Detoxification Pathways

MTHFR methylation is presented as only one Phase 2 route rather than a uniquely critical bottleneck. Phase 3 consists of bowel movements, urination, and sweating as physical elimination pathways. The liver converts fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble metabolites for excretion. If Phase 2 cannot keep up with Phase 1, reactive intermediate metabolites accumulate and generate damaging reactive oxygen species. The article says toxins should be bound in the gut and eliminated so they do not recirculate. Antioxidants are required to quench reactive intermediates from detoxification. Cholestyramine is emphasized because it binds bile and helps remove fat-based toxins that might otherwise recirculate. Glutathione is described as a primary pathway for many mycotoxins. Glycine conjugation is described as a third detox pathway supported by glycine or collagen intake. Glucuronidation is described as a secondary detox pathway supported by calcium D-glucarate. Upregulating Phase 1 without supporting Phase 2 is described as a critical error. A detox protocol should not begin in a constipated patient because toxins may be reabsorbed from the colon. Binders are not necessarily recommended for co…