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Dr. Daniel Pompa

Hidden Toxins Impacting our Health: Copper, Iron, and Parasites

Hidden Toxins: Whether you’re healthy or not: this article will give you actionable tools you can start implementing today to transform your life. We touch on copper, iron, and parasites: three things that are a part of human life but need to be kept in check if you want to thrive. You are not going to want to miss this one!

hidden-toxins

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This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MDDr. Charles Penick

Hidden Toxins: Copper Toxicity

You’ve probably heard of mercury or lead toxicity, but what about copper? Indeed, copper toxicity is real and maybe a missing link in the holistic picture of your overall health. When you have dysregulated hormones, copper is something you have to explore. Copper is related to estrogen in the same way zinc is related to progesterone.

Not all copper is bad; in fact, it is an essential trace mineral necessary for your survival. Copper is found in every tissue in your body, and it plays a role in making red blood cells and maintaining nerve cells and the immune system. It also helps the body form collagen and absorb iron and plays a role in energy production 2. Sources of organic copper include avocados, nuts, seeds, tea, and cacao.

As such, copper is a double-edged sword. Bioavailable copper helps the body, while synthetic or inorganic copper can build up and become harmful to the body 3. One of the reasons why copper toxicity is common is the fact that two-thirds of household pipes are made of inorganic copper. As water traverses the pipes, it picks up this toxic copper, which starts to accumulate in your body. Two other common sources of poisonous copper are dental fillings (compounded by other toxins like mercury) and the copper IUD.

The result of too much copper is bioaccumulation in the brain, which leads to all kinds of neurotransmitter issues and diseases 4. One common concern is neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, ALS, and Parkinson’s.

Despite the severity of copper toxicity, the solution is quite simple. Preventative measures can be made by mitigating any copper exposure that is not food-based. This includes avoiding any copper in your vitamins (which is generally synthetic), as well as getting a proper water filter for your home (like a reverse osmosis filter). Two other important ways to reduce copper exposure are getting any copper mercury fillings removed and a copper IUD.

Copper is also antagonistic to many other nutrients, including zinc, manganese, vitamin C, lithium orotate, and Resveratrol. So consuming these nutrients in abundance will help excrete excess copper from the body 5-6.

To test your copper levels, either a tissue (hair) mineral analysis or an Oligo Scan Test. The problem with hair analysis is that many people have heavy metal toxicity stored away, so it doesn’t appear in the test. Challenging the copper out of the body can place a heavy burden on the liver. Oligo Scans are non-invasive but reliable for copper levels.

Hidden Toxins: Iron Toxicity

Iron is a mineral that the body needs for growth and development. In addition, your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs throughout the body, as well as myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles. Your body also needs iron to make some hormones 7.

Like copper, iron is a double-edged sword. Although we need it to survive, too much can be detrimental to your wellbeing.

Higher than normal iron levels are associated with various conditions, including: 8

  • Hemochromatosis
  • Porphyria — A group of disorders caused by an enzyme deficiency that affects your nervous system and skin
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or another chronic inflammatory disorder
  • Liver disease
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Leukemia
  • Hodgkin's lymphoma
  • Alcohol abuse

As a high catalyst for oxidative stress, high iron levels are also extremely aging. So are you interested in keeping your youthful glow? Avoid stockpiling iron in your blood!

The best way to reduce iron levels is by donating blood. This happens naturally for women who menstruate, but if you are a man or a woman over 40, you can donate blood to keep your iron from accumulating toxic levels.

Some foods inhibit iron absorption, including tea and red wine 9. If you are prone to high iron levels or eat a lot of red meat, consider combining your meal with tea or wine to help prevent absorbing too much iron. Avoid all iron supplements, as well as cooking with cast-iron cookware.

Another great way to tank your iron levels if they are too high is simply to water fast! 10

You can test iron levels by taking a Ferritin test, which tests for bound iron levels. If it’s above 100 mg/ ML, your levels are too high. Note that what is considered “normal” levels for many (which can be upwards of 300 mg/ML) is simply terrible advice 8. Baseline measurements for “average” or “normal” are not what you want to aim for in a generally sick population. Blue zone populations of the world who have the longest lifespan hover at ferritin levels between 50 and 70 11. So if your levels are higher than 100, you may consider donating blood!

Hidden Toxins: Parasites

Although many people associate parasite exposure to third-world countries, the reality is parasitic infections are widespread in America. Millions of Americans develop parasitic infections, and the symptoms often go unnoticed or are misdiagnosed. The most common way to pick up parasites is through food and water. A parasitic infection can lead to serious health problems, including seizures, blindness, pregnancy complications, heart failure, and death 12.

