A Lesson from the Great Lakes

What can an ecosystem teach us about our own health? In the early 20th century, unchecked pollution transformed the Great Lakes into a toxic trap. Fish and other wildlife suffered from tumors, reproductive issues, and weakened immune systems because their environment was poisoned. Instead of treating the symptoms with drugs, scientists removed the toxic stress and reintroduced native plants to restore nutrients. The result? A remarkable rebound in the health of the Great Lakes.

This story isn’t just about environmental cleanup—it offers a powerful lesson for our own well-being. When an ecosystem is sick, patching up symptoms isn’t the answer. Instead, removing the harmful stressors and nurturing the natural balance is what leads to true healing. This same idea applies to your body. Rather than simply masking pain or stress with temporary fixes, addressing the root causes—like poor nutrition, lack of exercise, or misalignment—can help your body restore its natural resilience.

By reducing factors that stress your body and supporting it with healthy habits, you create the conditions for lasting recovery. Just as the Great Lakes no longer rely on artificial means to stay healthy, your body thrives when you eliminate the negative influences and add positive ones. This could be as simple as switching out a processed snack for a nutrient-rich option, taking a brisk walk, or receiving care from a chiropractor in Cranston, RI, to get back into balance.

The story of the Great Lakes reminds you that real healing comes from restoring balance at the source. When toxic stress is removed and the system is given what it needs, recovery happens naturally. Whether you’re working to boost your internal defenses or improve your overall performance, the goal is the same: create an environment where your body can heal itself and function at its best.

Taking a proactive approach—by choosing the right foods, getting regular movement, and seeking proper care—helps your body operate like a well-tuned ecosystem. Every positive change you make, no matter how small, adds up. Just as the Great Lakes now thrive after years of dedicated effort to remove pollution, you too can build a healthier, more resilient life by addressing the root causes and nurturing your natural balance.

References:
Hartig, John & Krantzberg, Gail & Alsip, Peter. (2020). Thirty-five years of restoring Great Lakes Areas of Concern: Gradual progress, hopeful future. Journal of Great Lakes Research. 46. 10.1016/j.jglr.2020.04.004.