{"id":23112,"date":"2020-03-03T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2020-03-03T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/algal-blooms-the-environment-and-your-health\/"},"modified":"2022-04-26T09:43:28","modified_gmt":"2022-04-26T16:43:28","slug":"algal-blooms-the-environment-and-your-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/algal-blooms-the-environment-and-your-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Algal Blooms: The Environment and Your Health"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In 2017-2018 a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">landmark<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2019\/01\/31\/harmful-to-fish-harmful-to-you-red-tides-and-algae-blooms\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">red tide event occurred in Florida<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0that affected over a hundred miles of coastline and lasted for over a year causing deaths to sea life and affecting human health. I followed this story closely<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and it made me consider this source of environmental toxins when uncovering the root causes of symptoms and disease for my patients.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Since that time, I\u2019ve been hearing of more areas where water\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">has become contaminated<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Now, not a week goes by where I don\u2019t see a news story about algal blooms, the causes and consequences.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Harmful Algal Blooms, or HABs, are becoming a huge environmental and public health issue, affecting communities in all\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/nutrientpollution\/harmful-algal-blooms\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">50 states<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and globally.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">M<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ost of us<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0generally<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0understand water contamination<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0is not a good thing,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">we\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">probably know that we should not swim in affected water<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. But<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0most<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0people don\u2019t realize that\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">even breathing the air nearby\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Harmful Algal Bloom<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0can cause serious health problems.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Researchers speculate that airborne exposure\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">to a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">toxin found in blue-green algae, BMAA,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.waltonsun.com\/zz\/news\/20200122\/blue-green-algae-toxin-people-along-florida-river-breathed-it-in-but-didnt-pee-it-out\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">could lead to neurological ailments\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">even\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">20 or more years after exposure.<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0post<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, I want to update you from\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2019\/01\/31\/harmful-to-fish-harmful-to-you-red-tides-and-algae-blooms\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">my previous article<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0on the topic and cover:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What is a Harmful Algal Bloom?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What causes algal blooms?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Algal bloom effects<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What you can do<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Is\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">a<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Harmful Algal Bloom<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">An algal bloom is simply an overgrowth of algae in a waterway. A Harmful Algal Bloom, or HAB for short, is when the algae\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">produce<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0toxins that are harmful to the ecosystem, animal<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">s<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and human health. HABs can occur in salt water or freshwater and examples include red tides, blue-green algae and cyanobacteria.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Red tides, like the one I mentioned in Florida, are caused by<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">K<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">arenia<\/span><\/i><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0brevis algae<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0that release<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0a neurotoxin called\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/emergency.cdc.gov\/agent\/brevetoxin\/casedef.asp\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">brevetoxin<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">The HAB species famous for the large algal blooms in Lake Erie is\u00a0<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mycrocystis<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Since a picture is worth a thousand words, here is an image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, of\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/oceanservice.noaa.gov\/facts\/hab-solutions.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Lake Erie<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW103352391 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun CommentStart SCXW103352391 BCX0\">\u201cWhile most of us generally understand water contamination and probably know that we should not swim in affected water, people don\u2019t realize that even breathing the air nearby a Harmful Algal Bloom can cause serious health problems.\u201d<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW103352391 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">With algal blooms in general and HABs specifically, you\u2019ll notice foam or scum on the water along with red, blue, green or brown colors.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">HA<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">B<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">s create dead zones in the water<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">and they\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">are harmful to human health<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">. As you can imagine, w<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">ater clean-up is extremely costly<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">HA<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">B<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">s are naturally occurring and have been documented since the 1500s.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">While algae at low levels are<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0relatively harmless, it is wh<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">en it blooms that it becomes an<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0issue<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Now w<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">e have a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">more\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">serious\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">problem<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0because<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0the rates of blooms\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">are certainly rising<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">lasting longer than they once did.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The good news is that s<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">cientists<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0recognize this problem and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0are learning more about these blooms than ever before in order to detect them, warn the public and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">of course\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">mitigate the effects for humans and the environment.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">NOAA offers\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov\/hab_info.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">HAB forecasts<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0for certain areas of concern including both the Gulf Coast and Lake Erie.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you are curious about y<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">o<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">u<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">r local water issues,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">you can\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">check reporting in your area<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and I definitely encourage you to!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Causes Algal Blooms?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For algae to bloom it needs three things:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Calibri,Times New Roman\" data-listid=\"7\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sunlight<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Calibri,Times New Roman\" data-listid=\"7\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">S<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">low\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">moving\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">or stagnant water\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"Calibri,Times New Roman\" data-listid=\"7\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">And\u2026\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">utrients like nitrogen and phosphorus<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">High levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in water is termed\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/nutrientpollution\/sources-and-solutions\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">nutrient pollution<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and comes from\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">manure and chemical fertilizers from agriculture, storm water, waste<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">water, fossil fuels and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">even fertilizers and pet waste from homes.