One thing fascinating about the human body is its ability to fix itself. According to the Mayo Clinic, the digestive system/colon is able to eliminate waste material naturally--without any additional diets or regimens. However, Linda Page, N.D., Ph.D., the author of "Detoxification" claims that with so many toxins in our environment that it's critical to detox. Body detoxification may be thought of as aiding the body's own ability to eliminate wastes by foregoing toxic foods and substances, feeding your body healthy nutrients and resting for renewal.
Why Detox?
In her book, "Detoxification," Page suggests detoxing when you are experiencing the following symptoms: fatigue, sluggish elimination, irritated skin, allergies, low-grade infections, under-eye bags, distended stomach, menstrual problems or mental confusion. According to life.gaiam.com, a detox program will help the internal organs rest through fasting, stimulate the liver to eliminate toxins, promote elimination of toxins through the colon, kidney, and skin, and improve circulation.
What is Body Detoxification?
Detoxification can range from juice/water fasting and enema use to diet changes and supplementation use. Life.gaiam.com says that detoxification is generally the cleansing of impurities from the blood. Proponents of detoxification suggest at least an annual detoxification, with the exception of nursing mothers, pregnant women, children and those with chronic diseases, says life.gaiam.com. Detoxification typically includes altering the diet to reduce toxic elements and increase nutritional elements.
How Detoxification Works
Impurities are eliminated from the body through the liver, kidneys, colon, lymph, lungs and skin according to innvista.com. Your body does this naturally. However, when impurities are being put into the body faster than the body can eliminate them, it is possible for the body to store these toxins in tissue until it can get around to eliminating them, says illvista.com. Making an effort to fast from processed foods and toxic substances allows the body time to catch up.
How to Start Detoxing
Lightening your load of toxins is the first step, according to life.gaiam.com. Refraining from all processed foods, as well as other toxic substances like cigarettes, alcohol, sodas, white flours and sugars, and artificial sweeteners is a great place to start. In addition, drinking plenty of water, getting enough whole-grain fiber, eliminating stress, deep breathing, resting, sweating, dry-brushing, and exercising are all ways to assist your body with its natural detoxification process.
The Detoxification Process
According to live.gaiam.com, there are many detoxification programs available depending on your needs. Typically, a detox program can last anywhere from three to seven days to one month. Page recommends beginning any detox regimen with a two to three day juice/water fast. She claims that drinking fresh fruit and vegetable juices and water is a great way to help the body detox. Cleansing products for the liver and colon are available at natural food stores; however, consulting a nutritionist to discuss your specific needs is highly recommended.
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