Detoxing and cleansing have become popular in recent years.
According to Elson Haas in "Staying Healthy with Nutrition,"
detoxification removes toxins from the body and can improve basic bodily
functions, such as digestion and elimination. With so many products,
supplements and services out there, it can be difficult to know which ones are
safe and effective and which ones aren't. Signs of toxic buildup can include
fatigue, difficulty concentrating, headaches, hormonal imbalances, bloating,
constipation, diarrhea, lack of energy, frequent colds and skin problems.
Detoxing to many means drinking a concoction of ingredients or buying a
"boxed" cleanse from a health-food store. The fact of the matter is,
detoxing can be done easily at home.
Detox Foods
Detoxing can seem overwhelming. Haas explains that when
toxins build up in your body, congestion occurs. Slowly shifting your diet from
more-congesting foods, such as meat and processed foods, to less-congesting
foods, like fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, is a way to start detoxifying
your body. He also states that individuals who feel sluggish and congested
could benefit from a vegetarian diet for three weeks. This diet would include
plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and legumes.
Spice It Up!
Spices and herbs, such as turmeric, ginger, coriander and
rosemary, are an easy addition to any meal. Many herbs and spices have amazing
detoxification properties and provide gentle assistance in removing toxins from
our bodies. Turmeric, for example, is known for its work in detoxing the liver.
Contrast Showers
In contrast showers, you turn the water back and forth
between hot and cold for timed intervals. At the end of your shower, turn the
water up to a hot temperature for two minutes. Then turn the water down to a
cold temperature for one minute. Repeat three to four times. The varying temperatures
promote detoxification by increasing circulation and lymph movement. Contrast
showers are not recommended for pregnant women and people with heart problems,
asthma, diabetes, Raynaud's Syndrome and vascular problems.
Up Your Water Intake
Drinking water is one of the most underrated detox methods.
Naturopathic doctor Christopher Vasey states that we eliminate approximately
2.5 liters of water each day. When dehydration occurs, the kidneys cannot
effectively filter the blood and must pass on some of their work to the liver.
This can cause the liver to become overworked and stressed. Aim to drink a
minimum of 2 liters of water each day. If you work out, try to get 3 liters per
day.
Go Organic
Due to the use of pesticides and herbicides in today's farming
methods, many fruits and vegetables in the grocery stores today are laden with
toxins. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the top 12 produce
items to always buy organic are celery, peaches, strawberries, apples,
blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, kale/collard greens,
potatoes and imported grapes.
References
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray N.D.; 1999
- Environmental Working Group: Shopper's Guide
- Pure Inside Out: Detox Bath
- Christopher Vasey
- "Staying Healthy With Nutrition"; Elson Haas, M.D.; 2006
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