| Holistic Chinese Herbs
Detoxification Program: Module 2 (Specific Sources of Toxins)
28 Jun 2011, 3:08 am
 Toxic Root Canal "Treatment" In the second module of this advanced course in detoxification, you will learn who is polluting in your community and what the health hazards of each environmental contaminant actually are. You will learn how to spot the signs of toxic overload of specific substances, and how to properly assess tissue levels of each substance. This is an important step in choosing a detoxification regimen because you will need to know what substances you are trying to detoxify from in order to choose the correct detoxification agents. Specific Sources of Toxins
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)
Phytoestrogens
Total Isoflavone, Daidzein and Genistein Aglycone Content of Selected Foods
Phthalates
Parabens
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Chlorinated Pesticides
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Sources and Adverse Health Effects of Volatile Solvents
Toxic Elements (Heavy Metals)
Sources of Toxic Elements
Body Burden: The Pollution in Newborns
References and Additional Resources How Mercury Causes Brain Neuron Degeneration, Department of Physiology and Biophysics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Calgary. Sources of Toxins
"Chemical compounds ubiquitous in our food, air, and water are now found in every person. The bioaccumulation of these compounds in some individuals can lead to a variety of metabolic and systemic dysfunctions, and in some cases outright disease states. The systems most affected by these xenobiotic compounds include the immune, neurological and endocrine systems. Toxicity in these systems can lead to immune dysfunction, autoimmunity, asthma, allergies, cancers, cognitive deficit, mood changes, neurological illnesses, change in libido, reproductive dysfunction, and glucose dysregulation1."
The CDC provides a report on environment chemical exposure to humans. The latest report called, "Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemical" was made available in 2009. The report provides an ongoing assessment of exposure of the U.S. population to environmental chemicals by the use of biomonitoring. In each survey period, most chemicals or their metabolites were measured in blood, serum, and urine samples from random subsamples of about 2500 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) conducted by the CDC. The term "environmental chemical" refers to a chemical compound or chemical element present in the air, water, food, soil, dust, or other environmental media (e.g., consumer products).
The following is a list of the chemicals that were researched for human exposure:
Acrylamide
o Acrylamide hemoglobin adducts
o Glycidamide hemoglobin adducts
Cotinine
o Cotinine
N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET)
Disinfection By-Products (Trihalomethanes)
o Bromodichloromethane
o Dibromochloromethane (Chlorodibromomethane)
o Tribromomethane (Bromoform)
o Trichloromethane (Chloroform)
Environmental Phenols
o Benzophenone-3 (2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone)
o Bisphenol A (2,2-bis[4-Hydroxyphenyl] propane)
o 4-tert-Octylphenol (4-[1,1,3,3- Tetramethylbutyl] phenol)
o Triclosan (2,4,4'- Trichloro-2'-hydroxyphenyl ether)
Fungicides
o Pentachlorophenol
o ortho-Phenylphenol
Herbicides
o Acetochlor
Acetochlor mercapturate
o Alachlor
Alachlor mercapturate
o Atrazine
Atrazine mercapturate
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
o Metolachlor
Metolachlor mercapturate
o 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Insecticides/Pesticides
o Carbamate Insecticides
Carbofuran
o Carbofuranphenol
Propoxur
2-Isopropoxyphenol
Organochlorine Pesticides
o Aldrin
o Dieldrin
o Chlordane and Heptachlor
Oxychlordane
Heptachlor Epoxide
trans-Nonachlor
o Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)
p,p'-Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)
p,p'-Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethene (DDE)
o,p'-Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane
o Endrin
o Hexachlorobenzene
o Hexachlorocyclohexane
beta-Hexachlorocyclohexane
gamma- Hexachlorocyclohexane (Lindane)
o Mirex
o 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol
o 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol
Organophosphorus Insecticides: Dialkyl Phosphate Metabolites
o Diethylphosphate (DEP)
o Dimethylphosphate (DMP)
o Diethylthiophosphate (DETP)
o Dimethylthiophosphate (DMTP)
o Diethyldithiophosphate (DEDTP)
o Dimethyldithiophosphate (DMDTP)
Organophosphorus Insecticides: Specific Metabolites
o Chlorpyrifos
Chlorpyrifos-methyl
3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol
o Coumaphos
3-Chloro-7-hydroxy-4-methyl-2H-chromen-2-one/ol
o Diazinon
2-Isopropyl-4-methyl-6-hydroxypyrimidine
o Malathion
Malathion dicarboxylic acid
o Methyl Parathion
o Ethyl Parathion
para-Nitrophenol
o Pirmiphos-methyl
2-(Diethylamino)-6-methylpyrimidin-4-ol/one
Pyrethroid Pesticides
o Cyfluthrin
4-Fluoro-3-phenoxybenzoic acid
o Cyfluthrin
o Cypermethrin
o Permethrin
cis-3-(2,2-Dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid
trans-3-(2,2-Dichlorovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid
o Deltamethrin
cis-3-(2,2-Dibromovinyl)-2,2-dimethylcyclopropane carboxylic acid
o Cyhalothrin
o Cypermethrin
o Deltamethrin
o Fenpropathrin
o Permethrin
o Tralomethrin
3-Phenoxybenzoic acid
Metals
o Antimony
o Arsenic
Arsenic, Total
Arsenic (V) Acid
Arsenobetaine
Arsenocholine
Arsenous (III) Acid
Dimethylarsinic Acid
Monomethylarsonic Acid
Trimethylarsine oxide
o Barium
o Beryllium
o Cadmium
o Cesium
o Cobalt
o Lead
o Mercury
o Molybdenum
o Platinum
o Thallium
