Today’s world of technology, expedience, multi-tasking, stress, fast foods, and toxic environments can have an affect on every tissue and organ in our bodies.  The amount of pesticides, herbicides, fossil fuel emissions, hydrocarbons, and heavy metals that we are exposed to on a daily basis have reached record proportions. In fact, the United States Environmental Protection Agency states that traces of toxic chemicals can now be found in nearly every American.

A toxin is any compound that has a detrimental effect on cell function or structure.  Some toxins cause minimal negative effects, while others can cause death.  Toxins are often divided into four categories:

• Heavy Metals- Including lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and aluminum.  Heavy metals tend to accumulate in vital organs, often disrupting their function.
• Liver Toxins – Including drugs, alcohol, solvents, formaldehyde, pesticides, herbicides, and food additives.  Our livers are usually overloaded with these toxins because they are so prevalent in our diet and in our environment.
• Microbial Compounds – Including toxins produced by bacteria and yeast in the digestive tract can be absorbed and transported throughout the body, significantly disrupting bodily functions.  These toxins can also include toxic amines, toxic derivatives of bile, various carcinogenic substances, and endotoxins and exotoxins from bacteria.
• By Products of Protein Metabolism – The kidneys are largely responsible for eliminating toxic waste products of protein metabolism, such as ammonia and urea.  Excessive protein consumption and lack of water can inhibit proper kidney function. 

There are toxic substances in our homes, in our workplaces, in our food, in our water and in the air we breathe.  Most of the technological advances associated with these chemicals are supposed to be improving our lives; in reality, some of these advances are creating unhealthy conditions within us. This influx of chemical products translates to billions upon billions of pounds of toxins being released into the environment, and some of these toxins will eventually find their way into our bodies.

We practice daily hygiene such as washing our hands, hair, faces, bodies, and brushing our teeth, but what about cleaning the inside of our bodies?  Imagine what the inside of a house would look like if you never cleaned it.  Dirt, toxins, and pathogens can begin to build up and create an unhealthy environment. 

A similar scenario can occur inside of us when the liver and other bodily systems responsible for the detoxification process become over-burdened with toxicity and are unable to handle it all.  When this happens, we can begin having problems with digestion, elimination, skin, weight gain, and so on.  

If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, then you may want to cleanse:

How often one cleanses can depend upon an individual’s state of health, and whether they have ever done any type of cleansing before.  The best thing to do is pay attention to your body.  If you are experiencing the symptoms associated with a toxic overload, as listed above, then you will want to consider cleansing to help relieve them.

Important:  When cleansing, please be sure that you are having regular (daily) bowel movements that can help your body eliminate toxic substances from the gastrointestinal tract so they are less likely to be reabsorbed into the blood stream.  It is also important to drink plenty of water to flush toxins from the kidneys.

Polluted air, modern diets, and drinking water all carry potential carcinogens. Although we bathe and cleanse the outside of our bodies daily, all of us can still be toxic if we never cleanse on the inside. Any substance which is not useful for energy or building tissues is dumped by detoxification before it can harm the body. However, the body must be able to properly detoxify via the phase I and phase II detoxification pathways in order to protect itself. When it is overloaded with toxins, it cannot properly detoxify.

The lungs, skin, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract all play a role in the detox process, while the liver is considered to be the major organ of detoxification.  Within the liver cells there are a number of intricate mechanisms involved in the breakdown of toxic substances. Chemicals that enter our bodies, including drugs, pesticides, herbicides, and hormones are broken down by liver cells.  If the liver is over-burdened, it has a difficult time performing these necessary functions.

The detoxifying organs work vigorously on a daily basis to rid the body of toxicities and maintain the health of trillions of cells.  Unfortunately, the excessive amount of toxins in the environment has placed such a burden on these systems that they can no longer function optimally. Therefore, we can all benefit from cleansing the inside of our bodies for renewal and to improve our health.  

Symptoms of Detoxification:

As the liver begins to become more effective in its efforts to detox, most peoples’ store of toxins will begin to be processed and moved out. Some of the normal and expected symptoms of detoxification can include:

• A feeling of dizziness
• Heart palpitations
• Lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• General malaise
• Nausea
• Headache
• Increased body odor
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Hives, rashes, or mild skin outbreaks

Phase I and Phase II of the Detoxification Pathways

During Phase I of the detoxification process, toxic, fat soluble chemicals are converted into less harmful chemicals by a variety of reactions within the liver. During this phase free radicals are naturally formed.  Free radicals are unstable particles that can damage the body’s cells if there is an excess of them.  To help get rid of or reduce these free radicals, we need to take antioxidants.  If antioxidants are in short supply, exposure to toxic chemicals can become far more dangerous during this phase by being converted from relatively harmless substances into potentially carcinogenic ones.  

