Detoxification is a natural process that removes unwanted chemicals from the body. A detoxification program is any procedure that helps the body in this process. It should address not only the removal of toxins already accumulated but also address the reduction of exposure and adsorption of toxins.
When considering aiding the body in its detoxification process in my opinion the very first things to consider are the organs that carry out the detoxification processes: the lymphatic system, intestines/bowel, liver and kidneys.
Adequate exercise: Physical activity is essential to enable the lymphatic system (which is the system in our body that carries many toxins and wastes) to work as it relies on the big muscles of the arms and legs to act as a pump.
Massage: can be an important and effective adjunct to an exercise regime. It definitely helps the body's detoxifying processes.
Adequate fresh fruit and vegetables: These are your first source of naturally obtained vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Water intake: Be sure to drink adequate water, especially in hot weather, without adequate hydration the body cannot detocify effctively. Minimise contact with environmental toxins that further pollute the body.
The bowel: If your bowel is not healthy then your detoxification processes will be greatly impaired. The bowel should move easily (NOT loosely) on a daily basis, should not be bloated, gassy or tender in any way. You can find several articles on this subject on the web site.
Probiotics and/or Prebiotics: The most common source of toxicity in the bowel is an imbalance of gastrointestinal flora. There are now very specific probiotics available for specific conditions.
Click here to read more on Probiotics.
After these come other considerations that may have to be supplemented.
Mineral levels: If these are inadequate the body's detoxification processes as well as its ability to heal will be compromised. Using colloidal minerals on a regular basis will overcome this possibility. Here at the clinic I stock 'LifeSprings' Liquid minerals, a brand that is concentrated, unadulterated and that I have found works very effectively. Click here for product information.
Enzymes: An enzyme deficiency must be carefully considered as a possible precursor of bodily imbalance, toxicity and consequent disease symptoms. I always recommend the use of plant derived digestive enzymes that contain effective levels of each individual enzyme and are extremely well tolerated. Click here for product information. Extra antioxidants: These are also essential in helping the body detoxify and can often be inadequate especially in diets that lack fresh green vegetables and berry fruits.
Click here to read more on Antioxidants.
The liver: is responsible for neutralising and eliminating umwanted chemicals from the blood.
Liver 'tonics' usually contain herbs such as St. Mary's Thistle that are known to enhance liver detoxification and may also contain extra nutrients aimed at promoting detoxification.
It is hugely important to supplement MINERALS and get the bowel working adequately PRIOR to using liver tonics! If this isn't the case then toxins removed from the liver will simply be reabsorbed into the blood stream from the bowel and you can become very ill. HENCE the unpleasant 'healing crisis' that many people experience.
I have some wonderful liver tonics in stock for those that need them or alternatively can make herbal blends to your specific requirements.
Avoid negative emotions and stresses: These also can be 'toxic' to the body, just take note of how the bowel reacts to stress. You may find it slows down and you become constipated, or the reverse, it may become very loose during stressful times.
Hope that answers some questions for you all. Please make a clinic appointment or use an email consultation if you need further information.
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