o Tungsten
o Uranium
Perchlorate
o Perchlorate
Perfluorochemicals
o Perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBuS)
o Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDeA)
o Perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA)
o Perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA)
o Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS)
o Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA)
o Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
o Perfluorooctane acid (PFOS)
o Perfluorooctane sulfonamide (PFOSA)
o 2-(N-Ethyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamido) acetic acid (Et-PFOSA-AcOH)
o 2-(N-Methyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamido) acetic acid (Me-PFOSA-AcOH)
o Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUA)
Phthalates
o Benzylbutyl Phthalate
Mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP)
o Dibutyl Phthalates
Mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP)
Mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP)
o Dicyclohexyl Phthalate
Mono-cyclohexyl phthalate (MCHP)
o Diethyl Phthalate
Mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP)
o Di-2-ethylhexyl Phthalate (DEHP)
Mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP)
Mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP)
Mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP)
Mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP)
o Di-isononyl Phthalate
Mono-isononyl phthalate (MiNP)
o Dimethyl Phthalate
Mono-methyl phthalate (MMP)
o Di-(n-octyl) Phthalate
Mono-(3-carboxypropyl) phthalate (MCPP)
Mono-n-octyl phthalate (MOP)
Phytoestrogens
o Daidzein
o O-Desmethylangolensin
o Enterodiol
o Enterolactone
o Equol
o Genistein
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and 2,2',4,4',5,5'-Hexabromobiphenyl (BB-153)
o 2,2',4-Tribromodiphenyl ether (BDE 17)
o 2,4,4'-Tribromodiphenyl ether (BDE 28)
o 2,2',4,4'-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 47)
o 2,3',4,4'-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 66)
o 2,2',3,4,4'-Pentabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 85)
o 2,2',4,4',5-Pentabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 99)
o 2,2',4,4',6-Pentabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 100)
o 2,2',4,4',5,5'-Hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 153)
o 2,2',4,4',5,6'-Hexabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 154)
o 2,2',3,4,4',5',6-Heptabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 183)
o 2,2',4,4',5,5'-Hexabromobiphenyl (BB 153)
Polychlorinated Biphenyls—Non-Dioxin-Like
o 2,4,4'-Trichlorobiphenyl (PCB 28)
o 2,2',3,5'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 44)
o 2,2',4,5'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 49)
o 2,2',5,5'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 52)
o 2,3',4,4'-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 66)
o 2,4,4',5-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 74)
o 2,2',3,4,5'-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 87)
o 2,2',4,4',5-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 99)
o 2,2',4,5,5'-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 101)
o 2,3,3',4',6-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 110)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4'-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 128)
o 2,2',3,4,4',5'and 2,3,3',4,4',6-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 138 & 158)
o 2,2',3,4',5,5'-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 146)
o 2,2',3,4',5',6-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 149)
o 2,2',3,5,5',6-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 151)
o 2,2',4,4',5,5',-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 153)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 170)
o 2,2',3,3',4,5,5'-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 172)
o 2,2',3,3',4,5',6'-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 177)
o 2,2',3,3',5,5',6-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 178)
o 2,2',3,4,4',5,5'-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 180)
o 2,2',3,4,4',5',6-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 183)
o 2,2',3,4',5,5',6-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 187)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,5'-Octachlorobiphenyl (PCB 194)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,6-Octachlorobiphenyl (PCB 195)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,6' and 2,2',3,4,4',5,5',6-Octachlorobiphenyl (PCB 196 & 203)
o 2,2',3,3',4,5,5',6-Octachlorobiphenyl (PCB 199)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,5',6-Nonachlorobiphenyl (PCB 206)
o 2,2',3,3',4,4',5,5',6,6'-Decachlorobiphenyl (PCB 209)
Dioxin-Like Chemicals
o Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HpCDD)
1,2,3,4,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HxCDD)
1,2,3,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HxCDD)
1,2,3,7,8,9-Hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (HxCDD)
1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-Octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (OCDD)
1,2,3,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (PeCDD)
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)
Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans
o 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Heptachlorodibenzofuran (HpCDF)
o 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-Heptachlorodibenzofuran (HpCDF)
o 1,2,3,4,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran (HxCDF)
o 1,2,3,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran (HxCDF)
o 1,2,3,7,8,9-Hexachlorodibenzofuran (HxCDF)
