Toxin Cleanse: Identifying Harmful Toxins Affecting Your Health

For the first time, scientists have created a global inventory that lists more than 350,000 chemicals and mixtures of chemicals registered for commercial production and use, up to three times as many as is commonly estimated! (Environ. Sci. Technol. 2020, DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b06379). 

Over 80,000 chemicals are currently used to manufacture everyday household products in the United States. Exposure to these harmful substances is nearly unavoidable, with an alarming 1,500 to 2,000 new chemicals introduced yearly! 

Friends, I understand how the first two paragraphs might raise some concerns, but here’s the empowering truth: While we might not be able to completely eliminate all toxins from our environment, we have the power to take control of our health. We can make a significant difference in our well-being by detoxifying our bodies and transforming our homes into safer, toxin-free sanctuaries. Please join me as I explore how toxins affect your health, how they enter your life, and the practical, natural steps to minimize exposure and cleanse your body.

What Are Toxins?

While the scientific definition of a toxin refers explicitly to a poisonous substance produced by living organisms, the term “toxins” has come to be widely used to describe any harmful chemicals in our environment. Although the correct term might be “toxic chemicals,” the word “toxins” has become a familiar and relatable way to refer to these substances in our everyday conversations.

All toxicity comes from external (outside the body) sources or internal sources generated within the body. Dr. Edward Goup, DC

Exogenous toxins, or those that come from outside the body, are substances we encounter through the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, and other environmental factors. These external toxins can accumulate in our bodies, disrupting our health over time.

On the other hand, Endogenous (inside the body) toxins originate within us. For instance, when you’re under chronic stress, your body may produce excess hormones like cortisol. These hormones are usually beneficial, but when produced in excess, they can lead to toxic imbalances, negatively impacting your health.

The impact of a toxin is determined by its toxicity—its potential to harm or damage organs, interfere with enzyme function, or disrupt vital biochemical processes in your body. Understanding the sources and effects of these toxins is critical to protecting your health and supporting your body’s natural detoxification processes.

Understanding the Types of Toxins

Toxins are present in many aspects of our daily lives and can be categorized as biological or chemical. Biological toxins are naturally occurring substances produced by living organisms. These include zootoxins (produced by animals), mycotoxins (produced by fungi), and phytotoxins (made by plants). These biotoxins are part of the natural world and can be encountered in various environments.

On the other hand, chemical toxins are synthetic compounds often created as byproducts of industrial processes. These artificial toxins can impact the body either locally—at the site of contact—or systemically, affecting different organs and systems. Depending on the nature and level of exposure, the effects of toxins may be immediate or manifest over time.

Surprisingly, many familiar sources of toxins are found in our homes, workplaces, and the foods we consume daily. While outdoor pollution is a concern, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that indoor environments like public buildings, offices, and even our homes can harbor significant levels of toxins. 

Toxins in Your Home

Your dwelling is a space where you can thrive, but it’s essential to be aware that it may harbor chemical and biological pollutants. These can be present in everyday items such as:

• Cleansers, floors, and cookware.
• Bacteria and insects that might reside on mattresses and upholstery.
• Electrical devices, while convenient, emit electromagnetic radiation and, if damaged, could potentially release metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic.

By staying mindful and making healthy choices, you can create a cleaner, more harmonious living environment while supporting your well-being.

Some of the worst carriers of chemical toxins are the cosmetic products you put on your body. Soap, shampoo, and other personal care products expose the average person to hundreds of chemicals. Many contain chemicals that have yet to be thoroughly tested. These products often carry known carcinogens and endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

Ingredient labels should be more transparent so that consumers can understand the safety of the products they use daily. Unfortunately, whenever you bathe, breathe, cook, sleep, or continue your beauty regimen, these toxins and their effects accumulate in your body.

Common Biological Toxins in Your Home

Your home is your sanctuary, where you seek comfort and safety. However, knowing that natural biological toxins can exist even in this peaceful space is essential. Below are some of the biological organisms that might produce toxins in your home environment:

• Dust mites: These tiny creatures thrive in mattresses, pillows, upholstery, fabrics, and floors. They are a common allergen and can be managed with regular cleaning and allergen-proof covers.
• Mold and mildew: These fungi can grow in damp areas like bathroom walls, window sills, wallpaper, ceilings, and even on fabrics and food. Controlling moisture and using natural antifungal solutions can help keep them at bay.
• Bacteria and viruses: These microorganisms can be found on kitchen surfaces, in bathrooms, on sinks and showers, in food, and even in tap water. While many bacteria are harmless, some can cause illness, so maintaining cleanliness and proper hygiene is essential.
• Pet dander: Our beloved pets can shed dander, settling on floors, clothes, curtains, beds, furniture, and even on our skin and hair. Regular grooming and cleaning can reduce dander and keep your home fresh.
• Insect parts and excrement: These can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals and are often found in less frequently cleaned areas like attics, basements, closets, storage boxes, cabinets, and garages. Regular cleaning and proper storage can minimize their presence.
• Pollen: Pollen can be a potent allergen for many people and can enter your home on shoes, pets, hair, skin, and clothing after being outdoors. Regular vacuuming and air purification can help reduce pollen levels inside your home.