The most common parasitic infections in the USA are: 13

  • Chagas disease
  • Cyclosporiasis
  • Cysticercosis
  • Toxocariasis
  • Toxoplasmosis
  • Trichomoniasis

Like iron and copper, parasites are a part of life. The human microbiome is full of bacteria, and we are exposed to parasites constantly. Keeping a balance between the good and the bad is critical, so a parasite cleanse can be performed once or twice a year to keep things in balance. Some individuals are achieving great results by using animal parasitic products like Panacur C as well as Ivermectin.

Hidden Toxins: Summary

Three common sources of health problems that aren’t often discussed are parasites and iron and copper toxicity. These are three pieces of the health puzzle that all humans should explore if they are interested in living a long and healthy life. All three of these “problems” are also a part of life, and balance is vital.

 

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.

 

References

1 Mehta, S W, and R Eikum. “Effect of estrogen on serum and tissue levels of copper and zinc.” Advances in experimental medicine and biology vol. 258 (1989): 155-62. doi:10.1007/978-1-4613-0537-8_13

2 “Office of Dietary Supplements – Copper.” NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Copper-HealthProfessional/.

3 Keenan, Joanne et al. “Acute exposure to organic and inorganic sources of copper: Differential response in intestinal cell lines.” Food science & nutrition vol. 6,8 2499-2514. 20 Oct. 2018, doi:10.1002/fsn3.857

4 Desai, Vishal, and Stephen G Kaler. “Role of Copper in Human Neurological Disorders.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 88, no. 3, 2008, doi:10.1093/ajcn/88.3.855s.

5 Salehi, Bahare et al. “Resveratrol: A Double-Edged Sword in Health Benefits.” Biomedicines vol. 6,3 91. 9 Sep. 2018, doi:10.3390/biomedicines6030091

6 Mills, C F. “Metabolic interactions of copper with other trace elements.” Ciba Foundation symposium vol. 79 (1980): 49-69. doi:10.1002/9780470720622.ch4

7 “Office of Dietary Supplements – Iron.” NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-Consumer/.

8 “Ferritin Test.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 28 Nov. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ferritin-test/about/pac-20384928.

9 Hallberg, L, and L Rossander. “Effect of different drinks on the absorption of non-heme iron from composite meals.” Human nutrition. Applied nutrition vol. 36,2 (1982): 116-23.

10 Wojciak, Rafal W. “Effect of short-term food restriction on iron metabolism, relative well-being and depression symptoms in healthy women.” Eating and weight disorders : EWD vol. 19,3 (2014): 321-7. doi:10.1007/s40519-013-0091-2

11 Buettner, Dan. The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest. National Geographic, 2012.

12 “CDC Warns of Common Parasites Plaguing Millions in the U.S.” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 8 May 2014, www.cbsnews.com/news/parasites-causing-infections-in-the-us-cdc-says/.

13 “CDC – Parasites – Neglected Parasitic Infections (NPIs) in the United States.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20 Nov. 2020, www.cdc.gov/parasites/npi/index.html.

DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils

Natural-Hand-Sanitizer


This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MDDr. Charles Penick

Having hand sanitizer at the ready has become increasingly important. Learn how to make your own with a few ingredients & essential oils. Read more!

DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils

Due to the fear of getting sick, hand sanitizer use has gone up dramatically. While washing with soap and water is still the most effective way to wash and clean our hands, a sink isn’t always available. But most hand sanitizers contain known toxins that can disrupt hormones, impact immune health, and contribute to inflammation in the body. A better option is to create your own hand sanitizer with a simple, easy-to-use recipe containing healthier ingredients than commercial brands.

What Essential Oils Are Best For Hand SanitizersWhat Alcohol Should You Use For Hand Sanitizers | DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils Recipe

What Essential Oils Are Best For Hand Sanitizers

There are over 90 essential oils available, used in a variety of ways. Common uses include aromatherapy, added to foods, put in cleaning products in the home, insect repellants, and general health. In this article, we will go over the top 5 essential oils for hand sanitizers.

Essential Oil #1: Tea Tree Oil.

Tea tree oil has strong anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. It kills E. coli, S. pneumonia, H. influenza, and other viruses and bacteria. [1] It has also been used as an insect repellant, soothes inflamed skin, and as can treat nail fungus. Order your tea tree essential oil HERE.

Essential Oil # 2: Rosemary. 

Rosemary can increase brain function in studies and increase alertness and reduce stress levels. [2] It also works great as an insect repellent. Rosemary is known most for its aromatherapy benefits but can be mixed with other essential oils with antibacterial and microbial benefits, such as lavender and lemongrass. Order rosemary essential oil HERE.

Essential Oil #3: Geranium. 

Essential geranium oil

Geranium essential oil found in various skin care regimens, including helping to prevent bacterial growth, reduce wrinkles, wound healing, and treating acne. Geranium is a popular hand sanitizer, with studies showing antibacterial and antifungal effects against over two dozen bacteria. [3] Order geranium essential oil from AmazonHERE.

Essential Oil #4: Lemongrass.

