Toxicity Within the Body and the Symptoms of Toxic Overload

Everyone has their own battles that they face in life, but whether we realize it or not, one battle that we all face together is the battle against toxins and toxic overload within the body. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise anymore considering the amount of information and scientific data proving that we are undoubtedly being exposed to an enormous amount of toxins, much of which we are exposed to just through our environment alone.

In fact, through environmental exposure alone they say that we are exposed to approximately 6 million pounds of mercury and 2.5 billion pounds of other toxic chemicals annually, and that there has been 80,000 pounds of toxic chemicals released into the environment just since the Industrial Revolution began! What’s worse is that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that the average newborn is born with 287 known toxins within their umbilical cord blood as well! Are you outraged yet? We are.

Unfortunately the environmental exposures are not the only culprits to toxicity and toxic overload. We are also undoubtedly exposed to toxins through our food, water, hygiene products, beauty products, cleaning products, and so much more on a regular basis. All of these toxins accumulate over time and can have detrimental effects on our health, something no one can completely avoid in this toxic world we now live in.

We know that we are all being flooded with toxins, even before we are born, but you may still be wondering what toxicity actually is, where the toxins come from, what toxins are, how we can limit our exposure and strengthen our body’s ability to handle them better, how to get them out of our body, how to know that they are causing health issues, what those health issues are, what the signs and symptoms are, and more. These questions are very important ones to ask, therefore we have addressed these questions below in hopes of helping people be more informed about toxicity within the body and what it means for you.

What is toxicity?

Toxicity occurs within the body when the amount of stressors (particularly toxins) on our body’s systems at any one time are too much for our body to effectively handle. Our bodies can only handle so much at once and to understand this, you must first understand the concept of “Total Load”.

“Total Load” is the amount of stressors the body can handle at any one time safely. When this threshold is surpassed and there are more stressors than the body can handle, the body is now overloaded and is in a toxic state. Basically, it’s like trying to cram more clothing in your suitcase when clearly it is already too full to zip. There is only so much room in the suitcase, just as there is only so much room for toxins and stressors within the body and if it gets too full, it spills over. In the case of our bodies, the spill over occurs as symptoms of toxicity becoming apparent.

When our systems are overloaded, we may begin developing signs and symptoms of toxic overload rather quickly, but for some it can take years of accumulated toxins and stress before symptoms are noticeable because everyone’s body processes and handles things differently. Often times many people notice themselves getting sick much more than usual as one of the first signs of toxicity within the body.

What are some of the most common toxic culprits that we are exposed to and where do they hide?

