Another well-known benefit of zeolite is its ability to help the body balance pH by providing alkalizing minerals AND supporting kidney function. Symptoms of NSF can present immediately after a dose, or up to 11 days later. IMPORTANT: Only certain types of natural zeolite are suitable for human consumption. Its structure, primarily made of aluminum and silicon, has been likened to a molecular sieve.. . In rats with partially removed liver, clinoptilolite provided antioxidant support by boosting glutathione and protective enzymes. Zeolite binds both urea and ammonia, potentially offering protection against these gut toxins [50, 51, 52, 53, 54]. For a complete detox, add 1 teaspoon of Zeolite into a glass of water or juice and drink 3 times a day, for 7-9 weeks. A cold sensation when injected. Gadolinium retention and toxicityAn update.. You agree that it is your responsibility to monitor changes to our Website. Calcium Disodium EDTA Chelation Suppositories: A Novel Approach for Removing Heavy Metal Toxins in Clinical Practice., Sears, Margaret E. Chelation: harnessing and enhancing heavy metal detoxificationa review., Tllez-Lpez, Miguel ngel, et al. In chickens and diabetic rats, zeolite [61, 62]: In gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux damages the esophagus, causing heartburn and other unpleasant symptoms [63]. Thanks to their structures, these minerals can bind a wide range of environmental toxins and metabolic products. However, no studies have investigated the impact of zeolite on mood yet [30, 21, 23, 24]. In rats and sheep, clinoptilolite blocked the absorption of radioactive cesium and reduced its concentration in animals organs [41, 42]. Gadolinium toxicity and treatment., https://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/1001/p711.html, Semelka, Richard C., et al. After receiving an MRI, Gena began experiencing a long list of health issues along with chronic fatigue all of which she contributed to gadolinium toxicity. 5. We are dedicated to providing the most scientifically valid, unbiased, and comprehensive information on any given topic. Like all heavy metals, its vital to consider the cumulative effects of ingesting gadolinium. What if there was a magic powder that purifies the water, enriches the soil, and removes nuclear waste? Available products include wound dressings, deodorants, soaps, toothpaste, face masks, and more. Your body may then excrete these unwanted compounds via your organs of elimination. In 11 volunteers, a mouth rinse with silver-zeolite (zeolite packed with silver ions) greatly reduced dental plaque formation [73]. Zeolite passes through the body within hours, only targets toxins, and there are no negative side effects. While it is claimed that taking a zeolite supplement can remove heavy toxic metals, balance PH levels, lower the risk of colds and flu, support the immune system and improve nutrient absorption, these are only personal testimonials from product users and the FDA does not endorse zeolite supplements as a treatment. As a result, she has bravely spoken out publicly about banning the use of gadolinium as a contrast agent in medical scans. In a clinical trial of 52 endurance athletes, zeolite (1.85 g daily for 12 weeks) tightened the intestinal wall and prevented leaking. To make matters worse, gadolinium toxicity doesnt just affect those that are undergoing MRIs. The information contained on ToxicBurden.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Mobilization: Cilantro extract works to mobilize metals that have been liberated from your cells, moving them away from your tissues and into channels for elimination. Zeolite may promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Although it is a naturally occurring element, it can become concentrated in the environment and can cause health problems if exposed to it. Therefore, altered kidney function can lead to increased retention of gadolinium which could ultimately result in toxicity. It may take several hours to complete a dialysis session aimed at removing all the gadolinium from your body. However, its still significantly less problematic than gadolinium[33][34]. Your body relies primarily on your kidneys to clear gadolinium from your body. Gadolinium is a chemical element found in nature, and it can be toxic to humans when found in high concentrations. When introduced to your body, they flood your system with minerals which assists your tissues in pushing out heavy metals that are trapped in your cells. When your body holds on to this toxic metal, it builds up in your bones, brain, kidney tissue, and more. Many foods ( think white bread, rice, or any processed foods) are acid-forming in the body, while most green veggies are alkalizing to the body. One of the best methods of detoxification is a zeolite detox. Required fields are marked *. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a9885a5bdd2fdb33f439aaf3e00556dd" );document.getElementById("a6cbe26769").