Studies on lemongrass have shown it to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. [4] It is also a natural insect repellent used to keep flies, mosquitos, fleas, ticks, and fruit flies at bay. Order your lemongrass essential oil HERE.

Essential Oil #5: Lavender.

Lavender is an antimicrobial, stopping the growth of microorganisms or eradicating them. Its’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties treat various skin conditions and reverse signs of aging. Inhaling lavender may also help decrease stress levels, improve mood, and treat migraines. [5] Order lavender essential oil HERE.

What Alcohol Should You Use For Hand Sanitizers

Disinfectants can be added to essential oils to create an effective hand sanitizer. Here are the most popular disinfectants:

  • Witch Hazel
  • Isopropyl Alcohol
  • 190-Proof Ethyl Alcohol

Witch Hazel is the preferred base for essential oils, but according to Covid-19 and CDC guidelines, Isopropyl Alcohol is the most effective base.

DIY Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils Recipe

Ingredients

The following ingredients can be used to create hand sanitizer:

  • Small Bottle
  • 3 Tablespoons Witch Hazel (or other Alcohol)
  • 1 Tablespoon of Aloe Vera Gel
  • 3 Drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
  • 3 Drops Rosemary Essential Oil
  • 3 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil

Instructions

  1.  In a clean bowl with a clean spoon, mix the isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel until well combined.
  2.  Add in the essential oils
  3. Transfer the sanitizer to a small, clean bottle.
  4. Shake well before each use (there may be some clumping due to the consistency of the aloe vera gel) and spray or pump into your hands.
  5. Rub the formula onto your hands and let them completely air-dry.
  6. Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

 

DIY Hand Sanitizer

DIY Hand Sanitizer using essential oils
Total Time15 minutes
Keyword: Hand Sanitizer
Yield: 1 bottle
Cost: $$

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Small Funnel

Materials

  • 1 Small Bottle
  • 3 tbsp Witch Hazel (or other Alcohol)
  • 1 tbsp Aloe Vera Gel
  • 3 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
  • 3 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
  • 3 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil

Instructions

  • In a clean bowl with a clean spoon, mix the isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel until well combined.
  • Add in the essential oils
  • Transfer the sanitizer to a small, clean bottle
  • Shake well before each use (there may be some clumping due to the consistency of the aloe vera gel) and spray or pump into your hands.
  • Rub the formula onto your hands and let them completely air-dry.
  • Follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

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.

References:

[1] C. F. Carson, K. A. Hammer, T. V. Riley. Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil: a Review of Antimicrobial and Other Medicinal Properties. 2006 Jan; 19(1): 50–62. doi: 10.1128/CMR.19.1.50-62.2006. [PMID: 16418522].https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/

[2] Ruth McCaffrey, Debra J Thomas, Ann Orth Kinzelman. The Effects Of Lavender And Rosemary Essential Oils On Test-Taking Anxiety Among Graduate Nursing Students. Mar-Apr 2009;23(2):88-93. doi: 10.1097/HNP.0b013e3181a110aa. [PMID: 19258850].https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19258850/

[3] S Pattnaik, V R Subramanyam, C Kole.Antibacterial And Antifungal Activity Of Ten Essential Oils In Vitro.  1996;86(349):237-46. [PMID: 8893526].https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8893526/

[4] Gagan Shah, Richa Shri,1 Vivek Panchal (et al). Scientific Basis For The Therapeutic Use Of Cymbopogon Citratus, Stapf (Lemon Grass).  2011 Jan-Mar; 2(1): 3–8. doi: 10.4103/2231-4040.79796. PMCID: PMC3217679. [PMID: 22171285].https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3217679/

[5] Payam Sasannejad 1, Morteza Saeedi, Ali Shoeibi, Ali Gorji (et al). Lavender Essential Oil In The Treatment Of Migraine Headache: A Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.2012;67(5):288-91. doi: 10.1159/000335249. Epub 2012 Apr 17. PMID: 22517298. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22517298/

The Benefits of Fruit-Infused Water & Recipes

The importance of staying hydrated cannot be understated, but did you know you can maximize the benefits by infusing your water with fruits? Today we will explore the ways in which fruit-infused water can help supercharge your water, and get properly hydrated. I have included some of my favorite recipes for you to try at home!

fruit-infused-water


This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MDDr. Charles Penick

Does Fruit Infused Water Help?

Nutritionally, fruit infusions do not add that many vitamins and minerals. Drinking fruit infusions cannot replace the consumption of a nutrient-dense, vitamin-rich diet, but what it can do is help you drink more water throughout the day. By making your water flavored, it is more appealing to drink, and thus you will naturally drink more water throughout the day!

Benefits of Drinking Water

But why is water so vitally important? The body transports most of our nutrients in the blood and the blood is made up of 82% water; our muscles are composed of 75% water; our brain 76% water; our lungs 90%; and our bones contain 25% water!

