Foreign Invaders

​The subject of toxins can be overwhelming, because it is something that feels hard to control. You can be vigilant about avoiding gluten, exercising every day,and limiting sugar. But how do you manage something that is literally everywhere...your food, your home, your workplace, even your backyard?
Toxins are foreign invaders into your body, and too much accumulation can affect your health. Several factors contribute to your body's toxic load. Do you eat lots of food sprayed with pesticides? Does your DNA handicap your body from processing toxins? (This can be revealed in 23 and Me or Ancestry gene testing.) Are there strong chemicals being used in your workplace? Do you have mercury fillings or other exposure to heavy metals? Do you have water damage in your home or workplace? These are all contributing factors. Certain viruses or autoimmune conditions can also make you more sensitive to toxins, as can GI issues such as a leaky gut which allows toxins to seep directly into the bloodstream. 
Evidence of toxic overload includes fatigue, body aches, sinus congestion, GI issues, skin irritations and anxiety/insomnia. Also, weight gain/difficulty losing weight is associated with toxins, as the body attempts to make them less concentrated by dispersing them into fat.
What can you do?

• Try to minimize exposure to toxins you can control. Eat organic foods, the less processed the better. Pay attention to products you use on your skin, such as soap and makeup. Try to use non-chemical cleaners in your home, and limit exposure to artificially-scented candles and air fresheners. To find ratings on the safety of products, click here.
• Exercise. Movement stimulates blood flow, which helps move toxins through your body. Sweating is also one of the best ways for your body to detox. (On a side note, an infrared sauna is highly recommended for detoxing. If you don't want to go to the spa, you can get one here for $189.99.)
• Eat foods that are natural detoxifiers, such as cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and garlic. Chlorophyll water and green tea also help with detox.
• Supplements such as Vitamin C, Glutathione and Activated Charcoal (GI Detox) are used for detox. Charcoal is becoming a popular ingredient in many products (i.e. facial cleansers) because of its ability to bind toxins.