The many faces of toxic exposure

What are the different ways that toxins can enter our bodies? Through food and water that we ingest? Yes, this is a primary pathway, but also toxins get in when we breath, and through our skin. Once in the body, toxins are either stored in fatty tissues, where they accumulate, or they are eliminated as waste by the kidney or through sweat. As more toxins enter the body, the kidney is worked harder and harder, and the immune system is reduced overall. This can make us more susceptible to illness such as flu and cancer.

Food

Many of the foods that we eat contain toxins. Pesticides are applied to our fruits and vegetables, hormones are injected in the animals, chemicals are used to refine foods such as sugar and salt, and artificial substances are added to foods to preserve freshness, enhance flavour or sweetness.

The best ways to avoid these exposures is to buy organic, whole foods that are not packaged and have no additives. This of course is easier said than done, which is why I support the baby steps method. Take one or two foods that you eat regularly, bite the bullet and buy organic. The best foods to do this with are thin-skinned fruits and vegetables, meats and milk. The way I do this is to reduce the amount of meat that I intake, and buy organic meats only. I buy only organic peaches, plums and apples, but bananas I purchase are not organic.

Air

Much of the air that we breath is polluted with various substances. For example, if you use a high-exhaust range hood, and have fires frequently, then the exhaust fan could be pulling smoke and carbon dioxide from your fire into your home. When you spray your favourite tub and tile cleanser on bathroom surfaces, much of the cleanser is conveniently suspended in the air, ready to be inhaled by the nearest individual.

There are many ways to avoid breathing in chemicals, which mostly involves avoiding the offending products. I avoid purchasing new products whenever possible, and keep my house well ventilated and the air filtered.

Skin

For many years we have been told about the dangerous effects of sun on our skin. Yet we hear very little about the sunscreen that becomes absorbed into our bodies. Or how about the bug spray that you apply directly to your skin with the toxic chemical DEET. Our skin is not a barrier, and is permeable to many substances. Once I ran a painting business, back when oil paints were as common as latex ones. We used paint thinners to clean the brushes and rollers, dipping our hands in to this toxic soup on a daily basis. No wonder I have so many health problems today!

The less chemicals that we apply to our skin, the better, reducing our toxic exposure. Instead of sunscreen, try using wide-brimmed hats and thin, long-sleeved shirts. Don't forget that your body needs some exposure to the sun to produce that all important vitamin D.

Exercise

Exercising is one of the best ways to detoxify the body by eliminating substances through sweat. It also strengthens your immune system, and reduces stress levels. I can't stress enough the benefits of a regular exercise program. Start small and work your way up to a program that you can maintain. Exercise vigorously at least three times per week for half an hour each time. If you are concerned about this level of activity, of course consult your doctor prior to starting a program.