o 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-Hexachlorodibenzofuran (HxCDF)
o 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-Octachlorodibenzofuran (OCDF)
o 1,2,3,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran (PeCDF)
o 2,3,4,7,8-Pentachlorodibenzofuran (PeCDF)
o 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzofuran (TCDF)
Coplanar Polychlorinated Biphenyls
o 3,4,4',5-Tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB 81)
o 3,3',4,4',5-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 126)
o 3,3',4,4',5,5'-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 169)
Mono-ortho-substituted Polychlorinated Biphenyls
o 2,3,3',4,4'-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 105)
o 2,3',4,4',5-Pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 118)
o 2,3,3',4,4',5-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 156)
o 2,3,3',4,4',5'-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 157)
o 2,3',4,4',5,5'-Hexachlorobiphenyl (PCB 167)
o 2,3,3',4,4',5,5'-Heptachlorobiphenyl (PCB 189)
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
o Fluorene
2-Hydroxyfluorene
3-Hydroxyfluorene
9-Hydroxyfluorene
o Naphthalene
1-Hydroxynaphthalene (1-Naphthol)
2-Hydroxynaphthalene (2-Naphthol)
o Phenanthrene
1-Hydroxyphenanthrene
2-Hydroxyphenanthrene
3-Hydroxyphenanthrene
4-Hydroxyphenanthrene
o Pyrene
1-Hydroxypyrene
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
o Benzene
o Chlorobenzene
Chlorobenzene (Monochlorobenzene)
1,2-Dichlorobenzene (o-Dichlorobenzene)
1,3-Dichlorobenzene (m-Dichlorobenzene)
1,4-Dichlorobenzene (Paradichlorobenzene)
o 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP)
o 2,5-Dimethylfuran
o Ethylbenzene
o Halogenated Solvents
Dichloromethane (Methylene chloride)
Trichloroethene (Trichloroethylene)
Tetrachloroethene (Perchloroethylene)
o Other Halogenated Solvents
Dibromomethane
1,1-Dichloroethane
1,2-Dichloroethane (Ethylene dichloride)
1,1-Dichloroethene (Vinylidene chloride)
cis-1,2-Dichloroethene
trans-1,2-Dichloroethene
1,2-Dichloropropane
1,1,1-Trichloroethane (Methyl chloroform)
1,1,2-Trichloroethane
1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane
Tetrachloromethane (Carbon tetrachloride)
o Hexachloroethane
o Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE)
o Nitrobenzene
o Styrene
o Toluene
o Xylenes
o o-Xylene
o m- and p-Xylene Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) EDCs are described as substances in our environment, food, and consumer products that interfere with hormone biosynthesis, metabolism, or action resulting in deviation from normal homeostatic control or reproduction4. The Endocrine Society has stated that "the evidence for adverse reproductive outcomes (infertility, cancers, malformations) from exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals is strong, and there is mounting evidence for effects on other endocrine systems, including thyroid, neuroendocrine, obesity, and metabolism, and insulin and glucose homeostasis". The group of molecules identified as endocrine disruptors includes the following:
Industrial solvents /lubricants and their byproducts
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
- Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs)
- Dioxins
Plastics
- Bisphenol A (BPA)
Plasticizers
- Phthalates
Pesticides
- Methoxychlor
- Chlorpyrifos
- Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)
Fungicides
- Vinclozolin
Pharmaceutical agents
- Diethylstilbestrol (DES)
Phytoestrogens
- Genistien
- Coumestrol
Phytoestrogens
There are three major classes of plant compounds that have estrogen-like action in the body.
1. Lignans (enterolactone, eneterodiol) – flax seed, sesame seed
2. Isoflavones (genistein, diadzein, biochanin A) – soybeans
3. Coumestans
Total Isoflavone, Daidzein and Genistein Aglycone Content of Selected Foods2
Food Serving Total Isoflavones (mg) Daidzein (mg) Genistein (mg)
Soy protein concentrate,
Aqueous washed 3.5 oz 102 43 56
Soy protein concentrate,
Alcohol washed 3.5 oz 12 7 5
Miso ½ cup 59 22 34
Soybeans, boiled ½ cup 47 23 24
Tempeh 3 ounces 37 15 21
Soybeans, dry roasted
1 ounce 37 15 19
Soy milk 1 cup 30 12 17
Tofu yogurt ½ cup 21 7 12
Tofu 3 ounces 20 8 12
Soybeans, green,
boiled (Edamame) ½ cup 12 6 6
Meatless (soy) hot dog
1 hot dog 11 3 6
Meatless (soy) sausage
3 links 3 0.6 2
Soy cheese, mozzarella 1 oz 2 0.3 1
Soy-based infant formulas contain a significant amount of isoflavones. In 2010, the National Toxicology Program concluded that soy infant formula's adverse health effects were of minimal concern. I personally disagree with their conclusion. Phthalates Phthalates are compounds used in the production of plastics. They are often referred to as "plasticizers". Phthalates are used in cosmetics, perfumes, aerosols, paints, lotions, air fresheners, shampoos, conditioners, lubricants, medications, tubing, anti-foaming agents, skin emollients, nail polish, vinyl flooring, false nails, catheters, blood bags and IV tubing. The health effects are mainly related to steroid hormone (endocrine) disruptions. Phthalates have also been linked to obesity and insulin resistance. Obese, insulin-resistant adult males excrete higher amounts of mono-benzyl-phthalate (MBzP), mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEOHP), and mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) than controls.3 Although studies on individual xenoestrogens have found them to be of low estrogenic potency, when multiple compounds are present at their no-observed-effect concentrations; dramatic enhancement of estrogen receptor alpha response to estradiol was found. Such results demonstrate the additive effects of multiple exposures3.
