Are you noticing more days of foggy thinking, memory loss, lack of focus and concentration? If the answer is yes, welcome to the fastest growing problem on the planet. It is estimated that 35.6 million people are currently living with dementia worldwide, and that number will nearly double every 20 years, reaching 115.4 million in 2050(1). This number does not include those walking around with “brain fog,” characterized by a clouding of consciousness, or those experiencing simple memory loss. What is causing our brains to slow down or malfunction? Can we reboot our brains like our computers, or is there more to it? If your idea of a reboot is taking fish oil, a one-a-day multivitamin, and “save your brain gingko combo,” then the answer is definitely NO. But fear not: new research shows there is a way to stop mind decline in its tracks. As always, however, what’s real and what works is not as simple as a couple pills.
Over the years, working with many types of neurodegenerative and brain related cases, I have found a handful of therapies that truly change lives. As it turns out, the key is not utilizing just one or two of these therapies, but using all of them. This has been my experience, but studies are verifying these results using a similar multi-therapeutic approach (MTA) (2). In fact, these studies have used many of the same therapies I’ve found to be effective over the years, which have produced lasting results in my clients. Improving and optimizing brain health is a topic near and dear to my heart, and I want to share with you what I have learned from personal and clinical experiences.
The number one health concern in those over 60 is said to be cognitive decline (memory loss). It's scary when you start noticing you can't add numbers in your head any more or even remember others’ names. You need to write daily tasks down just to function throughout the day. You ask yourself, “Where will it end? Will I end up just like…( fill in the blank)?” I think many would agree that we would rather be dead than end up like that person in the nursing home who can’t recognize his or her own family. I sure would; especially since that person was my mother who lost her memory and bodily functions after multiple strokes, suffering from post-stroke dementia.
There are many causes of dementia, but they are all based on the big “I” word – INFLAMMATION. I hope I didn’t lose you there, because you have heard of this catch-all term blamed as the root cause of every modern malady. Your response is likely “Great, but what can I do about it”? I assure you it’s not as easy as taking fish oil which, by the way, is making most people worse. No, the TRUTH is never what becomes popular in the media. More often, it is an approach that will be 180° opposite of what you have heard from the “experts.” The media campaign encouraging everyone to take fish oil to improve brain function is a perfect example of common problem with an uncommon, 180° solution™ to fix it.
I anticipate at this point you are asking, “So if I reduce inflammation, can I get my memory back or reverse my dementia?” Let me put it this way: if I would have known what I know now when I watched my mother’s decline, I believe she would still be here today. On the other hand, I would likely not know what I now know if it were not for her suffering and death from this tragic illness.
Many of you who have read my articles and Cellular Healing Diet book know I often write about my father who gave me great inspiration. He was an Italian bricklayer who knew nothing about diet and health, but as I reflect back, knew everything 🙂 . I have great stories filled with humor regarding the things he said and did that turned out to be right…even regarding diet and health. But I am not sure why I don’t tell more stories of my mom, who really was the one who encouraged me the most throughout my life. And looking back, her long-time suffering encouraged me to learn more about neurodegenerative disease.
When my mom was sick, I dreaded seeing her distant, blank stare during our visits. She had been the personality of our family and everyone loved her. To see her that way tore me to pieces. As I write these words, tears flow down my cheeks. The worst days were when she seemed to remember who I was, because she appeared even more trapped inside a body surrounded by a world of nothingness. It was easier to think of her as being completely blank with no recall or reality of her current existence.
For years I prayed for God to take her. Though my prayers remained unanswered, I had a deeper sense there was a reason. Every reason I thought it could be, however, was wrong. The day I moved my family across the country (carrying guilt of leaving her) and arrived in our new home, God took her. I can read into it in many different ways, but I think she was hanging on for me, to make sure that I would be okay. This is just the way my mom was, especially when it came to me. I was the youngest of four, with three older sisters, and was indeed a momma’s boy 🙂 .
I share this story to remind you, and myself, that there is always purpose in pain. It seems everything that has made the greatest difference in my life, and the lives of others, is learned in the hardest of times. My own health battle, and watching my mother suffer from dementia, was only the beginning. Without those challenges I would not know what I know, or understand what’s it’s like to suffer. But more importantly, I would never be able to offer hope to a condition known as “The Graveyard of Hope”.
This solution is not just for those who are diagnosed with a neurodegenerative condition like dementia or Alzheimer’s. It is for anyone noticing that it’s much harder to remember things and experience mental clarity, a state called brain fog. This approach goes far beyond this article, and is also used for many types of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Parkinson’s and even depression. From all that I have read and seen, I can tell you that the earlier you implement this approach, the better your chances are for recovery, even if you have the genes that increase chances of developing a neurodegenerative condition. Prevention is always the best medicine.
In the study I refer to at the beginning of the article (2), 10 people with dementia were put on a program of strict dietary changes along with a specific supplement regimen that supported brain function. Six out of the ten participants were unable to work due to the severity of their condition. Remember, at this stage, there is neither help nor hope for these people…or so we are told.
Note: The regime was basically the Core Cellular protocol plus melatonin and DHEA, included in our new product NeuroSyn, which also contains other beneficial brain nutrients.
Example of participant #2:
Participant #2 post-study results:
My own clinical experience has been the same as the results in the study. I start most clients on a block intermittent fast for 4 consecutive days. I then move them into my Advanced Cellular Healing diet, a high fat, moderate protein, low carb keto-adaptation diet. Please read the articles for details regarding fasting and dietary changes, but both intermittent fasting and ketosis have a profound effect on the brain. Intermittent fasting raises growth hormone and reduces inflammation, and ketosis has been used since the 1920’s to improve cognitive function. There have even been two movies made about how a high fat ketogenic diet heals the brain (Lorenzo’s Oil and First Do No Harm). And when you combine ketosis and intermittent fasting, magic happens.
When you combine ketosis and intermittent fasting, magic happens.
After a month or two, I move my clients into daily intermittent fasting, which I have written about and discussed in some of the Cellular Healing TV broadcasts. It’s easy to do every day; simply wait 15-20 hours between dinner the night before and the first meal the following day (exactly what they did in the study). Think of it this way: skip breakfast and eat a small high fat, moderate protein lunch, and a big dinner in the evening. But “They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day!” Please read my other articles to find out why intermittent fasting is another 180° solution™ lifestyle change to improve health and the opposite of what they affirm to be true.
Intermittent fasting is an act I practice daily, and without a doubt has been one of the greatest things I’ve done for my health. Most of the benefits are attributed to the increase in growth hormone and the hormone correction. Turning 50 this year, the change has been noticeable, even though I was in great health when I started.
I recently wrote an article about combining high intensity burst training with daily intermittent fasting to impact brain health and weight loss resistance (read it here). I noted how the combination produces even higher growth hormone spikes than if you just do one practice by itself. The concept of not eating before and after exercise to achieve a growth hormone spike is a 180° solution™ concept. Read the article to more fully understand why this combination works so well, but in summary: it all comes down to hormone manipulation and adaptation.
Imagine combining these three practices: daily intermittent fasting, ketosis, and high intensity burst training. The synergy is why the MTA protocol shines and is where the magic lies. Fine-tuning the approach by including products for Cellular Healing (my 5R's), which contain nutrients that heal the cell, is the fourth practice. Therefore, when these four practices are put together, you have a synergistic effect that is even more amplified.
