Every day we are introduced to toxins through our environment, food, household products, cosmetics and other exposures. Your liver works naturally to remove these toxins from the body. However, your liver can get overwhelmed and have trouble removing toxins, which can make you feel bad and experience some unspecific, but unwelcome, symptoms. A detox is one way to support your hardworking liver and help clear your body of toxins.
HOW TOXINS RAISE INFLAMMATION & STRESS
It is well established that toxins are harmful to human bodies. Toxins stress our nervous system, raise inflammation and cortisol in the body, disrupt hormones, damage or kill cells, contribute to many diseases including cancer, and even cause trouble for unborn children, disrupting the process by which both their nervous systems and immune systems form. In short, toxins cause human bodies a great deal of stress.
As of 2022 there were an estimated 350,000 chemicals used in the world, most of which get into our water supply. According to the CDC, less than 100 of them are regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act - that’s a fifty-fold increase since 1950.
But how do toxins stress the body? How do toxins raise inflammation? And how can inflammation caused by toxins be prevented?
As of 2022 there were an estimated 350,000 chemicals used in the world, most of which get into our water supply. According to the CDC, less than 100 of them are regulated by the Safe Drinking Water Act - that’s a fifty-fold increase since 1950.
But how do toxins stress the body? How do toxins raise inflammation? And how can inflammation caused by toxins be prevented?
HOW TOXINS AFFECT OUR BODIES
Toxins enter the body in many ways: through our food, water and air, but also through personal care products we use and even through clothes.
Keep in mind, inflammation is a natural part of our immune system’s response to toxins, injury and illness. When toxins enter the body, or we’re injured or ill, our body’s immune system responds to eliminate the intruders, and/or heal the area affected. Inflammation is a natural part of this process.
Toxins can directly damage cells and tissue, triggering an inflammatory response from the immune system to both repair the damaged cells and tissue, but also to address any toxins released by dying cells. They can also activate our immune system by binding to specific receptors on immune cells or directly stimulating the production of inflammatory molecules called cytokines.
But if that wasn’t enough, these cytokines then recruit and activate other immune cells, keeping the inflammatory response going.
As this isn’t specific to one part of the body, this can affect our whole body, raising inflammation and contributing to body burden.
Some toxins cause the break down of cell tissue, nerve cells and even our DNA through something called oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress normally occurs when too many free radicals (unstable molecules) have built up in cells and there are not enough antioxidants (substances that protect cells from free radicals) to address them. But in this case the toxins themselves are generating the free radicals. And due to the volume of free radicals created, and the low amount of nutrition in our foods these days, human bodies usually do not have enough antioxidants to address them fully and protect the cells, which then results in inflammation.
There is also something called cell signaling, where cells receive “communications” from other substances such as nutrients or hormones. This is necessary for the proper operation and health of the cell. But toxins can interfere with cell signaling, not only slowing or stopping the cell’s ability to “communicate,” but also leading to the release of inflammatory molecules. This in turn, when carried on daily, can lead to chronic inflammation in the body.
And then, of course, there is the gut. Humans are constantly exposed to bacteria through our food and water, and many of these can be harmful. When our stomach is not acidic enough, as is the case with many people today, causing heartburn, indigestion and GERD, these bacteria are not killed off in our stomach. They then get into our small intestine, where they can take root, and release bio-toxins which harm the cells in the lining of intestines.
Most people today have many or all of the above situations in their body to one degree or another. And to the degree that they do, there may be some levels of inflammation.
Even more, these toxins can build up in the body, accumulating in the cells and intestinal bacteria, and causing trouble over time.
And we know that inflammation raises cortisol levels which can stress not only our mind, but our body through our nervous system, lowering our ability to lose fat and build muscle, keeping us feeling stressed during the day and making sleep much harder. As the amount of chemicals coming in today is so much more than just a few decades ago, it is best to take proper actions to prevent as much of it coming into our bodies as possible.
Keep in mind, inflammation is a natural part of our immune system’s response to toxins, injury and illness. When toxins enter the body, or we’re injured or ill, our body’s immune system responds to eliminate the intruders, and/or heal the area affected. Inflammation is a natural part of this process.