The main phthalates are di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP). Phthalate exposure is measured in the urine by the amount and type of metabolite that is produced. Parabens Parabens are used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. They are also used in food products because of their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. Parabens can be found in shampoos, shaving gels, personal lubricants, sunscreen, tanning lotions, deodorants, antiperspirants and toothpaste. Parabens are chemically synthesized, however they also occur naturally in some foods, in particular, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and currents.
The common parabens measured include:
butylparaben
ethylparaben
methylparaben
propylparaben
The adverse health effects of parabens include; contact dermatitis, toxicity to the mitochondria, and (endocrine disruptor) week estrogenic effect. (Remember that parabens, especially cosmetics, may be applied daily and have a cumulative effect.) Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) (Dioxin-Like PCBs and Non-Dioxin-Like PCBs)
PCBs belong to a broad family of man-made organic chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. PCBs were manufactured from 1929 until their manufacture was banned in 1979. Due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point, and electrical insulation properties, PCBs were used in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications including electrical, heat transfer, and hydraulic equipment; as plasticizers in paints, plastics, and rubber products; in pigments, dyes, and carbonless copy paper; and many other industrial applications.
Although no longer commercially produced in the United States, PCBs may be present in products and materials produced before the 1979 ban.
Transformers and capacitors
Oil used in motors and hydraulic systems
Capacitors
Cable insulation
Adhesives and tape
Oil-based paint
Caulking
Plastics
Floor finish
Once in the environment, PCBs do not readily breakdown and therefore may remain for long periods of time cycling between air, water, and soil. PCBs can be carried long distances and have been found in snow and sea water far from where they were released into the environment. As a consequence, PCBs are found all over the world. In general, the lighter the form of PCB, the further it can be transported from the source of contamination.
PCBs can accumulate in the leaves and above-ground parts of plants and food crops. They are also taken up into the bodies of small organisms and fish. As a result, people who ingest fish may be exposed to PCBs that have bioaccumulated in the fish they are ingesting.
The term “dioxin” is commonly used to refer to a family of toxic chemicals that share a similar chemical structure and induce harm through a similar mechanism. Dioxins have been characterized by EPA as likely human carcinogens and are anticipated to increase the risk of cancer at background levels of exposure.
Dioxin levels in the environment have been declining since the early seventies and have been the subject of a number of federal and state regulations and clean-up actions; however, current exposures levels still remain a concern. Examples of dioxins include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated dibenzo dioxins (PCDDs), and polychlorinated dibenzo furans (PCDFs). PCBs were produced commercially in large quantities until production was stopped in 1977. PCDDs and PCDFs are not commercial chemical products, but are unintentional byproducts of most forms of combustion and several industrial chemical processes.
PCBs have been demonstrated to cause cancer, as well as a variety of other adverse health effects on the immune system, reproductive system, nervous system, and endocrine system.
Cancer – There is clear evidence that PCBs cause cancer in animals. Studies of PCB workers found increases in rare liver cancers and malignant melanoma. It is very important to note that the composition of PCB mixtures change following their release into the environment. The type of PCBs that tend to bioaccumulate in fish and other animals and bind to sediments happens to be the most carcinogenic components of PCBs mixtures. As a result, people who ingest PCB-contaminated fish or other animal products and contact PCB-contaminated sediment may be exposed to PCB mixtures that are even more toxic than the PCB mixtures contacted by workers and released into the environment.
Immune Effects – PCBs suppress the immune system. In humans, a recent study found that individuals infected with Epstein-Barr virus had a greater association of increased exposures to PCBs with increasing risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma than those who had no Epstein-Barr infection.
Reproductive effects – Studies of reproductive effects have been carried out in human populations exposed to PCBs. Children born to women who worked with PCBs in factories showed decreased birth weight and a significant decrease in gestational age with increasing exposures to PCBs.
Neurological effects – Exposure to PCBs have been associated with deficits in neurological development, including visual and recognition, short-term memory and hearing.
Endocrine effects – PCBs have been demonstrated to exert effects on thyroid hormone levels in animals and humans. It has been shown that PCBs decrease thyroid hormone levels in rodents, and that these decreases have resulted in developmental deficits in the animals, including deficits in hearing. PCB exposures have also been associated with changes in thyroid hormone levels in infants in studies conducted in the Netherlands and Japan. As PCB serum levels increase, thyroid hormones T3 and T4 decrease.
Other effects – dermatological, ocular, elevated blood pressure, elevated serum triglyceride, and elevated serum cholesterol. Exposure Sources The greatest sources of PCBs exposure come from eating contaminated food. The estimated dietary intake of PCBs for an average adult was 0.027 ug/kg/day in 1978 and had declined to <0.001 ug/kg/day by 1991. The highest content of PCBs in one dietary study was found in dairy products (especially butter), meat, and fish. Atlantic farmed salmon is the greatest exposure source among fish, as well as fish caught and consumed from the Great Lakes. Chlorinated Pesticides (Some examples include: DDE, DDT, Dieldren, Heptachlor Epoxide, Hexachlorobenzene, Mirix, Oxychlordane, trans-Nonachlor)
The use of chlorinated pesticides has mostly been banned in the United States; however some of these pesticides and herbicides are still used around the world. Chlorinated pesticides can bioaccumulate due to their lipophilic nature and can cause significant adverse health effects. These chemicals are powerful toxins and can cause significant mitochondrial damage and may be the root of chronic illnesses. The effects of these compounds are most often seen secondary to mitochondrial toxicity in the neurological, immunological and endocrinological systems.
The major source of exposure in the U.S. is through the diet, in particular, meat, poultry, dairy products and fish.
The Total Diet Study, sometimes called the market basket study, is an ongoing FDA program that determines levels of various contaminants and nutrients in food.
Dichlorodiphenyl-dichloroethylene (DDE) is a metabolite of DDT. When DDT is produced, it consists of a combination of both DDE and DDT. DDT is metabolized in the body to DDE and broken down in the environment to DDE. These chemicals are highly fat-soluble and are stored in lipid-rich tissues, such as adipose tissue, the liver and the brain. The foods with the highest concentration of DDE include; non-organic butter, farm raised catfish, Atlantic salmon, American cheese, non-organic spinach, lamb chops, non-organic cream cheese, non-organic collard greens, and non-organic cheddar cheese. Other sources of DDE/DDT include dust or dirt or the home. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) VOCs are emitted by a wide range of products, which include: paints, lacquers, and paint strippers, cleaning supplies, pesticides, building materials, furnishings, office supplies (copiers, printers, correction fluids, carbonless paper, graphics, glues, adhesives, permanent markers and photographic solutions) and petroleum products.
VOCs are ground-water contaminants of concern because of very large environmental releases, human toxicity, and a tendency for some compounds to persist in and migrate with ground water to drinking-water supply wells. In general, VOCs have high vapor pressures, low-to-medium water solubility, and low molecular weights. Some VOCs may occur naturally in the environment, other compounds occur as a result of manmade activities, and some compounds have both origins.5
BTEX is a term used for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene. These compounds are typically found in petroleum products, such as gasoline, and diesel fuel.
MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is an oxygenate added to gasoline to improve combustion and to reduce harmful emissions. MTBE is resistant to biodegradation and therefore can remain persistent. Sources and Adverse Health Effects of Volatile Solvents Solvent Sources/Exposures Adverse Health Effects
Benzene
Made mostly from petroleum
One of the top 20 chemicals produced in the United States
Used to make other chemicals, such as styrene (for Styrofoam® and other plastics), cumene (for various resins), and cyclohexane (for nylon and synthetic fibers)
Used in the manufacture of drugs, pesticides, dyes, and other compounds
Most common non-occupational airborne exposures:
o The combustion of gasoline, pumping gas
o Cigarette smoke: The average smoker (32 cigarettes per day) takes in about 1.8 milligrams (mg) of benzene per day, 10 times the average daily intake of benzene by nonsmokers
o Indoor air fresheners
o Glues, paints, furniture wax, and detergents
o Well water can be contaminated with benzene from leaking gasoline storage tanks at gas stations. People
with such contaminated water can be exposed from drinking it, eating foods prepared with it (especially
coffee and tea), or inhalation during showering or bathing that can produce absorption of benzene
through the skin.
o Houses with attached garages often have higher levels of benzene in the air. Levels of benzene and other
solvents are also extremely high in the outside air around chemical and paint plants. These local sources of benzene emissions inside the United States can be located by visiting: www.scorecard.org. Adverse Health Effects Airborne exposure can result in reduced infection fighting
Problems in bone marrow such as:
o Increased risk of leukemia, breast cancer, multiple myeloma, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL)
o Cytopenia and thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and aplastic anemia
Male infertility
Abnormally long menstrual cycles, female infertility, and increased rates of miscarriages
View benzene case studies at Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR):
www.atsdr.cdc.gov/csem/benzene
Solvent Sources/Exposures Adverse Health Effects
Ethylbenzene
Found naturally in oil, and large amounts are produced in the United States
Used to make styrene
Also found in:
o Gasoline
o Paints and inks
o Pesticides
o Carpet glues
o Varnishes and paints
o Tobacco products
Can be present in groundwater (both private wells and municiple aquifers) used in homes.
Most of this contamination comes from leaking gas storage tanks (gas stations) as well as landfills.
Dermal absorption in spray painters
Adverse Health Effects
The presence of ethylbenzene and xylene will prolong the time that toluene is present in the blood
Neurotoxic "brain fog" (chronic or acute toxic encephalopathy)
Bone marrow problems (see the list under "Benzene")
Hearing loss
Increased chemical reactivity (MCS)
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that ethylbenzene is a possible human carcinogen
Xylenes
One of the top 30 chemicals produced in the United States
Three forms (isomers) of xylene (also known as dimethylbenzene) exist: meta-xylene, ortho-xylene, and para-xylene (m-, o-, and p-xylene)
Mixed xylene is a mixture of the three isomers and usually also contains 6–15% ethylbenzene
Used primarily as a "safe" replacement (noncancer causing) for benzene in gasoline
Used in the printing, rubber, and leather industries
Widely used in cleaning agents, paints, paint thinners, and varnishes
Majority of absorbed (mostly inhaled) xylene will have left the body within 18 hours, small amounts (4–10%) may be stored in fat and will take longer to exit the body
Clearance of xylene from persons with more adipose tissue can take much longer
Airborne exposures to xylene come mainly through:
o Gasoline
o Auto exhaust
o Cigarette smoke
o Paint and varnish fumes
Dermal exposures mostly from direct contact with gasoline, paints, and furniture finishes. Adverse Health Effects Neurotoxic "brain fog" (chronic or acute toxic encephalopathy)
Fatigue
Headache, depression, mood changes
Adversely effects learning, behavior, and memory in offspring exposed in utero
Studies have found xylene can cause changes to liver, heart, kidneys, lungs, and nervous system
Solvent Sources/Exposures Adverse Health Effects Styrene A high production chemical (over 13 billion pounds of styrene was produced in the United States in 2006)
Primarily used in the production of polystyrene plastics and resins used principally for insulation and for making fiberglass
Airborne exposures for styrene:
o Cigarette smoke
o Auto exhaust
o Photocopies
o Workers in the polyester plastic and fiberglass industries
Ingestion exposures for styrene:
o Food that has been heated in Styrofoam containers
o Food that has been stored in Styrofoam containers Adverse Health Effects The presence of toluene and trichloroethylene reduces the metabolism of styrene. A combination of acetone and styrene causes a reduction in free glutathione in the liver.
