Naturopath Radiation Protection

How to Protect Our Bodies from Radiation:

In regards to Nuclear Reactor Exposure from Japan.

First, we need to understand that there are different types of radiation.  The radiation that is occurring due to the Nuclear Reactors in Japan acts differently than other forms of radiation, such as having an x-ray.  The radiation that occurs from Nuclear Reactors is the only form of radiation that can make other materials radioactive.  On the other hand, when we receive an x-ray, it is only the radiation that we are exposed to, at that time, that is a concern, we are not concerned that when we leave the clinic, we are exposing others to radiation.  Although this radiation can cause tissue damage and can place us at a higher risk for diseases like cancer, out body is only exposed briefly with time to repair itself before another exposure.

Unfortunately, the Nuclear Reactor particles have such a high energy they are able to activate materials to become radioactive.  These radioactive materials can then emit a variety of different forms of damaging radiation.  This is why some countries have stopped receiving goods from Japan.  For example, a box of cereal could potentially cause free radical damage to us.

Why is radiation an issue and what is free radical damage?

The biggest problem with radiation is that is causes ionization.  In other words, it takes previously stable atoms and molecules in the body, energizes them in a differently way, leading to molecular and protein structural changes and breakdown.  When this occurs, biochemical processes can malfunction and cells can die, leading to tissue damage and organ failure over time.  This is referred to as free radical damage.  When free radical damage occurs within the DNA of a cell, it may alter that cell in such a way that leads to either it’s death, or it may also divide and grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer.

With the above being said, free radicles can do good and harm.  In case of fighting an infection or a disease process, we want free radical damage to occur, but that damage has to be controlled and should only be under certain circumstances.

How can you help stop the damage from free radicals?

One major way to stop the damage from free radicals is by incorporating substances into our diet that can “absorb” that free and erratic energy.  These substances are called Antioxidants.  Antioxidants can stop the cascade of events from snowballing early on and prevent any major damage from occurring.

Vitamin E:

Vitamin E protects cell membranes especially in the lungs and red blood cells.  It protects the fatty acids of the cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by various environmental toxins.  It aids in the prevention of lipofuscin, and oxidized fat that has been implicated in the aging process.  If insufficient in Vitamin E, various toxins can be formed, leading to chromosomal damage and the formation of polyps and cancer.  Other benefits of vitamin E include anti-inflammatory effects, cardiovascular protection, and muscle and nerve cell protection.

Many people are not aware that vitamins and minerals are sold in many different forms.  Some forms our bodies are not able to digest and use, while others are more bio-available.  Make sure you contact your physician regarding the best forms of vitamins and the best products.  unfortunately, there are many poor products on the market that could be leading to more health complaints then benefit to your body.

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C has been used for preventing cancer as well as for treatment.  Recent studies have found that supplementation with vitamin C has a multitude of positive effects including reducing male infertility, reducing healing time in viral illness, and reducing cholesterol.  Due to it’s antioxidant capabilities, it is a major factor in enhancing detoxification, specifically aiding in reversing the effects of radiation.  By taking vitamin C, either orally or intravenously, we are actively aiding in the repair of the damage done by free radicals.

As mentioned above, getting the correct amount of vitamin C in the correct form is important to experiencing any real health benefits.

Glutathione:

Glutathione is synthesized in the liver and is the key element in the proper metabolism of toxins and prevention of oxidative damage.  Due to the toxic world we live in, our glutathione stores are becoming depleted.  They are forced to be over-used, and may people are deficient.  Unfortunately, glutathione is not bio-available if taken orally.  The best route to replenish stores, is intravenously.  Ask Dr. Du Moulin about the benefits she has seen with IV glutathione and chronic disease.

NutraMetrix Isotonix OPC-3:

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