Benzene is a colorless gas, derived from petroleum, widely used throughout chemical manufacturing. It is one of the top twenty chemicals for production volume in the United States. Benzene is used to produce plastics, dyes, rubber, synthetic materials, motor fuel, various pesticides, cleaners, some drugs, and as a precursor for other chemicals.
The chemical structure of benzene is an aromatic ring, like a hexagon. Benzene is incredibly difficult for the body to breakdown and detoxify. Some benzene is broken down and excreted through the urine; however, unmetabolized benzene may deposit in tissues and promote local inflammation, thereby interfering with cellular functions.
Sources of Benzene:
Unfortunately due to the widespread use of benzene in manufacturing, many products and food items are contaminated with benzene. Benzene may be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, inhaled, or transferred through the skin. Listed below are possible sources of benzene exposure.
Secondary Sources of Benzene:
Certain chemicals added to food products, personal care products, and cleaners contain a benzene molecule. Listed below are secondary sources of benzene exposure. Look for these ingredients on personal care, household cleaners, and food/beverage product labels.
Note About Soda: The combination of sodium benzoate and vitamin C (labeled as ascorbic acid or citric acid on labels) produces benzene through the breakdown of sodium benzoate. Some studies have found increased concentrations of benzene in diet sodas compared to other sodas. Some examples of sodas containing sodium benzoate and vitamin C include, Sprite, Fanta, and Mountain Dew.
Symptoms of Chronic Benzene Exposure and Testing:
Benzene can be tested via blood after acute high exposures. Blood testing for benzene is limited since benzene does not remain in the blood for long periods of time. This means chronic low to moderate exposures are unlikely to show up with laboratory testing. Dr. Miranda Hill utilizes Cellular Photonics to test patients for stored benzene within the body.
Health Effects of Benzene:
Benzene disrupts the function of many cellular functions. Studies have shown benzene to interfere with the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow, which can cause anemia. Exposure to benzene also interferes with the function of the immune system. Overtime, exposure to high levels of benzene can decrease platelets and white blood cells in the blood.
Due to the aromatic structure of benzene, cell membranes become damaged with chronic benzene exposure and buildup. This interferes with many cellular processes, including hormone production, detoxification, and the overall health of many organ systems.
Benzene is classified as a carcinogen and has been linked to blood cancers (e.g. leukemia) and breast cancer. Upon contact with genetic material, benzene disrupts DNA production, DNA stability, and can cause genetic mutations. Further research is need to identify the full health impacts of benzene.
Benzene Detoxification and Treatment:
Accumulation of benzene adds to the total toxic load within the body. As part of an overall health plan, Dr. Miranda Hill recommends maintenance supplementation with quality phosphatidylcholine for cellular repair from benzene exposure. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Miranda Hill here for environmental toxin assessment and detoxification.
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