Impairs reaction time and vestibular function
Reduces MAO-B activity in platelets
Cognitive disorders including short-term verbal memory impairment, decreased verbal learning, and impaired logical memory
The most frequent symptoms include headache, dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, irritability, memory loss, and feeling "drunk"
Impaired color vision
Toluene
Produced in the process of making gasoline and other fuels from crude oil, in making coke from coal, and as a by-product in the manufacture of styrene
Used in making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber; Also used in some printing and leather tanning processes
Half life in the blood is about 6 hours
Airborne exposures to toluene come from:
o Fumes of paints, glues, solvents, gasoline
o Working in places where these compounds are used regularly (painters, acrylic nail salons, etc.)
o Nail polish, stain removers, carburetor cleaners, cigarette smoke, auto exhaust
o Higher levels are found in smokers, persons who drink alcohol regularly, and in those who are exposed to paint and lacquer thinners
Gasoline is 5-7% toulene and the primary source of population exposure
Adverse Health Effects
Aspirin blocks the clearance of toluene and increases the blood toluene levels, as do benzene and alcohol
Most common symptoms:
o fatigue, impaired memory, impaired concentration, irritability, headaches, labile mood, depression, neurotic behavior, dizziness, OCD symptoms and insomnia
Psychomotor coordination problems
Can be psychologically addictive
View toulene case studies at ATSDR: www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=29
Solvent Sources/Exposures Adverse Health Effects
n-Hexane, 2-methylpentane, 3-methylpentane (Aliphatic Hydrocarbons)
Hexane, a commonly used solvent, consists of n-Hexane and its isomers of 2-methylpentane and 3-methylpentane
Used in glues, adhesives, and paints, and is present in gasoline and jet fuel
The only published study on the level of n-hexane gives the 95th percentile level for the presence of this solvent in the blood as a range of 403-812 ppb, methylpentane levels not measured
Levels of hexane found in farmers had a 95th percentile of only 270 ppb
Drivers who were regularly exposed to exhaust fumes had a 95th percentile level of 468 ppb
Exposure sources
o Gasoline and automobile exhaust
o Quick-drying glues
o Jet fuel and jet exhaust
o The presence of the methylpentanes without n-Hexane typically indicate that the exposure is neither recent or ongoing.
Adverse Health Effects
Acute exposure causes CNS disturbances
o Headache, mental irritability, paresthesias
Chronic exposure – peripheral neuropathy – muscle weakness, loss of sensation, impaired gait
Can lead to demyelination and nerve fiber degeneration
Balance problems and classic toxic encephalopathy
Iso-octane
A component of gasoline
An octane isomer which defines the 100 point on the octane rating scale
Produced on a massive scale in the petroleum industry usually as a mixture with related hydrocarbons.
Adverse Health Effects
Inhaled isooctane can cause confusion, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and severe vomiting.
Contact with skin can cause dryness and redness of the skin, and can be extremely painful.
Bioaccumulation potential is high.
No chronic studies are available that assess carcinogenic effects.
Toxic Elements (Heavy Metals)
Toxic Elements
Aluminum
Arsenic
Cadmium
Lead
Mercury
Tin
Essential elements are toxic in high levels ( e.g. copper, iron) Aluminum Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. It is always found combined with other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine. Everyone is exposed to low levels of aluminum from food, air, water, and soil. Exposure to high levels of aluminum may result in respiratory and neurological problems.
Toxicity symptoms:
o Abnormal speech, myoclonic jerks, osteomalacia, progressive encephalopathy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's Disease
Assessment: Whole blood, serum, hair, urine
Biomarker: Total porphyrin elevation
Protective measures: Iron, calcium, phosphorus (lowers intestinal absorption)
Chelating agents: DFO (desferoxamine)
Aluminum Body Burden Assessment
Special evacuated test tubes are required for testing (standard tubes may be contaminated with aluminum from rubber stoppers).
Problem with measuring RBC-AL include ensuring an aluminum free anticoagulant.
Hair will show elevated levels (chronic exposure)
Urinary aluminum can provide information about aluminum intake and has been used to monitor exposure.
