Toxins have become a pervasive contaminant in our environment, posing direct risks to our health. These toxins originate from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of plastic debris, personal care products, synthetic fibers from clothing, and food packaging (more to come). As the prevalence and persistence of these chemicals grows, the concern about the impact these toxins are having on our health also grows. 

Sources and Types of Metabolic Toxins 

Metabolic toxins can be categorized into several main categories: Endocrine (Think hormones) Disruptors, Obesogens (Think weight gain/can’t lose weight), Carcinogens, and Neuro Degenerative. Many of these chemicals impact more than one of these broad categories.  

Currently, there are at least 86 thousand man-made chemicals listed as toxic in the US. Of these 86 thousand toxic chemicals, the EPA has tested only 1% for any type of safety profile. Additionally, the EPA has banned only 9 of these 86 thousand toxic chemicals for use in the US.  

The US releases 10 million tons (200 BILLION POUNDS!) of toxic pollution into the environment every year.  

Primary Sources 

·        Personal Care Products: Plastic microbead particles, parabens, fragrances used in facial scrubs, toothpaste, and other personal care items such as soaps, shampoos, deodorants, makeup, hair products.  

·        Textiles: Synthetic fibers, like polyester and nylon, shed during the laundering process and contribute significantly to microplastic and metabolic toxin pollution. 

·        Industrial Applications: Microplastics and a wide range of other harmful chemicals are used in industrial processes, farming, electrical wiring, flame-retardant materials, toys, packaging, pesticides, and as raw materials for many manufacturing processes (including food manufacturing). 

Pathways of Human Exposure 

Metabolic toxins enter our bodies through multiple routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. The primary pathways of exposure are through food, personal care products, water, and air. In addition to our daily exposure to all the toxins released into our environment, it is estimated that the average person in the US uses at least 25 gallons of products containing hazardous chemicals/year resulting in even more exposure. 

Chemical Toxicity

Metabolic toxins can act as vectors for harmful chemicals, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals. When ingested or inhaled, these chemicals are released into the body, leading to toxic effects such as endocrine disruption, reproductive harm, neurodegeneration, and carcinogenicity.

Some free helpful resources you can use to help minimize your toxic exposure include: 

·        YUKA (yuka.io) Deciphers product labels and analyzes the health impact of food products and cosmetics. 

·        Environmental Working Group (EWG.org) Nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated toward helping you live your healthiest life. 

·        Clearya (Clearya.com) Free app helps you shop in store and/or online. Spot harmful ingredients and direct you to non-toxic options. 

Take Control of Your Health in a Toxic World

While research is still ongoing, it’s clear that having foreign toxic substances embedded in your organs is not good for your health. Therefore, it’s important to take proactive steps to minimize your exposure. 

-        Filter your tap water and avoid water bottled in plastic

-        Boil hard tap water

-        Avoid plastic packaging

-        Use reusable glass or stainless-steel containers

-        Never microwave plastics

-        Avoid plastic cutting boards

-        Opt for natural fibers

-        Wash synthetic clothes less frequently

-        Opt for food grade cosmetics and personal care products

-        Choose your children’s toys carefully

-        Opt for natural cleaning products

Dr. Mark