Lots of people like to do "cleanses" or
detoxes
at this time of year. But since our moms taught us not to give in to
peer pressure, before jumping on the
detox band wagon, you have to ask
yourself: What are these cleanses anyway, are they healthy, who should do one,
should I do one and how does one even do a cleanse? Well, I'm glad you are
thinking so critically, and as always I'm only too happy to help. Here's
the REAL deal with
detox:
Let me take a minute to just review a few important things
about the digestive system so that you will understand my position on detox.
Let’s review digestion 101: We eat
yummy stuff, the food we eat is processed in the gastrointestinal system and the
nutrients are absorbed into our blood and go straight to the liver for detox. (They do not pass
go, they do not collect $200.) In the liver bad stuff is neutralized and the neutralized
waste is
eventually excreted by the kidneys. The left over bulk in the GI tract goes
through to the colon for elimination. We could go into great detail
about this but let’s not. The key point here is that the Liver, Kidneys and
Colon are detoxing us all day every day - essentially removing waste and
toxic stuff so we can run like the finely tuned machines that we were meant to
be.
In a perfect world our bodies would do all the detoxing
that we need, but you will agree that pollutants are everywhere: In our air, food,
water and products in our environment. Our bodies neutralize toxins but over-exposure
to toxins can be damaging and toxins build up over time. But is detoxing
or cleansing the answer? Looking at some of the protocols out there I cringe.
Some are downright dangerous and can lead to many side effects including muscle
wasting, energy depletion and nutrient depletion.
My recommendation: A detox lifestyle. You guys know me well enough by now to know I’m not a
big fan of diets and fads. I think they don’t usually provide sustained results
and are usually more trouble than they are worth. Lifestyle changes however are
my jam, I’m all over that! A detox lifestyle? What in tarnation
is that? It’s just a simple eating plan focusing on foods that support the
kidney, liver and colon. It also includes adding in specific supplements for
nutritional support of the kidney, liver and colon, and of course as with most
of my recommendations, we recommend a holistic approach.
But what foods support healthy liver, colon and kidney
function? Here is a list of foods to consider adding: A plant
based diet is generally recommended. Try adding fruits and vegetables such as Belgian
endive, artichokes, cruciferous veggies, radishes, beets and beet greens, apples,
grapes, onions, walnuts, avocados, citrus
fruits, celery, asparagus,
melons, hazelnuts, eggplant, cranberries and purple fruits and veggies - e.g.
blueberries.
Generally, digestive health can be aided by adding an anti-inflammatory
supplement, an antioxidant supplement, a probiotic, a multi vitamin and fiber
to the daily routine. Additionally,
check your produce department and spice rack for things like aloe, garlic,
dandelion, curcumin, green tea,
rosemary and ginger. There are some
herbs that can help, but be sure to talk to a health care provider who is
experienced with herbs, in order to ensure they are appropriate for you before
starting anything like that.
There are holistic and supportive therapies for improving
the body’s ability to detox. Some studies mention that massage
therapy, heat therapy (e.g. deep infrared sauna therapy,) essential oils and
exercise can aid the detox lifestyle. Other studies
confirm benefits from stress reduction activities such as breathing exercises,
walks in nature, exercise, music, dance, singing, meditation, laughing,
journaling and taking a nap.
And one more thing: You have to drink water. That’s a whole
other article for another day.
There are real benefits of a detox lifestyle. Some
studies show that a detox lifestyle can reduce cravings, help with weight
management, increase nutrients, improve mental clarity, reduce inflammation and
even help improve chronic conditions. Patients also report that they feel good
physically and emotionally.
Do you want more information about transitioning safely and
easily to a detox lifestyle without significant side effects, and without losing
the joy of food? Please join us for our #Power_Transformation workshop on
April 1, or call us in office.
Please, please, please do remember that it's absolutely
impossible for me to diagnose you and treat you just by you reading one of my articles.
I'm superwoman it's true but even that is beyond my capabilities. So before you
engage in any health and wellness activities, do consult your healthcare
provider. We are happy to address your personal concerns, call us in office (860-589-1491)
to schedule your personal consultation; and thanks ever so much for your
attention!
