COURTNEY SNYDER MD - HOLISTIC CHILD & ADULT PSYCHIATRIST - Blog

Panic: Physiologic Roots (A Functional & Holistic Perspective)

1/31/2026

In this episode of the Holistic Psychiatry podcast, I discuss panic attacks, exploring their physiological, neurological, and emotional underpinnings. I discuss the heightened sensitivity of the brain’s alarm system, the role of neurotransmitters, hormonal influences, and the impact of inflammation and biotoxins. I’ll emphasize the importance of being curious about the nature of panic attacks..

Takeaways

Panic attacks occur when the brain’s alarm system is overly sensitive.
Physical symptoms of panic attacks can be debilitating and terrifying.
Underlying physiological factors contribute to vulnerability to panic attacks.
Neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and GABA play crucial roles in panic disorders.
Hormonal imbalances, especially in women, can increase the likelihood of panic attacks.
Mast cells are involved in the immune response and can trigger panic symptoms.
Biotoxins, particularly from mold, can significantly impact mental health.
Limbic system dysfunction can lead to heightened anxiety and panic.
The autonomic nervous system regulates our fight or flight response.
Emotional stressors, trauma and stressors can contribute to panic attacks

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Panic Attacks
03:07 Physiological Factors Behind Panic Attacks
06:00 Neurotransmitters and Panic Disorder
08:52 The Role of Hormones in Panic Attacks
12:07 Inflammation and Panic Attacks
14:53 Mast Cells and Panic Responses
18:06 Biotoxins and Their Impact on Panic
21:00 Limbic System Dysfunction and Panic
24:11 The Autonomic Nervous System’s Role
26:45 Emotional Stressors and Panic Attacks

As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions.

Until next time,
Courtney

Making Room For the Soul

1/16/2026

In this episode, I wanted to turn us back to more of the humanity and heart of our healing and thriving and step away from the science and left-brain information that I'm often sharing.

In the last couple of days, I've been writing something for myself, but I thought it might be beneficial to someone out there. It's called Reclaiming Our Messy Selves with Bernie Taupin, Thomas Merton, and Sara Bareilles.

As this new year gets rolling, I've been trying to make room for what I call the soul. To me, this means being more receptive to those mysterious synchronicities, insights, feelings so easily missed when I keep myself busy and distracted. Sometimes this energy comes from within, and sometimes it's a postcard from God, as Walt Whitman would say.

Copper Overload: Common in ADHD, Postpartum Depression, Panic & Tantrums

1/8/2026

Summary
In this episode, I discuss copper overload, a common yet often overlooked contributor to various mental health issues, including postpartum depression and ADHD.
The referenced data comes from the Walsh Research Institute, which studied nutrient levels in 30,0000 people with brain related symptoms, and found a small handful of nutrient imbalances repeated showing up. Copper overload was the one of those imbalances.
I explain the relationship between copper and zinc, and how elevated copper can impact neurotransmitter functioning. I also address the symptoms of high copper, potential causes for its elevation, methods for assessing copper levels, and treatment strategies to manage copper overload effectively
Takeaways

Copper overload is prevalent in mental health conditions.
High copper levels are linked to postpartum depression.
Copper affects neurotransmitter functioning, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine
Zinc is essential for regulating copper levels.
Symptoms of high copper include anxiety, insomnia, depression and rage.
Dietary sources of copper include shellfish and chocolate.
Oxidative stress can elevate copper levels.
Copper and estrogen have a significant relationship.
Assessment of copper involves specific lab tests.
Treatment includes nutrient protocols and reducing exposure.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Copper Overload
10:36 Identifying Symptoms and Conditions Related to Copper
21:10 Assessing and Treating Copper Overload
As always, I welcome any comments and questions, as these help guide the information that I share.

Mold Toxicity: A Common Cause of Brain Symptoms

11/11/2025

In this episode, I explore mold-related illness, with a particular focus on mold toxicity and mold colonization.

I discuss:

The wide range of brain-related and systemic symptoms associated with mold toxicity
How toxic mold exposure can occur even when visible mold growth isn’t present
Why not everyone exposed to the same environment becomes toxic, and the factors that influence susceptibility
How mold toxicity is diagnosed and what tests are used to identify biotoxin-related illness
How to test your environment for mold, including both air and surface testing options
The four core pillars of treatment:
1. Eliminating exposure to contaminated environments
2. Using binders to help the body excrete toxins
3. Addressing fungal colonization, when present
4. Adjusting diet to reduce foods that feed mold and candida, which often coexist with mold toxicity
The importance of addressing mast cell activation, retraining the limbic system, and supporting the vagus nerve- especially in individuals who are highly sensitive to treatment
Practical environmental steps, including air purification and humidity control, to reduce ongoing exposure

In the next episode, I’ll review research exploring the connection between mold and brain-related conditions, and address the question: “Can mold enter the brain, even in individuals who are not immunocompromised?”