I stated above that the nutrients used in the study reflect those in the Core Cellular Package. I would argue that the cellular formulas actually offer far more for the brain, especially when combined with Systemic Formulas new brain product NeuroSyn. I suggest reading the 5R articles for a greater understanding of these formulas, and why you need to “fix the cell to get well.”
In the R2 article, I write about the importance of regenerating the cell membrane, and why a 4:1 ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 fats is the only ratio shown to fix the cell AND support the brain. Most people load up on fish oil because they say it’s good for the brain. But the 180° solution™ concept to impact your health is always the opposite. The truth is most people taking fish oils for too long can end up in a state of omega-3 dominance which has been shown to be harmful to the cell. (2-8). The perfect fatty acid ratio in a product called VISTA by Systemic Formulas was developed around this science, and targets healing the cell membrane and the brain. VISTA is always on the front line of my protocols for clients with neurodegenerative disorders and any other conditions affecting the brain, as it’s particularly effective for these cases.
There is one more product worth mentioning because this component of supporting brain health was not addressed in the present study. There are more than 100,000 studies on the effects of glutathione (GSH) on the brain. GSH is our cellular defense against toxins and inflammation. It is present in every cell in the body, and if GSH levels fall below a certain point in the cell, the cell dies instantly. Due to today’s higher levels of toxicity and stress, intracellular GSH levels are being challenged and are decreasing even in our children. Low GSH has been implicated in most of the causative models for neurodegenerative diseases.
Raising intracellular GSH levels has always been part of my MTA to healing the brain. In the study, it appeared to be a missing piece of the puzzle. The antioxidants given to participants provided some indirect support, but I believe the results would have been greater if direct support would have been part of the program. GCEL is a third generation product I proudly took part in developing, and is included in the Core Cellular Healing package for many reasons and is always part of my MTA.
GSH is also needed for cellular detox and is part of a method I have used for years that I refer to as PompaCore Cellular Detox™. I call it “true” detox because it’s the real deal and it works. There are many bizarre, ineffective, and dangerous detox products on the market today. However, the PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system has been used by doctors all over the country with remarkable and life-changing results. Teaching this approach has been a passion of mine for some years because this aspect is missing in most doctors’ approaches to getting very sick people well. Even alternative doctors fail to go after the root cause, and when they do it is most often with a method of detox that is not the PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system.
I have been critical of these “10 day detox kits” available in most health food stores and the other en vogue cleanses sold on the internet. Most are colon cleanses I refer to as “poopers”. I don’t have a problem with a colon cleanse, but it’s not going to reach the cellular level to truly get you well. At best, it can be used as a part of a detox plan to keep the toxins moving out of the gut.
I have described the PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system in many videos and articles if you’d like further details (see resources below). For the sake of this article, I’m focusing on how we use brain detox within the PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system as a critical part of the MTA to fixing the brain.
You will never get your brain back if you don’t remove the cause. When looking at the research on the causes of dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions, here is what you find:
Those terms may mean nothing to you, but if these are the causes and changes that take place in the brain, we must ask “What’s causing these changes?” It appears most researchers and doctors are not asking the same question, or we would have millions of dollars going into learning better ways to detox the brain. Last I checked, there were zero dollars going into this research, yet this is where the answer lies.
I have spent years researching better ways to detox the brain because doing so gave me my life back. For a lasting solution to any health challenge, you must go up-stream and remove the cause. Toxins drive almost every one of the above changes that occur in these brain conditions (glucose and insulin are another huge factor), yet no one is addressing the real problem.
Even if you apply all the therapies in the MTA, you will come up short for a lasting change if you don’t include brain detox. Certain symptoms will improve no doubt, but those who remove the cause reap the greatest lasting benefit.
I will break it down to 5 major toxins with plenty of science to back as a cause of decreased brain function:
These chemicals are driving inflammation in the brain, gut (the second brain) and every cell. I teach doctors and clients to follow on and off cycles during the detox, using true detox agents such as alpha lipoic acid and our newest cellular detox agent, which is taken in the morning and night. It takes PompaCore Cellular Detox™, along with these specific detox agents that cross into the cell and bypass the blood brain barrier, to properly detox the brain and get lasting results.
I must caution here and state that the average person can use these and other detox agents within the PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system (Intracellular Detox System aka GCEL and BIND and other 5R cellular products), but those with more severe challenges need to work with one of the practitioners I have trained to safely and properly detox. Dosing and other detox support (like keeping detox pathways open) is critical to avoid reactions and complications. For more information on a practitioner, please contact us here.
To be clear, most people see results in the first few months, but brain detox takes years. We teach our clients what they need to do, and continue to do, to get their lives back. On average, it is a two year process. The good news? You won’t need to rely on a doctor once you learn the system. Nothing real and lasting comes easy. There is no magic bullet to take and be well. Most people reading this have tried the quick fixes, and are still looking for something that works. The PompaCore Cellular Detox™ system is real, but it takes effort and commitment. There is no easy way out once you get to this point in your health. Don’t let that truth discourage you: let it do the opposite. Be inspired to take charge of your health by getting to the root cause of your illness and implementing advanced and proven strategies to get your life back.
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32.
It is common knowledge that we live in a “dirty” world. Dangerous chemicals, toxic substances and mold exposure are everywhere these days. Because of widespread toxic substances and exposure, there are few places that exist on earth that can boast freedom from dangerous chemicals, toxins and EMF (electric magnetic field) exposure. Where can we go to ensure our safety? Hopefully, we have homes that are toxin, mold and chemical free, and that should be our safe haven. But is that really the case?
On a daily basis, we are exposed to over 6,000 chemicals that we can’t see or smell. Our foods are laced with glyphosate, a virulent chemical that causes leaky gut. Many foods also contain antibiotics, preservatives, colors and additives. Our meats are placed on Styrofoam plates with plastic wrap clinging to the flesh, and of course there is toxic paint, carpet outgassing, EMFs, air fresheners, toxic mold; the list of dangerous chemical and toxic substances goes on and on. In other words, our toxic exposure is enormous.
There are so many potential dangers lurking around the corner. One of the questions I ask during a new client intake is whether they live near a golf course. It seems benign, but the amount of pesticides used on golf course lawns is extremely dangerous and poses a threat to the healthy function of our cells and gut. I am deeply concerned for all those that play golf on a regular basis.Here is a testimony to the dangers of golf course pesticide exposure: “One year, in a tournament near Miami, I had to withdraw after 36 holes. The course had been heavily sprayed, and there was weed killer in the lake. When I got to the course for the third round, I couldn’t hit a wedge shot thirty yards; I didn’t have enough strength. My eyes were bloodshot, my complexion was ruddy, and my right hand was swollen from taking balls from the caddie. My doctor said it was acute pesticide poisoning”. Billy Casper, top US professional golfer
A toxic burden study was funded by the EWG (Environmental Working Group) at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Bill Moyers, a famous news reporter, recorded the results of this study in his documentary entitled: “Trade Secrets”. Moyers participated in this study along with 8 other adult volunteers. To their knowledge, none of the volunteers had been exposed to high amounts of environmental toxins. However, their blood and urine results were alarming.
