Ozone Therapy: A Dangerous Trend You Should Avoid
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Understanding the Risks of Rectal Ozone Therapy
It's time to stop following Gwyneth Paltrow's medical advice. Seriously, just don’t.
One might wonder why this topic even exists. Am I cursed to discuss something so outrageous? Is Gwyneth a secret agent of chaos, trying to undermine public health from within?
Avoid Ozone Therapy at All Costs
Let’s not sugarcoat it: putting ozone in your body is not safe. Can I end the article there? Unfortunately, I have to elaborate, and it’s frustrating.
Recently, Gwyneth Paltrow, actress and founder of the wellness brand goop (yes, it’s all lowercase), shared her experience with "rectal ozone therapy." She called it "pretty weird" and claimed it had been beneficial. While it might sound odd, it is more likely to do harm, especially when administered by unqualified practitioners.
So, let’s dive into the claims surrounding this therapy, its risks, and whether anyone should even consider it.
Who Promotes Rectal Ozone Therapy?
One of the providers featured in a USA Today article on this topic is Drs. Ozone. They base their practices on the work of Dr. Velio Bocci, who is recognized in the ozone therapy field. However, his research is often criticized for its quality and bias.
Claims vs. Reality
Claim: Ozone does not react with gut walls.
This statement is both misleading and partially true. While ozone can react with proteins and water to produce oxygen, it can also damage gut wall proteins. Oxygen absorption through the intestine is minimal, especially with a thick mucus layer present.
Claim: Ozone boosts mitochondrial function, preventing cancer.
Though mitochondria require oxygen for energy, it does not prevent cells from becoming cancerous. In fact, cancer cells thrive on oxygen to grow.
Claim: Ozone reduces oxidative stress.
This claim has some merit; ozone can induce oxidative stress that encourages the body to produce antioxidants, leading to reduced oxidative damage.
Claim: Ozone detoxifies the body.
Detoxification claims without specific details are often misleading.
Claim: Ozone can "fix" autoimmune disorders.
There is limited evidence suggesting ozone therapy may help manage certain inflammatory conditions, but it only provides temporary relief, not a cure.
Claim: Ozone cures mold, Lyme disease, and viruses.
This is false. No credible studies support these claims, and ozone does not eliminate mold spores or pathogens effectively.
Claim: Ozone therapy causes Herxheimer reactions.
This is absurd; the Herxheimer reaction is specific to certain infections and is not triggered by ozone therapy.
Claim: Ozone therapy balances the microbiome.
As a microbiome scientist, I can confidently say this is incorrect. Depending on the ozone concentration, it could either harm or eliminate beneficial microbes.
Additional Dangers of Ozone Therapy
The procedures typically do not use pure ozone, which is dangerous. A mixture of ozone and oxygen is often utilized, but the correct proportions are rarely verified. Excess ozone can lead to respiratory issues, including irritation and long-term lung damage.
One of the most ludicrous claims comes from Dr. Howard Robbins, who, despite his background as a podiatrist, asserts that ozone can cure numerous ailments. His claims lack scientific backing, with the only peer-reviewed evidence cited involving ozone's effects on bacteria outside of a human body.
In summary, let's reiterate: no corrosive gases should ever be introduced into your body.
Conclusion
Please, think critically before considering this therapy. Rectal ozone therapy is a risky method to introduce a hazardous gas with questionable benefits. The ozone interacts immediately, potentially damaging your gut microbiome and lining. While there may be some short-term benefits from ozone injections, they do not address infections, and excessive exposure can be fatal.
When someone approaches you with claims of "ozone therapy," just say no — even if Gwyneth is watching.
Next, consider exploring how your bowel habits might provide insights into your gut health.
A Visual Guide to Ozone Rectal Insufflation - YouTube
This video offers a visual overview of ozone rectal insufflation, discussing the procedure and its purported benefits.
Rectal Insufflation How To | Total Body Health | Ozone Therapy Made Easy - YouTube
This instructional video covers the steps for rectal insufflation, emphasizing the need for caution and understanding before attempting the procedure.