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We reserve the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and to change or update information or cancel orders if any information on the Website or on any related website is inaccurate at any time without prior notice (including after you have submitted your order).This Website may contain certain historical information. Of course, when it comes to water filtration in your home, you have, . According to Zeolite dot com, a website attempting to market zeolite as "the original detox product", this group of minerals is excellent at removing heavy metals from the body. Fast forward from its re-discovery, miners are now producing around 3 million tons of zeolite each year. which enables users to obtain detailed information and reports based on their genome. Dizziness, muscle twitching, pins and needles, headaches, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue are just a handful of the common side effects of gadolinium toxicity. ZEOLITE-AV: A Natural Health Supplement That Helps to Protect, Defend, and Boost Your Immunity ZEOLITE-AV is a breakthrough formula that contains the highest quality of purified, food grade Clinoptilolite Zeolite, along with a proprietary concentrated form of Humic Acid. By suppressing growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus gordonii, zeolite nanoparticles may help prevent periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis.R. Children and pregnant women may want to avoid it. Consistently supporting your bodys detoxification efforts is vital at this point in time. Ionic foot baths are an excellent tool for assisting with your detox efforts. The ability of zeolite to detox lead, mercury, aluminum, and other heavy metals makes it a promising complementary approach to the above-mentioned mood disorders. In one cell study, zeolite even reversed oxidative damage triggered by another sunscreen ingredient, titanium-dioxide [79]. This detox blend contains an array of research-based superfoods that support your livers natural detoxification pathways, gently enhancing the reduction of your toxic load. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. 1. Chelating agents can be given to bind with the heavy metals (usually through an intravenous (IV) drip), but IV chelation can be very expensive.2 Foods That Can Detox Heavy Metals . Many of the elements could not be proven with conventional chemical analysis.. These groups may want to avoid it just in case. When choosing a high-quality zeolite supplement, you should look for [3, 58, 48, 72]: The most common form on the market is zeolite powder, containing 90-97% of clinoptilolite. Raise the antioxidant levels of the body. mold exposure; as well as lead, gadolinium, arsenic, nickel, thallium, mercury, cadmium, and Agent Orange poisoning. Broni, Josip, and Boris Suboti. What is Zeolite? Mineralization: Fulvic acid and humic acid are rich sources of a variety of minerals. If your doctor suggests using zeolite, work with them to find the optimal dosage according to your health condition. Extravasation happens when the contrast agent is injected improperly and ends up in your soft tissue instead of directly injecting into your vein. The current nomenclature and classification of zeolite materials has been provided by the Structure Commission of the International Zeolite Association that identifies each material based on their framework with a three-letter mnemonic code; for instance, natural zeolite clinoptilolite is . of zeolite on your skin before you take a shower. Gadolinium toxicity occurs after treatment with gadolinium and can present with a wide range of symptoms. Zeolite supplementation may help in the tightening of the intestinal wall, thereby preventing the leaking. Changes in tissue gadolinium biodistribution measured in an animal model exposed to four chelating agents. Japanese journal of radiology 37.6 (2019): 458-465. Common side effects of gadoterate meglumine may include: headache; nausea; rash; or. You can find many support groups on Facebook. The answer lies in the use of natural zeolites, a class of natural minerals from volcanic ash that can help the body get rid of heavy metals and detox radiation sickness, even up to uranium 238! Its estimated that 1% of the gadolinium contained in each dose of the contrast agent is retained in your body and deposited in your bones. Clinoptilolite is the most common natural zeolite with potential health benefits. Detoxifying mold. Industry and manufacturing of electronics, magnets, and superconductors used for nuclear, microwave, and radar technology. The result? He found a way to merge his two biggest passionswriting and healthand use them for noble purposes. After you have undergone dialysis, keep checking the access site. This "Fulvic Acid" Therapy Course is primarily for detoxification of the intestinal