The body requires water to function optimally, and the benefits include:

  • Increased Brain Power and Energy
  • Healthy Weight Management and Weight Loss
  • Flushing Out Toxins
  • Improves Your Complexion
  • Maintains Regularity of Bowls
  • Boosts Immune System
  • Prevents Headaches
  • Prevents Cramps and Sprains

Fruit Infused Water Recipes

 

Citrus Delight

citrus-water

This citrus fruit-infused water is a refreshing and energizing recipe, perfect for a hot summer's day, or a morning wake-up. Citrus (especially lemons!) wake up the digestive system and stimulate our digestive enzymes, which makes this infusion a great way to start your day.

  • Fill a pitcher with 8 cups of purified water
  • Cut citrus fruits thinly:
    • 2 organic Meyer lemons (use regular organic lemons if you can’t find Meyer)
    • 2 organic limes
    • 1 medium-size organic orange
    • 3 pieces of raw organic fresh ginger (great for digestion and gives the water a “kick”)
  • For maximum taste, let the water marinate for a few hours before drinking

Melon & Mint 

melon-water

 

 

This combo is reminiscent of a mojito, and in fact, we like to add a splash of bubbly water to make epic mocktails. Melon and mint water should sit for 6-8 hours before the flavors are totally infused, so place in the refrigerator overnight. If you want to make a mocktail, reduce the amount of water used in the fruit-infused water, and then add a splash of bubbly water to the mixture!

  • Fill a pitcher with 8 glasses of purified water
  • Use your melon baller to add:
    • 6-8 balls of organic cantaloupe
    • 6-8 balls of organic honeydew melon
    • 2 slices of organic Meyer lemon (use regular organic lemons if you can’t find Meyer)
    • A small handful of fresh, organic mint leaves

Fancy Schmancy Ice Cubes

fruit-icecubes

These fancy ice cubes make the perfect addition to any party, and are also a fun way to excite kids about hydration! The fruit stays suspended in the frozen water, and the lemon flavor (that makes up the cube) will melt into the water. These fruit-infused cubes are a great way to make fruit-infused water when you’re in a rush (just pop a cube in your glass, and you’re done!).

  • Into each cube of your ice tray, fill and freeze overnight:
  • Add purified water and place a single mint leaf and a small piece of pineapple in each cube
  • Place lemon water in each cube
  • Add a single strawberry and piece of lemon rind
  • Note: These fancy ice cubes can spice up any water glass of still or sparkling water.

Watermelon & Lime

fruit-infused-water

Watermelon is sweet, so it’s also a favorite amongst the kids, but the lime offers a perfect balance of sour to make this fruit-infused water an all-age party favorite in our home. This recipe is also a great post-workout infusion if you’ve done endurance work, replenish your glycogen stores and minerals.

  • Fill a pitcher with 8 glasses of purified water
  • Add the juice of 1 organic lime
  • Place water in the refrigerator overnight
  • In the morning, add 2 ½ cups of chopped, seedless watermelon slices
  • There is nothing more refreshing than watermelon! Let the juice of the watermelon infuse into the water concoction for at least 2 hours before drinking.

Peppermint Sparkles

mint-water

Rumors have it that drinking carbonated beverages leach calcium from your bones and damage tooth enamel. Carbonated beverages usually contain all kinds of toxic and/or unwanted ingredients, however plain sparkling mineral water with natural ingredients added is okay! This recipe harnesses the power of bubbly water to make one of my favorite fruit-infused water combinations. Cucumber is super hydrating, full of minerals, and peppermint is a great digestive aid. A perfect drink after a meal!

  • Add to a tall glass of sparkling mineral water:
    • 2-3 organic cucumber slices
    • 2 sprigs of organic mint (twist the mint leaves gently to release the essence of mint)
    • Optional: add 1 drop of your favorite Peppermint extract

Berrylicious

berry-water

Berries are so delicious but low in sugar- so this fruit-infused water is the perfect recipe to start your day hydrated, and keep blood sugar balanced. Let this concoction sit overnight in the refrigerator and it will be ready in the morning!

  • Add 6 glasses of purified water to a pitcher
  • Add the following sliced berries:
    • 6-8 organic strawberries
    • 8 organic raspberries

Summary

Fruit-infused water is a great way to excite your taste buds and add a micronutrient boost to your day. These recipes are simple and refreshing, and most importantly they will inspire you to keep you drinking water all day long! Learn more about Dr. Pompa’s recommendations for whole-body health.

 

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.

The Three-Legged Stool: The Autoimmune Answer

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.

three-legged-stool


This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MDDr. Charles Penick

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 Three-Legged Stool: What is the Immune System?

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.

What is Autoimmune Disease?

