Huge numbers of people are complaining of different food and drug allergies, developing a phenomenon called multiple chemical sensitivity. This phenomenon could be due to the fact that our bodies have become overloaded with toxins from the food we eat and from the environment around us, and our detoxification systems can’t keep up.
Some sensitivities are quite well-known and can show up in allergy testing, such as peanut, wheat, and dairy allergies. But in many cases, you can develop a sensitivity you never had before, or even multiple chemical sensitivities, and testing won’t show it. Many people are sensitive to gluten, for example, yet their tests come back negative, and they then continue to eat it, but all the while their symptoms are worsening.
What does it actually mean to be sensitive to a particular food or chemical? What happens in your body when it is exposed to this food or chemical that produces the symptoms of a sensitivity? Those questions will always point to the root cause of not only allergies and intolerances, but also to almost all chronic conditions: inflammation.
Inflammation is actually a natural and necessary reaction that your body creates when faced with an injury or an intruder, such as a toxin, pathogen, or allergen. It’s a healthy and integral part of your immune reaction, and it is what helps your body get rid of the original insult – the injury or intruder – as well as the dead and damaged cells affected by this insult. It helps keep your body safe from external and internal harm.
But sometimes, this mechanism that is so vital to health can get a little out of control, and instead of having acute inflammation that does the job and then subsides to allow the body to go back to a state of rest and repair, it gets trapped in a loop and becomes chronic.
One of the most common causes of chronic inflammation is gut dysbiosis, which in turn causes leaks in the gut.
Dysbiosis occurs when the gut’s microbiome goes out of balance, and it can be triggered by a number of factors, such as eating an unhealthy diet, overconsumption of sugar, overconsumption of alcohol, as a side-effect of certain medications, taking too many antibiotics, the consumption of drugs, the consumption of foods or drinks that are allergenic, exposure to toxins, certain infections and illnesses, and stress.
When there is dysbiosis in your gut, your gut becomes more prone to leaks. The tight junctions in the gut’s lining become compromised, allowing substances into the bloodstream that shouldn’t enter, such as food particles, toxins, and pathogens.
As soon as the immune system gets notice of these intruders, it launches an attack and inflammation ensues. And because the gut contains two-thirds of immune system cells in the form of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), it makes sense when health professionals say that inflammation almost always begins in the gut.
This system is part of the Inflammation circuit of the NeuroEndoMetabolic (NEM) Stress Response. The NEM is your body’s global response to stress, and it’s composed of six circuits of organs and systems all working together to fight stress. Along with the Inflammation circuit, the NEM is composed of the Hormone, the Bioenergetic, the Cardionomic, the Neuroaffect, and the Detoxification circuits. Each of these circuits is composed of three components that work together, and all components and circuits are engaged to some degree when stress is present.
The inflammation circuit is composed of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the microbiome, and the immune system. Although this circuit is activated early when stress is present, symptoms of inflammation are usually too subtle to detect until the inflammation itself has become quite rampant. That’s when you start to see issues such as food and drug sensitivities, leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and pain of unknown origin in the muscles and bones.
Chronic inflammation that begins in the gut can and does travel to other parts of the body, leading to issues such as brain fog, depression, anxiety, joint pain, and the proliferation of autoimmune disorders. Disruption to the Inflammation circuit can also lead to recurring infections, lowered immunity, slowed healing, the presence of stealth viruses like the Epstein-Barr virus, candida, and difficulty recovering from Lyme disease.
For the Inflammation circuit to function properly, your Detoxification circuit has to be in good shape. That’s because as inflammation kills off intruders and rids the body of dead and damaged cells, it needs the filtration and excretion that expels these things to be timely, otherwise they will stay in the system too long, causing even more inflammation.
The role of the Detoxification circuit is to clear out metabolites, biotoxins, and toxic by-products fully and on time so that the body is free and clear. The liver, the immune system, and the interstitium are the main players in detoxification, although the kidneys and the lymphatic system also have roles. If these components are congested, the body’s toxic load will begin to rise.
The liver, in particular, has to be healthy and strong as it is the main clearinghouse of the body. Yet, it is also the most likely to get overworked and overloaded, especially when the body is constantly exposed to environmental toxins such as pollution, alcohol, hydrogenated fats, smoke, medications, pesticides in foods, and chemicals in beauty and home cleaning products. Chronic stress is another culprit. And both of these issues can increase the level of oxidative stress in the body, which can lead to the premature death of cells and excessive cellular debris.