toxins, tar, mucoid plaque, plastics, insecticides, inorganic compounds, parasite gel, heavy metals, plastics or intestinal hardened debris etc.. Many users have reported positive experiences with zeolite. Gadolinium is found naturally in the environment, but it can become concentrated in certain areas due to human activities. However, the real danger lies under the skin where the hardening of internal organs can occur[6]. The idea that "zeolites detox your body from heavy metals" is very nearly a truism mantra across the natural products industry. Our team comprises of trained MDs, PhDs, pharmacists, qualified scientists, and certified health and wellness specialists. However, for some it can take weeks or even months for symptoms to appear. Activated charcoal consists of carbonized carbon, such as burnt coal, wood, or coconut shell 9. Acar, Trker, et al. Hence, zeolite shouldnt be used after transplantation or combined with immunosuppressants [85]. Of more concern is the possibility that the contrast material won't be completely eliminated from the body. In cows, zeolite reversed the metabolic damage caused by nitrates [43]. The list of side effects below is not a definite one, and you should consult your doctor about other potential side effects, based on your health condition and other factors. The ability of clinoptilolite to restore healthy gut flora played a crucial role in this effect [55]. Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD) Can happen when gadolinium remains in the body for months or years. Remove Gadolinium With Zeolite. In a cell study, silver-zeolite cut candida growth and acid production, two major causes of dental plaque and oral infections [74]. If youre thinking that youre in the clear because you have healthy kidney function think again. The name 'zeolite' originates from the Greek words 'zeo'(to boil) and 'litos' (a stone). The Traditional Approach The traditional approach, which I highly recommend with most supplements, is to start with a . In the gut, these silicates could act as adsorbents, ion-exchangers, catalysts, detergents or anti-diarrheic agents. Aleksa is passionate about herbal pharmacy, nutrition, and functional medicine. This is why a gadolinium detox shouldnt just be an option or an afterthought; it should be a top priority. While for years it was seen as a harmless contrasting agent, research is beginning to show the devastating effects that this heavy metal can have on your body. In cell studies, zeolite loaded with an anticancer drug (5-fluorouracil) was able to kill stomach and colon cancer cells. Our goal is to not have a single piece of inaccurate information on this website. I have listed out 12 benefits of a zeolite detox from removing heavy metals to easing hangovers! Gadolinium toxicity Symptoms include pain in the skin, bones, joints or head. Gadolinium (III)loaded nanoparticulate zeolites as potential highfield MRI contrast agents: Relationship between structure and relaxivity. ChemistryA European Journal 11.16 (2005): 4799-4807. But with the zeolite clinoptilolite, it is both gentle and fully effective. They proved its safety and efficacy in 4 clinical trials and additional cell experiments. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) announced that it will require safety measures for certain contrast agents like gadolinium, recognizing that small amounts can be retained in the brain and other tissues. Gadolinium (Gd) is a lanthanide chemical element, and highly toxic, so it must be bound to a chelated medium (which we call gadolinium-based contrast agents or GBCA), to reduce its harmful effects.R. Zeolite can affect brain serotonergic receptor activities of mammary carcinoma-bearing mice . Avoid wearing tight sleeves or applying creams or lotions at the site where the dialysis will be inserted. Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Can block the absorption of drugs and nutrients, Imaging methods such as NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), Boost the levels of minerals and trace elements, P. aeruginosa, which can cause hospital-acquired infections, E. coli, known for causing ulcers and infecting wounds, Improve overall health and prolong the lifespan, Zeolite wound patches (usually loaded with silver), 5-10 drops of essential oils of your choice. I recommend the AMD Ion Cleanse Foot Bath. $39.99. There seems to be a simple one-two combination that helps to chelate heavy metals - cilantro and chlorella - (but some say it makes things worse). Zeolite is a naturally occurring mineral found in volcanic rocks. This can cause inflammation, edema, and necrosis of the tissue along with retention of gadolinium in your body. Thanks to these potent detox properties, zeolite can [3, 11, 12, 13]: For these reasons, its often used to detox heavy metals and other toxins from the body. Zeolite is a naturally occurring mineral that binds to heavy metals, such as gadolinium, and removes them from the body. It even raised the number of probiotic Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains while fighting intestinal pathogens [10]. