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🎙️ Healthy California with Linda Brown: Ep. X – Detox Deep Dive, Part 2: Reducing Your Toxic Burden

Welcome back to the Healthy California podcast! I’m your host, Linda Brown, and I’m here to guide you through the small but powerful changes that can help you, your family, and your community return to a state of health and balance.

This week, we’re diving into Part 2 of our series on toxins — and more importantly, what to do about them.

Last episode, we explored what toxins are, how they affect your body, and why they’re more than just a buzzword. This week, we’ll go deeper into the concept of toxic burden — the idea that it’s not just about the toxins you’re exposed to, but about how well your body can process and eliminate them.

We’ll break down:

• ✅ The three phases of liver detox (and why they matter)
• ✅ What nutrients and supplements support each phase
• ✅ How to eat in a way that reduces toxic overload
• ✅ The importance of proper elimination — and why constipation can be a major roadblock to detox
• ✅ Common foods, drinks, and habits that burden your liver
• ✅ How toxins are linked to weight gain, hormone issues, and chronic fatigue
• ✅ Why you don’t need a starvation “cleanse” to detox — and what actually works

Plus, I’m sharing more details about my guided liver detox program happening at the end of May — right after Memorial Day. Join me and take a big step toward clearing out toxins and resetting your health naturally.

🌿 Healthy detoxing isn't about deprivation — it's about nourishment and empowerment.

Let’s make this a journey, not a punishment. Your liver works hard for you every single day — now it’s time to return the favor. 💚

✨ Mentioned in this episode:

• Environmental Working Group (EWG) resources for personal care products
• Episode #2: All about Constipation
• Episode #3: Hormones & Meat Quality

👉 Be sure to subscribe, share with a friend, and follow along as we walk this path to healthier living together. And don’t forget to mark your calendar for the liver detox at the end of May!

References:

Environmental Working Group (EWG.org). Guide to Safer Personal Care Products. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

“It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones” (prov.3:8) https://www.youversion.com/the_bible_app

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/programs/substance-priority-list.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/spl/#2022spl

Find Out What’s in Your Water / Environmental Working Group Water

https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/

Radi

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

In this episode, we dive deep into the everyday toxins and harmful substances in our environment, how they impact our health, and most importantly, what we can do about them. From the air we breathe to the products we use and the food we eat—many of these exposures are invisible but powerful. This isn’t a doom-and-gloom story—this is about awareness, empowerment, and action.

✅ Topics Covered:

• Why this conversation matters
  We’re surrounded by substances that disrupt our health—often without even realizing it. I break down the importance of recognizing and reducing your toxic burden.
• Definitions of key terms
  Toxins vs. toxicants vs. poisons vs. radiation – what’s the difference?
• Common categories of environmental toxicants
  • Metals (lead, mercury, nickel, arsenic, etc.)
  • Inorganic chemicals (fluoride)
  • Solvents (found in nail polish, adhesives, paint thinners, etc.)
  • Pesticides & herbicides (glyphosate/RoundUp)
  • Plasticizers (BPA)
  • Preservatives (parabens)
  • Airborne toxicants (mold, ozone, wildfire smoke, VOCs)
• Lifestyle toxicants
  • Alcohol
  • High-fructose corn syrup
  • Smoking & marijuana
  • Gluten and its inflammatory effects
• Toxic burden & cumulative exposure
  Even small exposures add up. Over time, our bodies can become overloaded, especially if detox pathways (like the liver) are compromised.
• How toxicants impact our health
  • Endocrine disruptors (hormone imbalance, fertility, sleep)
  • Obesogens (toxins that promote fat storage)
  • Carcinogens (cancer-causing)
  • Neurotoxins (affect brain and nervous system)
• Detoxification and prevention tips
  • Detox the home: dust regularly, invest in air filters
  • Choose BPA/paraben-free products
  • Eat organic when possible
  • Avoid processed foods and artificial dyes
  • Support your liver function naturally
  • Reduce exposure to environmental and lifestyle toxins

🔍 Key Takeaway:
You don’t need to live in fear—but you do need to live informed. Awareness is your superpower, and small changes can protect your health and longevity in big ways.

📌 Mentioned in this episode:

• Red dye controversies (research dating back to the 1970s!)
• BPA in receipts, shower curtains, and canned foods
• Glyphosate lawsuits and links to chronic disease
• The long-term neurogenic and hormonal effects of everyday exposures

💡 Final Thought:
The goal isn’t to eliminate every single toxin—that’s not realistic. But by being intentional about what you bring into your body and your home, you can drastically lower your toxic burden and support your body’s natural detox systems.

References:

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

In this episode of Healthy California, we explore a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of health: sleep. We spend nearly a third of our lives sleeping, but are we doing it right? Discover why sleep is vital, what happens when you don’t get enough, and how to optimize your rest for better overall well-being.

