How Smoke and Heat Hammer Your Body and Brain!

August 23, 2016 by Deborah Penner


The Dog Days of Summer; How Smoke and Heat Hammer Your Body and Brain!


As we roll into the heat of mid-August, the news informs us that, once again, California is on fire! Even though the fires aren’t currently nearby (blessings being counted!), their smoke is in our faces.


Living in Forest Ranch at 3,000 ft., I get a visual inspection of the valley air quality every time I drive into town. Today, I could barely see the town through the haze.


Smoke and air pollution present a profound stress to your body and brain. Common effects you might notice include: ANXIETY!!!, body aches, fatigue, head-ache, breathing challenges, and sleep dysfunction.


I grew up in a bee-keeping family. To distract the bees and keep from getting stung when working the hives, bee-keepers puff smoke into the hives before opening them. This sends the bees into “fire-drill” mode. They are too busy looking for the fire and preparing to evacuate to worry about some silly human poking around. Smoke activates their “fight-flight” response. It does the same thing in humans, creating anxiety.


Smoke is also a serious respiratory irritant and general body pollutant, leading to breathing problems and elevated inflammation associated with body pain, skin eruptions, heart arrythmias, even digestive disturbance.  Supporting your stress handling system (adrenals), your air filtration system (sinuses and lungs), as well as your general detoxification system (liver, kidneys, and lymph) is critical to managing the detrimental effects of smoke.


Heat is also a profound stressor, drawing on the adrenals and the heart especially hard.


When you can’t escape, calming your nervous system and supporting your detoxification pathways helps you cope. I recommend  Standard Process Livaplex, which encourages your liver detox pathways as well as protects the liver from oxidative stress. Cataplex B and C are wonderful food based vitamins that support and protect your cells. SP Drenamin supports the adrenal glands, and Medi-Herb Kava Forte helps calm anxiety without making you dopey. For those needing cardio support, SP Cardio-Plus can be a God send.


So, hang in there, the dog days of summer are soon to pass.


Autumn is on it’s way!


