Introduction

Understanding the origins of disease—from the common cold to autoimmune conditions—requires examining both internal and external factors affecting our health. While we inherit certain predispositions from conception and throughout our time in utero, this doesn’t mean we’re powerless. Rather, understanding these influences empowers us to take meaningful action for our wellbeing.

Many people suffering from conditions like arthritis, asthma, endometriosis, or digestive disorders believe their body is working against them. This perspective can be disempowering, obscuring the valuable messages our symptoms provide about underlying imbalances. By understanding the true causes of disease, we can make informed choices about our health rather than viewing illness as inevitable.

This article explores the fundamental factors contributing to disease and offers practical guidance for taking charge of your health.

1. The Chemistry of Disease

Our body’s chemistry, particularly the balance between acidity and alkalinity (pH), plays a crucial role in health and disease. Optimal blood pH is slightly alkaline at 7.4. Several factors can disrupt this delicate balance:

Environmental Factors:

• Inherited cellular conditions from pregnancy and birth
• Environmental toxins from vehicles and household products
• Heavy metals from various sources
• Processed foods and beverages high in acid-forming compounds

When these factors accumulate, they can lead to metabolic acidosis—a condition triggering systemic inflammation. While inflammation serves as a natural healing response, chronic inflammation underlies many modern diseases.

2. The Role of Hydration

Proper hydration is fundamental to health, yet many people remain chronically dehydrated. The body’s water content typically decreases with age, from approximately 78% in youth to as low as 60% in later years. This reduction isn’t inevitable but often results from lifestyle choices.

Current research suggests daily water requirements vary based on individual factors:

• Men: 3 litres
• Women: 2 litres
• Pregnant women: 2.5 litres

However, requirements may increase based on activity levels, climate, and health conditions. Quality matters as much as quantity—use distilled or properly filtered water with essential minerals provides optimal hydration.

3. The Impact of Digestion

Proper digestion involves four crucial processes: digestion itself, absorption, utilisation, and elimination. Any disruption in these processes can contribute to disease development.

The late Professor Arnold Ehret’s research demonstrated that impaired elimination, particularly constipation, underlies many health conditions. Modern diets often exacerbate this issue, leading to accumulated waste that can trigger various symptoms, from joint pain to respiratory issues.

4. Liver Function and Health

The liver performs roughly 2,000 essential functions, including:

• Fat processing
• Cardiovascular protection
• Vitamin and mineral storage
• Blood filtration
• Glucose regulation
• Toxin neutralisation

Modern environmental factors place unprecedented stress on this vital organ. Common signs of liver strain include:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Digestive issues
• Skin conditions
• Sleep disturbances
• Dark under-eye circles

Supporting liver health through reduced exposure to environmental toxins and proper nutrition can significantly impact overall wellbeing.

5. The Impact of Parasites

Parasites are organisms that survive by deriving nutrients from host organisms. While rarely life-threatening in developed nations, parasitic infections can cause numerous health challenges. These organisms can enter the body through contaminated food and water, or via insect bites.

Common symptoms of parasitic infections include:

• Digestive disturbances
• Unexplained skin conditions
• Sleep disruptions
• Chronic fatigue
• Muscular discomfort

Early identification and appropriate treatment of parasitic infections can prevent long-term health complications.

6. Chemical Exposure Through Medication

Modern medical interventions can introduce significant chemical loads to the body. Key sources include:

• Antibiotics
• Various prescription medications
• Hormonal treatments
• Vaccinations

These interventions may have a pH between 2 and 4, potentially contributing to systemic acidity. While such treatments may be essential in certain circumstances, understanding their impact allows for better-informed health decisions.

The liver bears particular responsibility for processing these chemical compounds. Supporting liver function becomes especially crucial when medical interventions are necessary. This might include:

• Appropriate nutrition support
• Adequate hydration
• Consultation with healthcare providers about liver-supportive measures
• Timing of medications to optimise processing

7. Stress and Unresolved Trauma

Modern life places unprecedented demands on our nervous system. Both acute stress and unresolved trauma can significantly impact our Central Nervous System (CNS) and Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

It’s important to acknowledge that negative emotions serve a natural and healthy function in human experience. However, when these emotions remain unprocessed, they can create physical manifestations:

• Chronic tension patterns
• Inflammatory responses
• Hormonal imbalances
• Digestive disruptions
• Sleep disturbances

Addressing emotional wellbeing through appropriate support and interventions can be as crucial as physical health measures. Consider:

• Professional counselling or therapy when needed
• Regular stress-management practices
• Movement practices that support emotional release
• Community connection and support
• Mindfulness and meditation practices

Balanced Nutrition

Many contemporary dietary practices, particularly excessive protein consumption, can burden bodily systems. The National Library of Medicine notes that surplus protein may stress bones, kidneys, and liver function. Moreover, high-protein diets often correlate with increased cardiovascular risk due to associated saturated fat intake.

A balanced approach emphasises whole, unprocessed foods while moderating protein intake. This includes:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Properly prepared legumes
• Moderate amounts of high-quality protein sources

Practical Steps for Health Improvement

Dietary Modifications

Follow the 80/20 principle:

• 80% whole, unprocessed foods
• 20% flexibility for other choices

Environmental Awareness

• Use natural household and personal care products
• Minimise plastic exposure
• Choose organic produce when possible
• Filter drinking water

Stress Management

Regular meditation and stress-reduction practices help address the emotional components of health. Simple daily practices can significantly impact overall wellbeing.

Conclusion

Disease prevention and health maintenance require a comprehensive approach addressing physical, environmental, and emotional factors. By understanding these relationships, we can make informed choices supporting long-term wellbeing. While the journey to optimal health may seem daunting, even small, consistent changes can yield significant improvements over time.