It’s important to recognize that mold toxicity rarely occurs in isolation. It often contributes to or exacerbates other underlying conditions, such as mast cell activation, electromagnetic hypersensitivity, multiple chemical sensitivity, pyrrole disorder, copper–zinc imbalance, low methylation, and increased susceptibility to microbial infections or autoimmunity.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions.

Until next time,
Courtney

Compulsive Caregiving - A Common But Less Obvious Attachment Pattern

10/30/2025

In this episode, I take a closer look at compulsive caregiving through the lens of attachment theory. This subtle yet pervasive form of insecure attachment can significantly impact one’s ability to thrive and build healthy, balanced relationships. Related terms often used to describe this pattern include over-functioning, codependency, and what’s sometimes called Nice Guy / Good Girl Syndrome.

This episode is the fourth in a four-part series exploring how our earliest caregiver experiences during the first three years of life shape our emotional regulation, self-beliefs, and the ways we connect with others as adults.

Here, I discuss:

How early attachment experiences shape compulsive caregiving and the development of the parentified child dynamic
How over-functioning, people-pleasing, and codependency share common roots in early attachment anxiety
Why physiological sensitivity — particularly among Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) — can increase vulnerability to compulsive caregiving patterns
The parallels between compulsive caregiving and other addictive or compulsive behaviors
Where this attachment pattern fits on the attachment spectrum
The beliefs, emotions, behaviors, and communication styles often seen in those who struggle with compulsive caregiving
The physical and psychological effects of chronic stress and emotional repression commonly associated with this pattern
Evidence-based tools, therapeutic approaches, and self-awareness practices that support healing and a return to emotional balance
Key resources for deeper recovery, including The Drama of the Gifted Child, Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents, and Codependent No More

Links to related content:
Codependency, Compulsive Caregiving, Over-functioning & Nice Guy/Good Girl Syndrome

As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions.

Until next time,
Courtney

Discovering the Cause of Bipolar Disorder - A Conversation with Dr. William Walsh

10/20/2025

Dr. William Walsh, president of the non-profit Walsh Research Institute, is an internationally recognized leader in the field of nutritional medicine and nutrient-based psychiatry. His pioneering work began in collaboration with the renowned Carl C. Pfeiffer, MD, PhD — a foundational figure in nutritional psychiatry — developing individualized nutrient protocols. Their early research focused on violent and criminal behavior before expanding into broader areas such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, and schizophrenia.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Walsh has studied more than 30,000 patients with various mental health conditions, compiling an unparalleled database of over 3 million chemical assays. From this groundbreaking research, he identified the biotypes of depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia, providing a new framework for understanding and treating these disorders through a biochemical lens.

Dr. Walsh’s research also extends beyond clinical psychiatry. He has conducted chemical analyses of more than 25 serial killers, collaborated with medical examiners, Scotland Yard, and the FBI, and designed nutritional programs for Olympic and professional athletes.

In this episode, we discuss:

Bipolar Disorder — how it differs from other psychiatric conditions and why it has been so difficult for researchers to fully understand
The strong hereditary component of Bipolar Disorder, despite no single causative gene having been identified
Dr. Walsh’s scientific journey toward uncovering the underlying cause of Bipolar Disorder — beginning with neuroscience research, expanding into genetic studies such as GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Studies), and focusing on ion channel genes, DNA repair genes, and the emerging concept of Bipolar Disorder as a “channelopathy.”
The alignment between genetic vulnerabilities involving ion channel genes and those responsible for defending against DNA damage and oxidative stress
How weakened DNA repair mechanisms may contribute to other health problems, accelerate aging, and reduce life expectancy
How weak ion channel genes can increase oxidative stress in the brain and body
Bipolar Disorder as a channelopathy — and how this model helps explain the shifting states from euthymia (balanced mood) to mania, to depression, and back again from a neurotransmission perspective
How these discoveries influence the treatment and prevention of Bipolar Disorder, offering new hope for more targeted and effective interventions

Links to related content:

Wash Research Institute
Lunch with Dr. William Walsh - His Story, Discoveries & the Future of Nutrient-Based Psychiatry
Breakthrough Theory of Bipolar Disorder

As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions.

