A GMO is a genetically modified organism. This is not the general topic of conversation around the dinner table, but perhaps it should be since it may be sitting on your plate! Recent studies performed with rats, cows, pigs, and humans reveal that genetically modified corn compromises an organism’s health and leads to a shorter lifespan.

GMO: Roundup or round out

As the results come in they prove that the chemical herbicide, Monsanto Roundup, needs to go out. It has been exposed that Roundup, chemically known as glyphosate, contains toxins, which together with GM corn, are linked to causing cancerous tumours in rats, cows, and pigs. Each affected animal had been fed a diet of genetically modified corn and ultimately experienced a shorter life than those who were given GM free feed.

Issues of GMO safety studies

Although safety studies were done, certain guidelines were not adequate. The researchers failed to evaluate long-term consequences of GMO consumption. For instance, mammal studies with cattle and pigs lasted for only 90 days whereas the rat studies lasted as long as 120 days. Overall, it took longer for rats to develop cancerous tumours than cattle and pigs, but all tested animals developed tumours. In the case of humans, cancerous tumours did not develop, but they did suffer from critical bacterial and viral infections in their digestive tracts.

Do you smell a rat? It may be GMO

Basically, when an animal eats corn that has been genetically modified these health issues may occur:

• Infertility
• Vital organ damage
• Accelerated ageing
• GI tract issues
• Suppressed immunity
• Higher mortality

Are humans affected by GMO?

If you ingest  genetically modified foods, you can develop:

• Infertility
• Asthma
• Food allergies
• Viral infections
• Autoimmune diseases
• Birth defects

In addition when a farmer sprays the weed killer, Monsanto Roundup, your non GM food can be affected too. The sprayed toxins are concentrated into the food portion of the plants from the soil, and can possibly end up on your dinner plate. Even without direct spraying of weeds Monsanto Roundup is unavoidable unless you only eat organic produce, as it is now in our soils, here is Australia, and probably water supply too.

Beware of GMOs

Read labels on food products before purchasing them. According to Food Standards Australia and New Zealand “You will find the statement ‘genetically modified’ on the label either next to the name of the food, e.g. genetically modified soy beans, or in association with the specific ingredient in the ingredient list, e.g. soyflour (genetically modified). If the food is unpackaged, then the information must be displayed close to the food at the point of sale, for example genetically modified soy beans on a container of loose dried soy beans.”

It's always best to eat Organic food

Our recommendation is if in doubt, go strictly organic. You can always ‘Ask a Naturopath’ to guide you on the right path. But whatever you do, please do not become a lab rat!