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

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Celiac disease
  • Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Guillain-Barre syndrome
  • Psoriasis
  • Grave’s disease
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

The Three-Legged Stool: Common Autoimmune Symptoms

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

  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Brain fog
  • Dry mouth
  • Swollen glands
  • Attention-deficit problems
  • Body rashes
  • Acne
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Rosacea
  • Dermatitis
  • Allergies
  • Asthma
  • Frequent colds
  • Underactive or overactive thyroid problems, including Hashimoto’s disease or Graves disease
  • Fatigue or hyperactivity
  • Feeling “wired and tired.”
  • Weight gain or loss
  • A general feeling of unease
  • Muscle pain and weakness
  • Stiffness and pain, including rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia symptoms
  • Exhaustion
  • Digestive tract upset including irritable bowel disease (IBS) or Crohn's disease
  • Abdominal pain
  • Stomach cramping
  • Gas
  • Bloated stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation

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.

The Three-Legged Stool: The Autoimmune Answer

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:

  1. Stressors (Physical, Chemical, and Emotional)
  2. Gut/ Microbiome
  3. DNA

Stressors

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

  • Food (GMOs, pesticides, herbicides, processed foods)
  • Mercury in amalgam fillings
  • Heavy metal toxicity (industrial exposure, air or water pollution, foods, medicines, improperly coated food containers, or lead-based paints)
  • Black mold found in homes, schools, stores, and office buildings
  • Tap water toxins (including chlorine and fluoride)
  • Conventional body care products (including SLS, parabens, and fragrances)

Physical stressors are also common-place in modern life. They include:

  • Too little or too much exercise
  • Stagnancy (sitting or standing in one position all day long)
  • Unaddressed biomechanical imbalances
  • Wearing conventional shoes (too narrow, or with a heel)

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

  • Grief
  • Sadness
  • Anger
  • Frustration
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Gut/ Microbiome

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.

DNA

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.

Getting Your Life Back: A Multi-Therapeutic Approach to Autoimmune Disease

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

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:

  1. Removing the Source
  2. Regenerating the Cell Membrane
  3. Restoring Cellular Energy
  4. Reducing Inflammation
  5. Reestablishing Methylation

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.

Ancient Healing Techniques

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:

  • Dietary adaptation (some ketogenic low carb days, some high carb days, some fasting days)
  • Intermittent fasting (periods of feeding and periods of fasting, within a 24-hour cycle)
  • Feast/ famine cycling (periods of extended fasting)
  • Hot/ cold therapy
  • Exercise (some explosive training days, some slow heavy training days, some recovery days)

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:

  • Dietary adaptation would involve more high carb days, as you slowly become more metabolically flexible, you can introduce more low carb and fasting days.
  • Intermittent fasting could hover around 12 hours of feeding and 12 hours of fasting per day. This fasting can increase slowly with time, as the body can handle it.
  • Longer fasting periods can be introduced once metabolic flexibility is increased through dietary adaptation and intermittent fasting and under the care of a practitioner.
  • Instead of taking an ice bath right off the bat, you can take a quick cold shower at the end of a hot shower. You can even start off by simply doing a cold face plunge in a big bowl with a few ice cubes.
  • Exercise for shorter periods regularly, and increase intensity over time. For someone who is very sick, stick to relaxing forms of movement like gentle walks or yoga, knowing that as the body heals, you will introduce more intense forms of exercise.

Summary

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.

References

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

Healthy Halloween: Six Treat Re-Makes with Healthier Options

Healthy Halloween: Halloween is undoubtedly a highlight for many of our kiddos, but the sugar crash can very quickly turn it into a parent’s nightmare. This guide highlights some alternatives that keep with the Halloween theme but without all the nasty ingredients.

 

Healthy Halloween: Ingredients to Avoid

The list of genuinely spooky ingredients packed in Halloween candy can lead to an array of short term and long term health complications. From spiked blood sugar to inflammation and allergies, Halloween candy is loaded with junky ingredients.

Some of the key ingredients that can turn a treat into a nasty trick include:

  • Soy
  • Gluten
  • Refined sugars and artificial sweeteners
  • Refined dairy, including milk solids, milk fat, skim milk, and lactose
  • Refined oils, including partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, canola oil, sunflower oil
  • Preservatives, including sodium benzoate, polysorbate 60, 65, or 80, sulfites (sulfur dioxide), nitrites, BHT/BHA, and TBHQ
  • ‘Natural’ flavors and artificial flavors (both which are highly unnatural)
  • Artificial colors

The recipes below use various alternatives, including stevia and monk fruit (low glycemic sweeteners), as well as the natural sweetness of fruit! There’s no reason children can’t enjoy Halloween without having to consume highly inflammatory ingredients.

Alternative Recipes for a Healthy Halloween

 

BooNana GhostPops

healthy-halloween

These frozen banana pops are dipped in yogurt and frozen for a spooky, nutritious treat!