The study tested all 9 subjects for 210 harmful and dangerous chemicals. The results: 167 out of the 210 chemicals tested were present in urine and blood samples in varying amounts. In all 9 adults, 91 chemicals were present including: 53 chemicals linked to cancer: 63 of those chemicals are known to be toxic to the CNS (central nervous system): 58 of the chemicals can be damaging to the endocrine system (hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands), and 55 chemicals are known to depress the immune system, which can lead to autoimmune conditions.
But the unconscionable chemical and heavy metal exposures to which unsuspecting populations across America are being exposed right now are appalling. The news channels and major publications are buzzing about the poor people in Flint, Michigan, who are being exposed to water that is filled with extremely high levels of lead and other dangerous chemicals.
Unfortunately, their water challenges started back in April of 2014, when the city’s emergency manager switched the drinking water source from Detroit’s system to the Flint River (to save money) and there have been water emergencies ever since.
According to an article in THE NATION, “….First came the three boil-water warnings, which the city issued after finding evidence E. coli and other nasty bacteria in the city’s water supply. These were followed by nine months of dangerously high levels of total trihalomethanes, a carcinogenic byproduct of chlorine, which put the city in violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act; the city had ramped up the chlorine in an effort to kill the E. coli and other gut-busting microbes. Along the way, people have complained about rashes, hair loss, bad smells and worse, leading a group of them to file a lawsuit on June 5 to force the city to stop getting its water from the Flint River. More recently, an internal Environmental Protection Agency memo obtained by the ACLU of Michigan raised concerns about the possibility of widespread lead contamination after the water in one family’s home was found to be contaminated with lead at a level of 13,200 parts per billion (ppb). A lead level of 5,000 ppb is classified as hazardous waste. The EPA memo asserted that the lead issue was the direct result of the cash-strapped city’s inability to handle the job of water treatment.”
In an outrage over the tragedy that is befalling the adults and children of Flint, Michael Moore wrote to his hometown Governor:
“Dear Governor Snyder: Thanks to you, sir, and the premeditated actions of your administrators, you have effectively poisoned, not just some, but apparently ALL of the children in my hometown of Flint, Michigan…..Your staff and others knew that the water in the Flint River was poison — but you decided that taking over the city and “cutting costs” to “balance the budget” was more important than the people's health (not to mention their democratic rights to elect their own leaders). So you cut off the clean, fresh glacial lake water of Lake Huron that the citizens of Flint (including myself) had been drinking for decades and, instead, made them drink water from the industrial cesspool we call the Flint River — a body of “water” where toxins from a dozen General Motors and DuPont factories have been dumped for over a hundred years. And then you decided to put a chemical in this water to “clean” it — which only ended up stripping the lead off of Flint's aging water pipes, placing that lead in the water and sending it straight into people's taps…… Your callous — and reckless….decision to do this has now, as revealed by the city's top medical facility, caused “irreversible brain damage” in Flint's children, not to mention other bodily damage to all of Flint's adults. Here's how bad it is: Even GM won't let the auto parts they use in building cars touch the Flint water because that water “corrodes” them. This is a company that won't even fix an ignition switch after they've discovered it's already killed dozens of people. THAT's how bad the situation is. Even GM thinks you're the devil….”
A MOTHER JONES article states, “According to the World Health Organization, “Lead affects children's brain development resulting in reduced intelligence quotient (IQ), behavioral changes such as shortening of attention span and increased antisocial behavior, and reduced educational attainment. Lead exposure also causes anemia, hypertension, renal impairment, immunotoxicity and toxicity to the reproductive organs. The neurological and behavioral effects of lead are believed to be irreversible.“
Unfortunately, Flint is not the only place that is suffering from over-the-top toxic exposures. In a well-to-do community in Porter Ranch, California, the residents have been exposed to gas leaks that have led the residents to flee their homes. Entire neighborhoods are like ghost towns, where government officials have ordered mandatory clearings of all homes in exposed areas. Residents were forced to leave and seek emergency shelter elsewhere, and most have been displaced for months.
The problem started when methane gas started leaking at extremely high levels. Methane gas can contain mercaptans and other sulfur compounds. According to an article entitled: Acute Exposure Guideline Levels for Selected Airborne Chemicals: Volume 15. “Methyl mercaptan depresses the central nervous system and affects the respiratory center, similar to hydrogen sulfide, producing death by respiratory paralysis. Clinical signs of exposure are ocular and mucous membrane irritation, headache, dizziness, staggering gait, nausea, and vomiting. Paralysis of the locomotor muscles and pulmonary edema have also been observed.”
But here is an interesting statement in an article written by the LA TIMES: “The sulfur-like compounds it contains, called mercaptans, are not toxic or damaging to the body and do not post long-term risks, public health officials and environmental experts say. It's the odor itself that is causing health problems in the San Fernando Valley community… The additive is a mix of two chemicals, tertiary butyl mercaptan and tetrahydrothiophene, said Glenn La Fevers, storage operations manager for Southern California Gas….. But it (natural gas) also contains small amounts of benzene, toluene and other carcinogens that authorities are testing for in the community. So far, monitors have not found those chemicals at levels any higher than amounts typical in Los Angeles air.”
Now that is spin control! I am not sure why they think the public will buy these ridiculous statements. Methyl mercaptans depress the central nervous system and benzene and toluene are known carcinogens. And that is ok? Does the Gas Company of Southern California really think that people are not going to research these lethal toxins? The beauty of the Internet is that information is as easy to find as a click of a button. No more cover ups please. Don’t insult our intelligence.
The LA TIMES article continues: “Lifelong Porter Ranch resident Dee Ann Abernathy, whose family of six has relocated, said her 6-year-old daughter has experienced several episodes of severe vomiting and has broken out in hives since Nov. 14. Abernathy, 39, bristles at suggestions that fumes emitted by the failed well may not have long-term harmful effects. “My child is not a guinea pig and no one can guarantee that this is not harming her health,” Abernathy said. “I have to wonder whether people who insist there are no long-term effects from this leaking well would continue to do so if it was their daughter vomiting day and night.“
In an article published on saveporterranch.com: Signs and symptoms of methane exposure may include: headaches, heart palpitations, cognitive impairment (poor judgement, memory loss), dizziness, loss of motor coordination and flu-like symptoms (mental uneasiness, lethargy, discomfort)
And the sad stories continue to emerge. As the lead poisoning crisis in Flint, Michigan has resonated across the nation, communities in Pennsylvania are noting high percentages of children with lead. In Altoona, PA over 20 percent of kids under the age of 7 showed elevated levels of lead, according to a Pennsylvania Department of Health report. Elevated lead levels for children under 7 are defined by the Centers for Disease Control as those having at least five micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood in their system. Differing from the Flint crisis, older homes are more likely the source in these cases versus public drinking water. Nathan Sooy of a Pennsylvania office of Clean Water Action noted “In Flint, you’re talking about a major infusion of lead into the water. But that’s not in general how lead poisoning happens in older cities. How it usually happens is from really old houses with lead in the plumbing and old lead paint.” And considering many of the homes in these communities were built before 1940, this data offers a wake-up call to families living in these older homes to examine the major issue of lead poisoning.
So now what? Do these people have to suffer in silence? Are there no ways to resolve these toxic issues? Are the children of Flint Michigan irreversibly brain damaged? Will there be future health disasters as a result of these unbridled methane gas exposures in Porter Ranch? Do families living in old homes have to suffer from lead poisoning?