Until next time,
Courtney

Anxious-Preoccupied Attachment Style

10/7/2025

Emotional Dysregulation, Fears of Abandonment. Assessment & Tool for Moving Toward a Secure Attachment.

In this episode, I explore the anxious (ambivalent–preoccupied) attachment style — a relational pattern often marked by emotional intensity, dependence, and a deep longing for reassurance and connection.

I discuss how this attachment pattern forms, how it shows up in adult relationships, and what kinds of therapeutic and holistic approaches can help individuals move toward a more secure attachment style. Specifically, I cover:

How early caregiving inconsistency — and even perceived or real experiences of abandonment — can lead to an anxious attachment style and challenges with emotional regulation
The key differences between anxious and avoidant attachment patterns
What infant and toddler attachment research reveals about early caregiving and attachment development
How anxious attachment manifests in adulthood, often as emotional overwhelm or fear of abandonment
Connections between attachment and biochemistry, including inflammation, methylation, high copper, high pyrroles, mast cell activation, and biotoxin illnesses such as mold toxicity
Psychotherapy approaches that support regulation, self-awareness, and secure attachment — including learning to establish healthy emotional boundaries
The importance of structure and daily routines in developing a reliable and supportive “inner parent”
Mind–body practices like guided meditation, intentional journaling, and creative learning to enhance emotional balance
Why addressing both emotional and biochemical factors is essential for long-term healing and resilience

With awareness, compassion, education, and consistent support, we can begin to rewire the nervous system for greater calm, clarity, and self-trust — moving closer to a more secure way of relating to ourselves and others.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions.

Until next time,
Courtney

Dismissive-Avoidant Attachment & How It May Relate To Undermethylation

9/11/2025

What do Don Draper (Mad Men), James Bond, Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada), and Rick Blaine (Casablanca) all have in common? Each of these characters is a clear example of the avoidant-dismissive attachment style brought to life on screen.

In the previous episode, I explored how our earliest caregiving experiences-especially in the first three years of life-can profoundly shape our ability to regulate emotions and form core beliefs about ourselves and others. I also highlighted how attachment influences neurophysiology, including right-left brain differentiation, the limbic system (often called the "lizard brain"), and the autonomic nervous system.

In this episode, I turn the focus more specifically to one end of the attachment spectrum-the avoidant-dismissive attachment style. I'll discuss:

How attachment was first measured in both toddlers and adults
How avoidant-dismissive attachment tends to develop over time
What avoidant attachment looks like in close relationships
Personality disorders that may overlap with this attachment pattern
Parallels between avoidant-dismissive attachment and undermethylation, and how the two may be related
The role of individual psychotherapy, group, family and couples therapy, and supportive relationships in the healing process
Other practices, tools, and lifestyle choices that can help foster emotional connection and resilience
How raising awareness of these attachment patterns can transform not only personal well-being, but also parenting and family dynamics across generations

As a holistic psychiatrist who has treated many children and adults with attachment-related conditions, I believe that growth is always possible. While avoidant attachment may take root early in life, it does not define a person forever. With curiosity, self-compassion, and the willingness to practice new ways of relating to ourselves and to others-we can expand our capacity for intimacy and connection, and begin to feel more whole.

In the next episode, I'll shift to the other side of the attachment spectrum: the anxious-ambivalent (preoccupied) attachment style.

As always, I welcome your comments and questions-they help guide the topics and resources I share.

Until next time,
Courtney

Links to related content:

Methylation & Brain Health
Undermethylation Myths, MTHFR & The Great Folate Debate

How Our First 3 Years Impact Our Emotional Regulation

8/22/2025

The impact of our early attachment experience on the development of our limbic system, autonomic nervous system, and right and left brain differentiation.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the growing use of the term “dysregulated.” It’s a powerful word that captures what happens when we struggle to find calm in the body and brain after facing stress. When we talk about nervous system regulation, it’s easy to forget that its foundation is mostly laid down in the earliest years of life. Even though we don’t consciously remember those first experiences, they continue to shape our patterns and responses well into adulthood.

The encouraging part is this: even if our early attachment experiences weren’t ideal, it’s absolutely possible to move toward greater attachment security. This shift allows us to experience healthier emotional regulation, more positive beliefs about ourselves and others, and stronger, more connected relationships.

