Detoxing

I remember my doctor once telling me not to worry about detoxing because the liver does a fantastic job and doesn’t need any external help. That may have been true when we were cavemen living in an unpolluted environment, but in today’s modern world, we're exposed to harmful levels of toxins on a daily basis. Some of these toxins are processed by the liver, but many remain in the body and accumulate over a lifetime.

Toxicity is a major contributing factor to disease. The real issue is that most people are unaware of these hidden toxins—they're often present in everyday products, food, and even the water we drink.

Toxins in Tap Water

Take tap water, for example. Many assume it’s completely safe, but it can contain a surprising number of contaminants. For those who think there’s nothing wrong with drinking tap water, consider that it often contains the following:

Heavy Metals: Lead, copper, arsenic
Microorganisms: Bacteria (e.g., E. coli), viruses and parasites (e.g., Giardia, Cryptosporidium)
Industrial Chemicals: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), VOCs (benzene, toluene)
Agricultural Chemicals: Pesticides, herbicides, nitrates, nitrites
Disinfection Byproducts: Chlorine, chloramine, trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs)
Pharmaceuticals: Antibiotics, hormones
Other Contaminants: Fluoride

Everyday Sources of Toxins

Everyday household items can also contain a surprising number of toxins. These include common cleaning products, beauty and personal care items, and even laundry detergents. One of the most concerning sources of toxicity, however, is the food we eat. Processed foods are packed with artificial chemicals, and even seemingly healthy options are often contaminated with pesticide residues.

Toxins the Body Struggles to Eliminate

The body is pretty good at handling many toxins through the liver, kidneys, and other detox systems, but some substances are harder to break down or eliminate. Here are a few that the body tends to struggle with:

Heavy Metals – Like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. They accumulate in tissues over time and are tough to detox without medical intervention.
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) – Such as PCBs and dioxins. They’re fat-soluble, storing in body fat and lingering for years.
PFAS (Forever Chemicals) – Found in non-stick cookware and water-repellent materials. The body can’t break them down easily, and they can stay in the bloodstream for decades.
Mycotoxins – Toxins from mold, especially in water-damaged buildings. Some people are genetically less efficient at clearing them.
Pesticides & Herbicides – Like glyphosate, which may linger in the body and disrupt detox enzymes.
Phthalates & BPA – Found in plastics and personal care products. These endocrine disruptors can accumulate and disrupt hormone balance.
Aluminum – In deodorants, some vaccines, and food additives. The body clears it slowly, and it may accumulate in the brain.

Aluminium and Alzheimer’s Disease

Research has found that some people with Alzheimer’s disease have unusually high levels of aluminum in certain areas of the brain, particularly regions associated with memory and cognitive function. While aluminum’s exact role in Alzheimer’s isn’t fully understood, it’s been detected in the amyloid plaques that are a hallmark of the disease. This has sparked concern over long-term exposure to aluminum in cookware, antiperspirants, and processed foods.

Toxicity and Chronic Disease

While some scientists and doctors struggle to understand the rapid rise of disease, many professionals in functional medicine recognize that toxicity is a major contributing factor. In fact, detoxing plays a vital role in helping those with chronic diseases reclaim their health. As part of my treatment for Lyme disease, I focused on detoxing from mycotoxins, heavy metals, and parasites.

What Can You Do?

Does all of this sound overwhelming in a world where we’re discovering that everything seems to be dangerous? Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and maintaining a balanced work-life routine will go a long way in helping your body process many toxins. If you’re looking to go the extra mile, here are some steps you can take:

Avoid non-stick cookware made with Teflon or similar coatings.
Choose natural cleaning products or make your own with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
Use fragrance-free or naturally scented personal care products.
Avoid air fresheners and scented candles with synthetic fragrances.
Ventilate your home regularly and use HEPA air filters if needed.
Read ingredient labels on cosmetics and avoid parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes.
Opt for natural or organic mattresses and bedding when possible.
Limit pesticide and herbicide use around your home and garden.
Avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave.
Be cautious with canned foods—look for BPA-free linings.
Choose low-VOC paints and building materials during home renovations.
Reduce dust in your home by vacuuming with a HEPA filter and dusting often.

How to Remove Toxins Safely

People with diseases, in particular, struggle to remove toxins from the body. In these cases, it is essential to follow a detox protocol. This may involve using binders, chelation therapy, and herbs, alongside therapies such as sauna or red light therapy to help eliminate toxins.

Detoxing should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It’s a complex process that must be carried out correctly. Failing to follow proper guidance can result in the worsening of health conditions.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or treatment plan. Detoxing and other health protocols should be followed under the supervision of a trained professional to ensure safety and effectiveness. The author and website take no responsibility for any adverse effects or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.