Part 7 - With so many tests available to clinicians, I can't help but think how overwhelming it can be for them to determine which one is the best for their patients. My conversation with Dr. Crinnion led me to ask for his suggestions on testing for toxic exposure, and his answer might surprise you. He indicated that there are two "genres" of toxicity testing. One that measures the levels of specific  toxins in the body, and another that measures the metabolite of the toxins in the body.

So, which type of test is best?  Dr. Crinnion says he likes to measure for the actual compound because it helps him determine if there is current exposure, which is very important. He says that so many people have genetic polymorphisms in their metabolic ability to detox, that metabolites for toxins may not show up in urine due to the polymorphism. Oh, my! We get a quick biochemistry lesson as to how polymophisms tie in, and Dr. Crinnion shares his thoughts on the best approach for discovering your exposure, as well as tracking your treatment progress.

Listen in...

Although this is the final installment of my conversation with Dr. Crinnion, we still have some goodies he left us to share with you next week. Come back and see...

Additional Resources:

• Part 1 - Why is it important to understand total toxic body burden?
• Part 2 - Why should we test for toxic exposure?
• Part 3 - How do toxins affect mitochondria?
• Part 4 - Immunotoxicity - First to the party
• Part 5 - Hey Fathead, your brain is an easy target for toxins
• Part 6 - Who's your mama? Is your generation at risk?
• Dr. Crinnions Web site: Crinnion Medical
• You can also view a full presentation by Dr. Crinnion,
  Environmental Toxicity and the Effect on Health. 

Walter J. Crinnion, ND, received his Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from the University of San Francisco in 1975. He received his degree in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University, where he was a member of the first graduating class, and Dr. Crinnion is now considered one of the leading experts on environmental medicine and toxicology. After graduating, Dr. Crinnion spent 20 years practicing in Seattle, helping treat patients with chronic conditions through diet and nutrition. Dr. Crinnion discovered that most of the chronic health complaints he treated were rooted in toxicity, and began to expand his practice to include environmental medicine. After 20 years of practice, Dr. Crinnion felt led to teach other practitioners about toxicity and health. Today, he is the Chair of the Department of Environmental Medicine at the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona.