Detoxification, or "detox" is defined as the physiological or medicinal removal of toxic substances from a living organism, including, but not limited to the human body. Some of the body's main detoxification organs include the kidneys, colon, gallbladder, liver, skin and blood, which help rid the body of toxins and waste taken in from the from the environment or diet. Detox is said to be beneficial not only to the body but also for the mind.
Benefits
Step 1
Know the benefits of detox and why it is important. Depending on your diet, your body has to work extra hard to digest food and rid itself of waste. Detox can help this process because it reduces the amount of toxins taken into the body. In doing so, the detoxification organs are not overworked causing less fatigue on your body. Some of the benefits of detox include free radical removal to effectively clear toxins; immune function improvement to fight against diseases; blood purification; and a decrease of inflammation in the digestive tract.
Step 2
Detoxification time varies depending on the individual. Normally, it ranges from 3 to 7 days. For a healthy detox, eat fresh fruit and vegetables daily and remember to have a range in color. Beets, cabbage, broccoli and seaweed are effective detoxification agents according to "201 Secrets To Healthy Living." Whole grains and nuts also contain fiber that help with digestive processes. Eliminate coffee, refined sugars, saturated fats, alcohol and cigarettes, which contribute to polluting your body.
Step 3
Create a realistic meal plan. Drink plenty of water and incorporate green tea into your diet. Be sure to take vitamins such as vitamin c, which contains a liver compound that helps rid the body of toxins. Practice deep-breathing exercises to help oxygen circulate more freely throughout your system. Gaiam Life advises trying hydrotherapy, as the steam helps open pores to release toxins from the skin through perspiration. Last but not least, exercise for at least 30 minutes daily on most days of the week as this is a key factor in healthy detoxification. Exercise not only helps maintain healthy body weight, but it also keeps the heart healthy and serves as a natural form of medicine.
References
- Gaiam Life: 10 Ways To Detoxify Your Body
- 201 Secrets to Healthy Living; Don Colbert, MD; 2010 Resource
