Dioxins are hormone-disrupting, cancer- and diabetes-creating toxic chemicals that are (unfortunately) found within your body.

They are formed during industrial processes when chlorine or bromine is burned in the presence of carbon and oxygen.

Dioxin and dioxin-like compounds are classified as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP); they are particularly dangerous because they are resistant to environmental degradation through chemical, biological and photolytic processes. They aren't going anywhere (which gives them the name), and they tend to build up in the food chain.

Did you know that in 2010 the Environmental Working Group concluded that the general public may be exposed up to 1,200 times more dioxins than EPA scientists consider safe?

Excessively high levels of dioxins over extended amounts of time can cause serious health issues.

Are there ways you can avoid these dioxins?

It can be very difficult to completely avoid dioxins due to their growing presence in the environment. However, by avoiding the most highly contaminated food sources -- namely animal products -- you can decrease your exposure.

Dr. Holly discusses what dioxins are, why you should be aware of the growing problem and the best ways to avoid these toxic agents.