We’ve come a long way in understanding the molecular nature of diseases since 19th-century physician Rudolf Virchow’s time. Today, we are aware of how certain environmental factors can cause disturbances at the DNA level. Chemical and electromagnetic environmental contaminants, such as pollution, pesticides, Wi-Fi, and cellphones, can adversely affect our cellular health. Even ionizing radiation from airplanes, CT scans, and other sources have the potential to induce molecular changes in the brain that resemble Alzheimer’s disease.
Oxidation: A Double-Edged Sword
Oxidation is prevalent in the world around us, including our bodies. It’s a part of vital biological mechanisms that our immune cells use to attack pathogens. The process generates free radicals, which are unstable atoms and molecules that can damage cells. Although our bodies are equipped to neutralize these molecules, our modern world exposes us to an unprecedented degree, making it difficult for our protective mechanisms to cope.
The problem is amplified when we’re exposed to environmental toxins that can generate an abnormally high number of free radicals, causing a destructive chain reaction that interferes with cellular membranes, other cellular structures, and even the nucleus of the DNA. Recent studies demonstrated that the DNA in our mitochondria is particularly vulnerable to damage from oxidative stress.
Protecting Ourselves
To protect ourselves from toxins and oxidative stress, there are several small but beneficial lifestyle changes we can make, such as:
- Incorporating organic foods into our diets to lower exposure to pesticides.
- Using household cleaners with fewer chemicals.
- Avoiding processed foods at the grocery store.
- Consuming antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, often identifiable due to their bright colors.
While these measures can help, they aren’t foolproof. Pollution is everywhere, radiation levels on flights are higher, and electromagnetic signals are an inescapable part of modern life. To counteract these unavoidable exposures, our bodies need a steady supply of additional antioxidants to neutralize free radicals and maintain healthy cell function.
Botanical, Nutritional, and Detox Support
We can easily increase our antioxidant levels with the help of herbal extracts. Ashwaganda, green tea, holy basil, and medicinal mushrooms are widely available botanicals and nutrients filled with antioxidants. Moreover, it’s crucial to include trace minerals and vitamins that offer antioxidant benefits to various cell types and tissues in our bodies. Vitamin E, for example, is known to work in fat tissues like cell membranes, nerve and brain tissue, while vitamin C is more active in watery compartments like cell cytoplasm, circulatory system cells, proteins, and connective tissue.
In addition to ensuring antioxidants are part of our daily routine through these supplements, detoxification can also offer significant health benefits. Natural detox compounds such as modified citrus pectin (MCP) and alginates can help remove radiation particles, heavy metals, and environmental toxins from the body safely and naturally. MCP is also an essential anti-inflammatory supplement with numerous research studies pointing to its ability to stop chronic inflammation and fibrosis. For more information on MCP and its applications, New Twist on Health: Modified Citrus Pectin for Cancer, Heart Disease and More is an excellent resource.
Leading a proactive lifestyle that includes a whole food organic diet, sufficient pure water intake, stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, and chi gong, regular exercise, and dietary supplementation can work together to guard against harmful exposure in our daily lives. By adopting these healthy habits, we will be well on our way toward enjoying all the good things life has to offer.
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