Join Dr. James Odell for Season 2 of the Science of Self-Healing Podcast! He's the Medical and Executive Director for BRMI, as well as a practicing naturopathic doctor for over 35 years, and he's here to share with you his extensive knowledge of medicine from a different perspective.
Discover the fascinating world of your body's natural detoxification system in this eye-opening episode with Dr. James Odell. Learn about the crucial role of emunctories - your body's waste removal organs - including the liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, and skin. Understand how these organs work together to eliminate toxins and maintain your health. The episode delves into the three phases of liver detoxification, the importance of a balanced gut microbiome, and how your kidneys filter toxins. You'll also learn about the lungs' unique defense mechanisms and the skin's role in eliminating harmful substances. Packed with practical tips on supporting each of these vital organs, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to optimizing your body's natural detoxification processes for better health and wellbeing.
Transcript: Amazing Emunctories: Supporting Your Body’s Built-in Detox System
Hello, everyone, and welcome to the Science of Self-Healing podcast. For health and wellness knowledge from a different perspective. Produced by the Bioregulatory Medicine Institute, also known as BRMI. We are your source for unparalleled information about how you can naturally support your body's ability to regulate, adapt, regenerate, and self-heal. I'm your host, Dr. James Odell, the medical and executive director for BRMI, as well as a practicing naturopathic doctor for over 35 years. And remember, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for the direct care of a qualified health professional who oversees and provides unique and individual care. The information here is to broaden our different perspectives and should not be construed as medical advice or treatment. Let's get started.
As we often talk about in bioregulatory medicine, the human body is a marvel of biological engineering, with incredible self-regulating abilities. So today we will talk about one of these self-regulating systems – the emunctories.
The term "emunctories" refers to the body's waste removal system. The primary emunctories include the liver, kidneys, small and large intestine, lungs, and skin. We should also include the lymphatic system, though that system will be covered in another podcast. In this podcast I will discuss the primary emunctories, and what you can do to take care of and support them so that your self-regulating system of detoxification functions at its best.
Let us start with an example of the emunctory mechanism in action.
Think about when we experience food poisoning. In such cases, our body employs multiple strategies to rapidly expel harmful substances. These may include vomiting to empty the stomach contents, diarrhea to flush out the intestines, and even profuse sweating to eliminate toxins through the skin. This response demonstrates how our body can mobilize various systems simultaneously to protect itself from harmful substances – a
perfect example of its ability to self-regulate and self-heal.
We also need to think of this detoxification system as being like a balance sheet since the continuous process of eliminating substances that are no longer beneficial or potentially harmful to the body. When our bodies efficiently excrete these unnecessary or toxic elements, we can maintain a state of balance, or homeostasis.
So, I have given you one example of why our bodies might need to detoxify – with the food poisoning case – an external toxin. But there are other reasons why the body is constantly detoxifying. Even normal cellular functions generate waste products that need to be eliminated from the body, making detoxification a natural and ongoing process. However, in today's world, we face unprecedented levels of toxins from various sources, including the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe – just to name a few. These external toxins often overwhelm our body's natural detoxification systems, causing our emunctories to work harder than ever before.
We also need to consider that the human body's ability to detoxify varies from person to person due to genetic factors, the amount of the toxic load, and individual lifestyle choices.
One significant example of this genetic influence is the MTHFR mutation. This genetic variation affects the methylation process, which plays a crucial role in the body's detoxification mechanisms. Individuals who have this mutation may find their bodies less efficient at eliminating toxins. As a result, people with the MTHFR mutations need to pay special attention to their diet. Specifically, they should ensure they consume foods rich in B vitamins, as these nutrients can help support and enhance their body’s natural detoxification processes. They also would be wise to supplement with methylated folate and b12.
Let us take a closer look at how our body's detoxification systems work, starting with the liver.