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Rinse and proceed with your usual skin care. It killed bacteria and fungi while protecting skin cells [66]. I recommend that everyone keep a container of. Chelation. Continue reading below for treatment protocols . Using ions, which are naturally present in nature, an ionic foot bath assists your cells and tissues in releasing unwanted compounds and drawing them out of your body through your feet. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider because of something you have read on SelfHacked. As described above (see Detox), zeolite also protects against liver-damaging aflatoxins. It is important to limit exposure to gadolinium and to take steps to detoxify the body if it has been exposed to high levels of the element. Hi welcome to my channel on how to cure yourself and heal from Gadolinium poisoning. Wendy has been a life saver for me. Chelation therapy is a medical process that involves administering chelating agents that will bind to the metal ions to form a more chemically stable compound that can be safely excreted from the body, typically through the kidneys. It is purposely micronized to 0-40 microns of size so it can properly detox the entire body through the blood, organs and gut where . Super Detoxifier. Other detox methods can be harsh (sludgy detox 'smoothies' and multiple enemas a day aren't everyone's cup of tea!) Our zeolite detox agent is an odorless, tasteless nano-zeolite spray that you take by spraying into your mouth once or twice a day. People who took liquid zeolite (30 drops a day) had significantly higher levels of these metals in their urine samples. In a clinical trial on 33 volunteers, zeolite enhanced the elimination of aluminum, arsenic, lead, mercury, and other heavy metals. Dont combine zeolite with any drugs or supplements, and make sure to consult your doctor first. The liquid concentrated Fulvic Acid I am using in the therapy is created to have approx. Its structure consists of an outer framework of silica and alumina tetrahedra, within which clusters of water molecules and exchangeable cations (e.g., calcium, potassium, sodium) migrate freely, while larger metals preferentially gather inside. Together, these three ingredients assist your bodys natural detoxification processes in a way that specifically supports heavy metal clearance through mineralization, mobilization, and toxin binding. For a daily cleanse, rinse the mask as soon as it dries. However, even if you havent had either of those procedures, you still may be exposed to gadolinium in your drinking water. The two most important aspects to consider when utilizing zeolite for detox are quality and quantity. It is a silvery-white metal found in nature, and it is relatively rare. Joe Cohen flipped the script on conventional and alternative medicine and it worked. Speak with your doctor before supplementing. Given to cows, zeolite lowered levels of aflatoxin in their milk, which is a major source of human poisoning. While there are alternatives to gadolinium, youd have to consult with your doctor on available contrast options. Do not consider user experiences as medical advice. Get started and save $50 off your zeolite detox today to help remove gadolinium from your body. However, no evidence is available to back up these claims. Required fields are marked *. Heavy metals can damage neurons and trigger anxiety, depression, anger, and attention problems [29, 30, 31]. Pourzaki, Mojtaba, et al. The website claims: "Micronized zeolite has the perfect molecular structure for capturing and removing heavy metals from the body without removing healthy ions and . Since zeolite binds heavy metals and other toxins, some people voiced concerns about potential poisoning from contaminated supplements. First formed more than 300 million years ago, zeolite is a mineral mostly made up of silica (the third most abundant trace element in the human body) and alumina tetrahedra. Your email address will not be published. Suppresses oxidative damage. The symptoms can range from intense to subtle and can be emotional, mental, and physical. The US military uses zeolite-based product (QuickClot) to stop severe bleeding on the battlefield. Liquid zeolite is sometimes enriched with an antioxidant, dihydroquercetin (DHQ) [101]. It is also used in electronics and other industrial applications. There is currently nowhere near enough evidence to recommend zeolite for the prevention or treatment of cancer, but research is ongoing. If your liver isnt functioning properly, or your detox pathways are blocked, you wont be able to adequately remove gadolinium. Binding mycotoxins, creating stable complexes. In general, NSF is a condition that primarily affects people with kidney disease. On the