Dr. Kyle D.
Christensen, DC, ND,MH
The possibility of radiation exposure and nuclear fallout are ideas few
want to entertain. However with a few simple preparations, you can minimize the
potential effects of exposure and keep you and your loved ones healthy. With the recent meltdown of the Nuclear Facility
in Fukushima, Japan those interested in preparedness have once again been
alerted to the dangers of a radioactive fallout. Many have purchased, with a kind of knee-jerk
response, enough Potassium Iodide for them and theirs. But with the purchase of KI (potassium
iodine) there is often little understanding of what it does and the potential
risks involved. I’ve talked with a few who felt that maybe they should start
taking it as a precautionary measure, even though there was no imminent risk or
danger in their area.
I have discovered that
few really know what to do and how to prepare for a possible nuclear
event. Let me share with you my
understanding of how to prepare, prevent, and recover from exposure to radioactive
fallout.
When a nuclear bomb goes off or a nuclear reactor melts down, metals or minerals that are not normally a problem become unstable and have more energy than they should. The majority of the radiation emitted during a
reactor meltdown or a nuclear detonation is the radioactive isotope
Iodine-131. Normal non-radioactive iodine has 127 neutrons and protons and is stable. There are also Cesium-137,
Strontium-90 and many radioactive metals/minerals which can pose dangers. But because Iodine-131 is the major player, that is what the media focuses on.
Exposure to this radioactive iodine will most likely end up in the
thyroid gland, which is where iodine is primarily utilized. If the iodine introduced in the thyroid gland
is radioactive, the potential for injury or damage to the cells is very high. The most common cancer associated with the
Chernobyl disaster was thyroid cancer, which was three times higher than the normal
rates of thyroid cancer. Understand that using the supplement potassium iodine as your sole
treatment, addresses only the thyroid gland and neglects all other aspects of
radiation poisoning.
Here's how it works. The thyroid gland, like
other organs and glands in the body, have receptor sites or loading docks
specifically designed for the specific nutrients that are needed. If the nutrients goes by a loading dock and
the space is already occupied, it will move along until it finds an open
space. The thyroid gland craves and
prizes iodine and has a lot of docking ports for it. When we breathe in or ingest iodine, whether
it is healthy iodine (found in salt, seaweed or a potassium iodine tablet) or
if it is the radioactive isotope iodine-131, it will most likely end up in the
thyroid gland. The key during a radioactive exposure is to have all of the
receptor sites or loading docks occupied by healthy iodine so that there is no
room for the radioactive iodine. We can
do this by taking potassium iodide or enough of the other forms or sources of
iodine to ensure there is no room for the radioactive iodine to be absorbed.
Taking the recommended
dose of potassium iodine can provide approximately 24 hours of protection. Once
the iodine is accepted and assimilated, it is off loaded by the receptor site
and then distributed throughout the body via the lymphatic system. The receptor
site is then available for more iodine, good or bad. Typically one dose or 24
hours worth of protection is enough, assuming you are able to get out of harms
way within that time.
Just because potassium
iodide can flood the thyroid receptor sites, does not mean that continually or
persistently taking it will be of benefit. Taking KI (potassium iodine) just in
case and when not directed by local public health or emergency management
officials is just plain fool-hardy and can have severe consequences to your
endocrine system and even damage a healthy thyroid gland. Additionally, if you are suffering from an
autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s it may be best to avoid potassium iodine
altogether. There are other options we will discuss, and it is my opinion that
if the situation does not warrant dosing up on high levels of potassium iodine,
don’t do it.
Learn how to protect
yourself from the effects of radiation exposure with proven, safe and natural
alternatives.
When directed by local
public health or Emergency Management Officials to take KI (potassium iodine),
you should do it. And if at all
possible: Get Out of Harms Way! According
to the FDA, the following doses are appropriate to take after internal
contamination with (or likely internal contamination with) radioactive iodine:
Adults should
take 130 mg (one 130 mg tablet OR two 65 mg tablets OR two mL of solution).
Women who are breastfeeding
should take the adult dose of 130 mg.
Children between 3
and 18 years of age should take 65 mg (one 65 mg tablet OR 1 mL of solution). Children who are adult size (greater
than or equal to 150 pounds) should take the full adult dose, regardless of
their age.
Infants and
children
between 1 month and 3 years of age should take 32 mg ( of a 65 mg tablet OR mL
of solution). This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing infants and
children.
Newborns from birth
to 1 month of age should be given 16 mg ( of a 65 mg tablet or mL of solution).
This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing newborn infants.
Fortunately, there are
many natural methods and means to deal with radiation exposure that have proven
successful with both the prevention and care of radiation injury. Much has been observed and learned as a
result of the nuclear disasters in Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Chernobyl and
Fukushima. My professional recommendations are to use the potassium iodine only
during the risk of a direct confrontation with radioactive fallout and when
directed by authorities (assuming you can get information from officials).
