There exists a vast array of substances, both artificial and naturally occurring, that can trigger uncomfortable and even perilous symptoms. We are constantly exposed to toxins through breathing, touching, or consuming them; they are truly omnipresent! Fortunately, our bodies are remarkably adept at metabolizing and eliminating the majority of the low-level toxins we encounter daily. We possess multiple detoxification pathways within every bodily system to help flush out unwanted toxins: our kidneys (via urine), gastrointestinal tract (through stool), skin (by sweating), lymphatic system (immune responses), liver (which delivers toxic by-products into the intestines, from where they are excreted in stool or urine), lungs (filtering inhaled toxins and directing them to other detox organs), and more. Every system in the human body either directly performs a detoxification function or supports the detoxification process.
Toxins can be found in the air, water, our clothing, medications, food, cleaning and hygiene products, beauty items, and even some are produced within our own bodies! Heavy metals, pesticides, and radiological waste can infiltrate water and food supplies from manufacturing plants and agricultural sites. Many everyday household products are also made with inexpensive, yet often toxic ingredients that can affect our hormones and cells, potentially leading to cancer and other diseases.
Exposure to bacteria, mold, and viruses can cause infections. These infections are often successfully treated with medications or supplements; however, when the microbes die within the body, they produce toxic by-products known as endotoxins (from bacteria), exotoxins (from living bacteria), and mycotoxins (from mold/fungi). These toxins can be the cause of the most severe symptoms of diseases such as Lyme, Babesia, Borrelia, Toxic Mold Illness, etc. This phenomenon is referred to as "die-off" or a "Herxheimer Reaction." For a more detailed explanation of the Herxheimer reaction, you can refer to this article.