Best Natural Binders to Use for Removing Autoimmune Toxins

Autoimmune Health: How to Bind Toxins That Disrupt Immunity?

Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system can be overactive, and mistakenly attack healthy cells, have been on the rise in recent years, affecting millions globally. While modern medicine has made strides in treating autoimmune conditions, there is growing interest in alternative methods to help manage them, especially when it comes to addressing the toxins that might play an underlying role in the disease process. Many people think there is nothing they can do, but many studies and anecdotal reports suggest otherwise. One such approach gaining attention is the use of natural binders to help remove  toxins from the body that can trigger disruptive immune responses. 

What are natural binders? Natural binders are substances that help to "bind" or absorb harmful substances in the gut and eliminate them through the digestive system. This process is particularly relevant for individuals with autoimmune conditions, as it may help reduce inflammation, support the gut barrier, and improve overall immune function. Let's explore the most effective natural binders to use based on recent research.

1. Chlorella

Chlorella, a green algae supplement, is another powerful natural binder that has garnered attention for its detoxifying properties. Chlorella is rich in chlorophyll, a compound that has been shown to help cleanse the body of heavy metals, pollutants, and other toxins.

A study from 2021, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, demonstrated that chlorella could significantly reduce the levels of heavy metals like mercury and lead in the body. While heavy metals are not directly associated with autoimmune conditions, they can exacerbate symptoms and promote inflammation, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Chlorella works by binding to these toxins in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption and facilitating their removal through the stool. Its detoxifying effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune diseases, as lowering toxin levels may help reduce immune system overactivity and inflammation.

2. Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay, a natural mineral substance, has been used for centuries for its detoxifying and healing properties. Recent studies have shown that bentonite clay can bind to toxins in the gastrointestinal system and help eliminate them.

A 2022 study published in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology explored the potential of bentonite clay to remove harmful substances from the body, including pesticides, bacteria, and metals. The study found that bentonite clay was highly effective in adsorbing toxins in the gut, preventing them from entering the bloodstream and potentially causing inflammation and immune system dysfunction. The ability of bentonite clay to act as a natural binder and detoxifier makes it a valuable tool for those with autoimmune conditions, as it helps prevent the absorption of environmental toxins that may trigger or exacerbate autoimmune responses.

3. Zeolite

Zeolite is a natural volcanic mineral with a unique structure that enables it to trap toxins and heavy metals. Zeolite is often used in detox programs due to its ability to chelate (bind to) and remove harmful substances from the body.

A study published in Toxins (2020) investigated the use of zeolite as a natural detoxifier. The researchers found that zeolite had the ability to bind with heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, and remove them from the body. This is significant for autoimmune patients, as heavy metals are known to disrupt immune function and increase the risk of autoimmune flare-ups.

Additionally, zeolite’s ability to trap free radicals—molecules that can cause oxidative stress and inflammation—may help reduce the overall inflammatory burden in individuals with autoimmune diseases. Reducing oxidative stress is essential for managing autoimmune conditions, as it can help regulate the immune system and prevent it from attacking healthy tissues.

4. Pectin

Pectin is a soluble fiber found in the skins of fruits like apples and citrus. Known for its ability to bind to heavy metals, pectin can also help remove toxins from the digestive tract and support gut health.

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry highlighted the ability of pectin to reduce the absorption of harmful substances, including environmental toxins and metabolic waste products. The study showed that pectin could bind to these substances and facilitate their elimination through the gastrointestinal system, preventing them from entering the bloodstream and potentially triggering autoimmune reactions.

Pectin’s ability to improve gut health is another reason it is particularly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune diseases. A healthy gut is crucial for maintaining immune balance, and pectin supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn strengthens the immune system.

5. Cilantro

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is a well-known herb used in cooking, but it has also been studied for its detoxifying effects, particularly in removing heavy metals from the body.

A 2021 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives explored cilantro’s ability to help detoxify the body by removing metals such as mercury, arsenic, and lead. The study found that cilantro could effectively bind to these metals and help eliminate them through urine.

For individuals with autoimmune diseases, reducing heavy metal toxicity is crucial, as these metals can accumulate in tissues and contribute to chronic inflammation, which may worsen autoimmune symptoms. Cilantro’s ability to act as a natural binder makes it a useful tool in detoxifying the body and supporting overall immune function.

6. Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a highly porous substance that has long been used in medical settings to treat poisonings and overdoses. In recent years, research has supported its role in detoxification, particularly in autoimmune conditions.

A 2020 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology explored the role of activated charcoal in adsorbing toxins in the gut. The study found that activated charcoal was effective at binding a wide variety of toxins, including endotoxins, which are harmful byproducts of bacterial metabolism that can trigger inflammation and autoimmune flare-ups.

The porous surface of activated charcoal binds these harmful substances, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This is particularly important for autoimmune patients, as high levels of endotoxins can contribute to chronic inflammation and trigger the autoimmune response.

7. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth is an ancient natural mineral composed of fossilized diatoms. The elemental composition is largely silica, making it a potent binder of aluminum.

These diatoms are rich in amorphous silica, which gives DE its unique structure and porosity.

There are two main forms:

• Food-grade DE: Approved for consumption, used in detox regimens and pest control.
• Industrial-grade DE: Used in filtration and manufacturing—not safe for ingestion.

When ingested, food-grade DE remains chemically inert, meaning it does not react significantly with the body’s tissues but may interact physically with particles in the gut.

Autoimmunity and Environmental Toxins

Autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis involve an inappropriate immune response, where the body attacks its own tissues. Although genetics play a role, growing evidence supports the role of environmental triggers, especially:

• Heavy metals (e.g., mercury, aluminum, cadmium)
• Endotoxins and LPS (lipopolysaccharides) from gut dysbiosis
• Mycotoxins from mold exposure
• Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as dioxins and PCBs

These toxins can lead to immune dysregulation by:

• Damaging the gut lining, leading to increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”)
• Activating toll-like receptors (TLRs) and other immune sensors
• Promoting chronic inflammation and molecular mimicry
• Directly altering immune cell function or gene expression

According to Rose and Mackay (2014), environmental factors, including toxins and microbial exposures, are now recognized as “key players” in triggering autoimmune responses in genetically predisposed individuals [1].

How Diatomaceous Earth May Bind Toxins

While there are no direct clinical trials of DE in autoimmune disease, its potential benefits lie in its adsorptive and detoxifying capacity. Here’s how:

1. Adsorption of Heavy Metals

Diatomaceous earth has a high surface area and porosity, allowing it to adsorb positively charged ions like lead, mercury, and cadmium. A study in Desalination (2011) demonstrated that natural diatomite can effectively adsorb heavy metals from aqueous solutions [2].

Heavy metals are known to accumulate in tissues and may:

• Disrupt regulatory T cells
• Promote oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines
• Interfere with cell signaling and DNA repair mechanisms

By binding these metals in the gut, DE may help prevent systemic absorption, reducing toxic burden and possibly blunting immune overactivation.

2. Binding Endotoxins and Mycotoxins

Diatomaceous earth has been studied as a mycotoxin binder in livestock, where it shows efficacy in reducing levels of aflatoxins and other harmful fungal metabolites in feed [3]. Since mycotoxins and endotoxins can both provoke autoimmune flares, especially in those with gut dysbiosis, this binding effect could have implications for human use.

3. Support for Gut Barrier Integrity

Although more research is needed, silica, the main component of DE, plays a role in connective tissue and collagen formation. Some hypothesize that amorphous silica may support intestinal wall resilience, especially when leaky gut is part of the autoimmune picture.

"Silica is essential for collagen synthesis and may assist in the maintenance of the gastrointestinal mucosal barrier," notes Seaborn and Nielsen (2002) [4].

Safety Considerations

While diatomaceous earth holds promise, a few important considerations must be kept in mind: Use only food-grade DE; industrial DE contains crystalline silica, which is harmful when inhaled or ingested. Start with small amounts (e.g., 1 tsp/day) and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation. DE can bind nutrients as well as toxins, so it’s best taken away from meals or supplements. People with compromised GI tracts or kidney issues should consult a physician before use.

How to Use These 7 Natural Binders

Incorporating these natural binders into your diet can be relatively simple. Here are some tips:

• Chlorella: Available in powder or tablet form, chlorella can be added to smoothies or taken as a supplement.
• Bentonite Clay: Often available as a supplement or powder, bentonite clay can be mixed with water and consumed or applied externally for detox purposes.
• Diatomaceous Earth: This ancient natural mineral composed of fossilized diatoms is high in silica, making it a potent binder of aluminum. It has also been found to help remove other toxins and repair the GI tract.  
• Zeolite: Available in liquid or powder form, zeolite can be taken as a supplement to help with detoxification.
• Pectin: Enjoy pectin-rich foods like apples and citrus fruits, or take pectin supplements.
• Cilantro: Add fresh cilantro to your meals, or use cilantro extract as a supplement for detox purposes.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Management

Natural binders play an important role in helping to eliminate autoimmune toxins from the body. By supporting detoxification, these substances help reduce inflammation, support gut health, and may improve immune system function—critical factors in managing autoimmune diseases. As research continues to highlight the benefits of these natural detoxifiers, it’s clear that they offer a promising, complementary approach to managing autoimmune conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplements into your routine, especially if you have an autoimmune condition, to ensure they’re right for your individual needs.

Dr. Clark Store Heavy Metal Gone, containing binders like Himalayan Shilajit, Cilantro, Chlorella, ALA, and EDTA, for potent heavy metal support. If detox symptoms are too much, adding additional binders like modified citrus pectin, clay or charcoal may help. Always remember to consult your healthcare professional or naturopath when making supplement decisions.