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rises in temperatures, changes in precipitation and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">increased runoff from\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">industrial agriculture are all reasons for more\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and longer lasting HABs.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Some say that<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0HABs might be yet another consequence of\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/nutrientpollution\/climate-change-and-harmful-algal-blooms\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">climate change<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Certain\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">algae prefer<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0warmer water and large storms,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">following droughts, can increase the runoff into waterways providing the nutrients that the algae needs to bloom.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Algal Bloom Effects<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The bottom line is that algal blooms are not good for ecology or for health. Algal toxins are a threat to\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/26771345\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">water quality<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and can contaminate drinking water, recreational water, air and food.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">HABs are toxic to humans, plants and animals. In the ocean, red tides can kill fish, turtles, dolphins, seaweed a<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">nd other marine life. In lakes and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ponds<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0everything from insects to frogs<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and of course<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0fish can be impacted.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For humans, the toxins become airborne and both breathing contaminated air and being exposed to water or contaminated seafood can cause a host of symptoms, including:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Headaches<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Digestive symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Fever\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Skin reactions including irritation and rashes<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Neurological symptoms<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Asthma-like symptoms or exacerbation of respiratory illness<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Red itchy eyes<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Coughing, wheezing, sneezing<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201c<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brain\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">fog<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201d<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you have been exposed to algal blooms and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical help.\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/24439026\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Children are especially at risk<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0of experiencing effects from toxin exposure because of their smaller size and phase of development.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Pets are also more easily affected.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.toxicpuzzle.com\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The documentary, Toxic Puzzle<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, explores algal blooms around the world and suggests that HABs can be a trigger for ALS, Alzheimer\u2019s and Parkinson\u2019s disease since people with these diseases tend to cluster near algal blooms. T<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">o date t<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">his has not been supported in the peer-reviewed research<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, but it has not yet been extensively studied<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. However, from a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">F<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">unctional\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">M<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">edicine perspective, often someone has a genetic predisposition for a disease<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and then a toxic exposure can trigger the disease process.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In other words, g<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">enetics load the gun, but the\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">environment pulls the trigger. I\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">now\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">consider HABs as a possible toxic trigger, just as I do mold or mercury.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Can You<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Do About HABs<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Since algal blooms are a growing problem and beginning to affect more and more\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">susceptible<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0people and communities, what can you do? The first step is awareness. Before the red tides in Florida a few years ago, this topic was not much on my radar, but now I follow much more closely.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><em><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">\u201cOften someone has a genetic predisposition for a disease, and then a toxic exposure can trigger the disease process.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">In other words,<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">\u00a0genetics load the gun, but the environment pulls the trigger.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">I\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">now\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">consider\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">Harmful Algal Blooms<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">\u00a0as a possible toxic trigger, just as I do mold or mercury.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun BCX0 SCXW170892494\">\u201d<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP BCX0 SCXW170892494\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Politically, we\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">can all support<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0legislation to<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0protect wate<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">rways<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and reduce use of harmful chemicals.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For so many reasons, having access to clean water\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">now and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">in the future is critical.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can also take action by writing your local leaders. Go\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/act.nrdc.org\/letter\/algal-blooms-190925?source=WBSHABPET&amp;_ga=2.48337766.1153346952.1579793812-180900628.1579793812\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0to have your voice heard.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In your personal environment, you can\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">prevent<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">n<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">utrient and chemical\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">pollution from<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">your yard or home and ask your neighbors to do the same.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wellness Tips<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To protect your body from the harmful toxins produced by algal blooms<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Stay out of and away from HAB contaminated water<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Make sure your pets stay away too.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Do not eat fish and seafood from affected coastlines or lakes.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Follow warnings and guidelines for drinking water<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0in your community<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2019\/11\/08\/how-to-find-the-water-filtration-system-that-works-best-for-you\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">purify your water at home with a filtration system<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When it comes to toxins, we can avoid what we know about, but because of the she<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">e<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">r abundance of chemicals in the environment, we are unable to control all personal exposures. For that reason, I recommend using\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">F<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">unctional\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">M<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">edicine approaches to strengthen your body\u2019s ability to detoxify and handle an exposure should you not be able to avoid it.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wellness\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ti<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ps to\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">S<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">trengthen\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">D<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">etoxification<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Heal<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">your<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0gut<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. If the gut is inflamed, infected or leaky, toxins are more likely to enter into the body via the digestive system and cause an immune response in the body.