Colorful molecular chain illustration on a blue, green, and orange abstract background
By Deborah Penner June 30, 2026
When it comes to finding effective, accessible, and affordable health solutions, few topics are as intriguing as The Universal Antidote. This documentary, along with its Interactive Guide, Ultimate Reference Book, and comprehensive course , explores an alternative approach to addressing a wide range of health concerns—one that challenges mainstream medical paradigms while empowering individuals to take control of their own well-being.  Why This Information Matters The Curious Human Productions Substack article offers a critical lens on The Universal Antidote, emphasizing the significance of the film’s approach in a world where natural and alternative health solutions are often dismissed or suppressed. The documentary provides a well-researched, science-backed look at a controversial yet powerful substance, breaking down its potential benefits, safety, and applications. One of the key takeaways is how simple, inexpensive solutions are often overlooked in favor of pharmaceutical interventions . The film doesn’t just present theory—it dives into the chemistry, history, and practical use cases of this method, showing how it has been applied for detoxification, immune support, and overall wellness . What You’ll Find The website provides multiple resources for those eager to learn more, including: The full documentary , which explains the science, history, and potential benefits. The Interactive Guide , offering a structured way to explore the information at your own pace. The Ultimate Reference Book , a deep dive into studies, protocols, and testimonials. A comprehensive course , for those who want a step-by-step understanding of how to apply this knowledge effectively. The Substack review highlights how well-documented and thoroughly explained the material is , making it accessible to both beginners and those with a more advanced understanding of health and biochemistry. Why This Matters With rising concerns about chronic illness, environmental toxins, and pharmaceutical overreach , The Universal Antidote offers a refreshing perspective on self-reliance in health . The film’s message resonates deeply with those seeking alternative, science-backed methods to support the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes . If you’re curious about exploring a different approach to health and healing , this is a must-watch documentary. Watch, Read, and Learn More Head over to The Universal Antidote to watch the documentary, download the Interactive Guide and Ultimate Reference Book, or take the full course. Take the time to educate yourself, explore the science, and decide for yourself.
Person crouching in a grassy field beside a vivid blue, orange, and pink fire-like landscape
By Deborah Penner June 29, 2026
Wildfire smoke exposure has profound health consequences, yet its impact on chronic illness remains widely overlooked. A Midwestern Doctor explores the link between particulate matter inhalation and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and cognitive decline, emphasizing the role of glutathione in protecting lung tissue.  The article highlights the lessons learned from wildfire-related illnesses, particularly how exposure worsens pre-existing inflammatory conditions and contributes to long-term health deterioration. It also sheds light on the parallels between wildfire toxicity and other environmental exposures, such as pollution and pharmaceuticals, that can push individuals past their body’s threshold for chronic illness. One of the most promising solutions discussed is nebulized glutathione, which replenishes the lungs’ natural defense system, helping mitigate damage from smoke inhalation and potentially offering relief for those suffering from COPD. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of DMSO in respiratory conditions is examined, alongside other integrative approaches for addressing the systemic effects of wildfire exposure. To understand how wildfire illness can reshape our approach to lung health and chronic disease, read the full article by A Midwestern Doctor on The Forgotten Side of Medicine .
Silhouetted figure facing a vivid watercolor sky with a cell tower and power lines at sunset
By Deborah Penner June 29, 2026
March 17, 2025 by Deborah Penner Electromagnetic fields (EMF) and 5G technology have rapidly expanded across the globe with little consideration for their long-term impact on human health and the environment. Dr. Mark Trozzi, a dedicated physician and researcher, explores the hidden dangers of EMF exposure and the heightened risks that come with 5G. He reveals how governmental agencies, despite being informed of the concerns, have remained powerless in the face of telecom industry influence. Even before the rollout of 5G, studies linked EMF exposure to a range of serious health issues, including cancer, infertility, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Dr. Trozzi highlights that 5G takes these risks further with the use of higher frequencies, such as 60 GHz, which directly interact with oxygen molecules and could disrupt their ability to bind with hemoglobin. He also sheds light on the military origins of some 5G frequencies and the aggressive destruction of trees to facilitate stronger signals—an alarming environmental consequence. Through his research, Dr. Trozzi underscores the urgent need to recognize EMF radiation as a major public health threat. He calls for awareness, education, and practical steps to mitigate exposure, drawing attention to the work of leading experts like Dr. Devra Davis and Dr. Arthur Firstenberg. To learn more about the critical health risks of 5G and EMF exposure, read the full article and watch the video at drtrozzi.news .
Watercolor-style cows grazing in a green pasture under a bright sky
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March 25, 2025 by Deborah Penner In a world full of modern seed oils and synthetic skincare products, tallow is making a comeback—and for good reason. In his latest article, Dr. Robert Malone explores this time-honored fat that has nourished and supported humans for generations. From its dense nutritional profile to its unique benefits for the skin, tallow stands out as a versatile, shelf-stable, and highly bioavailable source of essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K2, and B12), and anti-inflammatory compounds like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Dr. Malone breaks down what tallow is, how it’s rendered, and why sourcing it from grass-fed animals matters. He covers its historical culinary use, superior storage potential, and modern skincare advantages. He also shares how to make tallow at home, along with tips for storage, sourcing, and practical applications—even including a nod to traditional meat drippings. If you’re interested in ancestral nutrition, reducing toxic exposures, or reclaiming sustainable practices in your home and kitchen, this article is a must-read.  Read the full article on Robert Malone’s website to explore the health benefits, uses, and how-to of tallow.
Plated roasted lamb chop with herbs, berries, and lemon slices on a white dish
By Deborah Penner March 20, 2025
March 20, 2025 by Deborah Penner If you’re looking for a powerful way to support metabolism, joint health, and overall vitality—without reaching for another supplement—consider this often-overlooked cut of meat: the shank. In a recent article on Mercola, Ashley Armstrong highlights why shanks (from beef, pork, or lamb) may actually outperform steaks when it comes to nutrient density and health benefits. Rich in collagen and connective tissue, shanks offer a more balanced amino acid profile than typical muscle meats. When cooked low and slow, they yield gelatin—a form of collagen that’s easier for the body to absorb. This provides crucial support for the skin, joints, bones, and gut, while also boosting metabolic health through glycine, a key amino acid that helps regulate inflammation and energy production. Armstrong also explores the wisdom of traditional diets, which prioritized nose-to-tail eating and naturally included more collagen-rich foods. Today’s steak-heavy habits miss out on these benefits, making shanks an easy and affordable way to restore that balance. The article includes 15 time-tested recipes from around the world, and a video walking through Armstrong’s favorite braising method.
By Deborah Penner March 8, 2025
Key Takeaways from the Interview