• Heavy metals- These include metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and thallium. These toxins are found in the environment and in many everyday foods, medications, vaccinations, beauty products, and more. (This is not a complete list of heavy metals or where they are hidden.)
• Aluminum- Aluminum is always toxic, but it is especially dangerous when it is injected via vaccinations where it easily bypasses the blood brain barrier and collects within the brain. Aluminum is used in many food packages and cans and is used in place of safer metals to save the manufacturer money in many products found throughout your home and environment. Aluminum is a known neurotoxin no matter how you are exposed, therefore it should be avoided in every way possible.
• Petrochemicals- These toxins are found in natural gas, oil and coal and are used in plastics, foods, medicines, medical devices, candles, synthetic rubbers, and pretty much everything in between sadly. They are also found in our drinking water regularly.
• Pesticides- Pesticides don’t only harm the pests; they are extremely dangerous for us all because they are packed full of known toxins. Glyphosate is just one of the many toxic ingredients found in many pesticides and has been ruled in court to cause cancer as well. Studies have shown that there are many dangers to being exposed to pesticides.
• Herbicides- As with pesticides, herbicides do not only harm plants, they harm humans and animals as well.
• Fertilizers- Typical fertilizers contain many known toxins and should be avoided for this reason as well.
• Food dyes- They may seem harmless, but sadly they are not. They are not only toxic, but are known to cause mental health and behavioral issues, especially in children. Food dyes are found in candies, medicines, almost all processed foods and drinks, and are even often used to dye produce to make the colors more vibrant and desirable to consumers.
• Medications- Yes, many medications contain known toxins and most medications have undesirable, and at times, detrimental side effects. Thoroughly research any new medications and the ingredients involved and decide whether or not the risk is worth it to you. Always discuss medications with your doctor and ask as many questions as you need to. If they are unable to answer them, seek another professionals advice if needed.
• Vaccinations- Vaccinations are known to contain aluminum and many other known toxins including: glyphosate, formaldehyde, thimerosal, polysorbate 80, and many-many others unfortunately. Thoroughly read all vaccine manufacturer inserts, hammer your doctor with questions, research for peer-reviewed-double-blind studies, follow the trail on who did the studies and who they are affiliated with, look into who sponsors them and vice versa, and so on in order to get the real science rather than the typical paid propaganda promoting them as purely safe and effective. This often takes work to find the legit scientific studies and literature on vaccines because the cover ups run deep in such a corrupt and profitable industry, but it is well worth spending time researching something so critical.
• Pollution- Our air is filled with many toxins and hazardous pollutants with factories and vehicle emissions being two of the major culprits of environmental pollution. These two factors are only further aiding the toxic storm already created by the use of toxic chemicals all throughout our environment.
• Household cleaning products- As we spray our cleaning products and reach our hands in them, we are surely harming ourselves with the many toxins found in most household cleaning products. Just remember that we inhale them, absorb them and at times may accidentally ingest them as we clean, therefore it’s a great idea to switch to non-toxic products.
• Non-organic and GMO foods- As we have said before, pesticides are a big no-no, but did you know that produce and grains are often injected with toxins and then coated in a wax and washed with more toxic chemicals after they are already smothered in toxins in the field? Did you know GMO foods are proving to be very harmful to our health or that your meat is pumped full of antibiotics and hormones and that the livestock is fed GMO’s and other toxin filled foods? You’ll find it very worth your while to switch to organic foods only.
• Processed foods and drinks- Processed foods and drinks are already filled with unhealthy ingredients, but they also tend to contain many toxic preservatives, fillers and dyes as well.
• Beauty and hygiene products- Our skin is the body’s largest organ meant to be a barrier to protect the body, but these days we slather our skin in so many toxins hiding in our beauty and hygiene products that it cannot keep up. We also soak our hair and scalp in toxic hair dyes and styling products and with all of this, we have a toxic overload storm brewing within us. Many people do not even realize that the skin is a very important part of our immune system, therefore it is really a poor idea to smother it in poisons.
• Sunscreens- Unfortunately many studies are proving that most sunscreens contain carcinogenic ingredients and many other toxic ingredients that may be causing more health issues, including cancer, than they are preventing. Your best defense against the sun comes from the inside out; meaning that eating the right foods and keeping your body balanced will keep your body at it’s best to defend itself from the sun. Being that most people do not eat optimally, nor exercise properly, we do recommend using a natural organic sunscreen that does not contain any toxins or harmful ingredients in order to assist your body in protecting itself from sun damage. Keep in mind that we need to absorb many vitamins and nutrients from the sun through our skin including Vitamin D, therefore some sun exposure is beneficial and necessary to us all.
• Perfumes and colognes- As with beauty products, perfume and cologne tend to contain many toxins; unless they are made with pure organic essential oils and other non-toxic organic ingredients. Not only do we absorb perfume and cologne through our skin, but we obviously inhale them as well. On the other hand, essential oils are actually very beneficial; one more reason to make the switch.
• Clothing and shoes- Toxic dyes, pesticides, synthetic rubbers and materials, protectant sprays, and fire retardants are found all over your clothing and shoes. Remember, you absorb the quickest and easiest through your feet, but you are still absorbing it through your skin elsewhere on your body too.
• Linens- Linens are no different from clothing; it’s best to go organic.
• Furniture and mattresses- Furniture and mattresses contain many known toxins including PCB’s which are known carcinogens; think about how much time we spend on them! Organic furniture and mattresses are available, but do diligent research and find a trusted manufacturer as many of these products are not truly organic as they claim.
• Carpeting and flooring- Carpeting and flooring contain many of the same toxins found in furniture, linens and clothing so do diligent research first.
• Water- Our drinking water is packed full of toxins, medications and harmful minerals. Yes, yes it is. Drink spring water from a trusted source or invest in a good whole-house reverse osmosis filtration system. Also, before bathing you should always neutralize the bath water first because our skin absorbs everything; especially when soaking and opening the pores. To learn how to neutralize your bath water, please read our article, “Natural Ways to Neutralize Chlorine and Reduce Toxins In Your Bath Water”.

