reduce digestive enzymes, which may lead to undigested food particles. This then contributes to an overgrowth of bad bacteria and may aggravate digestive issues.
- Damage to the intestinal wall. In several studies, the Bt-toxin caused structural damage to microvilli of the animals’ intestines.
In addition to the negative effects Bt corn has on our digestive system, it can also trigger allergy and flu-like symptoms. The Bt-toxin is produced in the corn, but it is also in the pollen, which people can breathe in.
According to the Institute for Responsible Technology, in 2003 an entire Filipino village of around 100 people became very ill when an adjacent Bt cornfield began pollinating. Their symptoms included headaches, dizziness, vomiting, fever, allergies and respiratory and skin reactions.
Residents in Vancouver and Washington State also suffered allergic and flu-like symptoms when Bt was sprayed over certain areas to help fight gypsy moths. Workers who applied the Bt spray experienced nose, throat, eye and respiratory irritation. When farmers were exposed to the liquid Bt formula, they reacted with infections, skin irritation, burning, swelling and redness as well
According to a study, authorities have acknowledged, “People with compromised immune systems or preexisting allergies may be particularly susceptible to the effects of Bt.”
GMOs and GM crops may be marketed as safe and harmless to humans. But studies and research are beginning to show otherwise.
If you want to avoid GMOs, look for the “Non-GMO Project Verified” or “USDA Certified Organic” label on your foods. (The use of GMOs in organic products is prohibited.) It’s also good to read labels and be aware of how many packaged or processed foods contain GM crops and foods like soy (lecithin), corn, high fructose corn syrup and sugar beets.