Integrative and Functional Nutrition - Module 3: Environmental Toxins, Exposure and Elimination

Brought to you by the Center for Lifelong Learning with a special thank you to the content writers and presenters Kelly Morrow MS, RDN and Mary Purdy MS, RDN. Planned with the Dietitians in Integrative & Functional Medicine DPG. Reviewed July 2022.

There is mounting evidence that environmental toxins or toxicants have the potential to adversely affect human health. Though much of the evidence relies on in vitro and animal studies, there are observational studies demonstrating the direct impact on human health. In addition, small studies demonstrate that specific nutrients and foods may help alleviate the buildup of some toxins in the body. We also recognize that currently, scientists disagree regarding issues related to this topic. Practitioners of integrative and functional medicine consider the risk of exposure to environmental toxins in patient assessments. Furthermore, functional medicine practitioners employ a nutritionally - assisted detoxification process to help support the body's ability to more effectively excrete body toxins.

In this module, we provide a brief review of the scientific evidence supporting the potentially negative impact of environmental toxins on health and well-being and the process our bodies use to eliminate these harmful products. Though the evidence around nutritionally assisted detoxification protocols is limited, the need for a better understanding of this topic among registered dietitian nutritionists is evident. We have reviewed the approach that functional medicine practitioners are using to optimize normal elimination of toxins via dietary modifications.

Both RDNs seeking to better understand this concept and those interested in potentially incorporating this therapy into clinical practice will find this module valuable. A patient case study that utilizes the Nutrition Care Process is also presented. A list of supporting references is provided as a separate attachment.

CPE Level: 2
CPEU: 2.0
Suggested Learning Need Codes: 5420, 5240, 3060, 4000

Learning Objectives

1. Explain the basics of toxicology including absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion.
2. Discuss common sources of environmental toxins, their effect on human health, and populations at high risk for exposure.
3. Define detoxification (biotransformation) and identify the role of specific nutrition modulators and genetic polymorphisms relative to detoxification pathways.
4. Apply specific diet and nutrition interventions to reduce toxin exposure and optimize detoxification pathways.

This e-learning self-study includes web links and resources for additional Online Learning opportunities.

The course includes pdf files of the speaker presentations and handouts as well as a downloadable CPE certificate.

The Certificate of Training program consists of five separate modules that build on each other. To receive the certificate associated with this training, all five modules and related tests must first be completed and a subsequent final post test exam in Module 5 must be passed with a minimum of an 80% in order to receive the Certificate of Training. The Certificate of Training can then be downloaded and printed from the site.

• Integrative and Functional Nutrition - Module 1: Introduction to Integrative and Functional Nutrition
• Integrative and Functional Nutrition - Module 2: Digestive Health and the Gut Microbiome
• Integrative and Functional Nutrition - Module 4: Inflammation
• Integrative and Functional Nutrition - Module 5: Dietary Supplements

This product is approved for individual use only. Only the registered participant is eligible for continuing professional education units.

Please note: Immediately following the purchase, you will receive an access email for the module. This email contains a link for module log in by the user. Please be sure your email address is accurate before submitting your order. If you have difficulty with your purchase, please contact us.