Chemicals in our Consumables

In our current convenience and consumer-based society, many of the products we’re using on a regular basis contain chemicals that can pose significant health risks - and the majority of us are completely unaware! From personal care items to household cleaners, these substances have been linked to a variety of harmful effects - and despite the potential dangers, these products remain popular and widely included on our shopping list of essential items.

In this blog, we'll explore ten commonly used products found today within North America that contain chemicals known for their harmful side effects - with long-term exposure linked to cancer, liver and kidney damage, and central nervous system damage.

Understanding your own health and the risks associated with using these chemically-infused products is the first step toward making safer choices for yourself and your family - and Bill DeHoog is here to help!

10 commonly used products in North America that contain chemicals known for their harmful side effects:

1. Shampoo and Conditioners:

• Chemical Component: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

• Potential Health Effects: Skin irritation, eye irritation, potential for causing cancer due to contamination with 1,4-dioxane, potential for organ toxicity.

2. Toothpaste:

• Chemical Component: Triclosan

• Potential Health Effects: Endocrine and hormone disruption, bacterial and antibiotic resistance, potential impacts on thyroid hormone levels, and potential impacts on the immune system.

3. Non-stick Cookware (e.g., Teflon):

• Chemical Component: Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)

• Potential Health Effects: Developmental issues, immune system effects, liver damage and kidney disease, reproductive problems, cancer.

4. Plastic Food Containers and Bottles:

• Chemical Component: Bisphenol A (BPA)

• Potential Health Effects: Hormone disruption, increased risk of cancer, reproductive harm, metabolic disease, developmental problems in children.

5. Processed Foods (e.g., Chips, Canned Soup):

• Chemical Component: Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

• Potential Health Effects: Headaches, nausea, chest pain, potential exacerbation of asthma. Potential cancer risk, liver and kidney damage.

6. Household Cleaners:

• Chemical Component: Ammonia and Bleach

• Potential Health Effects: Respiratory issues, skin burns, eye damage, chronic bronchitis. 

7. Sunscreen:

• Chemical Component: Oxybenzone

• Potential Health Effects: Hormone disruption, allergic reactions, potential cellular damage leading to cancer.

8. Air Fresheners:

• Chemical Component: Phthalates

• Potential Health Effects: Endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, developmental problems in children.

9. Cosmetics (e.g., Foundation, Lipstick):

• Chemical Component: Parabens

• Potential Health Effects: Hormone disruption, breast cancer, reproductive toxicity, increased risk of breast cancer.

10. Antiperspirants and Deodorants:

• Chemical Component: Aluminum Compounds

• Potential Health Effects: Breast cancer (though evidence is not conclusive), Alzheimer's disease (though evidence is not conclusive), skin irritation.

Summary of Potential Health Effects:

• Skin and Eye Irritation: Many personal care products, such as shampoos and cosmetics, contain chemicals that can cause irritation to the skin and eyes.

• Hormone Disruption: Chemicals like BPA, phthalates, triclosan, and parabens can interfere with the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and related health issues.

• Cancer: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals like SLS, PFOA, and parabens has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

• Reproductive and Developmental Harm: Chemicals found in plastics, air fresheners, and other household items can impact reproductive health and children's development.

• Respiratory Issues: Household cleaners containing ammonia and bleach can lead to respiratory problems, especially with prolonged exposure.

• Neurological Effects: There is some concern about neurological effects from chemicals like aluminum compounds and MSG, although evidence varies.

Our readers are strongly encouraged to read product and food labels carefully and consider using alternatives products with fewer harmful chemicals to avoid negative physical effects.

A Bill DeHoog Case Study: Judy's Detox Protocol

Background

Judy, a 56-year-old woman, has been experiencing symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, digestive issues, and occasional headaches. After consulting with physical trainer Bill DeHoog, she learns that these symptoms may be due to a buildup of toxins in her body. 

Bill recommends a comprehensive detox protocol to help Judy cleanse her system and improve her overall health, such as the case study and example provided below:

Detox Phase 1: Mobilizing Toxins

Purpose: To move toxins out of fat cells into a liquid form for easier elimination.

