The Effects of Ionizing Radiation on the Human Body

Ionizing radiation is a type of electromagnetic energy with fields and particles, also referred to as EMF. Ionizing (electron-taking) gamma rays are emitted by X-rays, airport scanners, TVs, video display terminals, smoke detectors, nuclear radiation and short ultraviolet rays.

Microwave Sickness

• Continual exposure to ionizing radiation can result in microwave sickness, which can start with low blood pressure and slow pulse then progress into chronic excitation of the nervous system and high blood pressure. That can lead to headaches, dizziness, eye pain, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, stomach pain and ulcers, nervous tension, lack of concentration, hair loss, appendicitis, cataracts, reproductive problems, a compromised immune system and cancers.

X-Rays

• Ionizing radiation from excessive X-rays has been associated with Down syndrome. A significant percentage of women in the United States have inherited a gene named "oncogene AC," which is sensitive to X-ray exposure. According to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," even short periods of exposure can lead to cancer for these women.

Cellular Damage

• Ionizing radiation is energy released by a radioactive element that is strong enough to dislodge electrons from atoms and molecules in its path. In this manner, ionizing radiation can damage or even kill living tissue. At the cellular level, the radiation can destroy, damage or alter the makeup of the cell, which can lead to cancer. If a cell's DNA is damaged, genetic mutations can occur and be passed down to offspring.

Nutritional Tactics

• Radioactive elements are similar in structure to their nonradioactive counterparts, differing only in the number of neutrons the atoms contain. Because of this, nutrition plays an important role in protecting the body from damage caused by radiation. Deficiencies of calcium, potassium and other minerals make the body more likely to absorb radioactive elements.

Radar Effects

• According to Joseph B. Marion, author of "Anti-Aging Manual: The Encyclopedia of Natural Health," radar technicians suffer higher-than-normal incidences of leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma. Radar waves have been found to increase heart attack and cancer rates, as well as cause baldness and sterility.

Hormonal Effects

• Exposure to electromagnetic fields has been found to have significant effects on hormones in the body. Fields of similar strengths as those found in offices can trigger a stress signal in the brain and lower reaction speed. Studies have also found that exposure to radiation increases the growth of bacteria and their resistance to antibodies. Hormone-related effects associated with exposure to ionizing radiation include depression, hyperactivity, sleep disturbances, insulin deficiencies, imbalances of enzyme levels, melatonin deficiency, changes in blood protein and hormone ratios and cell metabolism variations.