In this episode, I explore:

What attachment is and why the first three years are so critical
How the nervous system develops through early attachment experiences, including:
- Right and left brain differentiation
- The limbic system
- The autonomic nervous system (with the vagus nerve that helps us rest, digest, and connect)
The main attachment styles and how they shape our emotions, beliefs, and behaviors
The role of early stress and how high cortisol levels affect life-long regulation
Why our culture’s “left-brain dominance” often disconnects us from empathy, embodiment, and nuance
Practical steps to nurture secure attachment and build more self-compassion, even as adults

For me, this conversation is never about placing blame on parents- it’s about understanding the deep influence of those early years, which are arguably the most important time in our lives. It’s also a reminder that it’s never too late to become a more responsive and compassionate caregiver to ourselves.

If you have a specific situation, concern or question that you would like me to react to in a future newsletter/episode, please email that to [email protected]. Names will never be shared.

Until next time,
Courtney

Thinking Holistically About Symptoms.....in a World That Compartmentalizes

7/17/2025

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how much the fragmentation within modern medicine limits our ability to truly understand the root of illness.

This episode is for anyone who’s visited multiple specialists for a range of symptoms and still doesn’t feel well, or for anyone curious about how seemingly disconnected health issues might actually be related.

In this episode, I explore:

- A letter from someone experiencing a wide array of symptoms who has consulted numerous specialists but still hasn’t found answers or real progress toward healing
- How conventional medicine has splintered into more than 130 specialties and the consequences this has on diagnosis and care
- The historical and current divide between psychiatry and neurology, even though both focus on the brain and nervous system
- Why I find the term “mental illness” limiting and prefer to use the language of brain symptoms
- A broader view of symptoms often labeled as psychiatric, including emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and sensory experiences, and how these can signal deeper physiological imbalances
- An overview of neurotransmitters: what they are, what affects their levels, and how disruptions in these chemicals often lie at the heart of both psychiatric and neurological issues
- A vision for a more integrative and connected approach to healthcare in the future

If there’s a particular topic or personal concern you’d like me to cover in an upcoming episode or newsletter, feel free to email it to [email protected]

Until next time,
Courtney

Difference Between Functional, Holistic & Conventional Psychiatry

6/26/2025

Kayaking one morning near my house.

I hope this summer is bringing you moments of peace and joy. Over the past few months, I’ve stepped back from writing and teaching to support my aging parents, now in their late 80s, while continuing to maintain my clinical practice, offer consultations, and mentor others. It’s been a powerful reminder that we can’t always do everything at once. If you’re balancing caregiving, managing your own health, working, and still trying to nurture your creative or professional passions, I see you. I’m right there with you. For me, one enduring passion is sharing thoughtful, useful insights about mental health and psychiatry here.

Much of what I’ve shared so far focuses on how I approach mental health care in my practice. Today, I want to zoom out and reflect on the larger landscape of psychiatry and its shifting forms.

In this episode, I explore:

The educational paths of psychologists, psychiatrists, and child psychiatrists
The decline in psychiatrists offering psychotherapy
Key differences between Conventional (Allopathic) and Functional Medicine
How Functional, Holistic, Integrative, and Conventional Psychiatry differ
An introduction to Nutritional Psychiatry and Environmental Psychiatry

I also share why the term Holistic Psychiatry resonates with me most—it's a warmer, more inclusive approach to mental health that reflects the kind of care I strive to offer.

Thank you for continuing to be part of this journey. Your interest and engagement mean the world.

Warmly,
Courtney

When Supplements (or Meds) Cause or Worsen Brain Symptoms

3/21/2025

5 Possible Reasons & How These Are Addressed in Treatment

In previous newsletters, I’ve explored many of the common contributors to brain symptoms, including elevated pyrroles, copper-zinc imbalances, methylation disruptions, candida overgrowth, mast cell activation, mold toxicity, and genetic variants such as COMT and MAOA.

Addressing these issues often requires supplementation, and in some cases, medication—particularly for mold treatment and mast cell activation.

But what if a person struggles to tolerate a supplement or medication, experiencing worsened or entirely new brain symptoms? Why might someone react negatively to B6, SAMe, or Methionine? What could cause intolerance to folate, niacinamide, glutathione, specific herbal treatments, SSRIs, probiotics, antifungal medications, or detox binders like bentonite clay, activated charcoal, chlorella, or cholestyramine?