During Phase II, toxic chemicals, drugs, and used hormones are bound to water soluble substances, which makes them less harmful so they can be easily eliminated from the body rather than re-circulated in the blood stream and deposited into fatty tissue. This process is also known as glucoronidation.  Calcium D-Glucarate is a natural dietary supplement that has been shown to support this vital process by inhibiting an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase that can break bonds between toxins and used hormones allowing them to be re-circulated rather than excreted.

The two major routes of detoxification:

Phase I: Toxic and fat-soluble chemicals (which can only dissolve in oily solutions, not water) are neutralized and the process of making these chemicals water soluble and more chemically active begins.

Phase II: Chemicals are combined with minerals, amino acids, and other endogenous compounds.  This process, known as conjugation, makes the entire molecule water soluble, thus allowing excretion via urine or bile.

Products to Help with Cleansing

The Complete Body Cleanse Kit is a Triple Action Detoxification System created by Life-flo.  It is designed to help support, detoxify, and rejuvenate us. This fourteen day program is designed to improve our health by dealing with the overabundance of toxins residing in our bodies.  The triple action system gently enhances our internal detoxification system while at the same time ridding it of heavy metals.  It is a complete cleansing system because it addresses the areas that are of greatest concern.

Benefits of use:

• Helps cleanse the liver and colon
• Helps remove toxic heavy metals
• Helps increase weight loss results
• Helps increase energy levels
• Helps improve the health of your skin
• Helps promote overall well being

Green Foods to Assist Detoxification

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants and algae that is responsible for their color.  Historically, chlorophyll has been used to help improve health.  For example, for bad breath, for constipation, and for use in detoxifying, just to name a few.  Chlorophyll also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. (1,2)

Some evidence suggests that chlorophyll helps detoxify cancer-promoting substances, suggesting that chlorophyll may reduce the risk of cancer. (3,4)

According to the PDR for Nutritional Supplements, “some experimental data suggests that chlorophyll may have some antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic potential, may help protect against some toxins, and may ameliorate some drug side effects.” (5)

Those who do not consume a variety of green foods in plentiful quantities may lack chlorophyll in their diets.  Therefore, including a good “green foods” supplement, such as LifeSource SuperSprouts that contains sources of chlorophyll, can help you get this important nutrient into your diet or cleansing program.

Benefits of use:

• Detoxification
• Constipation
• Eliminate bad breath
• Wound healing
• Antioxidant

Calcium D-Glucarate to help remove toxins from the intestinal tract

D-Glucarate is a phytochemical that can be found in fruits and vegetables, such as apples, oranges, broccoli, cabbage, bean sprouts, and brussels sprouts.  It is also made in small amounts by the body. Many believe that this nutrient aids the body in the elimination of many harmful toxins and lowers abnormally high levels of used steroid hormones including estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. 

D-Glucarate also inhibits an enzyme known as beta-glucuronidase, which suppresses the body’s ability to detoxify many toxins using the glucuronidation pathway. When levels of this enzyme become elevated, it reverses the glucuronidation process and releases the toxins back into the bloodstream. (6)   When detoxification involves Calcium D-Glucarate, it is called glucuronidation, which is the process that occurs when toxins or carcinogens are combined with water soluble substances, allowing such toxins to be more easily removed from the body.  Research supports a role for glucuronidation in protecting cells (especially those of hormone-sensitive tissues such as the breast and prostate) from dangerous environmental chemicals.(7)

Benefits of use:

• Helps eliminate toxins and carcinogens
• Helps eliminate used hormones
• Helps reduce the risk of certain diseases
• Has been shown to reduce estrogen receptors

Since you can’t live in a bubble, Aulterra Enhance capsules are the next best thing. Aulterra is a homeopathically activated combination of natural elements which help neutralize the effects of heavy metals and other toxins on human DNA.