Note: For a complete list and more in-depth information on hidden toxins and how to lead a less toxic life, please read our article, “Simple Hacks For a Healthier and Less toxic Life”.

What other factors contribute to toxicity?

• Food and environmental allergies and sensitivities- Aside from the environmental exposures that we have already discussed, molds are one of the worst environmental offenders that many people miss. Unfortunately, most people seem to not think of them as dangerous when in reality, molds can be very harmful and are often airborne and hidden from plain sight. Mold exposure can lead to a vast array of health issues and is often the main culprit behind failing health for many people.
• Poor diet- Eating too many of the wrong foods, drinking too many of the wrong drinks, and failing to eat a clean diet in general will allow and feed toxicity within the body.
• Lack of exercise- Exercising is extremely important for obvious reasons, but it is also extremely important because exercising helps the body properly flush toxins out by promoting sweating and by keeping the body’s systems functioning at an optimal level. Aim to exercise at least 3-5 days a week and be sure to work up a good sweat and get that heart rate going!
• Mental and emotional issues- When we are mentally unstable and under stress, our body’s immune system suffers the most allowing toxins to build up easier and making us more vulnerable to illnesses. We must try to remain mentally and emotionally healthy in order to keep our body healthy. Essential oils are one of the easiest and most effective ways to balance our mental state, de-stress, ease anxiety, and induce a good nights sleep. Essential oils are most often diffused for aromatherapy purposes, but can be used in many different ways. The Herb Forest’s Shop offers an amazing selection of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Diffusers, so feel free to browse our selection.
• Sleep problems- Sleep is extremely important in order for our bodies to function at an optimal level. Lack of sleep can be devastating to the immune system and the body as a whole.
• Internal toxins- All toxins have the potential to collect within the body, but yeast, fungus and bacteria are often overlooked and can also buildup within the gut causing a toxic hail storm that can be detrimental to your health. Metabolic and hormonal toxins also tend to buildup within our bodies leading to further issues.
• Genetic variants and genetic mutations- Everyone’s body processes things differently naturally; hence why different people can or cannot tolerate different foods, chemicals, medications, and so on. At times, genetic variants and mutations can also make a huge impact on how your body handles toxins and what is toxic to your body. Many genetic variants and/or mutations make people highly susceptible to toxic overload, an inability to properly detox, reactions, diseases, and illnesses associated with toxic overload. At times this can cause severe health issues and even death. Vaccines are a known culprit to adverse reactions already and at times it is not only due to the toxic ingredients alone, but also due to genetic variants and/or mutations for example. However, you do not have to have any genetic mutations, variants or susceptibilities to have a reaction or experience adverse side effects from vaccines because toxins are toxins period.

Sadly, many people are suffering from chronic toxicity and most of them likely have no clue about what is really going on with their body. Often times they’ll go to the doctor only to be told they are crazy or to be put on more toxic medications without the doctor addressing the real issue. Many doctors just do not understand the importance of checking for toxicity within the body and many do not correlate the symptoms the patient presents with as signs of toxicity. Due to the lack of proper medical care, many people go undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, improperly treated, or go completely untreated. Continue reading below for the symptoms of chronic toxicity, diseases associated with chronic toxicity and more.