Common Chemical Toxins in Your Home

When we think of chemical toxins, it’s easy to imagine a garage packed with paint cans and hazardous waste. But did you know that many everyday household items, made from the materials used to build our homes to the products we use daily, can contain health-disrupting chemicals? 

Below is a list of common chemical toxins and the products that may contain them:

• Diethanolamine (DEA): Found in shampoos, lotions, sunscreens, brake fluid, and antifreeze, this chemical is often used in personal care products but can harm health.
• Formaldehyde: Present in nail polish removers, air fresheners, cleaning products, and even paper towels, formaldehyde is a known irritant that can affect indoor air quality.
• Triclosan: Commonly used in hair products, shaving gels, deodorants, and toothpaste, triclosan is an antibacterial agent that comes with concerns about its potential impact on hormone function.
• Petroleum: Petroleum-based products, such as detergents, fertilizers, synthetic fibers, vitamins, plastics, and candles, are ubiquitous in our homes and can contribute to indoor pollution.
• Butylated Compounds (BHA, BHT): These preservatives are used in hair products, makeup, deodorants, and fragrances and have been linked to various health concerns.
• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): PTFE is known for its use in Teflon cookware but can also be found in cosmetics and water-resistant products. When heated, it can potentially release harmful chemicals.
• P-Phenylenediamine (PPD): Commonly used in hair dyes, cosmetics, and henna tattoos, PPD is a synthetic compound that often causes allergic reactions in some people.
• Mica: This mineral, used in makeup products, insulation, wallpaper, shingles, and cement, can contribute to respiratory issues if inhaled in fine powder form.
• Dibutyl Phthalate: Often found in plastics, adhesives, and printing inks, this chemical is a known endocrine disruptor.
• Sodium Laureth Sulfate: A common ingredient in shampoos, toothpaste, mouthwashes, body wash, soaps, and detergents, this surfactant can be harsh on the skin and scalp.
• Aluminum: Present in antacids, cake mixes, processed cheese, deodorants, baking soda, baking powder, and soy-based baby formulas, aluminum exposure has been linked to neurological concerns.
• Ammonia: Used in fertilizers, cleaning solutions, plastics, fabrics, pesticides, and dyes, ammonia can irritate the respiratory system.
• Chlorine: Found in water, pesticides, synthetic rubbers, polymers, and refrigerants, chlorine can contribute to respiratory and skin issues.
• Fluoride: Excessive fluoride exposure in non-organic or processed foods, toothpaste, mouthwashes, Teflon cookware, and water has been a subject of health debates.
• Sodium Hydroxide: This strong alkali is used in soaps, rayon, paper, dyes, petroleum products, detergents, and oven cleaners. It can be corrosive and irritating to the skin and eyes.

By opting for natural, non-toxic alternatives, you can transform your living space into a true sanctuary of well-being, where you and your loved ones can thrive in a cleaner, safer environment.

VOCs

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common chemical pollutants found in indoor spaces. These carbon-containing compounds can easily circulate through the air and often have a distinct odor. VOCs are emitted by various building materials, including:

• Sealants, caulks, and coatings
• Adhesives
• Paint and varnish
• Wall coverings
• Cleaning agents
• Air fresheners and other scented products
• Carpeting
• Vinyl flooring
• Upholsteries, fabrics, and furnishings
• Personal beauty and hygiene products

The Power of Detox: Supporting Your Immune System and Gut Health

Your body has an incredible detoxification system, where the immune system, skin, lungs, intestines, kidneys, and liver work harmoniously to eliminate harmful substances. The skin and respiratory system serve as the first line of defense, while the immune system neutralizes toxins that pass through. Regular body cleansing naturally supports these detox pathways, helping to eliminate toxins more efficiently, boost your body’s defenses, and promote overall vitality. You can strengthen your well-being and maintain a balanced immune system by making mindful choices that enhance this process.