Urinary provocative challenge Arsenic (As) Arsenic is a naturally occurring element widely distributed in the earth's crust. In the environment, arsenic is combined with oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. Arsenic in animals and plants combines with carbon and hydrogen to form organic arsenic compounds. Inorganic arsenic compounds are mainly used to preserve wood. Copper chromate arsenic (CCA) is used to make "pressure treated" lumber. CCA is no longer used in the U.S. for residential uses; it is still used in industrial applications. Organic arsenic compounds are used as pesticides, primarily on cotton.
Toxicity symptoms:
o Peripheral arteriosclerosis, rice-water stool, proteinuria, hyperkeratosis, garlic breath odor, stomatitis
Body burden assessment:
o Urine, hair & nails, whole blood, urinary, porphyrins
Protective measures:
o Selenium, sulfur amino acids, glutathione, emblica officinalis (Indian gooseberry)
Chelating Agents: DMSA, DMPS, DMPA
Common Sources:
o Metal foundry, drinking water, seafood, glues, industrial exposure, contaminated wine, cigarette smoke, arsenic treated wood, insecticides, fungicides
Arsenic Body Burden Assessment
Urinary arsenic is most commonly measured to screen for exposure
RBC arsenic information is limited
Hair/nail represents long term exposure (arsenic is cleared from the serum within 6-10 hrs)
Urinary porphyrin
Urinary provocative challenge testing Cadmium
Cadmium is a natural element in the earth's crust. It is usually found as a mineral combined with other elements such as oxygen (cadmium oxide), chlorine (cadmium chloride), or sulfur (cadmium sulfate, cadmium sulfide). All soils and rocks, including coal and mineral fertilizers, contain some cadmium. Most cadmium used in the U.S. is extracted during the production of other metals like zinc, lead, and copper. Cadmium does not corrode easily and has many uses, including batteries, pigments, metal coatings, and plastics. The general population is exposed from cigarette smoke or eating cadmium contaminated foods (fish, plants, and animals). Cadmium damages the lungs, can cause kidney disease, and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
Toxicity symptoms:
o Femoral pain, lumbago, osteopenia, renal dysfunction, hypertension, vascular disease, anosmia (loss of smell)
Body burden assessment: Whole blood (recent only), urinary provocative challenge testing
Biochemical marker: Coproporphyrin I
Preventive measures: Zinc, iron, antioxidants
Chelating agents: EDTA, DMSA, and NAC (experimental)
Common Sources: Industry, spray paint, tobacco smoke, car emissions, plants grown in cadmium rich soil
Primarily concentrated in liver and kidneys
Cadmium and lead absorption is increased in iron deficiency states.
Anemia resistant to iron therapy (hypochromic, microcytic anemia with normal ferritin, and iron indices, and normal hemoglobin
Principal organs most vulnerable to cadmium toxicity are kidney and lung.
Renal tubular damage and high blood pressure Lead Lead is a naturally occurring bluish-gray metal found in small amounts in the earth's crust. Lead can be found in all parts of the environment. Much of it comes from human activities including burning fossil fuels, mining, and manufacturing. Lead has many different uses. It is used in the production of batteries, ammunition, metal products (solder and pipes), and devices to shield X-rays. Because of heath concerns, lead from gasoline, paints and ceramic products, caulking, and pipe solder has been dramatically reduced in the recent years.
Lead may accumulate in bone and lie dormant for years. It can pose a health threat later in life under certain conditions such as, pregnancy, lactation, osteoporosis, hyperparathryoidism and hyperparathyroidism, which mobilizes the stores lead deposits from bone.
Toxicity
o Microcytic hypochromic anemia, renal dysfunction, hypertension, anorexia, muscle discomfort, constipation, metallic taste, low IQ (children)
Body burden assessment: Whole blood, serum, hair, urinary porphyrins
Protective measures: Calcium, Iron (reduces intestinal absorption), Alpha Lipoic Acid
Chelating Agents: Ca-EDTA
Common Sources: Certain supplements, paint, contaminated soil, plumbing
Lead Body Burden Assessment
Serum or plasma is not a very useful specimen for lead screening except in recent exposure. (Serum lead returns to normal within 3-5 days of last exposure).
Whole blood is concentrated about 75 fold greater than plasma or serum and is the CDC preferred test
CDC "acceptable" level is 10 ug/dL
Proposals have been made to reduce acceptable levels
Hair is a sensitive indicator.
Urinary porphyrin is sensitive.
Urinary provocative challenge testing
The chelating agent of choice is IV calcium disodium EDTA.
Nutrients with demonstrated benefit when used with or without chelating agents include Alpha Lipoic Acid, Zinc, Taurine, Selenium – which are able to bind lead directly. Mercury Mercury is a naturally occurring metal which has several forms. The metallic mercury is a shiny, silver-white, odorless liquid. If heated, it is a colorless, odorless gas. Mercury combines with other elements, such as chlorine, sulfur, or oxygen, to form inorganic mercury compounds or salts, which are usually white powers or crystals. Mercury also combines with carbon to make organic mercury compound. The most common one, methylmercury, is produced mainly by microscopic organisms in the water or soil. More mercury in the environment can increase the amounts of methylmercury that these small organisms make. Methylmercury builds up in the tissue of fish.