However, before, after and during times of risk I would employ several of these
other approaches as you are able.
More Modest Approaches
The respected biochemist,
Dr. Dan Newell has formulated a protocol using Standard Process supplements
that will help protect your body in the chance of radiation exposure.
These supplements can be taken over a long duration and will have very
little if any negative side effects on the body. His recommendations for an
adult size are as follows:
Cal-Ma Plus (4-6/day) - the
main focus and KEY is to help your body chelate
(deactivate) the major radioactive isotopes Strontium and Cesium which will
aggregate in bone tissue causing even worse damage. According to Dr. Newell’s
research and experience, this is the most significant part of any radioactive
exposure.
Super EFF (3-6/day) – Standard
Process founder Dr. Royal Lee originally formulated and worked on this product
specifically for workers on shipyards that were at risk of being exposed to
high levels of radiation
Additional
Herbal Approaches
Eleuthero:
One herb that stands out and has been validated through much research as a
result of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster is Eleuthero (formerly known as
Siberian Ginseng). Research shows its
ability to counteract the effects of radiation. In addition, it has
long-standing adaptogenic and immune supporting functions. Eleuthero
reduces the side effects of radiation exposure. In animal and in
vitro studies, Eleuthero has demonstrated effects of radiation
protection (Yonezawa et al.,1989) and stress reduction (Takasugi et al., 1985).
After the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, many Russian and Ukrainian
citizens were given Eleuthero to counteract the effects of
radiation. Eleuthero was also commonly used in Russia in oncology
hospital departments to increase the tolerance of the patients to the adverse
effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy (Gvamichava, 1966; Khatiashvili,
1964, 1966; Kupin, 1986a, 1986b).
Seaweeds
such as Dulse, Kelp, Irish Moss and Bladderwrack provide an abundance of
natural iodine and offer protection for the thyroid gland. Generally all seaweeds are good sources of
iodine.
Chlorella and Spirulina: In Chernobyl,
Spirulina was used to help save many children from radiation poisoning. By
taking 5 grams of Spirulina a day for 45 days, the Institute of Radiation
Medicine in Minsk even proved that children on this protocol experienced
enhanced immune systems, T-cell counts and reduced radioactivity. Israeli
scientists have since treated Chernobyl children with doses of natural beta
carotene from Dunaliella algae and proved that it helped normalize their blood
chemistry. Chlorella algae, a known immune system builder and heavy metal
detoxifier, has also shown radioprotective effects. Because they bind heavy
metals, algae should therefore be consumed after exposure to any type of
radioactive contamination. Five grams
per day based on a 150 lbs body size is recommended.
With radiation exposure
also comes heavy metal toxicity. Truth
be told, because of the air we breath, the food we eat and the water we drink,
most of us are carrying too many heavy metals that have no business within
us. For this reason, cleansing and
detoxifying the body, radiation exposure or not, can be a very good thing.
Cilantro is referred to as the poor man’s
chelation therapy. The herb cilantro,
which we love so much in our salsa, has the ability to grab hold of harmful
heavy metals, deactivate and escort them out of the body. I often recommend two bunches of cilantro per
week to my patients, which can be used with juicing, salsa, salads or with
homemade pesto.
Cilantro Pesto
Ingredients:
3 garlic cloves garlic, peeled and coarsely chopped
2 cups fresh cilantro tightly packed
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup parmesan cheese - crumbled
2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds or pine nuts
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
1.
Place the garlic and cilantro in a food processor fitted
with a metal blade. With the processor running, slowly add the oil, lemon
juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
2.
Serve with noodles, in sauces, as a sandwich spread or make into
a salad dressing.
3.
Make several batches and keep in the freezer. Frozen pesto will keep for nearly a year.
These herbs and several others are cited on the NIH.gov website
as excellent protection and treatment for radiation. See the article entitled: Radioprotective Potential of Plants and Herbs against the Effects of
Ionizing Radiation
Additional Herbal Standouts include:
Rosemary, Gingko Biloba, Panax Ginseng, Dandelion, Turmeric,
Maitake, Reishi and Cordyceps Mushrooms, and Ginger
Bentonite Clay
Not only can you bathe in this to help pull toxins from your
skin. Bentonite clay is used by Russian nuclear workers (slathered on their
skin) before working with nuclear material. You can use it internally,
safely, in moderation to help pull out toxins and absorb radiation. Bentonite
clay is used in traditional medicine for treating heavy metal poisoning.
How to Use
Bentonite clays can be used internally and externally. If
you are using clay internally be sure that the product states that it is safe
for internal use. Due to metals and other impurities that may be found in the
clays, not all of them can be taken internally. If you are unsure of the purity
of the clay contact the manufacturer.
