How to Minimise Effects from Xrays from an ex Radiographer
Back in my early 20’s I completed a degree in Medical Imaging Technology aka I graduated as a qualified Radiographer. Over the following years I performed hundreds of X-rays, mammograms and fluoroscopic procedures all requiring xray radiation.
Weekly I get messages (mostly from anxious parents whose children need X-rays) asking what you can do at home to mitigate damage and help the body, so here’s what I’d recommend.
There are many gimmicks out there that don’t actually have any evidence supporting them and are a waste of money, so hopefully this helps you with peace of mind and evidence based supports.
what you need to know
X-rays carry enough energy to remove electrons from atoms. When they pass through the body, they can:
ionise molecules (including water inside cells)
create short-lived free radicals
may cause small amounts of DNA damage
Now here’s the good news: our bodies are designed to handle this!
Cells have sophisticated DNA repair systems that fix the vast majority of this damage within hours to days. What we can and should do is support the bodies natural repair.
So instead of “detoxing radiation” (which isn’t really how physics works), let’s chat how to focus on supporting repair, reducing unnecessary exposure, and optimising resilience and lowering background load.
general support for the body after xrays
Hydrate well: Radiation interacts with water in cells. Staying well hydrated supports normal cellular processes and clearance of metabolic byproducts.
Prioritise antioxidant-rich foods: Colourful fruit + veg (berries, leafy greens, citrus, carrots, pumpkin, capsicum, green tea) provide vitamin C, polyphenols and carotenoids that help balance oxidative stress.
Adequate protein: DNA repair requires amino acids. Under-eating protein makes repair harder. Focus on whole foods eg. eggs, fish, legumes, nuts, or seeds.
Sleep: Deep sleep is when much of cellular repair and immune regulation happens.
Reducing exposure: Avoid stacking exposures unnecessarily. Ask if imaging is essential (especially with kids). Keep copies of previous scans to avoid repeats (especially dental).
Ask the Radiographer for: a lead apron, (shields vital organs in the torso and pelvis) and a thyroid collar protects the thyroid gland from scatter during procedures.
Reduce background load: Good air quality, filtered water, less synthetic fragrance, whole foods, low tox cleaning products, quality cookware, reducing pharmaceuticals etc. ALL lower overall oxidative burden, so your body isn’t juggling everything at once!
herbal support
Some gentle evidence based herbs that support antioxidant systems and cellular health:
Milk thistle – supports liver detox pathways
Ashwagandha – adaptogen supporting overall resilience
Turmeric (curcumin) – anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
Green tea – polyphenol support
Use these in teas, cooking, capsules or tinctures as directed.
reduce oxidative stress & inflammation
Glutathione: the body's master antioxidant, crucial for detox
Resveratrol: protects cells from radiation damage
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: reduces inflammation
the takeaway
Occassional x-rays are unlikely to cause long-term effects, especially when protection is used. The real risk lies in repeated or prolonged exposure over months or years.
My radiation support protocol
MAGNESIUM: for adults I like Be Pure Wellness Magnesium Restore (nourished15 for 15% off) and for kids Foraged for You oceans magnesium (great for adults too!). I also like the Children's Blend for bioavailable food-based vits + minerals.
OMEGAS: Be Pure Wellness fish oil (third-party tested for purity, freshness & oxidation) - use nourished15 for 15% off.
doTERRA Turmeric Dual capsules.
doTERRA Ice Blue Polyphenol capsules with resveratrol, for inflammation and free radical protection.
Advantage collagen with NAD+.
