Are Toxins Draining Your Energy?

By Ashley Curnow, RD, Functional Medicine Nutrition
In today’s world, toxin exposure has quietly become the norm. From the food we eat and the air we breathe to the products we use every day, our bodies are constantly managing a steady stream of chemicals and pollutants. Over time, this invisible load can impact everything from our energy levels to our hormone balance, immune health, and overall resilience.

But the good news? With awareness and simple lifestyle shifts, you can dramatically reduce your toxic burden and support your body’s natural detoxification systems.

We’re All Exposed

No matter how “clean” our habits are, toxins find their way in through multiple avenues:

• Food and Water: Pesticides, additives, and plastics in packaging or storage containers.
• Air and Household Products: Indoor air pollutants, cleaning supplies, and synthetic fragrances.
• Plastics and Cookware: BPA, phthalates, and nonstick coatings that leach into food and beverages.
• Personal Care Products: Lotions, deodorants, shampoos, and cosmetics often contain hormone-disrupting ingredients.
• Workplace and Lifestyle: Chemical exposure from certain professions, or habits like smoking and frequent take-out meals.

These exposures may seem small individually—but together, they add up.

How Toxins Affect Your Health

Chronic toxin exposure has been linked to fatigue, brain fog, hormone imbalances, and even the development or progression of chronic disease. Your liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, and gut all play roles in filtering and eliminating these compounds. When these systems are overloaded, symptoms like sluggishness, inflammation, or poor recovery can appear.

Simple Ways to Reduce Exposure

Start by focusing on what’s within your control:

1. Food & Water

• Choose organic when possible, especially for the “Dirty Dozen” produce list.
• Use a high-quality water filter.
• Limit processed foods and refined sugars.

2. Air & Home

• Open windows and use air purifiers
• Choose fragrance-free, non-toxic cleaning products.
• Avoid aerosol sprays and plug-in air fresheners.

3. Plastics & Cookware

• Store food in glass or stainless steel instead of plastic.
• Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers.
• Switch to cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware.

4. Personal Care

• Read labels—look for paraben- and phthalate-free options.
• Simplify your beauty routine.
• Support skin health through hydration, movement, and dry brushing.

5. Support Detox Pathways

• Eat nutrient-dense foods rich in antioxidants (cruciferous vegetables, berries, herbs).
• Stay hydrated and move daily to promote circulation and lymph flow.
• Prioritize quality sleep and manage stress—your body detoxes best in a rested, calm state.

When to Consider Testing

If you’ve optimized your environment but still struggle with fatigue, mood changes, skin issues, or stubborn weight, targeted lab testing can reveal hidden toxin burdens and guide a personalized detox protocol.

Your Reflection Moment

Take a quick self-check: how many of these exposure categories apply to you? Even small changes in each area can make a big difference in your long-term health.