A common conversation emerging among the general public is the potential connection between environmental toxicants and the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Heavy metals, for example, can accumulate in the body and lead to toxicity. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 has been shown to reduce heavy metal bioaccumulation. Additionally, specific nutrients and dietary patterns have been found to be neuroprotective. It is important to be aware of potential sources of toxins and take steps to avoid exposure.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at how environmental exposures may impact neurodegenerative diseases. We will also provide some tips on how you can protect yourself from potential toxins.
What are Neurodegenerative Diseases?
There are a number of neurodegenerative diseases that affect different parts of the nervous system. Some common neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease. Each of these diseases affects different parts of the nervous system and can cause a variety of symptoms.
But ongoing research continues to look for the reason behind the development of these diseases. A number of studies have found potential links between environmental exposures and neurodegenerative diseases. The hope is that by understanding these links, we can develop better methods of prevention and treatment.
How might Environmental Exposures play a role in Neurodegenerative Diseases?
There are many ways that environmental exposures can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
There is growing evidence linking environmental toxicants with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Heavy metals, for example, can accumulate in the body and lead to toxicity. As stated earlier, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 has been shown to reduce heavy metal bioaccumulation – which reduces the impact of those metals within the body.
Additionally, specific nutrients and dietary patterns have been found to be neuroprotective. It is important to be aware of potential sources of toxins and take steps to avoid exposure.
One source of toxins may surprise many – modern cooking methods. Some cooking methods can generate potential toxic compounds. For example, when meat is grilled at high temperatures, heterocyclic amines (HCAs) can form. HCAs are known to be carcinogenic.
Another potential toxin is acrylamide, which forms when starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures. Acrylamide has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
What Steps Can You Take to Reduce Your Exposure to Toxins?
There are a number of steps you can take to reduce your exposure to potential toxins within your environment:
Be aware of potential sources of toxins and take steps to avoid exposure:
- Avoid grilled meat and other cooked foods that are high in HCAs and acrylamide.
- Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
- Choose organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible to reduce exposure to pesticides
- Filter your tap water to remove heavy metals and other contaminants.
- Reduce your exposure to common household toxins like cleaning products and air fresheners.
- Avoid using personal care products that contain harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens.
Take steps to support detoxification within your body:
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.
- Eat foods that support detoxification like cruciferous vegetables, garlic, and ginger.
- Exercise regularly to help sweat out toxins and promote circulation.
- Dry sauna or infrared sauna therapy can also help promote detoxification.
- Supplement with nutrients that support detoxification like vitamin C, glutathione, and milk thistle.
By taking the right steps, you can help protect yourself from potential toxins and reduce your risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease.
While environmental exposures may play a role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, other factors like genetics and lifestyle choices are also important. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is always important for overall health and well-being. And, it may also help reduce your risk of developing a neurodegenerative disease.
Some lifestyle choices that may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases include:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
- Not smoking
- Limiting alcohol intake
How a Functional Medicine Practitioner Can Help
If you are concerned about your exposure to potential toxins, a functional medicine practitioner can help.
Functional medicine practitioners take a holistic approach to health and wellness. They will work with you to develop a personalized plan to address your unique needs. This may include testing for heavy metal toxicity, food allergies, and other environmental exposures.
A skilled practitioner will also work with you to determine the best way to avoid potential toxins. They can also help you develop a healthy diet and exercise plan. And they can provide guidance on how to get regular medical checkups.
If you are concerned about your exposure to potential toxins, contact a functional medicine practitioner today. They can help you develop a personalized plan to protect your health and well-being.
Learn More with Internal Healing and Wellness
Dr. Khan at Internal Healing and Wellness is passionate about helping his patients heal and prevent disease. Taking a functional medicine approach, he looks at the whole person to find the root cause of illness. This allows him to develop personalized plans that address each patient’s unique needs.
To learn more about how functional medicine can help you, contact Internal Healing and Wellness today. Our team is ready to help you on your journey to optimal health and well-being.
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