Pain Free Living

The Growing Problem of Toxicity

In recent history, mankind has managed to drastically change the chemistry of the environment in which we live. For example, in 1989 alone, more than 1,000,000,000 pounds of chemicals were released into the ground threatening a portion of the soil we grow our food in and the natural underground water tables that supply some of our drinking water. Over 188,000,000 pounds of chemicals were also discharged into surface waters such as lakes and rivers. More than 2,400,000,000 pounds of chemical emissions were pumped into the air we breathe. A grand total of 5,705,670380 pounds of chemical pollutants were released into the environment we eat, breathe and live in, all in just one year.

To compound the problem of our toxic environment, we have refined away much of the nutritional value of our food supply and replaced it with artificial colorings, preservatives, flavorings, conditioners, etc. This poor quality diet - combined with extensive use of antibiotics in medicine and agriculture - may have predisposed many of us to experience a kind of “internal” pollution. Internal pollution occurs when unhealthful bacteria overcome the healthful bacteria in the intestinal tract. These unhealthful bacteria release toxic by-products into our circulation, which can negatively impact many aspects of our overall health. pH levels in the body are very much like that of a pool according to Dr. Kellas, a California environmental specialist. There are no molds, fungus or bacteria in a swimming pool when there is a pH between 7.0 and 7.4. The human body acts in the same way. We need to have a pH level high enough to eliminate the toxins in our bodies.

Basic Ways to Avoid Toxicity

Let's begin with some of the basic requirements to avoid toxicity. Do all you can to purify your work and home environments. If you know the source of any toxic materials at work, such as stored or leaking chemicals, dyes, paints, solvents, glues, acids, or household offenders such as insecticides or cleaning agents, remove them if possible. If the offending materials cannot be removed, an effective air purification system may be needed. Protective clothing and/or breathing apparatus should be worn when using any toxic materials. Regular replacement of furnace and air conditioning filters may also be helpful.

It is also very important to eat a good diet with plenty of fresh, wholesome foods. Avoid eating excess fat, refined sugar, and foods high in additives and preservatives. Eat moderate levels of protein (approximately 15% to 20% of your calories) and fat Omega 3 & Omega 9 fatty acids (approximately 20% of your calories), while increasing levels of complex carbohydrates from vegetables and whole grains (approximately 60% of your calories). Substitute organically raised animals and organically grown fruits and vegetables whenever possible.

Drink purified water (ideally eight 8-ounce glasses a day). A home water purification system can provide pure water for drinking and cooking or purified water can be delivered to your home.