In this newsletter, I’ll cover:

Five key reasons why a supplement or medication may exacerbate symptoms.
Specific supplements and medications more likely to trigger these reactions.
How these responses can provide insight into underlying imbalances.
Treatment strategies to enhance tolerance.

Adverse reactions can present with a broad spectrum of brain-related symptoms, including fatigue, brain fog, depression, anxiety, agitation, and even more severe manifestations such as psychosis or mania. To encompass this range, I’ll use the term “reactivity.” While physical side effects can also occur, this discussion will focus specifically on brain-related symptoms.

Read the full article on Substack

Strengthening the Right Brain in Left Brain Times

2/28/2025

“May Peace Be Upon Us” - Paper and acrylic on 36 x 48" canvas - Courtney Snyder

The "left hemisphere" isn't bad; it's just not an effective place from which to make important decisions.

We live in a world that often feels increasingly “left-brained.” While both hemispheres are always working together, they each have distinct traits, values, and ways of engaging with the world. In this podcast episode, I explore:

The unique characteristics of the left and right hemispheres
How to recognize which hemisphere is leading in a given moment
The benefits of allowing the right brain to take the lead
How neuroplasticity enables us to strengthen the right hemisphere through enjoyable activities
The additional advantages of doing this within a community

On a related note, I’ll soon be sharing details about an upcoming discussion group: "Strengthening the Right Brain in Left Brain Times."

OCD & Nutrient Based Therapies

2/11/2025

Undermethylation, High Activity at the NMDA Receptor, Glutamate, "Weak Memory Extinction," Walsh Research Institute, PANS & PANDAS, Candida, Mold & Other Biotoxins, Histamine, Estrogen

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a severe mental health condition characterized by persistent intrusive thoughts and compulsive, repetitive behaviors that can be highly time-consuming. It affects approximately 80 million people globally, including 2-4% of the U.S. population—or about 1 in 100 individuals.

The impact of OCD is profound, not only for those experiencing it firsthand but also for their loved ones. Beyond the distress caused by obsessive thoughts and compulsions, individuals often grapple with feelings of shame and significant loss—loss of meaningful or enjoyable thoughts and activities, as well as valuable time that could be spent connecting with others or engaging in fulfilling pursuits.

Read the full article on Substack

Breakthrough Theory of Bipolar Disorder

1/28/2025

Dr. William Walsh's Comprehensive Theory (Explaining the Cause of Bipolar, the Reason For Switching From Mania to Depression & Treatment Implications) Shared at the Society of Neuroscience

This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Advanced Course for Walsh-Trained Practitioners. Over 1,200 practitioners from 75 countries have been trained in the Walsh approach.

For those unfamiliar, the Walsh Research Institute, founded by Dr. William Walsh, has analyzed the nutrient levels of more than 30,000 individuals experiencing brain-related symptoms. Their findings reveal a surprisingly small set of recurring nutrient imbalances—such as low zinc, elevated copper, high pyrroles, and methylation irregularities—that frequently appear. Addressing these imbalances has led to significant, and sometimes dramatic, improvements in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, inattention, brain fog, hyperactivity, autism, dementia, psychosis, and mood swings. However, bipolar disorder presents a unique challenge due to its alternating neurotransmitter states between mania and depression.

More than nine million Americans are currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a serious condition often associated with substance abuse, financial or legal difficulties, strained relationships, instability at work or school, and an increased risk of suicide attempts or suicide. The course of the illness typically begins with an acute onset, progressing to recurrent episodes of mania and depression that often worsen in severity over time.

In this post, I will describe bipolar disorder and use Dr. Walsh’s Comprehensive Theory of Bipolar Disorder—recently presented at the Society for Neuroscience—to explain:

the underlying cause of bipolar disorder
why the condition begins, persists, and worsens over time
the connection between bipolar disorder and increased risk for other health conditions
the mechanisms driving the shifts between manic and depressive states
how this knowledge influences treatment and prevention strategies

Read the full article on Substack

How & Why I Became a Holistic Psychiatrist

1/14/2025

Attachment, Microbiome, Undermethylation, Low Zinc, Oxidative Stress, Mold Toxicity, Mast Cell Activation, RCCX Theory, Upper Cervical Instability, Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, Left & Right Brain

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
― Lao Tzu

In this episode, I share my personal journey through illness and healing and how it has influenced my approach as a holistic psychiatrist.

My hope for everyone listening is that your pursuit of health, happiness, or whatever it is you’re seeking brings you to a place of peace—and inspires a desire to support others on their own journeys.