Nutrients Needed:

• Magnesium: 400 to 800 mg daily (found in green veggies)

• Zinc: 25 to 30 mg daily

• Vitamin A and C: 75 mg daily (sources: broccoli, red cabbage, sweet peppers, brussels sprouts, leafy greens, kiwi, oranges, mango, peaches, strawberries)

• Vitamin E: (sources: sunflower seeds, almonds, pumpkin, spinach)

• Milk Thistle: Supports liver detox and health

Activation Steps:

1. Diet:

• Incorporate cabbage, broccoli, and brussels sprouts.

• Maintain a high-protein diet (1 gram of quality protein per pound of desired body weight).

• Include a variety of foods to support gut bacteria diversity.

2. Additional Nutrients:

• Take a B-complex vitamin.

3. Helpful Herbs:

• Use caraway and dill seeds in meals.

Expected Benefits: Enhanced mobilization of stored toxins, improved liver function, and support for the body's natural detox pathways.

Detox Phase 2: Transforming Toxins

Purpose: To convert toxins from a liquid state to water-soluble forms for excretion.

Nutrients Needed:

• Sulfation: MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

• Acetylation: NAC (N-Acetylcysteine) supplement

• Methylation: Amino acids cysteine and methionine (found in meats, eggs, fish, cheese)

• Vitamin B12: Found in red meat and fish

Confirmation of Toxin Removal:

• Asparagus Test: Eat 4-6 stalks of asparagus alone. If the urine smells for 6 to 12 hours, it confirms the need for detox support.

Additional Support:

• Tools for Detox and Lymphatic Function:

• Castor oil

• Sauna

• Dry brushing

• Epsom salt baths

• Bentonite clay

• Burdock root

• Activated charcoal

• Gallbladder Support:

• Gallbladder flush

• Kidney Support Supplements:

• Astragalus Root Extract

• ALA (Alpha-Lipoic Acid)

• Coenzyme Q10

• NAC

• Marshmallow Root

Low Estrogen Protocol:

• Metagenics E Complex 1:1: 1 capsule 2 times per day

• DFH Tri Mag Supreme: 1 scoop nightly

• DFH Osteoben: 2 capsules with lunch and dinner (supports bone strength)

• Menosmart: 2 capsules with lunch and dinner (helps with hot flashes)

Note: Judy should pick a couple of these supplements to see how her body responds.

Step 1: Foundational Food Plan

1. Dietary Adjustments:

• Focus on whole foods.

• Reduce/eliminate gluten, added sugar, soy, dairy, and corn.

• Emphasize vegetables (greens and colorful varieties).

• Include 2-3 fruits per day.

• Incorporate healthy fats (nuts, seeds, virgin olive oil).

• Maintain a protein intake of 1 gram per pound of preferred body weight.

• Drink plenty of water.

2. Eating Order:

• Start with veggies, then protein, healthy fats, and carbs last.

• Apple cider vinegar in water before meals for better digestion and reduced blood sugar spikes.

3. Daily Supplements:

• Fish oil (wild or organic): 5-20 grams, split throughout the day.

• Magnesium Bisglycinate: 400 to 800 mg

• Zinc: 15 to 25 mg

• Vitamin D3: 2000-5000 IU every other day

Step 2: Detox Implementation

1. Diet:

• Consume lots of greens and other fruits and vegetables.

• Maintain high protein intake.

• Take a Vitamin B complex supplement.

• Use caraway and dill seeds in cooking.

2. Supplementation:

• Add MSM, NAC, and amino acids (can be added to a protein shake).

• If the asparagus test confirms, take Designs for Health B Supreme (1 cap in the morning).

3. Low Estrogen Protocol (After First Week):

• Metagenics E Complex 1:1: 1 capsule 2 times per day

• DFH Tri Mag Supreme: 1 scoop nightly

• DFH Osteoben: 2 capsules with lunch and dinner

• Lorna Vanderhaeghe Menosmart: 2 capsules with lunch and dinner

Follow-Up

After the first month, review the results and consider a gallbladder flush if needed.

Expected Outcomes

By following Bill DeHoog's detox protocol, Judy can expect:

• Improved energy levels

• Enhanced mental clarity

• Better digestion

• Reduced frequency of headaches

• Overall improved well-being

Note: Judy should monitor her body's response to the protocol and adjust as necessary, under Bill's guidance. Regular check-ins with Bill will help tailor the detox process to her specific needs and ensure optimal health outcomes.

Ready to feel your best and get started with Bill’s Whole Body Fitness? 

Book your free assessment today!