Detox Myths Debunked

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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!