Everyday Toxins Are Causing The Autoimmunity Epidemic (and How to Protect Yourself) With Dr. Aly Cohen

Sep 4, 2025

Dr. Aly Cohen, a triple board-certified rheumatologist and environmental health expert, discusses the alarming rise of autoimmune diseases linked to everyday toxins. She explains how chemicals like BPA confuse the immune system and shares insights from her book, Detoxify. Listeners learn practical steps to reduce exposure, including a 21-day detox plan, and the importance of clean products. The conversation delves into the role of heavy metals, nutritional support, and the need for greater awareness about our toxic environment.

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ANECDOTE

Puppy Illness Sparked Her Focus

Dr. Aly Cohen's interest in environmental health began after her puppy developed autoimmune hepatitis.
That case expanded her focus from rheumatology to environmental causes of immune disease.

INSIGHT

Environment Drives Autoimmunity Rise

Autoimmune disease rates have risen significantly and are not explained solely by better diagnosis.
Dr. Aly Cohen links this rise to environmental exposures like what we eat, breathe, and put on our skin.

INSIGHT

Chemicals Act Differently But Add Up

Different chemical classes (BPA, phthalates, PFAS, heavy metals) each affect the immune system and other organs differently.
Effects are additive and sometimes synergistic across exposures according to Dr. Aly Cohen.

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Toxic chemicals sneak into our homes, food, and even water, and they’re fueling the explosion of autoimmune disease. Autoimmune conditions are now among the fastest-growing health issues worldwide, and Dr. Aly Cohen explains exactly how toxins disrupt the immune system and what practical steps we can take to protect ourselves.

In this episode, Dr. Cohen reveals the connection between our environment and the rise in autoimmune disorders. We talk about her new book Detoxify, the mechanisms by which chemicals misguide the immune system, and her 21-day plan to reduce daily exposures and support your body’s natural defenses.

If you’re struggling with unexplained symptoms, autoimmune flares, or simply want to understand how your environment is shaping your health, this episode will give you answers and a roadmap to start making changes.

"There is a strong association between what we live, eat, breathe, put on our skin... and various illnesses that we're seeing." - Dr. Aly Cohen

In This Episode:

- Rising rates of autoimmune disease: BPA and other chemicals

- How chemicals confuse and disrupt the immune system

- The Four A's of detoxification

- Minerals, multivitamins, and choosing "balanced" exposure

- 21-day detox plan tips and recommendations

- Rethinking the food pyramid with detox at the base

- Tools beyond meds to address root causes

Products & Resources Mentioned:

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Qualia Senolytic: Get 15% off with code WENDY at https://qualialife.com/wendy.

Heavy Metals Quiz: Start now at https://heavymetalsquiz.com.

About Dr. Aly Cohen

Dr. Aly Cohen is a triple board-certified rheumatologist, internist, and integrative medicine physician, as well as an environmental health expert practicing in Princeton, NJ. She created and manages the environmental medicine curriculum for the Academy of Integrative Health and Medicine and is co-author of the bestselling book, Non-Toxic. Her latest book, Detoxify, connects the dots between common chemical exposures and the epidemic rise in immune disorders, offering practical, evidence-based solutions for both patients and practitioners. Learn more at alycohenmd.com

Disclaimer

The Myers Detox Podcast was created and hosted by Dr. Wendy Myers. This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast, including Wendy Myers and the producers, disclaims responsibility for any possible adverse effects from using the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests' qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.