For internal use, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of the clay in at least 8 ounces of water. Drink the mixture and follow with another 8 ounces of pure water. It has also been found useful to add fiber to this process to help move the clay along through the digestive tract.
For external use, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons in a bowl with water or apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial which may help alleviate some of the underlying causes that aggravate acne. Add the liquid slowly until you develop a muddy consistency. Wash and feel fantastic!
Clays may also be used as a bath. Add 1 to 2 cups of clay to your hot bath water and soak in it for at least 30 minutes for best results.
A foot bath is also useful for detoxing by adding 3 to 4 tablespoons to a tub of hot water and soaking your feet in it for at least 30 minutes.
For internal use, mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of the clay in at least 8 ounces of water. Drink the mixture and follow with another 8 ounces of pure water. It has also been found useful to add fiber to this process to help move the clay along through the digestive tract.
For external use, mix 1 to 2 tablespoons in a bowl with water or apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is antibacterial which may help alleviate some of the underlying causes that aggravate acne. Add the liquid slowly until you develop a muddy consistency. Wash and feel fantastic!
Clays may also be used as a bath. Add 1 to 2 cups of clay to your hot bath water and soak in it for at least 30 minutes for best results.
A foot bath is also useful for detoxing by adding 3 to 4 tablespoons to a tub of hot water and soaking your feet in it for at least 30 minutes.
Miso Soup: made from a paste of fermented soybeans has shown
repeatedly benefits in preventing and treating radiation exposure.
One of the main ingredients in miso soup is kelp, but it
also includes mushrooms (which have their own health benefits, as well). http://naturalsociety.com/miso-soup-protects-against-radiation-exposure/
Iodine or Betadine – If you find yourself
unprepared and all you have at your disposal is iodine tincture or betadine,
they can be useful. Do not drink or ingest iodine or Betadine! Avoid
them if you have an allergy to iodine (which you most likely do if you’re
allergic to shellfish).
If stores in your area are out of potassium iodide
tablets don’t fret. Painting on iodine or Betadine will
provide a good bit of protection against radioactive iodine. While not as
reliable as ingesting potassium iodide (and not as thoroughly scientifically
studied), your body will absorb the iodine, which will then travel to and
hopefully protect your thyroid gland.
How to paint on iodine: Purchase a bottle
of 2% tincture of iodine or Betadine at your local drugstore (you may have to
ask for it at the pharmacy). Paint about 2 ml or so on your abdomen (a little
less for children) and allow your skin to soak it in. Do this daily until the
iodine remains a reddish-orange color on your skin (doesn’t fade). When it
stops fading, it means your body has enough iodine. If you’re consistently exposed to radiation,
you’ll want to keep painting on the iodine every day.
So imagine with me if you
will, we are in a situation where radioactive fallout may become an issue. No high radiation yet, but the potential is
there. Here are my recommendations for
me and mine. Do as many of these are you are able. These measures will also help to cleanse and detox the body in a non-radiation emergency situation. Determine for yourself how much you may want or need to do. But I suggest you have things on hand well before the threat of "an event".
Preventative/Preparatory Measures
1) Begin taking the Standard Process Supplements as directed
2) Take daily Herbal Tincture – 2 dropperfuls 2-3 times daily.
This is our FALLOUT FORMULA
1 cup (8oz) - Eleuthero root- cut
½ cup (4oz) – Ginger
root – cut
2 TBS (1oz) – Dandelion
root – cut
2 TBS (1oz) – Maitake
mushroom - whole
2 TBS (1oz) – Reishi
mushroom - slices
2 TBS (1oz) – Cordyceps
mushroom – powder
1 TBS (1/2oz) – Ginkgo
biloba leaf – cut
Blend all of the above
in 40% vodka to fill a 2 quart jar.
Shake daily for at least
2 weeks then strain.
3) Take Chlorella or Spirulina- 3 to 5 grams daily
4) Eat Cilantro daily – about 2 TBS
5) Miso soup – at least 2 cups daily.
6) Move out of harms way as best as possible.
7) Drink plenty of pure water
Immediately Before and
During Fallout
1) Take KI (potassium iodide) as directed.
2) Take Bentonite internally and use in a bath externally.
3) Continue with Cilantro, Miso, Standard Process and Herbs
After Fallout
Continue supplements as these will continue to cleanse
and heal your body whether you’ve had a significant exposure to radiation or
not. All of these natural herbal
protocols are safe for long-term use and can benefit for detox purposes whether
you’ve participated in a nuclear disaster or are just participating in life on a polluted
planet.
FDA
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products or recommendations are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a licensed health care professional before starting any supplement, dietary, or exercise program, especially if you are pregnant or have any pre existing injuries or medical conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products or recommendations are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a licensed health care professional before starting any supplement, dietary, or exercise program, especially if you are pregnant or have any pre existing injuries or medical conditions.
