Detoxing has become quite popular in recent years, and for good reason. Our bodies are constantly exposed to chemicals from food, air, water, and our home or work environments. Over time, these toxins can build up and potentially impact our health.
Periodically cleansing the body is a beneficial practice. While we can’t see the effects of a detox on our liver, there may be noticeable effects on how we feel. These include better looking skin, clearness in the eyes, better sleep, more energy, better digestive function, and more.
It’s crucial to understand the type of detox you are undertaking and its potential benefits and risks. Below are some key points to consider when beginning a detox program:
The Dos of Detoxing
DO determine what type of detox you are doing. Some detoxes focus on cleansing the digestive system, while others are designed to support the liver, which is the body’s primary detoxifying organ.
DO ensure your liver receives the right nutrients. A true metabolic detox requires specific nutrients to support liver function. Many detox programs fail to provide these essential nutrients. Consider using a structured detox kit, such as the Clear Change 10-Day Detox by Metagenics, which offers the necessary support for proper liver cleansing.
DO stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Since toxins are converted into water-soluble compounds in the liver and then excreted through bile or filtered through the kidneys, staying hydrated is essential to facilitate their removal.
DO consume enough fiber. Fiber helps to bind toxins released into the digestive tract, preventing them from being reabsorbed. Incorporate plenty of whole food into your detox plan and consider adding a fiber supplement like Vital Fiber by Vital Planet.
DO get sufficient protein. Aim for at least 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight. For example, a 150-pound person should consume at least 68 grams of protein daily. Specific amino acids such as glycine and cysteine, found in protein-rich foods, are crucial for different detoxification phases. A lack of protein can impair your body’s ability to process toxins effectively. Use cleanly sourced proteins, particularly wild caught fish.
DO expect mild detox symptoms. Temporary side effects such as nausea, loose stools, headaches, minor skin breakouts, body odor, or achiness may occur as toxins exit the body. Though the liver does most of the detoxification work, other organs like the GI tract, kidneys, skin, lungs, and sweat glands also play a role in eliminating toxins.
DO follow all detox instructions carefully. Certain foods enhance detoxification, while others may hinder the process. Stick to the recommended guidelines for maximum benefits. This is why a detoxification kit can be helpful!
DO detox your environment. Evaluate your environment for possible toxins, especially things you put on your body like lotions, perfumes or cologne, shampoo and conditioner, shaving cream, and even soap. For more information on where to look for skin care toxins check here. It is best to use natural products in your home for cleaning and redecorating as well.
The Don’ts of Detoxing:
DON’T start a detox if you are under excessive stress, actively ill, pregnant, or taking prescription medications for a life-threatening condition. If you are on multiple medications, ensure the ingredients in your detox program do not interfere with them. Consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.
DON’T fast for more than 1 – 2 days. While short-term fasting can give your digestive system a break, it does not provide the nutrients necessary for the liver to perform detoxification effectively.
DON’T do a juice cleanse for more than two days. If you have blood sugar or insulin concerns, juice cleanses may not be ideal. Juice often contains more sugar and less fiber than whole foods, which can be problematic for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
DON’T assume that a detox based solely on bowel-stimulating herbs will support full body detoxification. While some herbal cleanses include liver-supportive ingredients, many primarily focus on increasing bowel movements without addressing deeper detox needs.
DON’T continue detoxing if you experience severe symptoms. If your symptoms interfere with daily life, consider discontinuing or modifying your detox program based on professional guidance.
Final Thoughts:
Regular detoxification can be a great habit for maintaining overall health, much like an oil change for your body. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from detoxing one to three times per year.
Detox kits are on sale this March!
Take 15% off Clear Change 10-Day Detox Kits &
70% off Vital Fiber 14-day Cleanses.
If you think you require more guidance than a group situation can offer, you can contact me to set up and appointment and we can go through the detox together. Please contact me at lynn@walshnatural.com or (847) 864-1600, X4.