Ingredients:

(makes four pops)

  • 2 bananas
  • 1 cup of yogurt (or coconut yogurt)
  • 3 TBS of raw honey (optional)
  • 8 chocolate chips
  • Shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut the bananas into two, stick wooden paddle pop in the cut bottom half, and place in the freezer for 30 minutes on wax or baking paper.
  2. While the bananas chill, mix the yogurt and honey.
  3. Dip the bananas in the yogurt mixture and place back on the sheet and into the freezer for 15 minutes
  4. Dip once more, and this time add the chocolate chip eyes to the ‘ghosts.’
  5. Can be rolled in shredded coconut as well (optional)
  6. Freezer for another 20 minutes and serve!

Pumpkin Spice Nut Butter Balls

healthy-halloween

Energy balls are an excellent way to have easy and nutritious snacks on hand, and this recipe tweaks a few ingredients to make epic pumpkin-spiced balls that the whole family can enjoy! You can skip all the spices and simply add 2 tablespoons of a pre-made pumpkin spice mix if you have it; just make sure to read the ingredients listed as many of these pre-made mixes sneak in sugar!

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup almond flour (any nut flour will do)
  • 4 tablespoons almond nut butter (any nut butter will do)
  • ½ cup coconut flour
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 scoops of collagen powder
  • 2 tablespoons stevia or monk fruit sweetener
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ginger
  • ¼ tsp allspice
  • ⅛ tsp cloves
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon almond milk (any nut milk will do)

Instructions:

  1. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until smooth
  2. Form 1 inch balls, refrigerate 1-2 hours to set

Real Fruit Gummies

healthy-halloween

Gummies usually are filled with refined sugar and artificial colors. Believe it or not, this gelatin-rich recipe is gut healing and supercharged with nutrients. You can up the Halloween ante by buying all sorts of spooky shapes, like worms, bats, or ghosts.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fruit (frozen fruit works great) like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or mango
  • ½ cup of filtered water
  • 2.5 tablespoons grass-fed gelatin powder
  • 15 drops liquid stevia
  • Powdered monk fruit sweetener (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Puree the fruit and water in a high-speed blender
  2. In a saucepan, heat over low heat and stir in the gelatin until it is well combined (no lumps)
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the stevia. Taste the mixture to see if you want to add more stevia (to taste).
  4. Pour the mixture into your molds or into a glass container (you can also cut the jelly into cubes)
  5. Cool completely in the fridge for 3 hours to let the jelly set.
  6. Roll in powdered monk fruit (optional)

Peanut Butter Chocolate Pumpkin Cups

healthy-halloween

Chocolate and peanut butter are a Halloween classic, but the classic kinds given out in orange wrappers are filled with ingredients that spike blood sugar, amongst other issues. This recipe gives the originals a serious run for their money, with all the taste but none of the milk solids, preservatives, or refined sugars.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup organic natural smooth peanut butter (the kind with just peanuts)
  • ¼ cup coconut flour
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or liquid stevia
  • 1 cup dark chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions:

  1. Mix the peanut butter, maple syrup, and coconut flour in a bowl until well combined, and it turns into a dough.
  2. Shape the dough into flat pumpkins and place in the freezer on a baking tray lined with baking paper for 20-30 minutes
  3. While they are child, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a double broiler until melted, and set aside to cool for about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Dip the pumpkins in the chocolate mixture and place it back on the tray.
  5. Freeze 5-10 minutes and repeat dipping the chocolate mixture until they are well coated. This could take 2-3 dips!

Healthy Halloween No-Sugar Sugar Cookies

Healthy-halloween

Sugar cookies are a Halloween classic, but this recipe skips the refined sugars in favor of glycemic-friendly monk fruit sweetener. The kids will never know!

Ingredients:

  • 3 eggs
  • 1.5 cup almond butter
  • ¾ cup almond milk
  • 2.5 cups almond flour
  • 1.5 cups coconut flour
  • ⅖ cup of coconut oil (solid)
  • 2 cups monk fruit sweetener
  • 3 tsp vanilla bean or vanilla extract
  • 1.5 tsp cinnamon powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 3 tsp cream of tartar
  • ¼ tsp sea salt
  • 3 tbsp powdered monk fruit sweetener (to sprinkle on the cookies)
  • Optional: Halloween decorations (like sprinkles and icing) — opt for the kind you can find at natural food stores without nasty ingredients.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the liquid ingredients (eggs, almond butter, almond milk, coconut oil, and vanilla extract) until smooth. You can use a fork or an electric hand blender.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients (almond flour, coconut flour, monk fruit sweetener, cinnamon, baking powder, cream of tartar, salt).
  4. Using your hands, slowly mix in the liquid into the dry mixture, mixing as you go to form a dough.
  5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes
  6. While you wait, mix the topping monk fruit and cinnamon, and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. On the baking sheet, roll out the dough using a rolling pin, and using a Halloween-shaped cookie cutter, cut shapes and place onto a baking tray. Alternatively, you can simply roll cookies into 1 inch balls and press down with your hand to form round cookies.
  8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes and let cool for a few minutes before serving!