When the Left Brain & Undermethylation Meet Beauty Filters

1/7/2025

The Body Horror Movie "The Substance," Left & Right Brain Perspectives on Appearance, Undermethylation, NMDA receptor, Research on the Impact of Beauty Filters & Mental Health , Beyond the Nightmare

In this newsletter, using the story from the movie, ¨The Substance¨ I discuss likely factors contributing to the main character´s and our culture´s obsession with beauty and youth.

I´ll discuss the role of:

The left brain
Undermethylation
The NMDA receptor
Beauty filter and the research into selfies, beauty filters, and mental health issues, including body dysmorphia.

Lastly, I discuss what I would hope to see in a sequel of this movie.

Read the full article on Substack

Beyond Identity & the Stress of the "Self"

1/4/2025

Wisdom from a 19-year-old, Leonard Cohen & Buddha. Physiologic Changes & the Elusive "Self." The Changing Selves of Those We Love. The Right Brain's Hope For Us All.

Recently, I was talking with my 19-year-old daughter about the cognitive changes we’ve observed in a family member experiencing memory loss. I mentioned how it can feel like a long goodbye, as they seem less and less like themself. Even as I said it, the words didn’t entirely resonate. She immediately replied, “When are we ever ourselves? It seems like we’re always changing.”

Her thoughtful response, which felt much closer to the truth, has had me reflecting all week on the elusive nature of the “self.”

Read the full article on Substack

Recognizing the "Root Causes" of Brain Symptoms in Children

12/26/2024

How Symptoms Such as Tantrums, Shyness, Oppositional Behavior, Severe Carb Craving, Perfectionism, Tics, Compulsions and Drunken Like Behavior Can Point to Specific Biochemical Imbalances

This newsletter was originally shared with paid subscribers in May 2024.

In previous newsletters, I’ve explored the common underlying factors—or “roots”—that contribute to brain-related symptoms. Each root comes with its own set of symptoms and characteristics.

Because children’s brains and bodies are still developing, and they lack the same degree of hormonal influences as adults, their symptoms and related psychiatric diagnoses often differ. For instance, inattention, hyperactivity, and an ADHD diagnosis can arise from various underlying imbalances.

While I’ll address these common imbalances individually, it’s important to note that multiple factors can coexist. Below, I outline the most frequent imbalances I encounter in my work. It’s worth mentioning that teenagers’ symptoms tend to align more closely with those seen in adults.

Each of these topics is linked to a more in-depth description if needed.

Food sensitivities can be present and result in a range of symptoms; however, one or more imbalances are also usually present and underlying the food sensitivities.

Read The Full Article on Substack

Lowering Our Exposure to Toxins

12/18/2024

While Staying Calm & Carrying On

In the previous newsletter, I explored sources of toxins and their effects on brain health and development.

This time, I want to focus on practical strategies for reducing exposure. Notice I say reduce—because it’s impossible to eliminate exposure entirely. Accepting this can be a relief, especially for those prone to perfectionism.

If you’re just beginning this journey, feel proud of starting. There’s no need to dwell on what you haven’t done yet—after all, negative thinking isn’t exactly detox-friendly.

For me, lowering toxin exposure has been a gradual, step-by-step process. Early on, I made a conscious effort to avoid overwhelm and not attempt everything at once.

While I’ve studied many of the most researched toxins and their health impacts, I focus primarily on actionable steps to limit exposure. This lets me live life without becoming preoccupied with the risks.

Some of the most extensively studied toxins (as of my latest review) include:

Heavy metals: mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium
Chemicals: PBDEs, organophosphates, glyphosate, BPA, BHA, BHT, PCBs
Food additives: sodium benzoate, butane, tartrazine dye, potassium bromate, ADA, BVO, yellow dyes #5 and #6, red dye #40
Hormones: bovine growth hormone, synthetic hormones, ractopamine
Personal care and industrial chemicals: phthalates, parabens, phenylenediamine, oxybenzone, acrylic, DEA, triclosan
Persistent organic pollutants: PFAS (including PFOS), benzene, chlorine, chloramine
Mycotoxins: ochratoxin, trichothecenes, aflatoxin, chaetoglobosin, gliotoxin, zearalenone

Additionally, electromagnetic fields (EMFs), while not classified as toxins, function as toxicants with similar effects on the body and brain. I’ve previously shared tips for assessing and minimizing EMF exposure as well.

Reducing exposure is about progress, not perfection. Let’s focus on what we can do to safeguard our health without letting fear take over.

Read the full article on Substack