other hand, some users complained about constipation, dehydration, stomach discomfort, and the lack of desired effects. Cell studies have confirmed the ability of zeolite to bind and remove heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury [26, 27, 28]. We're a team of passionate health writers who are dedicated to helping others discover the best strategies to detox from heavy metals and toxins and live a toxin free life. The ability of zeolite to bind radioactive elements, fungal toxins, and other cancer-causing substances also makes it a promising candidate for future cancer research. When your blood brain barrier is not intact it can result in gadolinium being deposited in your brain tissue, regardless of how strong your renal function is. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Supplement-drug interactions can be dangerous and, in rare cases, even life-threatening. I was beyond impressed with this system! The exact mechanism for the disease is still unclear, but it raises real concern due to the fact that many people may have kidney insufficiency and may not be aware of it. In the USA, zeolite is registered as safe for human consumption by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Your email address will not be published. Heavy metal detox: Zeolite, in particular Clinoptilolite, is capable of eliminating toxic heavy metals (like mercury, lead, arsenic and cadmium); pesticides and antibiotics without removing vital electrolytes1.It is an ideal remedy for smokers, and people who got in contact with heavy metals (such as amalgam filling), where tap water is contaminated or simply to remove years of toxic buildup. The water that you cook with, bathe with, and even drink may be contaminated with this heavy metal[31]. symptoms associated with gadolinium toxicity, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-fda-warns-gadolinium-based-contrast-agents-gbcas-are-retained-body, https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/referrals/gadolinium-containing-contrast-agents, https://gadoliniumtoxicity.com/background/risk-factors/, https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606010.html, https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/barium-sulfate, Signs EMFs are Driving Your Hormonal Imbalance. 4. The unique combination helps the body to trap and remove toxins and free radicals, supplies key nutrients the body needs . Aleksa received his MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade, his master thesis focusing on protein sources in plant-based diets. Its tiny cages and surface charge trap heavy metals, natural and chemical poisons, radioactive elements, microbes, metabolic products, and more [7, 8, 9, 10]. Many natural options can be used to support and complete a heavy metal detox and avoid extensive heavy metal detox side effects. When introduced to your body, they flood your system with minerals which assists your tissues in pushing out heavy metals that are trapped in your cells. Body Detox of Volcanic Ash Cause Cancer. China leads the way, followed by South Korea, Japan, and Jordan. I think that anyone that knows they are heavy metals toxic or have trouble detoxing should avoid gadolinium based MRIs because its likely they may also have trouble excreting the gadolinium. We believe that the most accurate information is found directly in the scientific source. Dr Wendy Myers, ND is a detox expert, functional diagnostic nutritionist, NES Bioenergetic Practitioner, and founder of Myersdetox.com. Whats more, MRIs themselves can mobilize gadolinium from past MRIs. Primarily a skin disease, Morgellons disease is characterized by small fibers appearing in slow or non-healing sores. To stay on the safe side, make sure not to combine zeolite with any drugs or supplements. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of zeolite for any of the below-listed uses. This detox blend contains an array of research-based superfoods that support your livers natural detoxification pathways, gently enhancing the reduction of your toxic load. Well, zeolite might do it all, but clinical evidence remains limited. It is a 100% safe natural volcanic mineral called clinoptilolite zeolite in powdered form that is specifically micronized to be between 0-40 microns of size. "Zeolite clinoptilolite: Therapeutic virtues of an ancient mineral." Molecules 24.8 (2019): 1517. 