Detoxification

March 4th 2013

In the field of preventative medicine, detoxification programs have become very popular. Detoxification, or detox for short is defined as the reduction of the toxic properties of a substance. The goal is to attain proper functioning and optimum health by detoxifying the body of toxins and harmful chemicals.

Are you toxic? The following lists are some of the signs and symptom one may have in Toxic Overload cases;

Feeling tired, sluggish, lethargic

Trouble concentrating and staying focused

Headaches

Joint pain

Catch colds easy

Trouble sleeping

Bad breath

Unpleasant body odor

Frequent gas, bloating or indigestion

Allergies and/or food sensitivities

Skin problems like acne, psoriasis, eczema

Constipation and other gastrointestinal irregularities

Depression

Irritability

Recurrent respiratory problems

Back pain

Mood changes

Hemorrhoids

Sinus congestion

Dark circles below eyes

Smoker

Eat meat 2 or more times daily

Drink less than 3 cups of water daily

Indigestion which is also known as dyspepsia can result in abdominal discomfort or a burning sensation in your upper abdomen. If one cannot digest foods properly it may lead to decreased absorption of essential nutrients and this may lead to signs of tiredness and becoming fatigued. Some reasons for indigestion include eating too much or too fast, high-fat foods, eating when stressed, smoking, excess alcohol intake and taking some medicines. Over time they all contribute to indigestion and could make it worst.

Body Detox

Consuming a diet low in water intake and inadequate fiber may lead to a sluggish intestinal tract and constipation. Therefore to prevent complications one can consider a program which is supervised to help to detoxify your body. Examples include; water and juice fasting, herbal supplements as well as a diet detox which can be done after one indulges in a period of over-eating or the consumption of non-nutritious and processed foods. A vegetarian diet may be effective in cleansing the body. This diet contains no animal fat, less processed foods and more fruits and vegetables which aids digestion and help cleanse the digestive tract because of their high-fiber content.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies can also be considered to help detoxify the body and internal organs.

Milk thistle has been used historically to treat liver disorders and in detoxification and cleansing protocols. Traditionally it has also been used to protect the liver and help relieve digestive disturbances/dyspepsia.

In cases of sluggish bowels, Aloe vera can be considered to help in the short relief of occasional constipation. Aloe is commonly used today as a herbal remedy to promote bowel movements. In herbal combinations, Aloe vera can also be used with other herbal remedies in detoxifying for maximum benefits.

Both Fennel and Artichoke has been used traditionally to help relieve digestive disturbances, including bloating and gas.

Using combination of herbs is also useful to help cleanse the body – holistically. To help purge toxic build up and waste from the body natural cleansing herbs in exact ratios can be used including;

Slippery Elm Bark:

Contains tannins and mucilages which are believed to help dissolve mucus deposits in tissues and glands.

Inner bark is rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamins A, B, C and K.

Helps neutralize acids from indigestion

Indian Rhubarb Root:

Gentle laxative and helps purge the liver of toxic build up and waste.

Helps neutralize acids from indigestion.

Burdock Root:

Reduce mucus, maintain healthy GI tract and stimulate a healthy immune response

A diuretic for water retention and to sweat out toxins through the skin

Has Vitamin A and selenium to help reduce free radicals

Chromium to help maintain normal blood sugar levels

Sheep Sorrel:

Diuretic for healthy kidney and urinary functions

Rich in ascorbic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium

Nourish glandular system

They are rich in essential minerals and vitamins, which help nourish and strengthen individual cells and molecules.

As with most detoxification diets and other types of fasting, it can be very difficult to maintain for extended periods of time. Therefore using other herbs in conjunction to a herbal combination is recommended. Green tea is an excellent example since it is a source of antioxidants for the maintenance of good health and ideal to be used with any program of reduced intake of dietary calories in weight management.

We are what we eat and also what we absorb, therefore taking digestive enzymes and probiotics is suggested in any detoxification program. They also provide “friendly bacteria” which forms part of a natural healthy gut flora.

If you have never attempted any detoxification programs it is important to check with family practitioner before you begin. Detoxification should not be done if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or suffer from heart problems, diabetes or chronic conditions. Remember there are numerous methods to detox your body and some may require lifestyle as well as dietary changes. Therefore, it is best to choose methods that you can follow which is safe and done with medical supervision. Besides taking herbal supplements and starting any detox diets make sure to include digestive enzymes and probiotics. They help with digestion and maintain a healthy intestinal flora which aids in complete digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

Helpful tips: For an overall healthy digestive tract and regularity

Reduce pesticides and chemical exposure

Try to cut down on commercially grown meat

Increase fruits and vegetables, preferably organic ones – high in fiber

Increase cruciferous & dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains

Consider eating carrots (beta-carotene) and grapes (proanthocyaindines) which are sources of antioxidants

Eat pineapple and papaya since they contain digestive aids to help break down foods

Drink more water and herbal teas – helps keep the bowels moist

Stop taking nicotine, coffee, saturated fats, alcohol and sugar

Exercise at least 20-30 minutes daily

Begin gradually with 1-3 day detoxify program and work up to a week

Other detoxifying programs to consider include: acupuncture, saunas and homeopathy.

Get plenty of fresh air

Decrease stress by using getting massages, try deep-breathing, yoga, tai-chi, counselling, laughter and hydrotherapy)

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