Over the years, I have listened to horror stories regarding people’s declining health. With tears streaming down their face, they shared a myriad of unrelenting symptoms that doctors can’t explain. There are a cataclysmic amount of folks that are sick and miserable because their cells are drowning in unidentified toxins. Flint, Porter Ranch, and Altoona are not the only communities overrun with chemical exposures. People across America are crying out for help because the root causes of their health challenge is an onslaught of unnoticed or named toxins that are flooding their unprotected cells.
In my case, an unfortunate meeting of two opposing metals in my mouth (mercury silver fillings and gold) poisoned me. This caused me a period of untold agony for 3 years. Other clients have been exposed to countless toxins that have caused autoimmune diseases, cancer and other debilitating health conditions. Did they know these toxins were the start of their bodies undoing? No, but that is why they made their way to me.
Where does one start when toxic exposures are causing horrifying symptoms? Well, the first step to review is my 5R’s of PompaCore Cellular Detox and Healing. I created these 5R’s as a roadmap to heal ailing cells. Remember what I always say: “If you don’t heal the cell, you can’t get well.” So pertinent to this article, R1 is about Removing the Source. In order to protect the healthy functions of the cells, we must remove the source of toxins that are causing widespread inflammation in the cellular membrane.
As the 5R’s of PompaCore Cellular Detox and Healing are addressed, downstream detox pathways (i.e. the gut, liver, kidneys and lymphatic system) must be supported so that toxins can successfully move out of the body. Finally, all my trained doctors use a product called CytoDetox™, a true binding agent, to safely draw out heavy metals from the tissue, organs, bones and brain. Then we capture those metals and clear them out of the body with BIND super activated charcoal (Note: lead gets stored in the bone, so we need to follow a protocol that is safe and effective to ease it out naturally). There is a very precise way to rid the body of heavy metals called PompaCore Cellular Detox™, and you can learn the three components and three phases of the process here. Please read the article and contact my office for more information on working with one of my trained practitioners who can support you through the process (call 800.833.2941 or contact me here).
Now, the lead levels in the Flint water are at a lethal amount and of course, folks get panicked. This is totally understandable. But is the damage really irreversible? I don’t think so. I have seen many remarkable recoveries over the years when toxic stressors have been removed. And there are ways to remove these metals from the body and brain. So, to the people of Flint Michigan, please read my article series on safe heavy metal removal (Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3) and don’t lose hope.
After my body started to heal, I decided to test my wife and children to see if they had elevated heavy metals. My wife’s lead levels were through the roof. In fact, they were so dangerously high that the lab wanted her to repeat the test! Then we found out that my sons also had extremely high lead levels. So I hunkered down, made sure they were eating a Cellular Healing Diet to decrease inflammation and I started them on an ON and OFF cyclical heavy metal protocol to reduce their lead levels. I supported their methylation levels (methylation helps the body reduce inflammation and detox) with a product by Systemic Formulas called MoRS. And I supported their mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell that makes ATP energy) with a product called eNRG. Lo and behold, over time, their metals levels started to go down. This is part of PompaCore Cellular Detox™ I am convinced it saved the lives of my wife and my children.
As for the folks in Porter Ranch, Altoona, and the countless other areas in the country affected by heavy metal poisoning, my advice is to also follow my system of PompaCore Cellular Detox™ as noted above and outlined here. Short fasts and intermittent fasting will further enable your body to gobble up any lingering toxin debris. These fasts can be extremely healing to the body in addition to PompaCore Cellular Detox™. It is safe and easy to do, and you can follow my instructions in the article. I would also include CytoDetox™, BIND, MoRS and eNRG cellular products to start the healing process, and I add Vista 1 and 2 containing good fats to increase healing of the cellular membranes.
There is one thing I know: the body is an extraordinary healing machine, and it was designed by God to regain optimal health. There is no hopeless situation when it comes to the regenerative capabilities of our cells. What we need to do is educate ourselves on the step-by-step process that can lead to renewed health. I wish you the best and let us know if we can support your detoxification or community.
The Three-Legged Stool: Autoimmunity occurs when the body’s immune system attacks itself, and despite the rise in autoimmune conditions, there is no single solution to cure the symptoms.
Autoimmunity is the label given to a cluster of unexplained symptoms, including eczema, celiac disease, type 1 and 2 diabetes, Hashimoto’s, leaky gut, lupus, and IBS. Today we explore a concept known as the three-legged stool to tackle autoimmunity from a functional medicine perspective.
The immune system is an extensive network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection. The immune system keeps a record of every foreign invader (called antigens) it has ever attacked so that it can recognize and destroy the microbe faster if it enters the body again 1.
Key players of the immune system include white blood cells, antibodies, the complement system, the lymphatic system, the spleen, the thymus, and the bone marrow. Although these are the parts of the body that actively fight infection, the whole body always plays a role, less directly.
Autoimmune disease is diagnosed when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells. In reality, this “disease” is not a proper diagnosis and is simply the blanket term given to an illness to which the root cause is not understood 2.
Some examples of autoimmune diseases include: 2-3
You may be reading so far and think that “this article is not for me… I don’t have an autoimmune disease.” Still, the reality is that autoimmunity can’t be specifically tested for, and the long list of diseases that fall under the category of autoimmunity are not proper diagnoses.
Suppose you know something is out of whack with your body. In that case, the collection of symptoms you’re experiencing may be autoimmunity, even if they don’t fall under one of the classic labeled types.
Common symptoms of autoimmunity include: 4-5
Autoimmunity is not that helpful of a diagnosis because it is not uncovering a root cause. It is simply the collection of unexplained symptoms that cause the body to attack itself 5. Often, we dismiss such a type of diagnosis by suggesting that it’s a normal reaction to life.
Terms like “mommy brain,” “that time of the month,” or simply “getting old” dismiss the very real symptoms that are diminishing your quality of life. Before ignoring your symptoms merely because they are common, best understand how the three-legged stool analogy may bring you back to thriving.
People are getting sick and not getting well; what is going on? The three-legged stool analogy addresses the “why” behind the explosion of autoimmune diagnoses we have coming out of the West.
Although humans generally want there to be one answer to their question, the reality is that autoimmune illness is complex. Western medicine has primed our brains to seek one pill, one shot, or one operation to ‘fix’ the problem, but as we can see by the booming and unsolved autoimmune diagnosis, this one problem one solution mindset just does not work.
The concept itself is straightforward: for a stool to function, all three legs have to be present. Take one (or more) away, and the chair falls. Like a stool, your body has three main pillars that must be supported for you to experience good health, they are:
Stress comes in three forms: chemical, emotional, and physical. Every drop of stress builds up in the body until the metaphorical bucket begins to overflow 6-8. This overflow s why some people hit a wall out of “nowhere”: your stress bucket has been accumulating for years. So the final event that tipped the scale might not have seemed like anything major, but in fact, it’s the cumulative effect of stress over a lifetime.
Chemical stressors are found everywhere in our modern environments. They include toxins found in 6-10
Physical stressors are also common-place in modern life. They include:
Emotional stressors are perhaps the least acknowledged form of stress because they are perceived stress. Perceived stress from negative emotions has just a real impact on stress hormones in the body. Although all emotions are healthy and normal, emotional stress is when stress becomes chronic and a looping feeling, without any resolution. These emotions include: 11
Dysbiosis in any of the body’s microbiomes (like the gut, oral, and skin) is associated with chronic inflammation in the body 12. The gut is significant when it comes to autoimmunity since it plays such a large role in regulating the immune system 13. Changes in the gut microbiome (too much, too little, or an imbalance of the “good” to “bad” bacteria) can cause immune dysregulation, which can lead to autoimmune disorders 14.
