Mercury Rising

Image via WikipediaWhile public arguments rage on over whether mercury in vaccines contributed to autism, the jury is in. The best science available indicates that ASD's (autism spectrum disorders) have both genetic and environmental components. Some people have a genetic predisposition toward autism and when that meets an environmental contaminant (i.e., organochlorines, heavy metals including mercury), bang. Autism. Genetics loads the gun. The environment pulls the trigger.

So why have autism rates continued to rise even after mercury was removed from vaccines? Because mercury and other environmental contaminants are everywhere. Today's news includes a new study finding mercury in high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is also everywhere. (Check the labels in your kitchen. Everywhere.)

The new study, from the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy found mercury in nearly fifty percent of tested samples of HFCS. A separate study by IATP found mercury in nearly a third of 55 popular brand-name food and beverage products where HFCS is the first or second highest labeled ingredient -- including favorites from Quaker, Hershey's, Kraft and Smuckers.

Peanut butter and jelly and mercury, anyone?