Is titanium dioxide a safe filling agent?

(NaturalNews) Much like many other environmental contaminants found in foods, titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral. Unfortunately, this naturally occurring particle is a metal which is attracted to impurities. After much study, researchers are becoming more cautious of recommending its safety for human consumption. Are you consuming it in your food and supplements?

Manufacturers chemically process titanium dioxide to remove impurities resulting in its white color, not to mention its newly produced synthetic form . Its many applications in the manufacturing industry are a result of its absorbency, lack of odor, anti-caking properties and whitening effects.

A popular additive

The greatest use for titanium dioxide in industries is its use as a pigment to color and thicken paints. Titanium dioxide is also found in cosmetics such as sunscreen, over the counter oral products including supplements and medicines such as those in white tablet form, and lastly food products.

You are exactly right to assume that titanium dioxide must have health consequences and should not be added to foods for consumption. Many organizations theoretically designed to protect the health of the public have ignored the possibility that titanium dioxide is a human carcinogen.

Titanium dioxide raises health concerns

Removing titanium dioxide as a GRAS substance appears to illicit a negligible response from governing agencies as well as consumers. Understanding that the term "natural" is significantly misrepresented and even more so misunderstood may cause consumers a false sense of security in what we invest our hard earned money into. Don't fall for the trap and be aware of the health risks that titanium dioxide may expose.

Scientific literature supports that microscopic sized particles such as titanium dioxide are potentially hazardous to human health. Yet despite these warnings, the FDA regulates titanium dioxide as a safe substance. The agency has only established concentration guidelines for manufacturers and does not require the ingredient to be listed on product labels.

Titanium dioxide particles promote inflammation

Given the size of titanium dioxide particles as well as the electrical charge, exposure to the mineral has been linked to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. An increase in oxidative stress in the body stimulates cellular and DNA damage.

Phagocytes are a type of defense cell that support the immune system by engulfing foreign and harmful bacteria and particles. Fine titanium dioxide particles are able to escape the immune system's defense system of phagocytosis and are left available in the body to interfere with biological functions.

Exposure of titanium dioxide to cells has left researchers questioning how a series of harmful signaling pathways are created which promote inflammation. Findings indicate that an increase in ROS, or reactive oxygen species, directly correlates to the increase in cell proliferation, inflammation and uncontrollable cell death known as apoptosis.

Foods containing titanium dioxide

Take a look at products that commonly contain the additive in your fridge. Find titanium dioxide listed on the ingredients of any of the following items that commonly contain the additive.

• Cottage, cream and processed cheeses
• Condiments including mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish cream, and vinegar
• Nut spreads such as almond or peanut butter
• Desserts such as custard, tapioca pudding, sherbet or sorbet
• Sausages
• Processed deli meats
• Confectionery sugar
• Canned fish products
• Dairy drinks including chocolate milk, eggnog, kefir or whey-based drinks
• Prepared foods such as potato and macaroni salad, and foods containing battered fish or poultry
• Energy drinks labeled as "sport," "energy," or "electrolyte" beverages with a water base
• Processed snacks like Twinkies and powdered donuts
• Many different supplements contain the filler

Sources:

The organic make-up company Titanium Dioxide: Toxic or Safe? http://www.organicmakeup.ca/ca/titaniumdioxide.asp

CDC: Occupational Exposure to Titanium Dioxide http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2011-160/pdfs/2011-160.pdf

International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC): Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Publications/techrep42/TR42-4.pdf

Skocaj M, Filipic M, et al. Titanium dioxide in our everyday life; is it safe? Radiol Oncol. 2011 Dec;45(4):227-247. PMCID: 3423755

FAO/WHO Food Standards: Titanium dioxide (171) http://www.codexalimentarius.net

About the author:
Dr David Jockers is a Maximized Living doctor and owns and operates Exodus Health Center in Kennesaw, Georgia where he specializes in functional nutrition, functional medicine and corrective chiropractic care to get to the underlying cause of major health problems.

His website features great articles on natural health and incredible recipes. He is the author of the best-selling book SuperCharge Your Brain - the complete guide to radically improve your mood, memory and mindset. He has over 50,000 active followers on his social media and email newsletter and is a big influencer in the Primal Health movement.

Dr. Jockers is also available for long distance consultations and health coaching to help you beat disease and reach your health goals. For more information got to www.drjockers.com