God has placed an incredible self-healing mechanism in your body to heal and thrive when given the right tools and support. Dr. Edward Group, DC

Below are signs that your body could benefit from a cleanse:

• Sugar cravings
• Digestive issues
• Sinus issues
• Acne and rashes
• Fatigue
• Loss of mental sharpness
• Joint and muscle aches
• Depression and anxiety
• Sudden weight loss or difficulty losing weight
• Unpleasant breath and body odor
• Irregular sleep cycles or trouble sleeping

Cleanses That I Highly Recommend For Everyone  

Colon Cleanse Program 

Liver Cleansing 

Harmful Organism Cleanse 

Heavy Metal Cleanse

Kidney Support and Cleanse

How to Eliminate Toxins and Boost Your Health

Cleansing rituals have been embraced for centuries, with Indigenous Americans utilizing natural methods such as fasting and sweat lodges to purify the body and promote wellness. In recent years, society has rediscovered and embraced these time-honored, organic practices—like fasting and herbal cleansing—as effective and gentle ways to detoxify, support weight loss, and maintain health, all without relying on harsh or toxic medicines. This return to natural cleansing reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of holistic wellness and a desire to align with nature’s wisdom.

Reduce Your Exposure to Toxins

The first step in a cleanse is eliminating harmful toxins from your home. Minimize microwaves and electronics, and thoroughly clean floors, beds, and upholstery. Use a damp cloth to wipe dust, preventing it from spreading through the air. You can create natural cleaning products using distilled water, lemon, peppermint, and vinegar as a disinfectant or baking soda with lemon for scrubbing. Switch to organic cosmetics and hygiene products—coconut oil is a great natural skin and hair care alternative.

Clean-Up Your Diet for a Healthier You

After creating a toxin-free home environment, the next step in your wellness journey is to focus on the foods you eat to support your body’s natural cleansing processes. And your diet is foundational to your overall health and well-being. Embracing an organic vegan or vegetarian diet is vital to a successful cleanse. Giving your organs a break from unhealthy foods allows them to function at their best and effectively flush out harmful toxins.

For optimal results, it’s essential to avoid certain foods, including

• Processed or packaged foods
• Sodium-rich foods and MSG
• Meat
• Soda
• Caffeine
• Added refined sugars
• Artificial sweeteners
• Dairy
• Refined carbohydrates
• Trans fats
• Wheat and gluten

Instead, nourish your body with organic foods high in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and other essential nutrients to combat toxin damage. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods will help maintain a healthy gut microbiota, which is crucial during a cleanse. Below are some recommended foods for a detoxifying diet:

• Brightly colored fruits: Watermelon, strawberries, blueberries
• Citrus fruits: Limes, lemons, oranges
• Brightly colored vegetables: Broccoli, beets, carrots
• Leafy greens: Kale, Swiss chard, spinach
• Seeds and nuts: Flax and sunflower seeds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts
• Distilled water
• Non-caffeinated herbal teas (I suggest not using green tea.)
• Garlic

Enhance your meals and your cleanse by adding some herbs and spices such as cilantro, dandelion, eucalyptus, alfalfa leaf, organic milk thistle, peppermint, and organic gum acacia. These natural ingredients will add lots of flavor and also provide additional detoxifying benefits, supporting a vibrant and healthy cleanse.

Drink-Up and Stay Hydrated

It is crucial to stay hydrated during a cleanse. I suggest drinking purified spring water 20% of the time and distilled water 80% of the time instead of tap water. You can also mix two tablespoons of raw, organic apple cider vinegar into a gallon of distilled water and shake thoroughly to add taste and nutrients.

Take Daily Nutritional Supplements

Cleansing your body using natural, organic supplements is a fantastic way to ensure success. It’s imperative to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals daily.

Some dietary supplements are even grouped in kits specifically designed to target specific organs or issues. These kits include Global Healing’s own Kidney Cleanse Program™, Liver Cleanse Program™, Harmful Organism Cleanse Program™, and Chemical and Heavy Metal Cleanse Program™.

Simple Ways to Get More Daily Exercise

Exercising when cleansing is a fantastic way to help your body push out toxins and waste, especially if you break a sweat. Just one hour of exercise daily, which can be broken into two 30-minute sessions, is ideal. 

• Take the Stairs: Whenever possible, always choose the stairs rather than the elevator. It’s a quick way to add some cardio to your day.
• Incorporate Exercise into Daily Tasks: Turn household chores like cleaning, gardening, or washing the car into mini workouts.
• Stretch and Move During Breaks: If you work at a desk, take short breaks to stretch, do a few squats, or walk around the office. It helps to keep your body energized.

And Finally…

As your awareness of toxic chemical exposure and environmental health continues to expand, it becomes clear that cleansing and detoxifying the body are essential for staying healthy. By deepening your understanding of how these toxins impact your body and environment, you equip yourself with the knowledge to embrace powerful and effective detoxification methods. This knowledge will incentivize you to take proactive steps toward enhancing your quality of life and fostering a healthier, more vibrant future for yourself and your loved ones.