Healthy Halloween Candy Apples

This old school Halloween classic is one of the easiest healthy-swaps that skips over the refined sugars in favor of a sticky caramel made with dates and coconut.

Ingredients:

  • 3 small/ medium organic apples
  • 3 sticks to hold the candy apples
  • 16 pitted Medjool dates
  • ¾ cup of coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon of sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or extract)
  • Optional: 1 cup of crushed almonds to roll the candy apples in)

Instructions:

  1. Place all the ingredients in a food processor and blend on high until the mixture is smooth.
  2. Puncture the apples through the base of the apple halfway into the core.
  3. Dip the apples into the caramel sauce until it’s fully covered and place them on a tray with baking paper.
  4. Refrigerate the apples for 15 minutes at a time to cool the caramel and dip again until they’re well coated.
  5. Roll the apples in the crushed almonds, and store in the fridge until ready to eat!

Hairy Spiders (Cacao Bliss Balls)

Rolling cacao bliss balls in coconut and making spider legs using all-natural licorice is an easy way to turn a nutritious snack into a spooky Halloween treat!

Ingredients:

  • 15 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1 cup almond meal
  • ½ cup shredded coconut + ½ a cup to roll the balls in
  • ⅓ cup organic coconut oil or cacao butter (melted)
  • ⅓ cup cacao powder (or carob powder)
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • 4 or so strands of all-natural black licorice
  • Optional: chocolate chips for eyes

Instructions:

  1. Place all the ingredients (except for the coconut to roll in) in a food processor and blend until dough forms. The pitted Medjool dates can be used straight up if they are soft, but if they are firm, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes first.
  2. Roll the dough into 1 inch balls
  3. Cut the licorice into small (about 1 inch) pieces, and stick them into the balls to give each ball 8 legs (4 on each side).

 

Hope you enjoy these spooky treats with a healthy twist. Wishing everyone a healthy and safe Halloween!

Five-Day Water Fast: What Can You Expect Each Day?

Five-Day Water Fast: Fasting is an extremely powerful healing modality that we continue to delve deeper into as the science keeps on supporting its benefits. Today we explore the general things most people experience and what is happening inside the body day by day for a five-day water fast.

five-day-water-fast

Five-Day Water Fast: Nature’s Therapeutic Mechanism

Oftentimes the most powerful thing a doctor can do to help heal you is nothing. Fasting is indeed an ancient healing modality linked to every religion and culture across the globe. Animals do it when they’re sick for the same reasons humans should: the body has an innate healing intelligence. The benefits we discuss below generally require a five-day water fast or a five-day fasting-mimicking diet. Although the benefits of shorter fasting, or intermittent fasting, are still good, the body transitions into fat-adaptation usually around day three. So, give it five whole days.

To understand how fasting works, let’s explore the seven bodily effects of fasting.

Five-Day Water Fast: Day One

If you’ve adequately prepared for a 5-day water fast, which you can learn all about in my book Beyond Fasting, then day one generally is relatively easy. Prior to taking on a five day fast, it’s a good idea to get into intermittent fasting, as well as diet variation that will incorporate 24-hour fasts into your weekly eating cycles.

If you haven’t prepared, day one can be rather difficult and loaded with mood swings, short temper, frustration, low energy, and bouts of ‘hanger.’ This is really why it’s important to prepare properly for your fast.

You will typically get hungry around your typical meal times today, mostly out of habit. If you have very set meal times, it may be useful to ensure you are busy or distracted during these times, so that the hunger wave can come and pass with ease.

Sleep on day 1 is typically better than normal since your body is not dividing its energy between digesting and the other functions that happen while you sleep.

Day Two

Day two of the five-day water fast can bring about bouts of ‘hanger’, no matter how much preparation you have done. This is a result of your blood glucose levels dropping and your ketone levels rising. This is the hallmark of a fast: the shift into fat-adaptation, whereby the body is burning fat (ketones) for fuel instead of sugar (glucose).

Since your body is used to using glucose for sugar, and the brain is especially reliant on these sugars for rapid fuel, this second day can bear some brain fog and mild mood swings or energy dips. It is not necessarily going to be all that intense, especially if you’re generally healthy and have prepared for the fast. But out of all the days, day 2 is generally the hardest day as your body transitions into ketosis.

By the end of day 2, if you can get by, you’ll make it all 5. Emotionally this is the most common day that people quit, so use all your willpower to get to bed at the end of day 2 and trust that you will wake up on the other side of it.

The sleep of night 2 will probably be the most disturbed out of all 5 days since the body is under the stress of low-glucose without having fully transitioned into ketosis. This stress can cause the release of the stress hormone cortisol, that releases glucose into the bloodstream (a fight-or-flight response. Cortisol dump in the middle of the night can wake you up, although you should still fall asleep.