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">So,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Step One<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0is to heal your gut.\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/31076401\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Leaky gut<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, or intestinal permeability, is where the tight junctions between the cells of the small intestine become loose and larger proteins from food, bacteria or toxins are able to get into the body, instead of entering fully digested or passing through the GI.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In my clinic, I use the 5 R protocol to heal the gut:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559685&quot;:720}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"6\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Remove<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Remove any foods that you are sensitive to, along with any bacteria, yeast or parasites that are pathogenic or out of balance. The\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/paleo\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">P<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">aleo diet<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0is the best place to start for reducing inflammation and uncovering food sensitivities in the gut.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"6\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Replace<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: Replace any digestive secretions that are low, such as hydrochloric acid or digestive enzymes.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"6\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Re<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211;<\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">inoculate<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Build up health communities of beneficial bacteria by using fermented\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0fiber-rich foods along with\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/shop.woocommerce-470118-1957633.cloudwaysapps.com\/product\/daily-probiotics-2\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">probiotic<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and prebiotic supplements.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"6\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Repair<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Repair and heal the lining of the digestive system with soothing herbs<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0specific nutrients such as\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/24965526\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">glutamine<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, zinc and omega-3 fats.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\"> 5<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"6\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rebalance<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">:<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0Keep the GI tract healthy and happy by prioritizing\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2017\/02\/26\/brain-toxins\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">sleep<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2018\/04\/24\/is-stress-contagious\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">stress<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0management and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2019\/05\/02\/exercise-each-day-may-keep-cancer-away\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">movement<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Support your detoxification systems<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Your body removes toxins through the lungs, liver, kidneys, large intestine and skin. You can support your detoxification systems daily through\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">breathing and meditation, eating well, sleeping, staying hydrated,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">having regular bowel movements<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0and sweating with exercise or saunas. In addition, certain supplements can be helpful based on your needs. If you\u2019ve been exposed to HABs, you might consider using\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">a\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">toxin binder<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0like\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/shop.woocommerce-470118-1957633.cloudwaysapps.com\/product\/toxin-clear\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Toxin Clear<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/shop.woocommerce-470118-1957633.cloudwaysapps.com\/product\/liposomal-glutathione\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">liposomal glutathione<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Reduce your toxin load<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">. This means getting rid of\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">all<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0the toxins that you can control in your environment by choosing non-toxic personal care products, safe cleaning products and investing in good water and air filters. Here are\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2017\/01\/03\/ten-toxins-easily-avoid\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">10 Toxins to Easily Avoid<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and my\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/toxins\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">free report on\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">#EverydayT<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">oxicity<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0for more information.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Support methylation<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\">.\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/2019\/09\/30\/managing-your-genes-understanding-methylation\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Methylation<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0is one of the most important processes in the body and is essential for detoxification. Many of us have genetic variations, or SNPs, that can lead to slower detoxification.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Your personal methylation status<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0is great information to know for yourself and a frequent test I order for patients in my office<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you discover that you are not optimally\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">methylating<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">you can support your body\u2019s methylation process by\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">avoiding synthetic folic acid,\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">increasing certain nutrients\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">such as B vitamins\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">prioritizing\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">other lifestyle interventions.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">(See our\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/shop.woocommerce-470118-1957633.cloudwaysapps.com\/product\/methylation-support\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Methylation Support<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0supplement here.)<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">\u201cIf the gut is inflamed, infected or leaky, toxins are more likely to enter into the body via the digestive system and cause an immune response in the body. So,\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">S<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">tep\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">O<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">ne<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW235751322 BCX0\">\u00a0is to heal your gut.\u201d<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW235751322 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Since Harmful Algal Blooms are increasing in number and severity and occur in all 50 states, this is an important environmental topic to be aware of. HABs can be devastating to the environment, human health and even to the economy of affected areas. Much can be done on larger scales to prevent and reduce algal blooms, yet again it all begins with awareness.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">On the personal level and for protecting the health of yourself and your family, it comes back to many foundations of\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">F<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">unctional\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">M<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">edicine<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">: e<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">ating well, sleeping well, living a low-stress and\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">low-toxin lifestyle along with addressing personal root causes to optimize your health<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">. This approach provides the most solid foundation to health and resiliency throughout your life. And I\u2019m here to support you on this journey!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In 2017-2018 a\u00a0landmark\u00a0red tide event occurred in Florida\u00a0that affected over a hundred miles of coastline and lasted for over a year causing deaths to sea life and affecting human health. I followed this story closely,\u00a0and it made me consider this source of environmental toxins when uncovering the root causes of symptoms and disease for my [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":23113,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1,2796,1637],"tags":[2568,2569,1885],"yst_prominent_words":[2557,2552,2542,2538,838,2563,2556,2554,2564,2539,2536,2541,2537,847,2558,2553,2555,2561,2540,269],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23112"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23112"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23112\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23707,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23112\/revisions\/23707"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/23113"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23112"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23112"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23112"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/annshippymd.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=23112"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}