Benefits of use:

• Activates DNA
• Enhances cellular activity
• Neutralizes toxic substances
• Reverses cellular aging

1. Rudolph C. The therapeutic value of chlorophyll. Clin Med Surg 1930:37;119-21
2. Chernomorsky SA, Segelman AB. Biological activities of chlorophyll derivatives. N J Med 1988:85;669-73.
3. Gruskin B. Chlorophyll-its therapeutic place in acute and suppurative disease. Am J Surg 1940:49;49-56.
4. Hayatsu H, Negishi T, Arimoto S, et al. Porphyrins as potential inhibitors against exposure to carcinogens and mutagens. Mutat Res 1993:290;79-85.
5. Thomson, PDR for Nutritional Supplements. New Jersey: Thomson PDR 2002;89
6. Dwivedi C, Heck WJ, Downie AA, et al. Effect of calcium glucarate on beta-glucuronidase activity and glucarate content of certain vegetables and fruits. Biochem Med Metab Biol. 1990; 43:83-92.
7. Walaszek Z, Hanausek-Walaszek M, Minton J, Webb TE. Dietary Glucarate as anti-promoter of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced mammary tumorigenesis. Carcinogenesis 1986;7:1463-1466

Evidence from several studies has indicated that low serotonin levels may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia.   

It is believed that serotonin abnormalities could be responsible for depression and insomnia—symptoms that many fibromyalgia patients suffer from.  Because 5-HTP could raise low serotonin levels, it may be helpful in alleviating such symptoms. 

Although no one knows exactly why 5-HTP effectively improves fibromyalgia symptoms, researchers believe that low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin may be involved in symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, as mentioned above.  Serotonin is believed to mediate slow-wave (deep) sleep, as well as influence how pain is perceived by the body and mind. 

Leading sleep and fibromyalgia experts H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh theorize that primary fibromyalgia may result from a deficiency of circulating tryptophan, an amino acid.  This lack of tryptophan in turn restricts serotonin and interferes with what is known as deep sleep. The researchers also reported that the higher the concentration of unbound tryptophan in the plasma of FMS patients, the more profound their symptoms. (1)

Additionally, 5-HTP is the intermediate between tryptophan and serotonin and it is readily absorbed and crosses the blood-brain barrier.  It is also promoted for depression. (2)

Even though the cause of depression varies widely from one person to the next, most people with depression have low serotonin levels. Whether low levels of serotonin cause depression or depression causes serotonin levels to fall is not yet clear but what is certain is that by raising serotonin levels depression can often be alleviated.

A 90-day study of the effects of 5-HTP on 50 fibromyalgia patients published in The Journal of International Medical Research; 1992; 20:182 – 189 concluded that a “good” or “fair” clinical improvement occurred in 50 per cent of the patients. These patients ranged in age from 18 to 65. When clinical variables such as tender point soreness, anxiety, pain intensity, quality of sleep and fatigue were compared with baseline results, researchers concluded that all symptoms had been  improved after 90 days of taking 100 milligrams of 5-HTP three times daily.

Low levels of serotonin in the brain can contribute to the development of depression.  Some studies indicate that 5-HTP may be as effective as certain antidepressant drugs in treating individuals with mild to moderate depression. Such individuals have shown improvements in mood, anxiety, insomnia, and physical symptoms.

1.  H. Moldofsky and J.J. Warsh; Pain; 1978; 5:65 71;  
2.  Birdsall, Altern Med Rev 8/98;3:271.

Up to 90% of those with fibromyalgia report moderate to severe fatigue. This type of fatigue isn’t just the usual run of the mill tiredness either.  It can last all of the time and for months on end, making it difficult for sufferers to work, take care of family, exercise, or even engage in simple daily tasks or chores.

While the majority of people with fibromyalgia experience extreme fatigue, some people seem to escape this symptom, and others find they are able to adjust to their newly reduced energy levels.  What is most discouraging is the fact that in some cases this fatigue never seems to get better, even with extended periods of rest and sleep.  This is most likely due to the variety of sleep disorders that those with fibromyalgia have, which creates a vicious cycle of pain and fatigue.

Causes of Fatigue

Many fibromyalgia sufferers have frequently reported that they become easily fatigued after mental exertion or physical exercise.  Additionally, many are unable to fall asleep, sleep very lightly, or are suddenly awaken from a very deep sleep.  The question is, could the lack of quality sleep be causing the fatigue, or is there another factor involved here?  Fortunately, new research is being conducted by doctors who specialize in fibromyalgia to find out. 

