Detox and Cleansing
Cellular detoxification has been practiced by numerous cultures since ancient times. Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine and Western medicine have used fasting, bloodletting, laxatives, enemas, colonics, sinus draining and herbs to rid the body of toxins. The liver, skin, kidneys, bowels and lungs all excrete waste products from the body.
The theory of detoxifying is to stimulate these organs to work more effectively to eliminate waste more rapidly. Effective detox involves eliminating toxins from all areas of the body. Primitive medical practitioners understood the need for the human body to eliminate waste and the toxins contained therein or disease would occur. Pioneers of modern medicine opened colonic clinics believing a wide variety of ailments could be cured with proper bowel function.
Before detoxifying, individuals must recognize and remove toxins from the environment. These may be allergens, chemicals, microbes, radiation, substance abuse or any substance that causes irritation and damage to the body. Individuals are exposed to toxins by foods that contain pesticides, additives, or microbes. Environmental hazards such as radiation, chemicals or other pollutants in air and water are toxic to humans.
Signs of High Levels of Toxins in the Body:
Obesity is a warning sign of toxins in the body. People who eat a lot are also ingesting more toxins. This leads to ballooning weight and problems with the organs in the body. Other people have a hard time falling asleep while some experience asthma. Women in particular get menstrual problems and nausea during their periods. Other symptoms are headaches, depression, skin discolorations, brittle nails and hair, poor memory, constipation, and allergies. These are just some of the signs of a high level of toxins in the body. Some people may experience other symptoms not listed here as well.
Side Effects of Detoxification:
Detoxifying can have a myriad of side effects on the body. This is a result of the excess toxins being flushed out of the body. However, the liver cannot always handle the detoxification process. A person undergoing detoxification may experience skin outbreaks, diarrhea, headaches and bad breath. Supplements like antioxidants may be taken to limit the body’s reactions.
Things to Avoid When Undergoing Detoxification:
When detoxifying, there is a number of things which should be avoided to help expedite the process. The person undergoing detoxification must avoid alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and junk food. These items are a burden for the liver to get rid of. Caffeinated products like soda should be avoided as well. Processed foods are also an enormous no-no. They have a lot of preservatives and additives.
Fat should also be avoided. This includes saturated fat from meat, dairy, crisps, and peanuts. They stress the liver and may also cause liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis is not only caused by alcohol, it is also caused by excess fat which damages the liver cells. Fried food should be shunned like the plague.
Limit the intake of meat while on detoxification. Meat has a high-fat and high-protein content. Meat products also have a lot of antibiotics and hormones which the liver has a difficult time trying to break down.
Things to Do When Undergoing Detoxification:
While there are things which should be avoided when detoxifying, there are also things to be sure to do. When detoxifying it is a must to eat organic food. This will minimize the intake of toxins and chemicals. Water will also aid the detoxifying process, so drink at least one to one and half liters of water daily.
Drink hot water mixed with lemon juice before eating meals. This is a stimulant for better digestion. Eat food, which is low in fat, and rich in fiber. Vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are highly recommended. Fiber helps ensure regular bowel movements which helps get rid of toxins faster. Carrots, sweet potatoes, peppers, watercress, and fruits such as melon and strawberries are terrific choices. The vegetable content of the diet increases the alkalinity of the diet. The body will work efficiently when there is enough alkaline in the diet.
Support of liver functions is extremely valuable during the detoxification process. The liver metabolizes substances in the body so they may be readily absorbed or eliminated. Medications, chemicals, alcohol and microbes cause liver damage. The artichoke is believed to protect the liver and allow the organ to regenerate. Dandelion root is also believed to be beneficial in liver health.
Methods of Detoxification:
- Diet Detoxification Diets generally consist of low fat and high fiber with inclusion of fresh fruits and vegetables. Detox diets also include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids.
- Exercise Improve overall circulation and encourage the body to eliminate waste through the skin, lymphatic system and kidneys. Do not put too much stress on the body and exercise moderately.
- Detox Baths Putting ½ cup of sea salt, Epsom salt or baking soda in bath water is believed to draw toxins from the body through the skin. This is another reason why sweating is encouraged.
Detoxification is extremely significant because it promotes a healthy body and a sound mind. Life is certainly more enjoyable with a healthy body. Detoxification helps avoid chronic and fatal diseases like cancer and can help restore the body back to health. Some practitioners prescribe detoxification for a short length of time, seasonally or as a way of life. Thorough research and working with a qualified practitioner will benefit health and well-being for long term effects.