Such an internal toxic environment can have several devastating effects on the body. Toxins and oxidative stress can infiltrate cell walls and damage the mitochondria, the energy-factories of the cells. With fewer mitochondria, you have less energy, and your body slows down, making detoxification even more sluggish. Receptor sites on different cells can also be damaged by toxins from medications and recreational drugs, which can lead to serious biochemical and neurotransmitter issues.
All of this can lead to an increase in inflammation in the system, a compromise in immune system function, and a cycle of premature cell death. This accumulation of toxicity can bring about issues such as hypersensitivity to food, supplements, and medications, as well as paradoxical reactions and multiple chemical sensitivity.
Because disruption of the Detoxification circuit can lead to an increase in inflammation in the system, you can also get a worsening of the symptoms of inflammation, such as brain fog, GI tract issues, insomnia, anxiety, auto-immune flare-ups, and dizziness.
Although your Detoxification circuit, and most significantly your liver, is made to break down toxic substances so that they are more readily excreted, the resulting metabolites themselves can become toxic to the body if they become excessive. So when your detoxification is slow, not only are you at risk of accumulating external toxins in your system, but also metabolites from within.
Both problems with inflammation and detoxification issues can result from chronic stress. Chronic stress puts too much pressure over too long a time period on your NEM response, resulting in dysregulation in multiple systems, and in some cases adrenal fatigue. Food intolerances and multiple chemical sensitivity are quite common with Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome (AFS) and the dysregulation of the NEM.
The adrenal glands are part of the Hormone circuit, and they are your body’s first line of defense against stress. They produce your most potent stress-fighting hormone, cortisol.
In the beginning stages of adrenal fatigue, the adrenal glands work hard to produce more cortisol than usual in order to meet the growing demand of stress, but after a while, they become exhausted and their cortisol output drops, marking the more advanced stages of AFS. Symptoms of AFS include fatigue, weight gain, insomnia, brain fog, hair loss, loss of libido, PMS, infertility, anxiety, mild depression, dry skin, hypoglycemia, heart palpitations, salt and sugar cravings, lowered immunity, and food and drug sensitivity, as well as multiple chemical sensitivity.
The reason the symptoms of AFS can be so varied and cover a wide range of issues is because they can involve all the different parts of the NEM. And when you have adrenal fatigue, your entire system goes into energy-conservation mode. This system de-prioritizes many different systems in the body not needed for immediate survival.
For example, often adrenal fatigue sufferers find that they cannot tolerate normal amounts of supplements. They find themselves taking some supplement and then crashing after, which can be frustrating because it is supposed to help the body. One reason could be related to detoxification problems, with the supplements being broken down to metabolites that their body cannot handle.
Multiple chemical sensitivity, in particular, is closely connected to the organs and systems involved in the Inflammation and Detoxification circuits of the NEM, and they are two networks that are sometimes deprioritized and slowed down when your body moves into energy-conservation mode.
To get a better understanding of how multiple chemical sensitivity is created and progresses, we need to look at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activity.
NMDA is an amino acid derivative agonist that mimics the action of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that usually acts on the NMDA receptor. NMDA receptor activity plays a central role in multiple chemical sensitivity, and some of the pathways involved include:
NMDA receptors also act on calcium channels, nitric oxide pathways, and ATP (the energy produced by the mitochondria in cells).
One cycle triggered by NMDA receptor activity that can cause a lot of issues, including chemical sensitivities and other chronic conditions, is the NO/ONOO- cycle. This cycle is first triggered by NMDA receptor activity, which then triggers calcium channels to allow calcium into the cells, which then triggers the activation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which increases nitric oxide (NO) levels that then react with superoxide to form peroxynitrite (ONOO-).
Depending on where this happens in the body, it can cause inflammation in that area and, if left unaddressed, some kind of chronic inflammatory condition there.
Other observations support the theory that NMDA activity plays a role in multiple chemical sensitivity. For example, dextromethorphan, which is an NMDA antagonist, has been clinically observed to reduce the response to chemical exposure in those with multiple chemical sensitivity.
Also, many people with multiple chemical sensitivity seem to also be sensitive to monosodium glutamate (MSG), and NMDA mimics the action of glutamate. Animal models have also shown that increased levels of NMDA activity play a role in chemical sensitivities.
Certain genetic polymorphisms that take part in chemical metabolism can cause or worsen chemical sensitivities. These include changes of the PON1 gene, the CYP2D6 gene, the NAT2 gene, the GSTM1 gene, the GSTT1 gene, the GSTP1 gene, and the UGT1A1 gene.