Key Topics Covered:

✅ The Critical Role of Sleep

• How sleep impacts physical and mental health
• The role of sleep in recovery, memory, and brain detoxification
• Why sleep should be a non-negotiable priority

✅ The Hidden Dangers of Sleep Deprivation

• Increased risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes
• The connection between poor sleep, obesity, and neurological disorders
• How lack of sleep affects mood, cognitive function, and accident risk

✅ Understanding Insomnia & Its Causes

• Why 60 million adults struggle with insomnia but few seek help
• The difference between sleep-onset and sleep-maintenance insomnia
• Common triggers: Stress, anxiety, pain, caffeine, and lifestyle habits

✅ Sleep Apnea & Its Impact on Brain Health

• Why oxygen deprivation during sleep is dangerous
• The link between sleep apnea and cognitive decline
• The importance of diagnosis, CPAP compliance, and weight management

✅ Common Sleep Disruptors

• Restless leg syndrome, hormonal imbalances, and alcohol consumption
• The role of blue light exposure in melatonin suppression
• How aging affects sleep quality and what to do about it

✅ The Science of Sleep Cycles

• Understanding REM and non-REM sleep
• How deep sleep supports cognitive function and immune health
• The importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

✅ Strategies for Better Sleep

• Establishing a nightly routine to promote restful sleep
• Managing stress and balancing cortisol levels
• Creating an optimal sleep environment (temperature, noise, and light control)
• How diet and exercise influence sleep patterns

✅ Natural Sleep Aids & Supplements

• The benefits of magnesium for relaxation and muscle function
• Melatonin supplementation: How and when to use it
• Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha for stress reduction
• Herbal teas and other natural remedies to promote sleep

Final Takeaways:
Sleep is a cornerstone of health and longevity. Prioritizing quality sleep can transform your well-being, boost cognitive function, and enhance overall vitality. Identify sleep disruptors, make necessary changes, and take steps toward healthier sleep habits.

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Raising children isn’t just about keeping them free from illness or disease—true health goes far beyond a diagnosis. Just because a child isn’t sick doesn’t mean they feel their best. In this episode, we explore how to raise children with lifelong habits that promote overall well-being.

We’ll dive into:
✅ Building healthy habits from an early age
✅ Encouraging physical, emotional, and mental well-being
✅ Teaching children the importance of good nutrition, sleep, and hygiene
✅ Balancing screen time and promoting healthy social interactions
✅ Instilling financial and spiritual well-being for a well-rounded life

Why This Matters:

Raising a healthy, thriving child means teaching them to make good choices in every area of life—from food and exercise to emotional resilience and financial habits. When children develop strong foundations early on, they’re more likely to grow into happy, healthy, and successful adults.

Resources & Action Steps:

✅ Simple ways to teach kids about health and self-care
✅ How to encourage good sleep, hygiene, and medical checkups
✅ Tips for reducing screen time while promoting meaningful activities

📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
✅ Follow the podcast for more health insights
✅ Leave a review if you found this episode valuable!

🎧 Tune in now to learn how to raise truly healthy, thriving children!

References:

*Number of U.S. Children Taking Psychiatric Drugs

https://www.cchrint.org/psychiatric-drugs/children-on-psychiatric-drugs/

*Dave Ramsey Financial Solutions

https://www.ramseysolutions.com/

*Dave Ramsey Teach Children about Finances

https://store.ramseysolutions.com/youth/children/

*https://www.Theovercomeproj.org

*Stef’s Instagram and the Overcome Project

@the_overcomeproject

@ironmilefitness

@stef_alderman

@stefironmile

Scripture of the day:

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) – "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

Did you know that 1 in 3 people are pre-diabetic—and 80% of them don’t even know it? This alarming statistic from the CDC highlights the importance of early detection and prevention.

In this episode, we discuss:
⚠️ What pre-diabetes is and why it’s a growing concern
🩸 Key risk factors & warning signs to watch for
🥗 How to prevent or reverse pre-diabetes through lifestyle changes
💪 Proactive steps you can take today to protect your health

Why This Matters:

Pre-diabetes doesn’t have to turn into diabetes. Small, intentional changes can make a big difference in preventing long-term health complications.

Resources & Action Steps:

✅ Learn how to identify your personal risk factors
✅ Discover easy diet & exercise tips to lower your blood sugar naturally
✅ Take charge of your health before it’s too late!

📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
✅ Follow the podcast for more vital health topics
✅ Rate & review if you found this episode helpful!

🎧 Tune in now to take control of your health and prevent pre-diabetes!