Toxins can directly damage cells and tissue, triggering an inflammatory response from the immune system to both repair the damaged cells and tissue, but also to address any toxins released by dying cells. They can also activate our immune system by binding to specific receptors on immune cells or directly stimulating the production of inflammatory molecules called cytokines.
But if that wasn’t enough, these cytokines then recruit and activate other immune cells, keeping the inflammatory response going.
As this isn’t specific to one part of the body, this can affect our whole body, raising inflammation and contributing to body burden.
Some toxins cause the break down of cell tissue, nerve cells and even our DNA through something called oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress normally occurs when too many free radicals (unstable molecules) have built up in cells and there are not enough antioxidants (substances that protect cells from free radicals) to address them. But in this case the toxins themselves are generating the free radicals. And due to the volume of free radicals created, and the low amount of nutrition in our foods these days, human bodies usually do not have enough antioxidants to address them fully and protect the cells, which then results in inflammation.
There is also something called cell signaling, where cells receive “communications” from other substances such as nutrients or hormones. This is necessary for the proper operation and health of the cell. But toxins can interfere with cell signaling, not only slowing or stopping the cell’s ability to “communicate,” but also leading to the release of inflammatory molecules. This in turn, when carried on daily, can lead to chronic inflammation in the body.
And then, of course, there is the gut. Humans are constantly exposed to bacteria through our food and water, and many of these can be harmful. When our stomach is not acidic enough, as is the case with many people today, causing heartburn, indigestion and GERD, these bacteria are not killed off in our stomach. They then get into our small intestine, where they can take root, and release bio-toxins which harm the cells in the lining of intestines.
Most people today have many or all of the above situations in their body to one degree or another. And to the degree that they do, there may be some levels of inflammation.
Even more, these toxins can build up in the body, accumulating in the cells and intestinal bacteria, and causing trouble over time.
And we know that inflammation raises cortisol levels which can stress not only our mind, but our body through our nervous system, lowering our ability to lose fat and build muscle, keeping us feeling stressed during the day and making sleep much harder. As the amount of chemicals coming in today is so much more than just a few decades ago, it is best to take proper actions to prevent as much of it coming into our bodies as possible.
Liver function: Guardian of Vital Functions
Nestled beneath our ribcage, the liver stands as a silent hero, orchestrating a symphony of functions crucial for our well-being. Among its myriad roles, the liver's prowess in detoxification steals the spotlight. Let's explore the major functions of the liver, particularly its role in detoxification, before venturing into the intricacies of Phase 0-3 detox pathways.
Major Functions:
The liver acts as a frontline defender against toxins, filtering and processing them to maintain our overall health. To comprehend its detoxification prowess, we must explore the intricate journey through Phase 0-3 detox pathways.
Major Functions:
- Metabolism: The liver regulates nutrient metabolism, maintaining glucose levels and converting excess carbohydrates into glycogen for storage.
- Synthesis of Proteins: Crucial proteins like albumin and blood-clotting factors are synthesized in the liver.
- Storage of Vitamins and Minerals: The liver stores essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, K, and B12, as well as minerals such as iron and copper.
- Detoxification: Perhaps its most renowned role, the liver detoxifies harmful substances, ensuring the purification of our internal environment.
- Bile Production: Bile, produced by the liver, aids in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
The liver acts as a frontline defender against toxins, filtering and processing them to maintain our overall health. To comprehend its detoxification prowess, we must explore the intricate journey through Phase 0-3 detox pathways.
Liver Detox pathways
Detoxification is a vital process in the body, ensuring the elimination of harmful substances and maintaining overall health. This intricate journey unfolds in four distinct phases, each playing a crucial role in purifying our system. Join us as we delve into the complexities of Phase 0-3 detoxification pathways, unraveling their major roles and the micronutrients required for optimal functioning.
Phase 0: Initiation of Detox
Major Role: Phase 0 sets the stage for detoxification by introducing foreign compounds to the body, preparing them for further processing in subsequent phases.
Micronutrients Involved:
Micronutrients Involved:
- No specific micronutrients are directly involved in Phase 0.
- General nutritional support is crucial to bolster the body's overall capacity for detoxification.
Phase 1: Activation and Transformation
Major Role: In Phase I, enzymes initiate the chemical transformation of toxins, making them more reactive and water-soluble for easier elimination.