Common causes of fatigue:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): The extreme fatigue that many fibromyalgia sufferers experience is very similar to that associated with CFS.  In fact, more than 75% of CFS sufferers have similar symptoms to those with fibromyalgia.  And, many people with fibromyalgia may actually have CFS, as well.  It can be difficult for doctors to distinguish between these two syndromes since they are very similar and are often confused with one another.
• Sleep Disorders:  Many fibromyalgia sufferers experience a variety of sleep disorders, including a problem with their ability to engage in deep sleep.  This is called the alpha EEG anomaly, which is a disorder characterized by sudden brain activity during periods of deep sleep.  These periods of activity may cause people to wake up or feel less rested, contributing to fatigue.
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A more recent explanation for the extreme fatigue that accompanies fibromyalgia focuses on a problem with the body’s energy source. Mitochondria inside our cells convert nutrients and oxygen into energy for our body.  A large number of fibromyalgia sufferers seem to have dysfunctional mitochondria, and thereby don’t have enough energy to power their bodies.

Fatigue and Pain

 Recent studies have shown that the amount of fatigue a fibromyalgia sufferer experiences directly correlates with the amount of pain they have.  For example, if you are feeling particularly tired one morning, you can pretty much count on having an increased amount of fibromyalgia pain during the day.

Fatigue and pain appears to work in a vicious cycle. Due to the severe pain many people experience, sleeping can become difficult, if not impossible.  Naturally, this contributes to fatigue, which, in turn, makes the pain much harder to bear.  

Fatigue also has a great impact on the psychological well being of those suffering from fibromyalgia. Fatigue heightens stress and emotions, which in turn increases the amount of pain that is experienced. Fatigue and depression have also been linked. Furthermore, fatigue may contribute to the memory loss and forgetfulness that often occurs with fibromyalgia.

Some health care professionals believe that some (acute) stress can be a good thing, but chronic stress is not.  Therefore, our objective should be learning to manage long term stress.  Reducing stress can be achieved via meditation and relaxation techniques, as well as exercise, and the use of dietary supplements.  Read on about how chronic stress affects us physically and mentally.  You may be surprised at the consequences.

Common symptoms and results of stress can include:

• A fast heartbeat
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• A headache
• A stiff neck and/or tight shoulders
• Back pain
• Fast breathing
• Sweating, and sweaty palms
• An upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea

Long Term Stress can Have Physical and Emotional Effects

In healthy people, the nervous system helps maintain a balance between a stress response and relaxation.  However, for some people, this system remains on guard, which makes them unable to relax.  If this situation becomes chronic, a whole variety of physical and emotional stress-related symptoms and illnesses can follow.

Physical Symptoms:

• Accelerated aging
• Decreased immunity
• Heart disease
• Digestive issues
• Hormone imbalances
• Skin issues

Emotional Symptoms:

• Feel cranky and unable to deal with even small problems
• Feel frustrated, lose your temper more often, and yell at others for no reason
• Feel jumpy or tired all the time
• Find it hard to focus on tasks
• Worry too much about small things
• Feel that you are missing out on things because you can””””””””t act quickly
• Imagine that bad things are happening or about to happen

Read more in our article
The Physiological Effects of Stress

 

Products to Help Combat the Negative Effects of Stress

While stress seems to be unavoidable these days there are supplements that can help support you physically and mentally.

Calm Thoughts
Supports Calm Focus

This formula addresses the multiple, interdependent body systems that are involved with stress, including neuromodulation, energy generation, the adrenals, and the musculoskeletal system without sacrificing the clarity and focus you need to function effectively.

5-HTP
Supports Normal Sleep Cycles

Clinical studies have shown that 5HTP (L-5-Hydroxytryptophan) increases the amount and availability of serotonin, which helps support your healthy moods, eating habits, and sleep cycles that are generally affected when under stress.

SAMe
Supports a Positive Mood

Studies have shown that SAMe helps support a positive outlook due to its affect on the synthesis and production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters. People in the U.S. have been using SAM-e to help treat depression or to preserve emotional well-being.

Vitamin B-50 Complex
Supports Energy Production

Research has found that a B complex vitamin can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and stress that many people suffer from, such as depression, irritability, and improper nerve function, while helping to support the immune system.

Melatonin
Supports Normal Sleep Patterns

Melatonin is a neurohormone that is naturally produced in humans by the pineal gland. In addition to its hormonal and sleep regulating actions, melatonin has been shown to have strong antioxidant effects and may also help strengthen the immune system.