How the FDA Failed Me

We all get wake-up calls in life, especially about our health. Mine came experientially first, and it has changed my life. I had an undiagnosed GI problem, and felt frustrated that no one looked for the cause, determined the problem, or helped to relieve my symptoms. In fact, I later learned that doctors had prescribed things years earlier which set me up to develop this problem! Finally a simple but rarely used diagnostic test focused my attention on  bacterial overgrowth, and I began investigating.

Though this was unrelated to my illness, one day when I was sick at home, I came across some information that changed my perspective forever. I began reading the information provided by the Environmental Working Group at their website “Skin Deep”. I will never forget this day when I learned about the harmful ingredients in almost every product we use on our skin.  I realized that the FDA approved everyday products for safe use which contain known carcinogens, disrupt hormones, and cause birth defects. I thought the purpose of the FDA was to prevent such harm, not promote it!  I was horrified and felt betrayed. Yes, I had been naive, but I doubt I’m alone.

Despite the availability of products which are much less harmful, the FDA has given their stamp of approval to dangerous products, with disastrous consequences. I was shocked that not only powerful drug companies, but federal agencies charged with protecting and promoting public health, could be so deceitful to a trusting, innocent people. Once again, it all comes down to money and power.