Micronutrients Involved:
Micronutrients Involved:
- B Vitamins: Folate (B9) and B12 are essential for optimal Phase I function. They contribute to the methylation process, a key aspect of toxin transformation.
- Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, along with minerals like selenium, protect cells from oxidative stress generated during Phase I.
- Flavonoids: Found in fruits and vegetables, these compounds support enzyme activity during Phase I.
Phase II: Conjugation and Neutralization
Major Role: Phase II involves the conjugation of transformed toxins with water-soluble substances, rendering them inert and ready for excretion.
Micronutrients Involved:
Micronutrients Involved:
- Amino Acids: Glycine, glutamine, taurine, and cysteine are crucial for the synthesis of conjugating agents.
- Sulfur-Containing Compounds: Compounds like sulfur aid in the conjugation process, facilitated by amino acids like cysteine.
- Antioxidants: Glutathione, a potent antioxidant, is a key player in Phase II detoxification.
Phase III: Elimination
Major Role: In Phase III, the conjugated toxins are transported out of cells for elimination, primarily through bile and urine.
Micronutrients Involved:
Understanding the intricacies of Phase 0-3 detoxification pathways unveils the remarkable mechanisms our body employs to keep us healthy. By ensuring a well-rounded intake of micronutrients through a diverse and nutrient-rich diet, we empower our system to efficiently navigate these phases, promoting optimal detoxification and overall well-being. Remember, a balanced lifestyle and proper nutrition lay the foundation for a harmonious journey through the intricate landscape of detoxification.
Micronutrients Involved:
- While Phase III doesn’t require specific micronutrients, adequate hydration is essential for efficient toxin elimination through urine.
Understanding the intricacies of Phase 0-3 detoxification pathways unveils the remarkable mechanisms our body employs to keep us healthy. By ensuring a well-rounded intake of micronutrients through a diverse and nutrient-rich diet, we empower our system to efficiently navigate these phases, promoting optimal detoxification and overall well-being. Remember, a balanced lifestyle and proper nutrition lay the foundation for a harmonious journey through the intricate landscape of detoxification.
STEPS TO LOWER TOXINS ENTERING OUR BODIES
One of the very first things to do is stop eating processed foods. Many of the ingredients in these foods are hormone disrupters, which can also raise inflammation. Some of these foods even require us to heat them in the microwave with the plastic wrapping still on them. This allows these chemicals to leach from the plastic into the food itself.
Don’t drink from cheap, plastic water bottles. Look for BPA-free plastic water bottles. Get a reverse-osmosis water filter for your kitchen and only drink from that. These are the best water filters when it comes to removing these chemicals from our water, something that no city filtration system comes close to doing.
Do your best to eat only organic foods and meats that are 100% grass-fed, or, if not organic, then at least keep away from the Dirty Dozen and look into the Clean 15, fruits and vegetables where chemicals are very minimal. Look for organic or EWG-approved personal care products that don’t contain harmful toxins. This is a wide area where these chemicals have been given many different names, so keep your eyes open here, looking into each product.
Don’t drink from cheap, plastic water bottles. Look for BPA-free plastic water bottles. Get a reverse-osmosis water filter for your kitchen and only drink from that. These are the best water filters when it comes to removing these chemicals from our water, something that no city filtration system comes close to doing.
Do your best to eat only organic foods and meats that are 100% grass-fed, or, if not organic, then at least keep away from the Dirty Dozen and look into the Clean 15, fruits and vegetables where chemicals are very minimal. Look for organic or EWG-approved personal care products that don’t contain harmful toxins. This is a wide area where these chemicals have been given many different names, so keep your eyes open here, looking into each product.
The importance of Detox Programs
In our modern world, our bodies face an unprecedented onslaught of chemicals and toxins daily. From heavy metals to pesticides and plastics, these toxic elements pose a significant threat to our well-being. Understanding the importance of detoxification becomes paramount in maintaining optimal health. Here's a brief summary as to why regular detoxification is important:
- Daily Exposure to Chemicals: Our daily lives expose us to an array of chemicals, whether through the air we breathe, the food we eat, or the products we use. Accumulation varies based on factors such as genetics, detoxification enzymes, micronutrient sufficiency, microbiome health, weight, exercise, and overall exposure.
