Optimising Brain Health – Reducing Toxins and Supporting Sleep
- Brainz Magazine
- Sep 29
- 5 min read
I'm an international holistic health practitioner, specialising in supporting individuals with ADHD, autism, allergies, sleep issues, and gut problems using natural medicine. I help people uncover and treat root causes so they can reclaim their health and thrive.
Have you heard of the glymphatic system? Most of us know the importance of a good night's sleep, but few realise that while we are in deep sleep, the glymphatic system in our brain helps clear out the waste and washes the brain. In 2013, scientists discovered through imaging on mice that the brain can shrink by up to 60 percent during deep sleep, creating space for toxins and metabolic waste to be cleared and for nutrients to reach nerve cells. Getting enough good-quality sleep helps protect the brain and supports concentration, focus, and learning.
Why sleep matters
The hormone melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, helps us achieve deep, restful sleep. Studies have shown that melatonin is a neuroprotective antioxidant that can help clear heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, as well as bacteria and viruses, from the brain. Melatonin production during sleep works hand-in-hand with the glymphatic system to cleanse and detoxify the brain.
Our body operates on a 24-hour clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which indicates that melatonin production peaks around 10 pm. As the old saying goes, 'early to bed and early to rise' is an adage worth following, as illustrated in the timeline below.
The 10 pm to 2 am timeline:
10 pm: Melatonin peaks, and the immune system is activated
11 pm: Our growth hormone increases, and liver detoxification starts
12 am: Deep sleep occurs, and brain cleansing is heightened
1 am: Cellular repair and restoration occur
2 am: Detoxification is completed
Heavy metals and neurodevelopment
Toxic metals, such as aluminium, mercury, and lead, can cross the blood-brain barrier and disrupt brain function. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often carry higher levels of these metals, and studies reveal that the higher the levels, the more severe their symptoms can be.
In a recent study by Exley and Clarkson, aluminium levels in the brains of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were significantly higher compared to those with Alzheimer's disease.
Research also links heavy metals to ADHD and ADD, with lead exposure particularly associated with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Mercury may contribute to slower cognitive processing, poor focus, and compulsive behaviours.
My clinical perspective
In my clinical practice, I see firsthand how these toxins burden the body, affecting children and adults. Many of my patients struggle with sleep, attention, and mood, all of which can improve when we reduce environmental exposures, support detoxification, correct any nutritional deficiencies, and balance neurotransmitters.
I frequently use homeopathic detox therapy to cleanse specific heavy metals, medications, and vaccines from the body. The detoxification process is only started once a thorough case history and timeline have been established, allowing me to understand the patient's story and identify the underlying causes of their health concerns. I support detoxification pathways and organs using a combination of homeopathy, herbal medicine, and nutritional supplementation to achieve some outstanding outcomes, as highlighted by this mother's testimonial.
"Tina has been treating my son for the last 6 months. She is very thorough in her care. She developed a treatment plan of detoxes and other remedies to help get to the underlying causes of my son's autism. We have seen improvements in speech, cognition, and awareness since we started consulting with Tina."
Common sources of exposure:
Aluminium: Cookware, foil, processed food additives, some vaccines, certain medications, and some baby formula
Mercury: Large fish (tuna, swordfish, shark), dental fillings, some vaccines, and industrial pollution
Lead: Old paint, contaminated soil, water pipes, imported toys, and some contaminated traditional remedies
Cadmium: Some children's jewellery and toys
How toxins cross the blood-brain barrier
There are several ways that toxins can pass across the brain's protective membrane. Some toxins mimic essential nutrients, tricking the body's transport system into carrying them across the blood-brain barrier. For example, lead can travel through the calcium channel.
Chronic inflammation, infections, nutrient deficiencies, oxidative stress, or EMF exposure can weaken tight junctions in the brain membrane, letting larger or unintended molecules pass through. Additionally, small toxic particles in air pollution can pass directly through the nose into the brain.
Seven practical ways to reduce exposure and support detox
Understanding how toxins enter the brain helps us recognise the importance of daily habits that reduce exposure.
Sweating: Saunas or Epsom salt baths support toxin elimination.
Movement: Regular exercise and activity stimulate the lymphatic system and support detoxification.
Nutrition: Choose organic, nutrient-rich foods, eat a high-fibre diet, and stay well-hydrated to flush out toxins.
Clean water & air: Use a good water filter and an air filter in the bedroom if needed.
Household products: Use aluminium-free cookware and deodorants, and fluoride-free toothpaste.
Reduce exposure to WiFi by turning off the router at night: Reduce screen time to maximise glymphatic clearance and melatonin production.
Sleep: Prioritise sleep and make 10 pm your new bedtime.
Where indicated, I support my patients who have sleep issues by optimising their melatonin production with a homeopathic course of melatonin, alongside magnesium. I may use another neurotransmitter called GABA to improve sleep and well-being, especially if the patient has neck and shoulder tension, restlessness, impatience, or anxiety. Each individual's case is unique.
Using an integrative therapy approach allows me to support, detoxify, and optimise various organs and body systems. By combining holistic treatment with strategies to reduce exposure and prioritise sleep, children and adults can maintain healthier brains, better focus, and improved moods. A mother's testimonial, whose son has ADHD and dyslexia, shows how therapeutic and effective this natural healing approach can be.
"My son is in his 2nd phase of detox and has had amazing results. He is more engaged in school, happier, and less self-conscious and sensitive. It is such a relief to see him able to focus and more willing to receive his intervention program to help with his dyslexia. Thanks, Tina."
Taking small steps to reduce toxins and support the brain's natural detoxification systems can make a meaningful difference over time. Prioritising rest and nourishing the body with clean choices helps the brain thrive. Brighter moods, better focus, and more restful sleep are possible. For those who would like more guidance, holistic consultations provide expert support tailored to individual needs.
Read more from Tina Horrell
Tina Horrell, Natural Health Care Practitioner
Tina Horrell is an integrative homeopath and naturopath with over 25 years of international experience. Tina supports individuals and families with a range of health concerns, specialising in autism, ADHD, allergies, gut issues, and sleep problems. She also offers targeted detox programs for heavy metals and environmental toxins.
Her work blends homoeopathy, nutrition, herbal medicine, and detoxification to restore clients' balance and vitality, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Tina consults with clients worldwide via online video sessions and is a regular health writer for Brainz Magazine.
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