Metallic mercury is used to produce chlorine gas and caustic soda, and is used in thermometers, dental fillings and batteries. Mercury salts are sometimes used in skin lightening creams and as an antiseptic cream and ointment.
Toxicity symptoms:
o Mental symptoms (insomnia, fatigue, poor short-term memory, erethism), tremor, stomatitits, gingivitis, GI and renal disturbance, decreased immunity
Body burden assessment: whole blood, RBC, serum, hair, urine, urinary porphyrins
Protective measures: Selenium
Chelating agents: DMSA, DMPS
Common sources: Dental amalgams, fish consumption, preservatives (Thimerosal)
Mercury Body Burden Assessment
RBC mercury, hair analysis are good indicators
Urinary porphyrin is a sensitive biochemical marker.
Whole blood
Urinary provocative challenge testing
Note: Removing brain accumulations of mercury is challenging. DMSA and DMPS may not be effective agents for removing toxic metals found in the CNS, as they are very unlikely to cross the blood-brain barrier.
Required Viewing: (5 minute video): How Mercury Causes Brain Neuron Degeneration, Department of Physiology and Biophysics; Faculty of Medicine; University of Calgary. (This video can be viewed with this lesson under Module 6 on the FMU website.)
Body Burden: The Pollution in Newborns
(Environmental Working Group July 14, 2005)
In a study spearheaded by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), researchers at two major laboratories found an average of 200 industrial compounds, pollutants, and other chemicals in 10 newborn babies, with a total of 287 chemicals found in the group. To their knowledge this work represents the first reported cord blood tests for 261 of the targeted chemicals, and the first reported detections of at least 209 chemicals. Scientists refer to this contamination as a person’s body burden.
The study found a broad array of pollutants that collectively are known to present potential risks to nearly every organ and system in the body:
Of the 287 chemicals found in newborn umbilical cord blood, 180 cause cancer in humans or animals, 217 are toxic to the brain and nervous system, and 208 cause developmental problems. The dangers of exposure to these chemicals in combination has never been studied.
They detected 287 chemicals of 413 tested (69 percent) in umbilical cord blood samples from 10 newborn babies, with a range of between 154 and 231 for each child. They found 101 chemicals in all babies tested.
Our tests targeted nine chemical classes; we detected at least half of the analyzed chemicals in each class.
The chemicals found span organochlorine pesticides (DDT and dieldrin, for example), chemicals currently or formerly used in a wide range of consumer products (perfluorochemicals, brominated fire retardants, PCBs), and chemical pollutants from waste incineration and fossil fuel combustion (polyaromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated and polybrominated dioxins and furans, polychlorinated naphthalenes, mercury).
Resources
Environmental working Group – www.ewg.org
AirNow – www.airnow.gov – The Air Quality Index
The Air Quality Index is an index for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted the outdoor air is, and what associated health effects might be of concern. The AQI focuses on health effects you may experience within a few hours or days after breathing polluted air. EPA calculates the AQI for five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. For each of these pollutants, EPA has established national air quality standards to protect public health.
SCORECARD – www.scorecard.org – Get an in-depth pollution report for your county, covering air, water, chemicals, and more.
Total Diet Study www.fda.gov – The Total Diet Study (TDS), sometimes called the market basket study, is an ongoing FDA program that determines levels of various contaminants and nutrients in foods. From this information, dietary intakes of those analytes by the U.S. population can be estimated. Since its inception in 1961 as a program to monitor for radioactive contamination of foods, the TDS has grown to encompass additional analytes, including pesticide residues, industrial chemicals, and toxic and nutrient elements. A unique aspect of the TDS is that foods are prepared as they would be consumed (table-ready) prior to analysis, so the analytical results provide the basis for realistic estimates of the dietary intake of these analytes. Summary Most, if not all, individuals have environmental toxics in their body. Yes we are all toxic. As you have read throughout this lesson, the gamut of adverse health effects is vast. It is our job as functional medicine practitioners to ascertain whether or nor not a particular toxin or combination of toxics are the root cause of our patient's disease/dysfunction. It is mandatory that all patients are assessed for environmental toxicity. References
1. Environmental Medicine, Part 1: The Human Burden of Environmental Toxins and Their Common Health Effects, Walter J. Crinnion, ND, Alternative Medicine Review, Vol 5, No. 1, 2000
2. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/soyiso/index
3. Phthalates & Parabens Profile Interpretive Guide, Metametrix Clinical Laboratory, 3425 Corporate Way, Duluth, GA 30096
4. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB's) Guide, Metametrix Clinical Laboratory, 3425 Corporate Way, Duluth, GA 30096
5. Volatile Solvents Guide, Metametrix Clinical Laboratory, 3425 Corporate Way, Duluth, GA 30096
6. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement, 2009, 30(4):293-342,8401, Evanthia Diamanti-Kandarakis, Jean-Pierre Bourguignon, Linda C. Giudice, Russ Hauser, Gail S. Prins, Ana M. Soto, R.Thomas Zoeller, Andrea C. Gore, The Endocrine Society, Connecticut Avenue, Suite 900, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815
Additional Resources
1. 2009 Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, CDC
2. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
September 2006: Aluminum
September 2005: Arsenic
September 2005: Lead
June 1999: Cadmium
April 1999: Mercury |
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