References:

Ahmad, A., Lim, P.S., Lamptey, R., Webb, D.R., Davies, M.J. (2022). Type 2 diabetes. The Lancet. Vol.400(10365)p1803-1820. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(22)01655-5/fulltext

Rakel, D. and Minichiello, V.J. (2023). Integrative Medicine. Fifth Ed., Elsevier, Ltd. Chap.35

IDF (2022). Diabetes around the world in 2021. International Diabetes Federation. https://diabetesatlas.org/

CDC (2021 Dec 29). Diabetes: A US Report Card. Centers for Disease Control. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/communication-resources/diabetes-statistics.html

Pizzorno, J. E., & Murray, M. T. (2020). Textbook of Natural Medicine (5th ed.). Elsevier - OHCE. https://bookshelf.health.elsevier.com/books/9780323523806

CDC (no date). Diabetes Risk Factors. Centers for Disease Control. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/risk-factors/index.html

NSF (2025). Be your Best Slept Self. National Sleep Foundation. https://www.thensf.org/

Crinnion, W.J. and Pizzorno, J.E. (2019). Clinical Environmental Medicine: Identification and Natural Treatment of Disease Caused by Common Pollutants. Elsevier, Ltd.

Shabil, M., Bushi, G., Bodige, P.K. et al (2023). Effect of Fenugreek on Hyperglycemia: A Systmatic Review and Meta-Analysis. Medicina 2023. 59(248). https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59020248

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

Did you know your body burns calories even when you're resting? It all comes down to metabolism—the process that affects your energy levels, weight, and overall health.

In this episode, we break down:
🔥 What metabolism is and how it works
⚖️ The connection between metabolism and weight management
⚡ Simple lifestyle changes to naturally boost your metabolism
💡 How to maximize calorie burn—even at rest!

Why This Matters:

A healthy metabolism is key to maintaining energy, managing weight, and supporting long-term wellness. With just a few small adjustments, you can increase your metabolism and start seeing real changes.

Resources & Action Steps:

✅ Learn easy, science-backed ways to rev up your metabolism
✅ Discover daily habits that keep your body burning calories efficiently
✅ Take control of your health with practical metabolism-boosting tips

📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
✅ Follow the podcast for more health and wellness insights
✅ Leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

🎧 Tune in now to unlock the secrets of metabolism and start burning calories effortlessly!

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

Did you know that chronic inflammation could be silently affecting your health and increasing your risk for disease? Many people are inflamed and don’t even realize it!

In this episode, we break down:
🔥 What inflammation is and how it impacts your body
⚠️ The warning signs of chronic inflammation
🥗 How diet and lifestyle play a role in reducing inflammation
💡 Simple, effective strategies to take control of your health

Why This Matters:

Unchecked inflammation can lead to serious health issues like autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and even cancer. Understanding how to identify and manage inflammation is key to living a healthier life.

Resources & Action Steps:

✅ Discover anti-inflammatory foods & habits
✅ Learn what triggers inflammation and how to avoid it
✅ Take simple steps today to reduce your risk of disease

📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
✅ Follow the podcast for more health insights
✅ Leave a review if you found this episode helpful!

🎧 Tune in now to take charge of your health and fight inflammation!

Drug/Micronutrient interactions https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/drug-nutrient-interactions

http://www.drweil.com – Food Pyramid in an Integrative Approach

https://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/17990/mealtimes/snacks/

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com

Send us a text

Episode Overview:

Constipation is the #1 gastrointestinal (GI) complaint—but did you know it could also be a key indicator of colon cancer? In this episode, we explore why constipation is a crucial warning sign, how to resolve it naturally, and ways to promote long-term gut health.

We’ll also be joined by a pelvic health therapist, who shares expert insights on maintaining optimal pelvic health for both men and women. Plus, we wrap up with a simple, practical trick to get things moving—literally!

Key Topics Discussed:

💩 Why constipation is more than just an inconvenience
⚕️ The link between constipation & colon cancer
🛠 Natural remedies & lifestyle changes for better digestion
🩺 Expert interview: Pelvic health insights for men & women
✅ A simple trick to ease constipation fast

Resources & Action Steps:

• Learn easy dietary & lifestyle changes to improve gut health
• Discover how pelvic floor therapy can aid digestion and relieve constipation
• Try our expert-approved trick for quick relief

📢 Subscribe & Stay Connected:
✅ Follow the podcast for more insightful health topics.
✅ Rate & review if you found this episode valuable!

🎧 Tune in now for expert tips on gut health & well-being!

•Mollie Tanjoco, PT, Pelvic Health Therapist

Milestone Wellness, Roseville, California

Milestonewellness.org

•Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen

Environmental Working Group

EWG.org

•Bristol Stool Chart

https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/poop-chart-bristol-stool-scale

I want to share a helpful resource with you—a free health questionnaire designed to pinpoint the areas in your life that need focus for optimal wellness. If you're interested, simply click the link in my show notes or visit www.heal-throughfood.com to access it.

Thank you for listening to Healthy California.

If you have tried all my suggestions and are still having trouble with your health, and would like an appointment with me, please email me, text, or call me via the contact information below.

My contact:

Linda Brown, MPT, Doctoral Candidate Functional Nutrition

916-628-6416

linda@heal-throughfood.com

www.heal-throughfood.com