Often called the master detoxifier, the liver is essential for keeping our bodies clean and healthy. It performs over 500 crucial tasks, such as breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, storing energy in the form of glycogen, making important blood proteins, and cleaning the blood. The liver's detoxification role is vital because it neutralizes harmful substances like drugs, alcohol, and waste products from metabolism and uses a variety of nutrients, including vitamins B2, B3, B6, B12, folate, and antioxidants like glutathione, to convert toxins into less harmful substances.
Without a well-functioning liver, toxins can build up, causing various health problems. Liver detoxification occurs in three phases, each with its specific functions. In this article, we will explore phases 1, 2, and 3 of liver detoxification and how you can support your liver health for effective detoxification.
Phase 1 is the initial step in liver detoxification, where toxins are activated and oxidized to make them more manageable for further processing. This phase relies on enzymes called cytochrome P450, which convert toxic substances into smaller metabolites. However, this process generates free radicals, which can be harmful if not properly neutralized.
To support Phase 1 liver detoxification, it is important to consume foods and nutrients that promote antioxidant activity. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage. Citrus fruits like tangerines and oranges, vitamin C-rich foods such as strawberries and bell peppers, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale are beneficial during this phase. Lipotropic compounds found in foods like cysteine, methionine, choline, and inositol can also support Phase 1 detoxification. Additionally, minerals like magnesium and iron are essential for optimal liver function.
However, it’s important to strike a balance with antioxidants. While some antioxidant supplements like resveratrol, coQ10, and vitamins A, C, and E can be helpful, excessive intake may interfere with the production of glutathione, a master antioxidant. Therefore, it is best to obtain antioxidants primarily from a varied diet consisting of fruits and vegetables.
In Phase 2, the metabolites produced in Phase 1 are further processed and made water-soluble for elimination from the body. This phase involves various pathways, including glucuronidation, acetylation, esterification, amino acid conjugation, sulfation, and glutathione conjugation.
To support Phase 2 detoxification, sulfur-rich foods like cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onions, meat, and egg yolks are essential. Amino acids such as glycine, cysteine (or N-acetyl cysteine), taurine, and methionine, which are found in meat, play a crucial role. Molybdenum, a trace mineral found in leafy vegetables and liver, and vitamin B12 from animal sources are also necessary. Glutathione, which can be synthesized from amino acids or taken as a supplement, is a vital component of Phase 2 detoxification.
If Phase 2 detoxification is sluggish, the metabolites produced in Phase 1 may accumulate and cause adverse effects. Symptoms such as insomnia, brain fog, and hot flashes could be indicators of impaired Phase 2 detoxification. It is crucial to ensure an adequate intake of nutrients to support this phase and facilitate the proper elimination of toxins from the body.
Phase 3 involves the transport of the water-soluble metabolites from Phase 2 for elimination. The metabolites can be excreted through urine or bile and eliminated via the bladder or stool, respectively. Adequate hydration is crucial for the kidney-urine elimination pathway in Phase 3. It is essential to drink enough water to support the proper elimination of toxins through urine. Additionally, maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal system is important for effective elimination through stool. Regular bowel movements without constipation or diarrhea are indicators of a well-functioning Phase 3 detoxification.
If bowel movements are not optimal, it is important to address underlying causes such as dysbiosis (microbial imbalance in the gut), inadequate fiber intake, magnesium deficiency, or consumption of inflammatory foods. Resolving these issues before embarking on a focused detox or cleanse is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure the effectiveness of Phases 1 and 2.
To support your liver, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in antioxidants like berries and leafy greens, and be sure to get enough of the B vitamins. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower enhance liver detoxification enzymes. Staying hydrated helps transport and eliminate toxins while limiting alcohol and processed foods prevents liver overload. Regular exercise and avoiding environmental toxins also support liver health.
Next, let us talk about our intestines’ role in the detoxification process.
