DETOX
When toxins build up over time, they can contribute to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage, which are underlying factors in the development of various chronic diseases. Detoxification plays a crucial role in the prevention of such diseases by minimizing the accumulation of toxins and reducing their potential harmful effects on the body.
We investigate 5 systems involved in toxin elimination:
Nervous System
Possible symptoms:
- chronic fatigue
- sleep problems
- poor stress coping mechanisms
Cardiovascular System
Possible symptoms:
- unexplained heart palpitations
- increased blood pressure even with small external stressors
Hormones
Possible symptoms:
- unexplained weight gain
- accumulation of oxidized forms of estrogen
- menstrual irregularities
Liver and Gut
Possible symptoms:
- fatigue
- pale skin
- brain fog
- headaches
Kidneys
Possible symptoms:
- swelling
- stiffness in the mornings
- decreased energy after consumption of red meat
The DETOX panel investigates genetic predispositions of 2 detoxification phases:
PHASE I
- Hydroxylation renders toxins water – soluble and occurs with the involvement of more than 100 enzymes from the cytochrome P450 group.
- Conjugation combines toxins with another substance, either with other toxins, enzymes, or amino acids.
PHASE II
- Sulphation, which involves the conjugation of toxins with sulphate.
- Conjugation with glutathione. Glutathione is a major antioxidant in our body, and through its conjugation, heavy metals, pesticides, and the most dangerous carcinogens are eliminated from the body.
- Glucuronidation – the most energy – demanding process of detoxification, as it processes a large amount of toxins. It detoxifies drugs, steroid hormones, preservatives, nicotine, and bilirubin. Genetic defects in this phase can lead to Gilbert’s syndrome.
- Acetylation , which neutralizes histamine, serotonin, exhaust gases, tobacco, and other substances.
- Methylation – that occurs in four cycles that form the basis of methylation: Urea cycle, Ammonia cycle, Folate cycle, Methionine cycle.