2 oz - $39.99 4 oz - $74.99. In one study on mice, immunostimulatory effects of zeolite provoked a graft-vs-host reaction, which can be detrimental after organ transplantation. Free shipping. Clinoptilolite was able to detox chickens from aflatoxin and protect their liver, bile duct, and kidneys. Zeolite does it all in the gut without being absorbed, which makes it safe for human use with a few notable exceptions (see Side Effects & Interactions below). Gadolinimum is a toxic substances that can collect in our bodies over time. Alcohol. However, when choosing a liver support supplement, its vital that you ensure that the ingredients included are high quality. Because of its blood clotting and antibacterial activity, some researchers have been investigating whether zeolite can help with wound healing. It suppressed inflammatory proteins (NF-B, TNF-alpha, and IL-1B) and prevented cell death [77]. It proved equally effective as a standard IBD drug (5-aminosalicylic acid). Preliminary research on zeolite showed great results, but solid clinical evidence for most conditions is still lacking. As mentioned, zeolite is a common ingredient in personal care products, such as: The below doses used in clinical trials may not apply to you personally. Make sure you got it all out. Note: Clinoptilolite is the most common type of zeolite for medical uses. When added to chicken feed, zeolite cut the number of harmful bacteria in their gut without disturbing the good bacteria. Get started and save $50 off your zeolite detox today to help remove gadolinium from your body. With just a few taste-free sprays a day, you can help rid your body of heavy metals and toxins, and experience improved energy and well-being. Is AlPO4-5 Nano-Zeolite Effective for Preventing Alzheimers Disease in Humans?., The Journal of neuropsychiatry and clinical neurosciences, Mck-eler, Dorotea, and Nela Pivac. Symptoms of toxicity can start within the first few hours of being exposed. Zeolite clinoptilolite: Therapeutic virtues of an ancient mineral. Molecules 24.8 (2019): 1517. While symptoms do tend to fade with time, many people report lingering issues that have lasted five years or long with permanent disability[4]. Zeolite binds complex organic toxins but also drugs with similar structures. Other types of natural zeolite showed comparable effects in 25 people: they boosted glutathione levels and protected lipids from oxidative damage [60]. Made in the USA. 3. In cell studies, zeolite eliminated viruses and volatile odors. Zeolite A (synthetic) decreased blood levels of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and other minerals [97, 98]. Mastinu, Andrea, et al. Causes of acidosis include diabetes, high protein diets, chronic disease, excess alcohol or coffee consumption, liver failure, low blood sugar, and poor digestion. Containing a unique, negatively charged, crystalline structure, the zeolite captures these dangerous elements from the body into a molecular cage that . Hassanvand, Ali, and Shahriar Gharibzadeh. In the end, our bodies can't keep up with the excess demand and symptoms such as chronic fatigue, brain fog . Fortunately, there are ways to detoxify the body of . Clean Slate + Gut Health . Switch out sugar-sweetened beverages like sodas and sports drinks for water, unsweetened tea or detox drinks, and be sure to stay well-hydrated. In a clash of scalding lava and cold seawater, zeolite forms a unique cage-like structure and negative surface charge. It got its name from the Greek words zeo (boil) and stone because during its heating to a high temperature - when it is hot - it releases steam. Zeolites super-binding properties come with a price. Gadolinium can, therefore, remain in your body for months or even years[4]. A zeolite detox passes through the gastrointestinal system and causes feces to be expelled. In animals and cells, zeolite has shown the potential to reduce skin inflammation and bind to histamine. Through the transfer of frequency patterns by means of wave transference, it was possible to prove the frequency pattern with the aid of frequency, spectroscopy. However, zeolite has a high affinity for those toxins and keeps them trapped under all conditions [91, 92, 4]. In cadmium-poisoned pigs, zeolite prevented anemia and protected the liver. The mentioned role of heavy metals in brain damage and strong detox action of zeolite may explain this phenomenon. In fact, some research shows that this toxic metal can stick around in the body for over two years after the initial MRI[28]. Almost 600 zeolite structures occur in both nature and laboratory settings. In a cell study, clinoptilolite reversed the liver-damaging effects of adriamycin, an anticancer drug. "Love your products! His mission is to bridge the gap between science and everyday life, helping readers improve their health and feel better. Uncontrolled bleeding is the 2nd leading cause of death in severe injuries and accidents. The downside, however, is that those dyes usually contain gadolinium, a toxic heavy metal.. Aluminosilicate then attracts extra protons from all these metals, so increasing the blood . In the case of gadolinium, however, treatment plants do not test for or filter for this heavy metal leaving it free to enter your homes water system. Toxin Binding: Grapefruit pectin acts like a net that catches freed impurities that have been mobilized by the cilantro and fulvic/humic acids.
Where Did Frankie Borrelli Go To College,
Articles Z