3 Hidden Toxins that Could Harm Your Health

Clean Living! I remember the feeling after taking a few days to really take care of myself. Such as having a few servings of home made vegetable juice, home made bone broths, fresh fruits and vegetables. I make sure to do yoga which brings my nervous system into the calm parasympathetic state, and maybe get a message to drain my lymphatic system. To top it off, dipping my feet into the ocean filled with negative charged ions that neutralize the electromagnetic frequencies of the positively charged ions from computers, cell phones, and our own oxidative stress is so refreshing. Can you imagine the feeling of energy, lightness, clarity and being clean that comes with a lower toxic level in your body?

Today lets talk about 3 toxins you may be exposed to on a daily basis that you may want to avoid. 

1. Xeno-estrogens. Did you know that synthetic estrogens are linked with increased cancer risk, or symptoms or hormonal inflammation such as PMS, hot flashes, endometriosis, fibroids and even headaches? Xeno-estrogens can be found in plastics such as plastic bags used to store food, plastic food containers, plastic wrap, and water bottles. Use glass instead. 

2. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors. This means they mimic and disrupt hormones causing hormonal imbalances. They are linked to birth defects and increased insulin resistance according to some studies. Unfortunately Phthalates are found in 95% of our population because of easy exposure through plastics, cosmetic products, perfumes and fragrances, hairspray etc. Avoid plastics with recycling codes 3 or 7, they are likely to contain Phthalates. 

3. Acrylamides are used in many industrial processes, but also found in foods. Acrylamides are carcinogenic and associated with increased risk of breast cancer. They are also associated with neurological damage in workers exposed to this chemical. Acrylamides are found in foods that are cooked above 250 degrees F and with charred meats from grilling (the blackened meats). Potato chips, and frech fries, foods heated at high temperatures contain higher levels of acrylamides. 

My perspective on toxins is to be educated but not fearful. There are many toxins in our world that we are exposed to that are in-evitable. If you are aware and can use substitutes that is wise. I've also seen patients who are fearful of so many foods, chemicals and everything around them, that the stress of the perception that their environment is unsafe, raises their cortisol and fight and flight response, leading to more inflammation, hormonal disruption, allergies, auto-immune diseases and illness. So balance is key. If your friend is serving you BBQ on the grill, it's once in a while with the acrylamides and won't kill you. But you may want avoid using plastic containers for your lunch everyday, and maybe the synthetically colored lipsticks.