What are some of the symptoms of chronic toxicity?

• Rashes
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Acne
• Canker sores
• Excessive sweating
• Sudden skin reactions
• Body odor
• Dull skin complexion
• Dandruff
• Other skin problems
• Puffy dark circles under your eyes
• Fatigue
• Sleeping problems
• Mood disorders and/or changes
• Sinus congestion
• Post-nasal drip
• Excessive sinus problems
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Excess gas
• Extra foul-smelling stool
• Other digestive issues
• Heartburn
• Bad breath
• Water retention
• Weight loss difficulties or excessive weight loss
• Difficulty concentrating
• Brain fog
• Memory issues
• PMS
• Other hormonal and menstrual disorders
• Thyroid issues
• Hair loss and/or changes in texture and appearance
• Eyes may begin to look different (much can be learned from examining the eyes)

Note: This is a general list of toxicity symptoms and there may be others not listed here as everyone’s body will cry out in different ways.

What are some of the diseases associated with toxicity?

• Autism
• ADD/ADHD
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Dementia
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
• Fibromyalgia or myalgia
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Other mood disorders
• Heart Disease
• Cancer
• Autoimmune diseases 
• Food allergies
• Insomnia
• Arthritis
• Menstrual disorders- This includes disorders with heavy bleeding, hot flashes, cysts, irregularity, cramps, PMS, menopausal symptoms, and more.
• Crohn’s Disease
• IBS
• Colitis
• Ulcers

Note: This is not a complete list of diseases and disorders associated with toxicity. 

Can I get toxins out of my body and if so, how?

Sadly, we cannot fully detox our bodies of certain toxins, particularly ones injected via vaccinations, but the good news is that we can detox from many toxins if we know what to do. The reason vaccines are hard to detox from is because vaccines are one of the only unnatural ways in which we are exposed to toxins and because we were not created to handle injecting toxins, viruses, bacteria, human and animal DNA and cells fragments, and so on. Vaccines completely bypass the body’s natural defense system and the adjuvants used in them allow the toxins to bypass the blood brain barrier much more easily and their job is to ensure the ingredients do stick around longer; thus allowing adjuvants like aluminum and other toxins to particularly collect within the brain. Aluminum alone has been proven to collect in our brains and in our spleens in particular, and postmortem studies on Alzheimer’s and Autistic patients have found large amounts of aluminum collected within their brains proving aluminum to be a harmful neurotoxin.

So although you can never fully detox from vaccines, the good news is that you may detox your body from many of the toxins we are exposed to via vaccines, and in other ways, by using a few different techniques and approaches. Just remember that we need to focus on fixing the gut, aiding the liver and kidneys, strengthening and maintaining our immune system, exercising, and trying to detox our mind and body in order to successfully rid our body of toxins.