- Categories of Toxic Elements:
- Heavy Metals: Mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and aluminum can lead to severe health issues.
- Aflatoxins: Found in molds, these can have detrimental effects on the liver.
- Allergens, Pesticides, Biotoxins: Cause damage and require efficient detoxification.
- Organochlorines: Common in industrial settings, they necessitate proper detox pathways.
- Persistent Organic Pollutants: Often water-insoluble, they require Phase I and Phase II detoxification pathways.
- Volatile Organic Compounds: Found in everyday items like solvents, fumes, and perfumes.
- Plastics: Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S are common and may disrupt hormonal balance.
- The Mechanism of Damage:
- All these categories share a common thread – they have mechanisms that cause damage to our body’s systems.
Available treatments
- Assessment and Lifestyle Changes: Begin with general lifestyle changes and a thorough questionnaire. Embrace a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reduce exposure to toxins.
- Avoidance of Toxins: Focus on fundamental changes such as using water filters and choosing clean household and body care products.
- Optimizing Gut Health: Enhance gut health to reduce endogenous load and eliminate infections.
- Remediation of Nutritional Biochemistry: Ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Pay attention to intrinsic factors like bowel habits and pH balance.
- Extrinsic Detox Support Protocols (Equi.Life): Incorporate a combination of exercise, sauna sessions, hypocaloric diet, intermittent fasting, and specific dietary plans. Use bile-binding supplements like chitosan, activated charcoal, and fiber.
Detoxification is not merely a buzzword but a vital aspect of maintaining health in our toxin-laden environment. By adopting a holistic approach that combines lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and targeted detoxification protocols, individuals can safeguard their well-being and unlock the path to optimal health.
Equi.life - functional Medicine detox program
In a world filled with toxins and stressors, maintaining optimal health can be challenging. This detox protocol emerges as a powerful and comprehensive Functional Medicine detoxification system, offering a holistic approach to eliminating harmful toxins while addressing root causes at a deeper level. Here are some key features of this functional medicine detox program:
- A Multifaceted Solution: This detox protocol is not just about weight loss; it's a holistic wellness solution that tackles issues ranging from weight gain and brain fog to low mood and bloating. Designed to address imbalances, toxicity, or deficiencies that often underlie various health challenges.
- Liver Detoxification Support: Recognizing the liver's crucial role in detoxification, the detox protocol supports both Phase 1 and Phase 2 liver detoxification. Essential nutrients are provided to enhance the liver's ability to filter toxins and maintain overall health.
- Daily Nutritional Support: The heart of this detox protocol, this all-in-one supplement offers 15 grams of vegan protein, vital vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants. Goes beyond a regular protein shake, actively contributing to the detoxification process while replenishing essential nutrients.
- FM Detox: Based on Functional Medicine research, this component provides compounds necessary for both phases of liver detoxification. Essential amino acids, antioxidants, and botanical extracts like milk thistle aid in capturing and eliminating toxins during the detox process.
- AYU Detox: Drawing from Ayurvedic traditions, the AM Detox kickstarts the detox process with diuretics that move water to the liver. Triphala, a powerful trio of plant extracts, promotes gastrointestinal health and supports the growth of beneficial gut microbes.
Results You Can See and Feel:
This functional medicine detox stands as a beacon of health in our toxin-laden world. With its comprehensive approach and emphasis on supporting the liver's natural detoxification processes, it offers a pathway to rejuvenation and lasting wellness. Say goodbye to symptoms and hello to vibrant health.
- Experience transformative results in as little as 7 days.
- This functional medicine detox aims not only to eliminate toxins but also to replenish and restore your body's foundation of vitamins and minerals.
This functional medicine detox stands as a beacon of health in our toxin-laden world. With its comprehensive approach and emphasis on supporting the liver's natural detoxification processes, it offers a pathway to rejuvenation and lasting wellness. Say goodbye to symptoms and hello to vibrant health.
Metal-free & Chemical Cleanse
Here is an incredibly effective product to attract and remove toxins in the human body — at the very deepest levels — and does so completely naturally and without the side-effects. Metal-Free & Chemical Cleanse is a effective formula containing some of the most potent organic herbal detoxifiers there are, as well as a super-charged form of carbon known as Fullerene (created by Buckminster Fuller).
