North Fork, CA – Every day we are exposed to a variety of chemical toxins that have a significant impact on our health. Understanding where these encounters come from and how they affect our body are the first steps toward minimizing contact and protecting ourselves.
The Focus On Vibrant Health articles are about health. What supports health, and what harms it. I have already written about the positive benefits of good nutrition, clean water, and sunlight. Also, the dangers of processed foods and artificial light. Another way our health is being harmed is that we are being poisoned on a daily basis from toxins that are essentially invisible.
Over 800 man-made chemicals can be found in the body, and many of these have known adverse health effects on our biology. They contaminate our water, soil, food, beverages, and air. Manufacturers of these chemicals are not held accountable, and testing for long term effects and safe levels is not being done. It is up to each individual to protect yourself as best you can, and that begins with awareness.
Many of these toxins are endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), substances that interfere with the body’s network of glands and hormones that regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, and other vital functions. These chemicals can mimic, block, or alter the natural hormones, leading to disruptions in normal bodily processes. The major examples include PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), Bisphenols, Phthalates, PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyl), Dioxins, PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers), Parabens, and Alkylphenols. Chemicals used as herbicides and pesticides include Organophosphates (Malathion), Carbamates, Atrazine, 2,4-D, Neonicotinoids, Permethrin, Paraquat and Glyphosate. These chemicals have toxic effects at even very low levels, and many accumulate over time.
Health effects can include lowered testosterone and sperm counts, irregular menstrual cycles, and infertility, abnormalities in sex organs of children, learning disabilities, early puberty, altered nervous system and immune function, certain cancers, respiratory problems, metabolic issues, thyroid issues, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, cardiovascular problems, and more. If you or someone you love is struggling with one of these issues, chemicals may be one of the contributing factors. When is the last time your primary care doctor brought this to your attention?
Where are these chemicals found? They are in plastics, food can linings, receipts, and nonstick cookware. Other common sources include cosmetics, fragrances, lotions, shampoos, detergents, and other cleaning products. These chemicals are used in stain-free clothing, water-repellent materials and flame retardants in our furniture. In agriculture they are in the herbicides and pesticides used to poison plants and insects, and are also harming us. Even medications, both prescription and over the counter, have toxic ingredients. They are not just present in industrial processes, but are in our every day life.
What can you do? Make sure your drinking water is clean. Stop using herbicides and insecticides around your home. Avoid plastic as much as possible, starting with water bottles, fast food packaging, and leftover containers. Use glass or unlined stainless steel instead. Cook with cast iron, stainless steel or high quality ceramic-coated cookware. Eat organic foods and naturally raised animal products. Use non-toxic and fragrance-free cleaning and personal care products. You can go to Environmental Working Group and use their database to see if your favorite foods and the ingredients in the products you use are safe. This is an excellent resource to support you on your journey. Take responsibility for changing what you can. Start simple, as every little step you take makes a difference.
You can find previous articles here: Focus On Vibrant Health.
Dr. Veronica Tilden can be your ally in having vibrant health. She uses traditional hands-on osteopathy and helps you take responsibility for your health, guiding you to make better choices in your life. Her office is in North Fork. You can find out more and schedule an appointment at DrVeronicaTilden.com.