The small intestine and a large intestine host a vast community of beneficial bacteria, known as the gut microbiota – or the intestinal microbiome. These bacteria metabolize various substances, breaking down toxins into less harmful compounds that can be easily eliminated. For example, certain bacteria can transform potentially toxic compounds from food into harmless byproducts through fermentation and enzymatic activity.
Beneficial bacteria play a variety of important roles in human health, and dysbiosis—microbial imbalance—plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of intestinal and extraintestinal illnesses. The intestinal microbiome affects multiple areas that influence detoxification. These include:
1. hydration
2. nutrient synthesis
3. protection against pathogens from a barrier effect
4. training of the immune system
5. immune reserves for systemic defenses
6. production of short-chain fatty acids
A bidirectional relationship exists between the gut and the liver, which is governed by the microorganisms populating the gastrointestinal tract—and is referred to as the gut-liver axis. This relationship explains why deeper cleansing occurs when detoxification protocols are combined with a microbial balancing cleanse.
Additionally, biofilms, produced by microorganisms, can be an ongoing source of toxins. If left unaddressed, they can create a continual source of toxic exposure and be an obstacle to a lasting therapeutic effect.
When the intestines are functioning well as an emunctory, several positive signs are evident. Regular, well-formed bowel movements indicate that waste is being efficiently processed and eliminated. Minimal bloating and gas suggest that the gut microbiota is
in balance and effectively breaking down food and toxins. A healthy gut also manifests through a lack of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as cramping or irregular bowel
habits.
Signs of intestinal problems include persistent changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both), abdominal pain or cramping, and bloating. More serious symptoms to watch for include unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, and ongoing fatigue. You might also experience nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation.
To support your intestines, eat a high-fiber diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to promote healthy bowel movements and toxin elimination. Probiotics and prebiotics from foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables help maintain gut microbiota balance. Staying hydrated and exercising regularly aids in smooth waste passage. Probiotic supplements and digestive enzymes can further support gut health and nutrient absorption.
Let us move on to the kidneys –
While many people think the liver is the most important organ for detoxification, the kidneys deserve a lot of credit too. The kidneys filter approximately 200 liters of fluid a day from renal blood flow which allows for toxins, metabolic waste products like ammonia, urea, uric acid, creatinine, and excess toxic metals to be excreted while keeping essential substances in the blood. The kidney regulates plasma osmolarity by modulating the amount of water, solutes, and electrolytes in the blood. It ensures long-term acid-base balance and produces erythropoietin which stimulates the production of red blood cells. It also produces renin for blood pressure regulation and carries out the conversion of vitamin D to its active form.
A challenge for the kidneys is that some toxins are hard to expel into the urine, leading to a buildup that can damage the kidneys over time. Cadmium is a good example of a toxin that can accumulate and cause harm. Excess cadmium can come from cigarette smoke, eating foods grown in soil contaminated with cadmium, and workplace exposures.
Unfortunately, modern life exposes us to many toxins, and as we age, our kidney function naturally declines. By age 80, kidney function may be only one-third to one-half of what it was at age 20. This decline makes toxin elimination more difficult, contributing to increased health issues in older adults. While some decline is normal with age, it's important to note that "normal" doesn't always mean healthy.
Signs of healthy kidneys include clear and regular painless urination (that’s pale yellow and low odor), no excessive swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet, clear skin, normal blood pressure, a healthy appetite, and good cognitive function.
Your kidneys benefit when you drink plenty of pure water – preferably quality spring - to filter waste and prevent kidney stones. Eating kidney-friendly foods like blueberries, red bell peppers, onions, radishes, turnips, cauliflower, and parsley are all beneficial. Regular exercise and avoiding overuse of painkillers also support kidney function. Cranberry extract can prevent urinary tract infections, and omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation.
Okay, let us talk about our lungs for a moment –
The lungs are the foundational organs of the respiratory system, whose most basic function is to facilitate gas exchange from the environment into the bloodstream.
Oxygen gets transported through the alveoli into the capillary network, where it can enter the arterial system, and perfuse tissue. The respiratory system is composed primarily of the nose, oropharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs.
