How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
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How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

If you want to challenge yourself this week, pick a day where you avoid plastic as in contains may harmful toxins. No buying plastic, no storing items in plastic, no eating plastic. Sounds crazy, right? Plastic is everywhere, but that’s exactly what A.J. Jacobs did for his article in the New York Times. In “Trying to Live a Day Without Plastic,” he recorded his attempt to avoid the ubiquitous petroleum product. 

From toothpaste to iPhone, clothing to potato chips, A.J. realized that plastic is utterly unavoidable.

But what does this have to do with functional medicine and health? As it turns out, plastic can be a major toxin leading to serious health effects. Every one of us should take steps to avoid plastic whenever possible. How do we do that, and what are the benefits? That’s what we’re going to cover in this post.

How Toxins in Plastic Impacts Your Health

The effects of plastics on health can vary depending on the type of plastic and the chemicals it contains. Many plastics contain chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which can lead to a range of health problems. Some of the potential health risks associated with plastic include:

  • Hormonal disruption: Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates can mimic or interfere with the body’s natural hormones. This can lead to a range of health problems, including cancer, infertility, and developmental disorders.
  • Microplastic exposure: Many plastics contain microplastics, which are small particles that can easily enter the body through ingestion or inhalation. These particles can accumulate in organs and tissues and may cause damage or inflammation.
  • Cancer: Some plastics are known to release carcinogens which can lead to cancer. Also, some plastic products are known to release low levels of dioxins and other chemicals that can cause cancer.
  • Exposure to plastic additives: Plastic products may contain a variety of additives, such as colorants, stabilizers, and flame retardants. These additives can migrate out of the plastic and into food or drink and may be harmful to human health.
  • Reproductive and developmental effects: Some plastics can mimic or interfere with hormones, which can lead to reduced fertility and developmental disorders.
  • Allergic reaction: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to plastic.

 

It is important to note that the effects of plastic on health can vary depending on a person’s age, gender, and overall health, as well as the amount and duration of exposure. Additionally, not all plastics have the same properties, and the effects of plastic on health can also depend on the specific chemicals present in the plastic and the way it is used.

How to Reduce Plastic Exposure

There are a few, simple steps you can take to keep your family and yourself safe from plastic overload. Many of these choices come down to the products we buy and the packaging we accept. For example, we can choose to buy products that are packaged in glass, metal, or paper, rather than plastic. We can also opt for products that are packaged in biodegradable or compostable materials.

Another step we can take is to bring our own reusable bags, containers, and utensils when we shop or eat out. This not only helps to reduce the amount of plastic we use, but it can also save us money in the long run. We can also try to reduce our use of single-use plastics such as straws, water bottles, and plastic cutlery.

How to Detox from Plastics

Dr. Trubow has spent her life figuring out how to eliminate nasty toxins from the body and rediscover the vitality she felt in her twenties. In fact, she wrote the book on toxins and health. It’s called Dirty Girl: Ditch the Toxins, Look Great and Feel FREAKING AMAZING! 

In this book, she teaches you how to unburden your body from plastics and a number of other toxins. She’ll lay out a roadmap to healing that includes

  • Gut health
  • Supplements
  • Mindfulness
  • Stress relief

Along with stories from Wendie’s own detoxification journey, you’ll learn what other patients have done to identify the toxins causing chaos and illness and eliminate them from their lives. This how-to book shows you what to focus on, why a personal evaluation is a must, and how to take the first step—and the next—toward the healthiest, happiest you.

Finally, the book lays a foundation for functional medicine, an approach to healthcare that looks to the root cause of disease in its quest for answers. If you’re feeling sluggish because of plastic toxicity, you can drink all the coffee you want, but it won’t fix the underlying problem – your body is full of toxic microplastics! 

If you’re in the Boston area and are concerned about plastic toxicity, then you should absolutely visit Five Journeys for a consultation. Our comprehensive labs and attentive doctors will be sure to uncover what’s going on with your health. Health doesn’t have to be complicated. Functional medicine can give you the answers you need.

Let’s not let plastics take away our health and happiness. Get a copy of Dirty Girl today!

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How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test looks for the inappropriate presence of bacteria in the small intestine known as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth or “SIBO”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$299

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$179 – $400

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$425 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity
How to Detox from Plastic Toxicity

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted