We are all exposed to chemicals and pollutants every day – in the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, and even the products we use at home. These substances, whether natural or man-made, are known as environmental toxins. Over time, they can build up in the body and place stress on our health.
Modern life has led to an explosion in chemical exposure. For example, plastic production has increased more than twentyfold since the 1960s, and thousands of new chemicals are introduced into our environment each year. Yet, the vast majority have never been thoroughly assessed for their impact on human health.
Environmental toxins can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption through the skin. Continuous exposure has been linked to a wide range of health problems, including:
- Fatigue, headaches, mood changes, and memory issues
- Hormone disruption, fertility challenges, and endometriosis
- Immune dysfunction and autoimmune conditions
- Respiratory issues such as asthma or COPD
- Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity
- Neurological conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
- Increased risk of certain cancers
Functional Medicine focuses on identifying the root causes of illness. By testing for environmental toxicant exposure, we can gain valuable insight into hidden contributors to chronic symptoms. With this information, we can design personalised strategies to reduce toxic load, support detoxification pathways, and protect long-term health.
In summary: Environmental toxins are an unavoidable part of modern life, but by identifying your exposures and supporting your body’s natural resilience, we can reduce their impact and restore balance.
