WHAT IS A DETOX?

12 Jun 2018

What is a Detox?

It’s definitely a buzz word – “detoxing” or “cleansing” is likely something you’ve heard about, but what does it really mean? And why should you do it?

First of all, there are many reasons to detox – poor food choices, pollution in air and water, pesticides and industrial chemicals, chemicals in our personal care products, stress, medication, and alcohol all contribute to our toxic burden. Yes, the body detoxes all the time – the liver is constantly working, the kidneys are flushing, but we don’t live in the same world we did 100 years ago. There are so many man-made toxins now, and food quality is worse, leaving our bodies overburdened. We need a little help!

So What is Detoxing?

Detoxing is using the diet along with herbs or supplements to liberate, trap, and carry out toxins that have been stored in our tissues. A carefully planned detox will reduce the burden on the digestive system, free up stored toxins, and properly bind them and carry them out of the system. By eliminating common food sensitivities like wheat, dairy, sugar, corn, and soy you allow the digestive system to rest. This frees up energy for the body’s clean-up mode. We then use herbs and supplements to support the body’s major detoxification organs – the colon, liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, and lymphatic system. This allows us to target the body’s waste removal pathways in a much faster way.

Doing a detox twice a year – spring and fall – is a great way to reboot your system, boost your energy, and prevent chronic disease.

Who Should Detox?

Anyone can benefit from a detox! You may be more in need if you experience:

Unexplained fatigue

Brain fog

Low energy

Inflamed skin or acne

Puffy eyes or bags under the eyes

Bloating, gas, or digestive problems

Menstrual problems

You don’t drink a lot of water

Poor bowel movements

You’re not physically active and sweating regularly

Who Should NOT Detox?

Do NOT detox if you are pregnant, have liver or kidney disease, or other serious medical conditions, or if you’re severely constipated. Always talk with your healthcare provider before beginning any detox protocol, especially if you are on any medication.

Will I Feel Awful?

Releasing toxins may cause mild headaches, brain fog, low energy, or even skin breakouts in the first few days. As your body releases stored toxins this should progressively improve. By the end of one week, most people feel really energized and well! You are still able to go to work, and no, you will not be on the toilet the entire time! A well designed detox also ensures you are getting adequate protein intake, which can help you avoid some of these symptoms.

There are so many benefits to detoxing! Improved energy, clear skin, improved digestion, decreased bloating, better sleep, improved mood, decreased aches and pains, better focus and concentration, to name a few!

If you are feeling the pull to try out a detox, book an appointment online or call Natural Choice Medical Clinic in Guelph at 519-265-8035 today. A detox is a great way to get you on the path to better health!

In Health,

Dr. Aleksandra Gasinski, ND

* image – http://www.nutritionalpearlspodcast.com/6-detox-toxins-health-impact-sys…