Many people, however, still report a deep sleep anyway. If you can avoid work or commitments for the first few days, leaving a buffer zone in case you do get poor sleep and need more rest during the day time.

Day Three

This is the transition day for most people, where you move from being a sugar burner to being fully fat adapted. For those who aren’t used to burning fat for fuel (if you normally have a low-fat diet or no experience with intermittent fasting) today may come with some hunger waves or slight brain fog, but most people should be feeling pretty good today.

Once your brain does adapt to burning ketones, you should be thinking more clearly than ever because ketones burn to incredibly clean. This clarity is one of the largest benefits of the fast; there is very little waste of this fuel source. Ketones are like burning a gas stovetop, whereas glucose is like burning firewood. Both heat up the stove, but fire creates a lot of smoke and waste, which shows up in the body as inflammation if the pathways aren’t working perfectly well (which often they are not).

These deep benefits of high ketone levels, which include clarity but also immune-boosting, gut healing, and more, require a high dose of ketones that simply isn’t available on a ‘keto diet’. Fasting provides the body with a therapeutic dose of ketones, which is why prolonged water fasts are so healing. Ketones by day 3 should be between 3 and 4 mmol/L, with levels raising up to 6, 7, and even 8 mmol/L towards the end of day 5. A keto diet with intermittent fasting hovers around 1 mmol/L.

By the end of day 3, your body may start to get cold. This is absolutely normal, as your body’s entire energy store is being focused on healing the body instead of the metabolic fire of digestion. Stay warm with extra layers, hot water bottles, sit by the fire or crank up the heat.

Day Four

Day four is the day where most people experience major autophagy. Autophagy is the process whereby your body eats out ‘bad’ cells (senescent cells) first, to use for energy and survival during a fasted state. These cells are inflammatory, sluggish, and essentially old or damaged, which are then replaced by a surge of fresh stem cells once you re-feed post-fast.

The way to test for deep autophagy is with a blood glucose test and look for a ratio of 1:1 with glucose and ketones. So with a glucose reading of 65, you would divide it by 18 to get the European standard, which is 3.6. A ketone measurement may be around 3.6 as well, which would highlight deep autophagy. The lower the glucose and the higher the ketone ratio, the better.

Today you should feel on top of the world, and around day 4 you should feel like you are capable and wanting to fast ‘forever’.

Day Five

By day five, your stem cell rise is peaking, and you should be feeling great. Today when you break the fast it’s absolutely crucial to do so properly since the way you break your fast dramatically influences the results.

When breaking a fast, go slowly by eating very soft, easily digestible foods such as berries, soft avocados, and veggies that are steamed or blended. A little coconut oil or olive oil can be good as well, but consume just a little bit at a time.

Remember: it will take the body time to adjust to eating again. Patience is key.

Ease back into eating by consuming very basic foods instead of big, heavy meals. Your digestive enzymes will be sluggish after the fast. It’s also beneficial to wait a few days before adding meat back into your diet. Your digestive system has just rested for a very long time and needs time to adapt back to processing food again.

Take the opportunity post-fast to really re-examine your relationship with food and your diet. Since your tastebuds will be ‘reset’, this is the perfect time to remove highly palatable processed foods, loaded with refined sugar, fat, and salt, and opt for a more natural whole-food diet.

To get a proper play-by-play on how to break a 5 day fast, and learn more about fasting, you can visit my website.

The Fasting Trio

If you’re doing all the right things and still feel sluggish, foggy, and suffer from unexplained symptoms, you’re not alone. A lifetime of stress, environmental toxins, and processed foods can cause a buildup of toxic waste in your cells called advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. And AGEs lead to accelerated aging and conditions like nerve damage, diabetes, and organ failure.

But it’s never too late to detox your body at a cellular level. Fasting, ketosis, fat loss, and nutrient-dense foods can help release toxins and remove them from your system. But without an effective binding agent, there’s always the risk of re-toxification.

That’s where the Fasting Trio comes in. 

Fastonic is a powerful supplement that reduces oxidative stress and neutralizes free radicals that are released throughout your day. That means more energy and better physical and mental power —even during longer fasts.

TrueCarbonCleanse Gut Detoxifier contains highly activated carbon, humic and fulvic acids, and powerful zeolite crystals to safely bind and eliminate toxins from your system.

And CytoDetox, a fast and effective way to eliminate toxins like heavy metals, pesticides, and biotoxins at a cellular level. Without the risk of RE-toxification.

Whether you’re an expert at fasting, a novice at intermittent fasting, or simply want the benefits of cellular detox, this cutting-edge trio is for you.

Discount already applied! Go here to purchase The Fasting Trio now:

https://revelationhealth.com/products/fasting-trio-cytodetox-fastonic-truecarboncleanse