10 Most Common Toxins In The Human Body

Over a lifetime (or in the case of an ecological disaster, an
alarmingly short time), the human body assimilates a number of
toxins. Some of these are in such trace amounts that we really
needn't worry about them, but it is still wise to avoid as many
toxins in the diet and the environment as possible. Here are ten
of the most common toxins found in human blood and cells:

Free Radicals

These are the toxic waste products of the process of oxidation
within our bodies. Oxidation (like rust on iron) is what causes
the deterioration of cells, like a bruised apple when it goes
brown and mushy. This goes on at a cellular level within the
human body and accelerates the aging process.

The effects of free radicals can be reduced by the consumption
of anti-oxidant-rich red, orange and yellow fruits and
vegetables, along with increasing our exercise and eating less.

Mercury

The commonest sources of Mercury are amalgam fillings and the
eating of large marine fish such as tuna. Mercury is implicated
in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, heart failure, irregular
heartbeat and even some cancers. There is debate as to whether
it is worthwhile to have amalgam fillings removed and replaced.
Similarly, the health benefits of eating oily marine fish
should be weighed carefully against the risks of mercury
consumption.

Sugar

Refined sugar is known as "the white death". We all know it's
bad for us, that it contains calories without nutrients. Too
much of it can cause insulin resistance, diabetes. The answer
is simple; eat less white sugar.

Caffeine

Many people enjoy caffeinated drinks and find that they give
them a much-needed "high" in times of fatigue. Don't forget
that caffeine is quite a powerful drug and taking yourself off
it can cause quite severe withdrawal symptoms. Some people are
"allergic" to caffeine and it can cause irrational mood swings
and exacerbation of PMS, even heartbeat irregularities. Best to
wean yourself off it.

C-Reactive Protein

Perhaps it is wrong to consider this a toxin in itself, but its
presence in the blood is an indicator of inflammation in the
body. A high reading of C-Reactive Protein in the blood can
indicate a propensity to heart attack. It is elevated by
infections, inflammatory conditions, insulin resistance, and
certain hormones such as those in the contraceptive pill or
HRT. It is thought that a preventative dose of aspirin may be
effective in reducing the level of C-Reactive Protein.

Cholesterol

A buildup of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or "bad" cholesterol
in the blood is implicated in heart disease via hardening of the
arteries. Avoid high cholesterol by eating less saturated fats,
exercising regularly, eating supplements rich in plant sterols
or (as a last resort) Statins (prescribed cholesterol-lowering
drugs).

Cortisol

This is produced by the body at times of worry and stress,
therefore it is commonly called the stress hormone. Eliminate
cortisol by exercising, laughing, relaxing, enjoying a hobby
and not allowing your own personal stresses to fester and
thrive within you!

Pesticides

We encounter these in our own gardens (unless we garden totally
organically) and on most bought fruits and vegetables. At least
trace amounts are probably found in most people's bodies.
Either buy organic or make sure you thoroughly wash any fruit
and veg you buy.

Dioxins

These are unwanted byproducts of heating processes and can
increase cancer risks. They are suspected as contributory
factors in diabetes, low sperm counts and behavioral problems.
They are everywhere so it is hard to avoid them on an
individual level. Buying organic produce and avoiding saturated
animal fats (which tend to harbor dioxins) may help.

Homocysteine

Homocysteine is an amino acid. It can contribute to the risks
of heart disease, Alzheimer's, furring of the arteries,
toxicity in pregnancy, or even birth defects.

Its build-up can be caused by kidney disease, genetics or
vitamin deficiencies. Supplementation of Vitamins B12, B6 and
Folic Acid may be wise. These vitamins enable the conversion of
homocysteine into less dangerous amino-acids in the body.

We are all exposed to toxins in the environment and our food
over our lifetimes. Some are easy to avoid, others less so.
Clean living and regular detox programs are probably the best
we can do to avoid overexposure to toxins.

About The Author: Sid McCarthy is a freelance writer
specializing in health and wellness articles for various
websites including http://www.goodnutritioncenter.com . Read
about a complete Colon Cleansing system that helps eliminate
toxic matter from the colon at
http://www.goodnutritioncenter.com/colon-cleanse.html

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