The old paradigm of disease often blamed genetics for our illnesses. Whatever runs in the family was understood to be inevitable when that simply is not the case. The newer branch of epigenetic science understands that although genes are present, they act as a loaded gun. Having a gene that predisposes you to cancer, diabetes, or Alzheimer’s makes it more likely to develop a disease but does not actually pull the trigger 15.
What pulls the trigger is lifestyle choices 15—particularly the two legs of the stool mentioned above: stress and gut/ microbiome. When stress or the gut microbiome is out of balance, this can trigger a genetic trait to turn on.
With all the incredible genetic testing available, we can get very informed about the pre-dispositions that our DNA holds, but it’s important not to let that scare you. The awareness of these pre-dispositions can cause more mental stress than benefit.
Rather than assuming an APOE-e4 gene (for example) will pretty much guarantee you develop Alzheimer’s, or that the BRCA1 or 2 genes will give you breast cancer 16— better to use this information as a reminder—your healthy lifestyle choices are more important than ever.
You can understand autoimmunity as the perfect storm of stressors, as generally all three of these stool legs have been lost by the time you have an autoimmune diagnosis.
By understanding the source of the imbalance, we can then tackle autoimmunity with a multi-therapeutic approach to support or re-build these pillars (legs of the stool) so that you can get your life back. Knowing the cause also gives us the solution.
One of the most common missing links while addressing autoimmune disease healing is the chemical or toxic stressors on the body. Although the concept of detox is well known to most, an appropriate approach is not. Quick fixes, store-bought detox teas, or foot baths fail to safely and effectively target the cellular source of toxins.
The 5R approach to detox targets toxicity all the way upstream to the source: the cell. Cellular detox is not a quick fix, and although many symptoms can and often do alleviate within the first few months, it’s essential to stick with the protocols for much longer to undo years of toxic build-up.
The 5R approach entails:
If you are dealing with chronic issues of autoimmunity, the best way to navigate a 5R healing approach is under the care of a functional medicine practitioner. This is why thousands of doctors across America are trained in this method to support a safe and effective journey out of chronic illness and back to health. You can connect with a practitioner by calling (800) 833-2941.
Alongside the 5R approach to safe and effective detoxification, ancient healing techniques are used to harness the power of hormesis. Hormetic stress generates hormesis, a positive adaptation in the body. This strengthens the bodily systems to be more flexible and resilient against changes in the environment 17.
Some examples of hormetic stressors include:
It’s important to understand that although hormetic stress is “good” stress, it is still stress. If you are dealing with debilitating autoimmune symptoms, hormetic stressors need to be introduced very gently.
Some ways to ease into hormetic stressors:
Autoimmune diseases are on the rise, and diagnoses include various illnesses where the immune system attacks itself. However, the diagnosis itself to autoimmunity does not address the root cause because the diagnosis is based on symptoms. One way to understand, and therefore start to heal from, autoimmunity is the three-legged stool analogy.
Stress, the gut/ microbiome, and DNA form the three legs of the stool, and autoimmunity becomes an issue when one or more (but generally all three) are off. The perfect storm that creates autoimmunity can countered with a multi-therapeutic approach that uses the 5R method for detox and ancestral healing techniques.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is based upon the opinions of Dr. Daniel Pompa. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Pompa and his associates. This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MD for accuracy of the information provided, but Dr. Pompa encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.
1 Jerne, Niels Kaj. “THE IMMUNE SYSTEM.” Scientific American, vol. 229, no. 1, 1973, pp. 52–63., www.jstor.org/stable/24923147. Accessed 29 Apr. 2021.
2 Marrack, P., Kappler, J. & Kotzin, B. Autoimmune disease: why and where it occurs. Nat Med 7, 899–905 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1038/90935
3 “Autoimmune Diseases: What Are They? Who Gets Them?” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/autoimmune-diseases.
4 Zerbe, Leah. “If You Have These Symptoms, You May Have an Autoimmune Disease.” Dr. Axe, 16 Dec. 2019, draxe.com/health/autoimmune-disease-symptoms/.
5 “What Are Common Symptoms of Autoimmune Disease?” Johns Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/what-are-common-symptoms-of-autoimmune-disease.
6 Cox, Paul Alan, et al. “Dietary Exposure to an Environmental Toxin Triggers Neurofibrillary Tangles and Amyloid Deposits in the Brain.” Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, vol. 283, no. 1823, 2016, p. 20152397., doi:10.1098/rspb.2015.2397.
7 Wani, Ab Latif et al. “Lead toxicity: a review.” Interdisciplinary toxicology vol. 8,2 (2015): 55-64. doi:10.1515/intox-2015-0009
8 Mueller, Thomas C., et al. “Shikimate Accumulates in Both Glyphosate-Sensitive and Glyphosate-Resistant Horseweed (Conyza CanadensisL. Cronq.).” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, vol. 51, no. 3, 2003, pp. 680–684., doi:10.1021/jf026006k.
9 Progovitz, Richard F. Black Mold: Your Health and Your Home. Forager Press, 2003.
10 “What Are Parabens, and Why Don’t They Belong in Cosmetics?” Environmental Working Group, www.ewg.org/what-are-parabens.
11 Campbell, Jana, and Ulrike Ehlert. “Acute Psychosocial Stress: Does the Emotional Stress Response Correspond with Physiological Responses?” Psychoneuroendocrinology, vol. 37, no. 8, 2012, pp. 1111–1134., doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.12.010.
12 Dehner C, Fine R, Kriegel MA. The microbiome in systemic autoimmune disease: mechanistic insights from recent studies. Curr Opin Rheumatol. (2019) 31:201–7. doi: 10.1097/BOR.0000000000000574
13 Chung, Hachung, and Dennis Lee Kasper. “Microbiota-stimulated immune mechanisms to maintain gut homeostasis.” Current opinion in immunology vol. 22,4 (2010): 455-60. doi:10.1016/j.coi.2010.06.008
14 Wu, Hsin-Jung, and Eric Wu. “The role of gut microbiota in immune homeostasis and autoimmunity.” Gut microbes vol. 3,1 (2012): 4-14. doi:10.4161/gmic.19320
15 “What Is Epigenetics?” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 Aug. 2020, www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/epigenetics.htm.
16 Scacheri, Cheryl. “Genetic Variation and Disease: GWAS.” Nature News, Nature Publishing Group, www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/genetic-variation-and-disease-gwas-682/.
17 Mattson, Mark P. “Hormesis defined.” Ageing research reviews vol. 7,1 (2008): 1-7. doi:10.1016/j.arr.2007.08.007
Methylation is a process that plays a crucial role in gene regulation and the maintenance of cellular function. It involves adding a methyl group (-CH3) to DNA, which alters the expression of genes without changing their underlying sequence. This process is essential for normal development and plays a critical role in gene expression, genomic stability, and cellular differentiation. However, alterations in DNA methylation patterns have been linked to various diseases.1
The depletion of the methyl groups available for methylation have a number of negative effects on our health. Methylation helps to control inflammation in the body. When there is a lack of methyl groups, this leads to an increase in pro-inflammatory markers and chronic inflammation.2
Methylation also plays a role in regulating our immune system. Chronic stress-induced depletion of methyl groups weaken our immune response, making us more vulnerable to illness and disease.3
Methylation is involved in various biochemical reactions that are necessary for energy production. Methylation is important for proper brain function, including controlling neurotransmitter levels and supporting the growth of new neurons. Chronic stress-induced depletion of methyl groups lead to changes in brain structure and function, contributing to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.4
One important aspect of methylation is its ability to modify toxic hormones such as estrogen metabolites. Estrogen is an essential hormone responsible for regulating female reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics. However, some metabolic byproducts of estrogen are harmful to the body if not properly eliminated.
