News and Articles 
Summer Detoxification
The term “detoxification” has been a media buzzword for years, and as such it has generated a great deal of public interest. While it is fantastic that people are drawn to the idea of cleansing their bodies, gaining more energy, and making themselves healthier in general, it is important that they choose detoxification programs that will truly help them.
What is the goal of detoxification?
Put quite simply, detoxification is the process of eliminating toxins. Our bodies perform this function on a daily basis through the actions of the liver, intestines, sweat glands, bladder, and lymphatic system. Therefore, it stands to reason that in order to achieve additional detoxification we need to support these organs of elimination in their natural functions.
How can the organs of elimination best be supported?
There are three main ways to support the organs of elimination:
- Organ Nourishment: this is primarily achieved through using herbs and nutritional supplements that have an affinity for the organ in question. For example, the herb Ceanothus americanus is excellent for strengthening the lymphatic system, while the amino acid L-glutamine works to heal irritations in the large and small intestines that might impair bowel function.
- Organ Support: each organ of elimination requires different vitamins, minerals, and foods to help it function properly. For example, the colon needs adequate fibre to produce healthy stools and the liver requires antioxidant precursors like selenium and zinc to properly process toxic substances.
- Organ Obstacle Removal: if you accidently left your bathtub filling and flooded the washroom, it wouldn’t make sense to clean the mess until you turned the faucet off. Similarly, it is crucial to minimize the number of toxins you expose yourself to when undergoing a cleansing plan. This requires actions like eating wholesome foods, minimizing alcohol consumption, and taking time for mental relaxation.
What steps should I take to start my own detoxification?
It depends on what your personal goals are. If you’re looking for a simple health boost, you can:
- Eat wholesome foods and avoid processed ones
- Drink eight glasses of water per day, two of which are lemon water to promote liver function
- Exfoliate before showering by lightly running a dry loofah over your body several times
- Do five minutes of deep breathing per day
- Exercise regularly to optimize circulation
If you are interested in undergoing a full-scale detoxification program, it is best to do so under the guidance of a registered healthcare professional. That individual should:
- Give you individualized dietary advice to determine which foods you should eat and avoid
- Select detoxification herbs best suited to you that won’t interfere with conventional drugs you may be taking
- Determine which detoxification-supporting nutrients your body may need
- Help you to implement relaxation and exercise techniques into your life
- Assist you in gradually starting and stopping your cleansing program to avoid shocking your system
Should I use over-the-counter detoxification products?
Some “detoxification” products simply contain laxatives and diuretics, which can be habit-forming and simply cause one to lose “water weight”. Also, many common detoxification herbs have the potential to interact with pharmaceutical drugs and alter their function. Consult with a naturopathic doctor or another healthcare professional with extensive training in herbal medicine, nutrition, and pharmacology first.
Summer is a time of vitality and strength – the perfect time to nurture those elements of you!
Sincerely,
Dr. Bryan Rade, ND