Improve Your Emotional Health by Detoxifying Yourself

We live in a world filled with toxic substances, people and relationships. Everything from the cleaning supplies we use and the food we eat to the people we talk to and the cell phones we use can "poison" us.

There's really no way to completely avoid toxic substances. But you can take steps to avoid exposing yourself to things that may cause distress, dysfunction and disease.


Clean up Your Act

Detoxification includes programs or steps that can help you cleanse yourself. It starts with ridding your environment of things that impair the mental, physical and emotional functions. By removing and eliminating toxins, and then feeding your body with healthy nutrients, detoxifying can help you maintain optimal health, happiness and overall well-being.

Where to Begin

Lighten your toxin load. Remove caffeine, sugar, alcohol, cigarettes and saturated fats from your diet. Go organic. Eat fruits and vegetables in their most natural states, without all the added chemicals. Skip foods with high fructose corn syrup or sugar substitutes. Minimize the use of chemical-based household cleaners and personal health care products and substitute with natural alternatives. Spend more time talking on your landline instead of your cell phone and stop talking to people who "make you sick."

Increase Your Glutathione Production

Increase your body's production of glutathione (GSH) so it can rid itself of toxic chemicals and heavy metals. Your body uses this key amino acid to deactivate and eliminate chemical and heavy metal toxins. Increasing the level of GSH in your body aids the detoxification process. Effective, inexpensive GSH precursors include N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), modified citrus pectin, chlorella and buffered vitamin C. You can also drink whey protein mixes daily: Add a scoop of whey protein, frozen organic fruit and flaxseeds to filtered water or soymilk with some ice.

Continue With the Regimen

Once you've started the detoxification process, make it part of your routine. Use supplements that help you detoxify, including vitamins C, E, B12, B6 and B5. Take a daily omega-3 supplement; SAM-E, magnesium, selenium, melatonin and taurine can also enhance the process.

Use herbs that detoxify, including cilantro, garlic, turmeric and green tea. For liver health, choose milk thistle, burdock, dandelion root, barberry, taheebo, chaparral or red clover.

Eat more fresh, whole, organic detoxifiers. Include avocados, asparagus and walnuts in your diet. Your organic menu should include eggs, milk, wheat germ, meat, oats, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes, strawberries, sweet potatoes and onions.

Get it Flowing

Infrared and steam saunas can sweat the toxins out of you. Or you could try a hot bath with magnetic clay to draw out the toxins. Mix a "hot ultra bath" by combining 2 cups of Epsom salt, 1 cup of baking powder and several drops of your favorite essential oil in warm water. Exercise often. Ride your bike, take a power walk or strength train. Work hard enough to break a sweat each time you exercise.

Practice Energy Work/Healing Prayer

Utilize the power of prayer, a positive attitude or simply a belief in yourself and your abilities to combat stress. Work with a Reiki practitioner or add spiritual practices, such as meditation, to your life.

Consult a Health Professional

If you can't remove your toxicity on your own, visit a professional who specializes in detoxification of the mind, emotions and body. Talk to a registered dietician about eating the right foods. Consider colonic hydrotherapy. Seek the advice of a doctor who specializes in detoxification from heavy metals. Talk to your dentist about alternatives to the metal fillings in your teeth. Ask a health psychologist to guide you on a path to healthier relationships.