Toxins

Toxins are categorized as endotoxins produced inside the body or exotoxins originating from the environment. Toxins are substances that can harm living organisms. Functional medicine emphasizes lifetime accumulation of low-level toxin exposures rather than only acute toxicity. The article emphasizes that toxin reactions vary between people, so toxins may be critical for some but not always causal. Most toxins are fat-soluble and can accumulate in cellular membranes. Some toxins are described as autogens capable of inducing autoimmune reactions. Chronic exposure to environmental chemicals can overwhelm immune regulation in some people. Toxins are described as a major overlooked autoimmune trigger because many clinicians do not test for or treat them. Mercury may activate immunity, cause inflammation, contribute to leaky gut, and promote immune overactivity linked to autoimmune disease.