Methylation helps convert these toxic estrogen metabolites into less toxic forms that can easily be flushed out of the body. This process protects our cells from DNA damage and reduces the risk of developing hormone-related diseases.5
In addition to detoxifying hormones, methylation also aids in the breakdown and elimination of other toxic substances from our body. This includes environmental toxins, heavy metals, and certain medications.6
Methylation is a critical process for detoxifying heavy metals from the body. When heavy metals enter the body, they disrupt normal cellular functions and cause damage to tissues and organs. To counteract their harmful effects, our bodies use methylation to convert these metals into less toxic forms that can be easily eliminated through urine.7
In addition to detoxification, methylation also plays a role in protecting against heavy metal toxicity. Methylation helps regulate the expression of genes that are involved in antioxidant defense and repair mechanisms. This is important because heavy metals cause oxidative stress, which damage cells and lead to chronic diseases.8
However, excessive exposure to heavy metals overwhelms the body's methylation capacity, leading to a buildup of toxic forms of these metals. This results in various health problems, including neurological disorders, kidney damage, and developmental delays in children.9
Read more about R1 – Removing The Source Of Toxicity to avoid heavy metal exposure.
One of the most significant effects of decreased methylation is the activation of “bad” genes. These are genes that should normally be turned off, but due to the lack of methylation, they become active. This leads to the production of abnormal proteins or disruption of important cellular processes.10
Aside from its role in gene regulation, methylation also plays a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability. It helps to protect DNA from damage and prevents errors during DNA replication. When methylation levels are low, there is an increased risk of mutations and genomic instability, which leads to the development of various diseases.11
One gene that has been extensively studied in relation to methylation is the Agouti gene. This gene is linked to body weight by regulating the production of a signaling molecule called Agouti. However, when this gene is overexpressed, it leads to obesity.
Interestingly, scientists have discovered that the expression of this gene is heavily influenced by environmental factors such as exposure to the toxin BPA. Specifically, exposure to BPA during pregnancy results in epigenetic changes to the gene, leading to its overexpression and adverse health effects in offspring.12
This discovery sparked interest in the possibility of reestablishing methylation patterns on the gene to reverse its negative effects. Researchers have conducted various experiments using dietary supplements, such as folic acid and betaine, which are known to be involved in the methylation process. Interestingly, these studies have shown promising results in reducing the expression of the gene and improving the health of offspring.13
Methylation and glutathione are two closely related processes in the human body. Glutathione is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals that we discussed in R3 – Restoring Cellular Energy.
Both methylation and glutathione play important roles in maintaining our overall health. In fact, the two processes are closely intertwined and can have a significant impact on each other. People with methylation issues often have lower levels of glutathione due to impaired methylation pathways.14
One of the key ways that methylation and glutathione are connected is through their role in detoxification. Methylation helps to convert harmful toxins into less harmful substances that can then be eliminated from the body. Glutathione, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in neutralizing and removing toxins from the body. As such, a decrease in either methylation or glutathione levels leads to a buildup of toxins, which have negative effects on our health.15
In addition to their role in detoxification, both processes also play important roles in maintaining proper immune function. Methylation is involved in regulating gene expression and supporting the production of white blood cells, which are vital for fighting off infections and diseases. Glutathione helps to protect immune cells from damage caused by free radicals, allowing them to function effectively.16
Furthermore, both methylation and glutathione have been linked to various health conditions. For example, deficiencies in either process have been associated with autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders. Additionally, research has shown that certain lifestyle factors, such as stress and poor nutrition, impact both methylation and glutathione levels.17
One key player in this process of methylation is the MTHFR gene, which codes for an enzyme involved in converting homocysteine to methionine. Variations in the MTHFR gene have been linked to various health conditions, leading to many people undergoing genetic testing to see if they carry these variations.18
Despite the hype surrounding the MTHFR gene, researchers now believe that it may not be as crucial as previously thought. Studies have shown that while certain variations in the gene can affect enzyme function and lead to elevated homocysteine levels, these variations do not significantly impact overall health.19
Instead, the most critical factor in methylation is not the MTHFR gene itself but rather the availability of key nutrients and cofactors needed for proper enzyme function. These include vitamins B2, B6, and B12, folate, choline, and betaine, among others.20
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet and stress also play a significant role in methylation. A poor diet lacking in essential nutrients or high levels of stress can disrupt the methylation process and lead to health issues.21
Therefore, instead of solely focusing on the MTHFR gene, it is vital to pay attention to overall methylation status and ensure that the body has all the necessary nutrients for proper function. This can be achieved through a balanced and nutritious diet along with stress management techniques.
Read more about my Cellular Healing Diet that plays a core role in the 5Rs.
Recent studies have shown a close connection between methylation and the microbiome. The microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating methylation patterns in our body. This is because the microbiome produces various metabolites that directly or indirectly affect methylation. For example, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by gut bacteria have been found to regulate gene expression through DNA methylation.22
Furthermore, alterations in the microbiome composition have been linked to changes in methylation patterns. Dysbiosis, which is an imbalance in the gut microbiome, has been associated with various health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic disorders, and even mental health disorders. These conditions have also been linked to changes in methylation patterns.23
Studies have also shown that the microbiome affect methylation in other parts of the body besides the gut. For instance, a study found that periodontal bacteria can influence DNA methylation in the oral cavity. This highlights the importance of considering the microbiome when studying methylation patterns.24
Stressors, whether they are physical, chemical, or emotional, have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. The human body is designed to respond to stress through various mechanisms such as the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These responses are part of our innate fight-or-flight response, designed to help us cope with potential threats. However, when stress becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can have detrimental effects on our physical and mental health.
One of the ways that stress impacts our body is through changes in DNA methylation. Studies have found that individuals who are exposed to chronic stress or trauma tend to have lower levels of DNA methylation. This leads to changes in gene expression, and increases the risk for various health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions, and mental health disorders.25
Moreover, research has also linked exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants to changes in DNA methylation. Chemical stressors such as air pollution, pesticides, and heavy metals have been shown to alter DNA methylation patterns, potentially increasing the risk for various health issues.26 27
To support healthy methylation, it is important to maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients such as B vitamins, folate, magnesium, and antioxidants. Regular exercise and stress management techniques also help to promote optimal methylation.
You made it! That completes the 5Rs of achieving ideal health.
For review, read about any of the 5Rs again. R4 – Reducing Cellular Inflammation, R3 – Restoring Cellular Energy, R2 – Regenerating The Cellular Membrane, and R1 – Removing The Source Of Toxins.
Take the next step to achieving true health and save a seat in my upcoming free training seminar.
1 Gouil Q, Keniry A. Latest techniques to study DNA methylation. Essays Biochem. 2019 Dec 20;63(6):639-648. doi: 10.1042/EBC20190027. PMID: 31755932; PMCID: PMC6923321.