The lungs further divide into individual lobes, which ultimately subdivide into over 300 million alveoli. The alveoli are the primary location for gas exchange. Although the lung has other functions, such as metabolizing some compounds, filtering unwanted materials from the circulation, and acting as a reservoir for blood, gas exchange is its chief function.
As you know, the lungs are essential for breathing and detoxification as they eliminate carbon dioxide which is an acid gas. This maintains a balanced pH as well as oxygenates the cells. The lungs have a unique defense mechanism involving mucus and cilia. The mucus traps dust, pathogens, and toxins, while the cilia, tiny hair-like structures, sweep this contaminated mucus out of the lungs and towards the throat, where it can be swallowed or expelled.
The first way to help the lungs detoxify is to stop smoking and avoid inhaling chemicals. Several harmful pollutants, chemicals, and irritants can cause lung issues or more serious damage, including many household cleaning products.
Take steps to avoid exposure to pollutants in your home and at work, such as by keeping your home clean and not spending lots of time outdoors when the air quality is poor. Use air filtration devices.
For lung health, consume anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseed, and stay hydrated to keep the mucosal lining thin and clear. Again, avoid smoking and pollutants to protect lung tissue, and engage in exercises like walking, running, and swimming to improve lung capacity. Vitamin D and NAC supplements can support lung health and reduce inflammation.
Moving along, let’s talk briefly about the skin’s role as a detoxifying organ.
Despite what you may have heard, the skin is a major player in detoxifying our body by working closely with the liver and kidneys. The skin has been called the third kidney and it primarily helps get rid of toxins through sweat. It does not move toxins out of your body like the kidneys in a meaningful quantity but is an important organ of elimination. When we sweat, our pores open, allowing harmful substances to exit our body such as water, salts, and a small amount of urea, lactate. The sebaceous glands also help remove toxins since they release sebum, an oily substance that can carry fat-soluble toxins to the skin's surface. This natural process helps keep our internal systems clean and balanced.
Additionally, the skin acts as a barrier, protecting us from external pollutants and harmful microorganisms. When the skin is functioning well as a detoxifier, you'll notice a few positive signs. Clear, blemish-free skin usually means it's doing its job effectively. Good skin tone and texture are other indicators. If your skin heals quickly from cuts or bruises, that's another sign it's working properly. Healthy skin also tends to be well-hydrated and resilient, supporting a natural glow and elasticity.
Keeping the skin healthy through good nutrition is important. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its structure, elasticity, and firmness. Certain nutrients, such as vitamin C, are essential for collagen synthesis, helping to maintain the skin’s youthful appearance. Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer. A diet rich in antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals and protect the skin. Hydrated skin is healthy skin. Consuming enough water and foods with high water content helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance, keeping it soft, smooth, and supple. Chronic inflammation can lead to various skin issues, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation and improve skin conditions.
Regular exercise promotes circulation and sweating, aiding toxin elimination. Since sweating is so important for removing toxins, saunas are also a fantastic way to help the detoxification process. It is also important to avoid antiperspirants that include aluminum. Also, learn how to dry brush your skin. In short, a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is key to maintaining healthy, glowing skin. By incorporating these skin-nourishing foods into your daily meals, you can support your skin from the inside out, helping to prevent and manage skin conditions, slow the signs of aging, achieve a radiant complexion, and assist the skin in detoxification.
All right, so I just want to wrap things up by emphasizing just how critical it is to take care of our emunctories. Otherwise, toxins become deposited into our interstitial space – the space between cells - and this leads to potential cellular death.
Well-functioning emunctories are essential for good health and that poor emunctory function can lead to a whole host of chronic diseases. So, we need to focus on keeping our primary detox organs in top shape. It’s all about making smart lifestyle choices, watching what we eat, and being mindful of our environment. So, take diligent care of your emunctories, and I hope you join me again in two weeks!
Be well.
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