Detoxification
Definition
Toxins are substances that can interfere with the normal processes of the body through interference with enzymes, blockages of cellular transport mechanisms, oxidative damage, blockage of receptor sites, mimicking of hormones or neurotransmitters and/or blockage of nutrient absorption. A major source of toxicity for most people is their digestive system. Foods, if not digested correctly, can become fuel for the growth of dysbiotic organisms. These organisms produce toxic chemicals, and when they die, fragments of their cell membranes can be absorbed into the blood stream and trigger an inflammatory response. Our bodies have several mechanisms to protect against toxins, but these defence mechanisms may become impaired, often as a result of being overloaded by toxic material. In these situations, an Integrated Detoxification Program is recommended.
Aetiology / Risk Factors
Factors that can contribute to the need for an Integrated Detoxification Program include the following:
- Pharmaceutical medications.
Poor dietary choices (e.g., high sugar diets, junk food)
Slow gut transit time (low fibre, highly processed diets)
Poor gut motility and peristaltic function
Irritation and damage to the gut cells by dysbiotic organisms and their products
Irritation and damage to the cells by lectins and other chemicals present in foods
Xenobiotics (insecticides, herbicides, drugs, solvents and metals)
Biological toxins (e.g., aflatoxin, lectins)
Biological inhalants (mould, pollen, algae)
Physical phenomena (ionising radiation, electromagnetic fields)
Lifestyle choices (alcohol, smoking, recreational drugs)
Mechanical problems (spinal alignment, nasal or intestinal obstruction)
Hormonal imbalances
Psychosocial factors (stress, coping skills, belief systems and trauma)
Symptoms & Signs
Common signs and symptoms that can indicate there is a need for an Integrated Detoxification Program include the following:
- Fatigue, lethargy and/or apathy
- Difficulty concentrating, poor memory and/or recurrent headaches
- Muscle aching and weakness
- Immune dysregulation – i.e., recurrent infections, autoimmune disease, allergies
- Sensitivity to environmental chemicals, odours and/or nutritional supplements
- Chronic fatigue and lethargy
- Depression, anxiety and/or mood swings
- Poor short term memory and concentration
- Fibromyalgia
- Inflammatory bowel diseases
- Reproductive disorders
- Chronic fatigue syndrome