Fullerene is truly unbelievable. This micro-activated, multi-layered, and highly organized carbon molecule is so effective that it’s able to safely enter the cells themselves, attracting harmful toxins to it, and acting as a sponge to absorb and remove them from our body.
And with no known side-effects. It’s also one of the most powerful anti-oxidants there are, over 100 times more powerful than vitamin c, and works to attract and remove free-radicals caused by toxins in our bodies, further strengthening our cells. As amino acids increase Fullerene’s ability to bind to chemicals, Metal-Free & Chemical Cleanse is fortified with essential amino acids.
Fullerene is truly unbelievable. This micro-activated, multi-layered, and highly organized carbon molecule is so effective that it’s able to safely enter the cells themselves, attracting harmful toxins to it, and acting as a sponge to absorb and remove them from our body.
And with no known side-effects. It’s also one of the most powerful anti-oxidants there are, over 100 times more powerful than vitamin c, and works to attract and remove free-radicals caused by toxins in our bodies, further strengthening our cells. As amino acids increase Fullerene’s ability to bind to chemicals, Metal-Free & Chemical Cleanse is fortified with essential amino acids.
What Are Herxheimer Reactions?
Although many people report feeling great at the end of detox or other program designed to eliminate toxins, some may experience what is called Herxheimer reactions. Understanding why you may feel worse before you feel better will help you prepare for your detoxification program and set your expectations so that you see the process through.
Herxheimer reactions are when you feel sick or generally bad as your body removes toxins and/or pathogens, like viruses and bacteria. These reactions were first discovered when treating people for certain infections. As antibiotics kill off the infecting pathogens, the immune system reacts. At this point in the process, people may experience fever, chills, nausea and other symptoms of illness. But the reaction is temporary and usually subsides once the pathogens leave the body.
When you go through a functional medicine detox protocol, you're clearing the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metals or pesticides. In the first phase of the detox, your body's attempts to rid itself of toxins creates noxious molecules, while the second detox step neutralizes those molecules. If the second phase doesn't keep up with the first, you may experience Herxheimer reactions
Herxheimer reactions are when you feel sick or generally bad as your body removes toxins and/or pathogens, like viruses and bacteria. These reactions were first discovered when treating people for certain infections. As antibiotics kill off the infecting pathogens, the immune system reacts. At this point in the process, people may experience fever, chills, nausea and other symptoms of illness. But the reaction is temporary and usually subsides once the pathogens leave the body.
When you go through a functional medicine detox protocol, you're clearing the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metals or pesticides. In the first phase of the detox, your body's attempts to rid itself of toxins creates noxious molecules, while the second detox step neutralizes those molecules. If the second phase doesn't keep up with the first, you may experience Herxheimer reactions
What Symptoms Can I Expect?
If you experience Herxheimer Reactions, you may feel sick. You may get headaches, muscle aches or joint pain. But not everyone has these reactions. You may also have fatigue, low mood or poor sleep as part of the detoxification process. Although unpleasant, these are all signs that your body is working — and that you need this detox.
When you do a detox with limitations on food and intermittent fasting, you're making major changes to your normal eating habits. These changes can cause some side effects on their own. For example, cutting out caffeine can cause headaches, and cutting out sugar can cause grumpiness. Regular detoxes help keep toxins from building up in your body and reduce some of these symptoms.
When you do a detox with limitations on food and intermittent fasting, you're making major changes to your normal eating habits. These changes can cause some side effects on their own. For example, cutting out caffeine can cause headaches, and cutting out sugar can cause grumpiness. Regular detoxes help keep toxins from building up in your body and reduce some of these symptoms.
How to Handle Herxheimer Reactions
Managing symptoms can help you complete the detox and reap the benefits. You may be able to add in a cup of black coffee to avoid headaches, for example. But depending on the reactions, you may need to adjust your protocol to get through it. If you're concerned about your well-being, stop the detox and contact your qualified healthcare provider for advice.