Other than the pathways listed above, pathways that lower mitochondrial activity can also produce an excess in NMDA activity. Some toxicants that affect mitochondrial output and energy metabolism include cyanide, MPTP, carbon monoxide, rotenone, and hypoxia.
Also, many chronic diseases can be triggered or worsened by excess NMDA activity, such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, tinnitus, and autism.
Because the chronic phases of such illnesses are often produced by the NO/ONOO- cycle, the components within this cycle, such as nitric oxide and peroxynitrite, are often found to be elevated in those with these conditions. The reason that the types of chronic conditions that this cycle can produce are so varied is because this cycle always acts locally.
Other than chemicals and toxicants, other stressors can trigger conditions linked to the NO/ONOO- cycle. Those include physical injury, especially trauma to the central nervous system, infections, exposure to electromagnetic fields, and psychological stress.
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs), such as from Wi-Fi, cell phones, appliances, TVs, computers, and the electrical wiring in your home and office, can be especially damaging to those with AFS, though anyone can be sensitive to them.
Your body is a conductor of electricity, and each cell in your body is made up of electromagnetic energy. Although your body is made to handle natural EMFs, the man-made frequencies that you’re exposed to more and more with each new device are not something your body is designed to cope with.
It may seem that because EMFs are made of low energy photons, they shouldn’t be able to influence your body’s biochemistry. But these photons can influence the voltage across cell plasma membranes, and so they can activate calcium channels through the voltage gate. Then you go down the same pathway we already covered, where intracellular calcium increases and leads to the NO/ONOO- cycle issue, which can then lead to EMF hypersensitivity.
Your eyes and your pineal gland, which is situated inside your brain, are the two most sensitive organs to EMF radiation. Your pineal gland is an endocrine organ that controls hormone levels, such as melatonin. Low levels of melatonin have been linked to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. We’ve already mentioned that NMDA receptor activity can cause chronic fatigue, but it also appears to play a significant role in fibromyalgia. Also, these two conditions are usually accompanied by multiple chemical sensitivity.
Constant exposure to EMF waves can also cause excess cellular vibration, which can then lead to an increase in stress and muscle tension.
All of these issues can prompt your adrenal glands to go into stress-fighting mode, and, because you’re constantly exposed to these stressors, your adrenals will eventually become exhausted. If you already have AFS, it makes your body more vulnerable to such exposures, exacerbating health issues even more.
Signs and symptoms of EMF hypersensitivity include:
EMF hypersensitivity can be triggered or worsened if you have heavy metal toxicity, because heavy metals can act as amplifiers for your symptoms and can even concentrate the radiation in your body. This is especially problematic when these metals are present in your brain, since the brain acts like an antenna that picks up radiation. This can also make certain microbes in your body overreact and secrete more mycotoxins.
Any inflammation, such as that from chemical sensitivities, can trigger or re-trigger EMF hypersensitivity and worsen the symptoms listed above. EMF hypersensitivity and multiple chemical sensitivity are highly debilitating. However, they seem to respond to the same, or very similar, recovery approaches, which usually entail reducing the NO/ONOO- cycle.
These different specific supplements for reducing the NO/ONOO- cycle absolutely require the guidance of a health professional with extensive experience in managing multiple chemical sensitivity.
Keeping that in mind, being informed of your options is always helpful as you navigate such a complex issue.
The first consideration has to do with the fact the peroxynitrite, or ONOO-, itself, is a constant component in the NO/ONOO- cycle, and so using a peroxynitrite scavenger can help bring down its levels and disrupt the cycle. One such scavenger is 5-mythyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).
5-MTHF is a biologically active form of folate which is used for DNA reproduction at the cellular level, for the regulation of homocysteine, and for the cysteine cycle. It is a form of folate that is found in circulation and that can cross membranes and the blood-brain barrier.
But it’s important to keep in mind that the dosage is extremely important with 5-MTHF, especially for those with multiple chemical sensitivity and chronic conditions that arise from the NO/ONOO- cycle. In many such cases, over 300 mcg a day will not be well tolerated, as it can actually lead to a loss in reduced folates and even the build-up of toxic products due to the oxidation of 5-MTHF. Using high doses of vitamin C can help with this, up to 1 to 2 g of it along with the 5-MTHF.
If you have AFS, especially in the more advanced stages, this will be another tricky situation. Although vitamin C is one of the best supplements to take for AFS, such high doses can add to the metabolite load in your body and can cause a paradoxical reaction, where instead of it helping your symptoms, it can worsen them. This is especially the case with anxiety.