2 Bayarsaihan D. Epigenetic mechanisms in inflammation. J Dent Res. 2011 Jan;90(1):9-17. doi: 10.1177/0022034510378683. PMID: 21178119; PMCID: PMC3144097.
3 Calle-Fabregat C, Morante-Palacios O, Ballestar E. Understanding the Relevance of DNA Methylation Changes in Immune Differentiation and Disease. Genes (Basel). 2020 Jan 18;11(1):110. doi: 10.3390/genes11010110. PMID: 31963661; PMCID: PMC7017047.
4 Li M, D'Arcy C, Li X, Zhang T, Joober R, Meng X. What do DNA methylation studies tell us about depression? A systematic review. Transl Psychiatry. 2019 Feb 4;9(1):68. doi: 10.1038/s41398-019-0412-y. PMID: 30718449; PMCID: PMC6362194.
5 Almeida M, Soares M, Fonseca-Moutinho J, Ramalhinho AC, Breitenfeld L. Influence of Estrogenic Metabolic Pathway Genes Polymorphisms on Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Risk. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2021 Jan 27;14(2):94. doi: 10.3390/ph14020094. PMID: 33513690; PMCID: PMC7910923.
6 Waly M, Olteanu H, Banerjee R, Choi SW, Mason JB, Parker BS, Sukumar S, Shim S, Sharma A, Benzecry JM, Power-Charnitsky VA, Deth RC. Activation of methionine synthase by insulin-like growth factor-1 and dopamine: a target for neurodevelopmental toxins and thimerosal. Mol Psychiatry. 2004 Apr;9(4):358-70. doi: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001476. PMID: 14745455.
7 Elkin ER, Higgins C, Aung MT, Bakulski KM. Metals Exposures and DNA Methylation: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Curr Environ Health Rep. 2022 Dec;9(4):673-696. doi: 10.1007/s40572-022-00382-4. Epub 2022 Oct 25. PMID: 36282474; PMCID: PMC10082670.
8 Freydenzon A, Nabais MF, Lin T, Williams KL, Wallace L, Henders AK, Blair IP, Wray NR, Pamphlett R, McRae AF. Association between DNA methylation variability and self-reported exposure to heavy metals. Sci Rep. 2022 Jun 22;12(1):10582. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-13892-w. PMID: 35732753; PMCID: PMC9217962.
9 Vaiserman A, Lushchak O. DNA methylation changes induced by prenatal toxic metal exposure: An overview of epidemiological evidence. Environ Epigenet. 2021 Oct 6;7(1):dvab007. doi: 10.1093/eep/dvab007. PMID: 34631153; PMCID: PMC8493661.
10 Kandi V, Vadakedath S. Effect of DNA Methylation in Various Diseases and the Probable Protective Role of Nutrition: A Mini-Review. Cureus. 2015 Aug 24;7(8):e309. doi: 10.7759/cureus.309. PMID: 26430583; PMCID: PMC4582005.
11 Sriraman A, Debnath TK, Xhemalce B, Miller KM. Making it or breaking it: DNA methylation and genome integrity. Essays Biochem. 2020 Oct 26;64(5):687-703. doi: 10.1042/EBC20200009. PMID: 32808652; PMCID: PMC7606623.
12 Dolinoy DC. The agouti mouse model: an epigenetic biosensor for nutritional and environmental alterations on the fetal epigenome. Nutr Rev. 2008 Aug;66 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):S7-11. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2008.00056.x. PMID: 18673496; PMCID: PMC2822875.
13 Kadayifci FZ, Zheng S, Pan YX. Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Link between Diet and DNA Methylation. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Dec 14;19(12):4055. doi: 10.3390/ijms19124055. PMID: 30558203; PMCID: PMC6320837.
14 Menezo Y, Clement P, Clement A, Elder K. Methylation: An Ineluctable Biochemical and Physiological Process Essential to the Transmission of Life. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Dec 7;21(23):9311. doi: 10.3390/ijms21239311. PMID: 33297303; PMCID: PMC7730869.
15 Gasmi A, Noor S, Piscopo S, Menzel A. Toxic Metal -Mediated Neurodegradation: A Focus on Glutathione and GST Gene Variants. Arch Razi Inst. 2022 Apr 30;77(2):525-536. doi: 10.22092/ARI.2021.356279.1816. PMID: 36284949; PMCID: PMC9548276.
16 Ferreira AV, Koeken VACM, Matzaraki V, Kostidis S, Alarcon-Barrera JC, de Bree LCJ, Moorlag SJCFM, Mourits VP, Novakovic B, Giera MA, Netea MG, Domínguez-Andrés J. Glutathione Metabolism Contributes to the Induction of Trained Immunity. Cells. 2021 Apr 21;10(5):971. doi: 10.3390/cells10050971. PMID: 33919212; PMCID: PMC8143087.
17 Jin Z, Liu Y. DNA methylation in human diseases. Genes Dis. 2018 Jan 31;5(1):1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.gendis.2018.01.002. PMID: 30258928; PMCID: PMC6147084.
18 Leclerc D, Sibani S, Rozen R. Molecular Biology of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) and Overview of Mutations/Polymorphisms. In: Madame Curie Bioscience Database [Internet]. Austin (TX): Landes Bioscience; 2000-2013. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK6561/
19 Dean L. Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Deficiency. 2012 Mar 8 [Updated 2016 Oct 27]. In: Pratt VM, Scott SA, Pirmohamed M, et al., editors. Medical Genetics Summaries [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Center for Biotechnology Information (US); 2012-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK66131/
20 Raghubeer S, Matsha TE. Methylenetetrahydrofolate (MTHFR), the One-Carbon Cycle, and Cardiovascular Risks. Nutrients. 2021 Dec 20;13(12):4562. doi: 10.3390/nu13124562. PMID: 34960114; PMCID: PMC8703276.
21 Barati S, Fabrizio C, Strafella C, Cascella R, Caputo V, Megalizzi D, Peconi C, Mela J, Colantoni L, Caltagirone C, Termine A, Giardina E. Relationship between Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Neurodegenerative Disease: Lessons from ADH1B, CYP1A2 and MTHFR. Genes (Basel). 2022 Aug 22;13(8):1498. doi: 10.3390/genes13081498. PMID: 36011409; PMCID: PMC9408177.
22 Guo W, Zhang Z, Li L, Liang X, Wu Y, Wang X, Ma H, Cheng J, Zhang A, Tang P, Wang CZ, Wan JY, Yao H, Yuan CS. Gut microbiota induces DNA methylation via SCFAs predisposing obesity-prone individuals to diabetes. Pharmacol Res. 2022 Aug;182:106355. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106355. Epub 2022 Jul 14. PMID: 35842183.
23 Srivastava S, Singh A, Sandeep K, Yadav D. Epigenetic Regulation of Gut Microbial Dysbiosis. Indian J Microbiol. 2021 Jun;61(2):125-129. doi: 10.1007/s12088-021-00920-y. Epub 2021 Feb 11. PMID: 33612870; PMCID: PMC7877904.
24 Zhao Z, Wang H, Li X, Hou J, Yang Y, Li H. Comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation for periodontitis. Int J Implant Dent. 2022 May 2;8(1):22. doi: 10.1186/s40729-022-00420-8. PMID: 35491409; PMCID: PMC9058047.