• Detox baths- Detox baths are effective at removing a host of toxins all while you sit back and relax! Many people prefer detox baths the most, not just because they are relaxing, but because they are easy and pretty effective. For more detailed information on detox baths and recipes, please read our article titled “The Most Effective Natural Detox Bath Recipes”. The Herb Forest’s Shop also carries everything you need for detox baths and more, so feel free to browse our great selection of natural products when you are ready!
• Sweat it out- Whether you get yourself sweating through exercise or by using a sauna, sweating is one of the ways in which our body naturally rids itself of toxins and is a very important part of detoxing your body. Of course detox baths can get you sweating too!
• Dietary changes and eliminations- By eating only organic and by eating the right foods, we can help properly nourish and fuel our body and by doing this, you are helping your body do its job at excreting and eliminating toxins. Eating organically eliminates the added hormones, antibiotics, and toxins in your food that greatly contribute to the toxic buildup and the many health issues that occur when we ingest non-organic foods. For these reasons, it is very important to make the switch to organic as soon as possible and always remember that every product you switch adds up. You should also aim to add as many detoxifying foods as possible to your diet; especially colorful fruits and veggies, with a focus on cruciferous vegetables that increase sulfur within the body to help with detoxification.
• Keep your digestive system happy- You should aim to keep your bowels moving properly, producing 1-2 bowel movements daily, in order to remove as much toxic waste as possible and to prevent toxic buildup within the digestive system in the first place. Eating a proper diet, drinking plenty of clean water, and exercising are the most effective ways to keep the digestive system on par. Constipation allows toxins to hang around too long leading to toxicity, whereas diarrhea may mean your body is flushing the foods before you have been able to properly absorb important vitamins and nutrients necessary for our health. People suffering constipation typically need to slowly increase their fiber intake in order to prevent and relieve constipation and this can be done by eating fiber rich foods and/or taking a fiber supplement. Drinking teas aimed at digestive health is always a great idea as well and we recommend organic ones such as Happy Tummy Tea by Mountain Rose Herbs or you may view our full selection of teas here.
• Drink clean water- Drinking at least 8-10 glasses of clean water every day will naturally assist the body with the detoxification and elimination of waste. You should drink spring water or use a whole-house reverse osmosis filtration system to filter your water first.
• Herbs, teas and supplements- Many people swear by herbs, teas and supplements to help assist the body with elimination of toxins and for keeping the immune system strong among other reasons. We recommend using organic products from trusted sources and truly believe many people find relief this way. The Herb Forest’s Shop has an amazing selection of Herbs, Teas and Supplements; feel free to browse our shop when you are ready!
• Essential oils- Essential oils offer many benefits to our overall health and using the right ones in the right ways can greatly help us detox our bodies and strengthen our immune systems. As we said earlier, essential oils are also one of the easiest and most effective ways to balance our mental state, de-stress, ease anxiety, and induce a good nights sleep. Again, essential oils are most often diffused for aromatherapy purposes, but may be used in many different ways. The Herb Forest’s Shop offers an amazing selection of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Diffusers, so feel free to check them out when you’re ready! To learn all about essential oils for detoxing, please read our article titled “The Best Essential Oils for Detoxing”.
• Getting proper sleep- This may sound like no big deal, but not getting enough sleep, or the right kind of sleep, will lead to toxicity within the body. The reason sleep is so important for this is because while you’re sleeping, your body is able to focus on healing the most as it is not distracted on other things the way it is when we are awake. Also, sleep deprivation is extremely stressful on the body as a whole and as we know, this leads to further toxic overload within the body. As we said before, Essential Oils are one of the easiest and most effective ways to help induce a good night of sleep, and for many people, it is their go-to sleep aid. Many people like to take herbal supplements such as “Sleep & Relax” by Gaia Herbs to assist with getting a great night of sleep while waking up replenished and refreshed. Feel free to browse The Herb Forest’s great selection of Supplements and see what we have to offer you.
• Fasting- When we say fasting, we aren’t talking about starving yourself for days on end. Many people believe a one to two-day fast revs up the body’s ability to detox, but this should not be done too often. Water is essential, and in our opinion, fruit and real juice are a good idea in order to prevent fatigue and extreme fluctuations in blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Thoroughly research proper protocols before deciding if fasting may work for you.

There are many ways in which we can help our bodies to detox, but it is still best to try to avoid as many toxins as possible in the first place. Being that we cannot avoid them all, detoxing is often recommended as something we should add to our regimen regularly to assist and aid our body in this process.

We understand that it can seem overwhelming when you realize what we are up against here, but you can do this with some will power. It’s important to keep in mind that, when it comes to our health, prevention is much easier than maintenance and correction in the first place. Do not be mistaken though, even if you have lived most of your life in an unhealthy manner, it is never too late to make changes and those changes can and will help you live a healthier less toxic life.

We really hope that you enjoyed our article and learned something new that will help you live a healthier life. As always, The Herb Forest is open to comments and suggestions and we look forward to hearing from you! For more great articles on health, wellness and the natural world, please feel free to browse our full selection of Articles. We would greatly appreciate it if you checked out our Shop full of amazing natural products too! Thank you!