Dioxins and Health

I’m really excited about some upcoming posts I have in the works…all to do with health! Be on the lookout here next week as I plan to share from a great book I’ve been reading called Flip the Switch by Robert K. Cooper, PhD. This book is chock full of ways to rev your metabolism, and increase both your energy levels and the amount of fat you burn.

In addition, I’m researching trans fats and essential fatty acids. Am refreshing my facts and learning in the process, all fascinating.

One thing leads to another, and now I’m reviewing dioxins. I used to sell Pycnogenol (in the early 90’s) and so much is coming back to me (duh)… 🙂

Just to grab your attention, dioxins are one of the most toxic substances known to man. They’re part of the “dirty dozen”–a list of toxic substances outlawed by the Stockholm Convention.

A persistent organic pollutant (POP), here are a few things I gleaned regarding dioxin exposure from Wikipedia:

• dioxin enters the general population through food consumption, primarily through fish, meat and dairy products…beef being the worst source.
• occupational exposure (such as proximity to herbicides)

Sources accounting for 80% of dioxin emissions (taken directly from Wikipedia):

• Coal fired utilities
• Metal smelting
• Diesel trucks
• Land application of sewage sludge
• Burning treated wood
• Trash burn barrels

Also mentioned as responsible for minute amounts of dioxin were plastics, resins, bleaches, tampons and many food packaging substances.

“The use of these materials means that all modern humans receive (at least) a very small daily dose of dioxins–however, it is disputed whether such exceptionally tiny exposures have any clinical relevance.”

Exposure to dioxin can cause problems from acne to cancer to birth defects to diabetes. That’s why it’s important to keep fit and healthy and eat plenty of antioxidant rich foods. Vitamins A, C, and E are top on the list for antioxidant supplements, subsequently, foods rich in these vitamins are even better!

Blueberries, russet potatoes, small red beans, artichokes, and cinnamon all have antioxidant properties. For more, go here for an interesting line-up.

Antioxidants fight free radical damage to our cells, such as that from dioxins. These toxins accumulate in our bodies, and if left unchecked, over time they destroy cell structures making us more susceptible to disease, premature aging, etc.

I’m not an expert. I’m not an environmental whing-ding. I’m a mom seeking to broaden my knowledge base. If you have anything to add, please feel free. I’m a sponge!