25 Vinkers CH, Kalafateli AL, Rutten BP, Kas MJ, Kaminsky Z, Turner JD, Boks MP. Traumatic stress and human DNA methylation: a critical review. Epigenomics. 2015;7(4):593-608. doi: 10.2217/epi.15.11. PMID: 26111031.
26 Rider CF, Carlsten C. Air pollution and DNA methylation: effects of exposure in humans. Clin Epigenetics. 2019 Sep 3;11(1):131. doi: 10.1186/s13148-019-0713-2. PMID: 31481107; PMCID: PMC6724236.
27 Giambò F, Leone GM, Gattuso G, Rizzo R, Cosentino A, Cinà D, Teodoro M, Costa C, Tsatsakis A, Fenga C, Falzone L. Genetic and Epigenetic Alterations Induced by Pesticide Exposure: Integrated Analysis of Gene Expression, microRNA Expression, and DNA Methylation Datasets. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Aug 17;18(16):8697. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18168697. PMID: 34444445; PMCID: PMC8394939.
Restoring cellular energy is essential for optimal bodily function. Without enough energy, our cells cannot carry out their necessary functions like cellular detoxification. If allowed to build up, toxins disrupt cellular energy production, leading to fatigue, decreased cognitive function, thyroid problems, and other health problems.
Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, and for good reason. These tiny organelles are responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary source of energy for cellular processes. Aside from being involved in energy production, mitochondria also play a crucial role in detoxification and epigenetic expression.1
Glutathione is an essential antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. It is often referred to as the “master antioxidant” due to its ability to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and toxins. It also plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances within the cell.2
Glutathione requires a significant amount of ATP for its production. If we aren’t producing enough ATP, the production of glutathione will also decrease, leading to an imbalance in oxidative stress.3
When there is not enough glutathione to detoxify the cell, toxins and free radicals accumulate and cause damage. This damage leads to inflammation, which triggers the expression of harmful genes. Therefore, maintaining adequate levels of glutathione is crucial for preventing oxidative stress and minimizing the risk of various health conditions.4
Mitochondria have a unique ability to store calcium ions, which are crucial for signaling processes involved in the detoxification of harmful molecules. They also contain enzymes that help break down toxins and other harmful substances.5
In addition to detoxification, mitochondria also have an impact on epigenetic expression. Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence. These changes are influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions and lifestyle choices. Mitochondria contribute to this process by releasing signaling molecules that influences the activity of certain genes.6
One such signaling molecule is hydrogen peroxide, which is produced as a byproduct of ATP production. When released from mitochondria, it acts as a messenger to activate specific proteins involved in epigenetic regulation. Additionally, mitochondria also contain their own DNA, known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which has been shown to play a role in regulating gene expression.7 8
Interestingly, recent research has shown that alterations in mitochondrial function and mtDNA leads to changes in epigenetic patterns, contributing to the development of certain diseases. One of the main consequences of decreased mitochondrial ATP production is the activation of bad genes. These genes are usually turned off in young and healthy individuals but become activated when mitochondria fail to produce enough energy.9
In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to maintain healthy mitochondrial function. This can be achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful environmental factors such as pollution and toxins.
The level of hormones in our blood is often used as an indicator of hormonal balance. However, it is important to note that what truly matters is not the blood levels of hormones, but rather, how they attach to receptors and relay messages into cells.10
The process of hormone-receptor binding is highly specific and each hormone can only bind to its corresponding receptor. This precise interaction ensures that the right message is delivered to the right cell at the right time, avoiding any potential errors or confusion.
The number and sensitivity of receptors also play a crucial role in hormone signaling. If there are not enough receptors or if they are less sensitive, the message may not be relayed effectively, leading to hormonal imbalances.11
Additionally, hormones have different effects depending on the target cell's type and location. For example, thyroid hormones may stimulate metabolism in one tissue, while promoting growth and development in another.12
Furthermore, hormonal signaling is not a one-way process, as it involves communication between the hormone-secreting gland and its target organs or feedback loops to maintain homeostasis.13
When our cellular energy levels are low, it can lead to problems with hormone production and transportation. This means that even if our body is producing adequate amounts of hormones, they may not be able to properly attach to their receptors on cells and carry out their functions effectively.
Studies have shown that chronic inflammation interferes with hormone receptor function. Inflammation in tissues surrounding hormone receptors blocks their ability to bind to hormones, resulting in disrupted signaling and impaired hormone function. This is particularly relevant in conditions such as autoimmune diseases, where chronic inflammation targets specific tissues and causes damage.14
This can result in hormonal imbalances, which can manifest as symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, and many others. If left unmanaged, these imbalances often worsen over time and lead to serious health issues.15
When there is an imbalance or dysfunction in hormones or their receptors, it can result in weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. For instance, studies have shown that individuals with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) tend to have a slower metabolism, leading to weight gain. Similarly, imbalances in estrogen levels leads to increased fat storage, especially around the abdomen.16 17
On the other hand, insulin resistance, a condition where the body is unable to respond properly to insulin, leads to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. This is because insulin plays a vital role in regulating fat metabolism and storing excess glucose as fat.18
In addition, testosterone levels also play a significant role in maintaining an optimal weight. Low levels of testosterone have been linked to an increase in body fat and difficulty in losing weight, particularly in men.19
Many people focus solely on diet and exercise when trying to lose weight, but if the hormones are not functioning properly, these efforts are in vain.
As mentioned previously, insulin plays a significant role in weight loss. When we consistently consume a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars, our body produces more insulin than necessary, which can eventually lead to insulin resistance. This means that the cells become less responsive to insulin's message, and as a result, the body stores more fat.20
Another hormone that impacts weight loss is cortisol. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone and is released by the body in response to stress. When we experience chronic, ongoing stress, our cortisol levels remain elevated, leading to an increase in appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods. It also causes the body to store more fat, particularly in the abdominal area.21
Furthermore, hormones like leptin and ghrelin, known as hunger hormones, play a role in our appetite and food intake. Leptin signals to the brain when we are full and should stop eating, while ghrelin stimulates our appetite. When these hormones are imbalanced, it leads to overeating and weight gain.22
There are steps we can take to improve mitochondrial function and restore cellular energy after we have already removed toxins from our life discussed in R1 and regenerated the cellular membrane discussed in R2.
Mitochondria require a variety of nutrients to function optimally. These include B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, grass-fed meat, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, and seeds ensure that your mitochondria have the necessary resources to produce ATP.23
Read more about my Cellular Healing Diet.
Regular physical activity has been shown to increase mitochondrial biogenesis, which is the creation of new mitochondria in cells. This means more powerhouses in your cells. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming.24
Additionally, perform HIIT exercise for maximal mitochondrial biogenesis. HIIT workouts involve alternating periods of intense exercise with short rest periods, challenging the body to work at high intensity levels and promoting improvements in cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength.25
Chronic stress leads to the production of free radicals, which damage mitochondria and affect their function. Finding ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises, helps protect your mitochondria from oxidative damage.26
Sleep is crucial for cellular energy production and the repair and maintenance of mitochondria. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to allow your cells enough time to rest and recharge.27
After R3 – Restoring Cellular Energy, R2 – Regenerating The Cellular Membrane, and R1 – Removing The Source Of Toxins, it’s time to move onto the next step.
R4 – Reducing Cellular Inflammation
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