Additionally, consider trying the following:
Detoxing provides a boost to waste and toxin removal that your body needs. If your body is stressed by the process, you may feel it. Not everyone experiences Herxheimer reactions. If you have a reaction, listen to your body, take it easy and make adjustments such as pausing or decreasing the length of your detoxification program as needed. Seek medical advice if you are concerned about your well-being. Most symptoms are mild to moderate and ease up after a few days. Working with a health coach will help you navigate symptoms and get the most from your detox.
Additionally, consider trying the following:
- Resting.Take it easy during the detox to reserve your body's energy for the detox process.
- Sauna. Spend time in a dry sauna or infrared sauna. You'll help your body eliminate toxins directly through the skin via sweat.
- Epsom salt bath. An Epsom salt bath introduces sulfates through your skin that help clear toxins.
- Dry brushing. Using a dry brush removes dead skin, but it also stimulates your lymphatic system, which is one more way to move toxins through and out of your body.
Detoxing provides a boost to waste and toxin removal that your body needs. If your body is stressed by the process, you may feel it. Not everyone experiences Herxheimer reactions. If you have a reaction, listen to your body, take it easy and make adjustments such as pausing or decreasing the length of your detoxification program as needed. Seek medical advice if you are concerned about your well-being. Most symptoms are mild to moderate and ease up after a few days. Working with a health coach will help you navigate symptoms and get the most from your detox.
references
Outside the Safe Operating Space of the Planetary Boundary for Novel Entities
CDC: Drinking Water Standards and Regulations
Chemical pollution: A growing peril and potential catastrophic risk to humanity
Chemical-induced inflammation and inflammatory diseases
Environmental toxins and the impact of other endocrine disrupting chemicals in women's reproductive health
Why Are Children Often Especially Susceptible to the Adverse Effects of Environmental Toxicants?
Schug, T. T., et al. (2011). Endocrine disrupting chemicals and disease susceptibility. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 127(3-5), 204-215.
Medzhitov, R. (2008). Origin and physiological roles of inflammation. Nature, 454(7203), 428-435.
Di Meo, S., et al. (2016). Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle: Role of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 124, 1151-1162.
Takeuchi, O., & Akira, S. (2010). Pattern recognition receptors and inflammation. Cell, 140(6), 805-820.
Lobo, V., et al. (2010). Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(8), 118-126.
Berridge, M. J. (2014). Cell Signalling Biology: Module 1 - Overview. Portland Press Ltd.
Sekirov, I., et al. (2010). Gut microbiota in health and disease. Physiological Reviews, 90(3), 859-904.
Coussens, L. M., & Werb, Z. (2002). Inflammation and cancer. Nature, 420(6917), 860-867.
Chrousos, G. P. (2009). Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 5(7), 374-381.
Landrigan, P. J., et al. (2018). The Lancet Commission on pollution and health. The Lancet, 391(10119), 462-512.
CDC: Drinking Water Standards and Regulations
Chemical pollution: A growing peril and potential catastrophic risk to humanity
Chemical-induced inflammation and inflammatory diseases
Environmental toxins and the impact of other endocrine disrupting chemicals in women's reproductive health
Why Are Children Often Especially Susceptible to the Adverse Effects of Environmental Toxicants?
Schug, T. T., et al. (2011). Endocrine disrupting chemicals and disease susceptibility. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 127(3-5), 204-215.
Medzhitov, R. (2008). Origin and physiological roles of inflammation. Nature, 454(7203), 428-435.
Di Meo, S., et al. (2016). Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in skeletal muscle: Role of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 124, 1151-1162.
Takeuchi, O., & Akira, S. (2010). Pattern recognition receptors and inflammation. Cell, 140(6), 805-820.
Lobo, V., et al. (2010). Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 4(8), 118-126.
Berridge, M. J. (2014). Cell Signalling Biology: Module 1 - Overview. Portland Press Ltd.
Sekirov, I., et al. (2010). Gut microbiota in health and disease. Physiological Reviews, 90(3), 859-904.
Coussens, L. M., & Werb, Z. (2002). Inflammation and cancer. Nature, 420(6917), 860-867.
Chrousos, G. P. (2009). Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 5(7), 374-381.
Landrigan, P. J., et al. (2018). The Lancet Commission on pollution and health. The Lancet, 391(10119), 462-512.