Resveratrol seems to also lower the NO/ONOO- cycle. More specifically, resveratrol seems to lower superoxide, lower peroxynitrite, increase mitochondria function, lower NMDA activity, lower oxidative stress, and lower calcium levels in the cells.
Magnesium plays an important part in NMDA receptor activity regulation, as magnesium ions can block the channels the receptors open to let calcium flow into the cells. Magnesium deficiency is quite common, and so it can make you vulnerable to NO/ONOO- cycle diseases. It is also another supplement regularly recommended to AFS sufferers, although paradoxical reactions, such as irritability, increased fatigue, constipation, and anxiety are a possibility, especially with advanced AFS.
The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are excellent anti-inflammatory supplements. L-carnitine, vitamin B12, glutathione, and phosphatidylserine seem to also have a beneficial effect.
All types of anti-inflammatory foods or supplements are helpful, but, again, it’s important to make sure that you’re using supplements with the guidance of a professional, and you don’t just take a cocktail of different pills hoping some combination will work. With multiple chemical sensitivity, you have a much higher risk of increasing your toxic load and overwhelming your already-compromised Detoxification circuit.
Using supplements can only act as a support to holistic diet and lifestyle changes that support your Detoxification circuit, improve the function of your adrenal glands, balance your NEM, and lower inflammation. What you avoid matters just as much as what you add.
For example, knowing that EMF hypersensitivity is commonly connected with multiple chemical sensitivity, you may want to begin experimenting with reducing your exposure by limiting cell phone use to specific hours of the day, using earthing mats when on your computer, turning off appliances when not using them, and switching off Wi-Fi at night when you go to bed.
Also, because glutamate is the main agonist of the NMDA receptors, avoiding foods that contain MSG can bring significant improvements straight away. That also goes for any foods you are sensitive to, such as gluten, dairy, peanuts, or others. Keep in mind that you may have a gluten or dairy sensitivity yet not exhibit the typical GI tract symptoms, but it will still affect you. In general, it may be best to cut gluten out completely and eliminate dairy for a while to see how you feel.
Inflammatory and dysbiosis-inducing foods and drinks - such as sugar, alcohol, sodas, highly refined and processed food, foods and drinks with artificial sweeteners or flavors, and foods that have been treated with pesticides or herbicides - should also be avoided. Eat organic, whole foods whenever possible, and stick to foods on the lower end of the glycemic index scale to avoid blood sugar spikes and crashes. The adrenal fatigue diet is one diet that covers all of these, and more.
Next, check your home and beauty products. Most likely, if you’re buying the more commercial brands on the market, they are full of chemicals that can add to the toxic load in your body. Try swapping them out for more natural and organic products, or make your own at home.
Once you make such changes, and your adrenal fatigue begins to improve, you can consider different detox methods. Please use caution, as in some cases of advanced AFS, a detox may be too much for your system to handle, and rather than help you it will slow down your recovery and may even harm you.
But some options include sauna therapy, as it can help with conditions induced by the NO/ONOO- cycle. Interestingly enough, it’s not just due to its ability to help your body detoxify; it seems to also be due to the fact that sauna therapy seems to increase the availability of the BH4 enzyme, which helps reduce NO synthase uncoupling. Be careful with too much detoxing through the sauna though. Make sure to time yourself and the sweating and don’t overdo it. Increase minute by minute if you are not feeling fatigued.
Doing cleanses with juicing and soups can also be very useful to rid the body of toxins while giving the GI tract a chance to reboot. Once the toxic load has declined, the gut is healthier, and inflammation has gone down, your Detoxification circuit will begin to gain back its strength.
Heavy metal chelation and managing any viral and bacterial infections present are also steps you may have to consider, but it will depend on your current state of health and the overall recovery plan you will be following.
Multiple chemical sensitivity is a complex issue, and many people that suffer from it don’t even know it, because it’s not the most widely understood condition. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to experience this, you may also have been misdiagnosed with other conditions. If you think you may have issues linked with this condition, then here's how to start alleviating them:
If you need help with this process from someone who's aware of AFS and the effects it can have on your body, then talk to our team on +1 (626) 571-1234 or click here.
© Copyright 2020 Michael Lam, M.D. All Rights Reserved.
With the amount of pollutants, toxins, allergens, EMFs, and chemicals in our food and environment, it should be standard practice to consider multiple chemical sensitivity when dealing with illnesses and symptoms. Symptoms include a negative response after coming into contact with multiple types of chemicals present in your environment.
