What Is Detoxification?

Detoxification means removing harmful or potentially damaging substances from our bodies, diet and our overall lifestyle. Detoxification is a process which is naturally done inside your body to flush out all the unwanted toxins out of your system. It is an essential function of the body, wherein it needs to be perpetually working and interacting with various functions within the body.

Our Liver is the main organ involved in detoxification and bulk of activities are done by it, other parts of the body such as intestinal tract, the kidneys, lungs, lymphatic system and skin are also involved in this complex process.

However, unlike certain other systems in our human body, it is very difficult to judge how well our liver and certain other internal cleansing organs are functioning. This is the reason that some external support is needed to aid the body to clear out toxins effectively. The aim of any detoxification regime is primarily to help the internal organs involved in elimination so that toxins present in the body can be metabolized and excreted properly.

Common Type of Toxins

• Food preservatives, additives, and artificial sweeteners.
• Air pollutants including industrial waste material & vehicle fumes.
• Cosmetics, hair dyes, perfumes
• Household cleaning liquids.
• Alcohol, cigarette smoke & harmful addictive substances.

Although, it is true that some of these toxins, such as alcohol are soluble in water and will largely be flushed out of the body, there are some harmful substances which are not water soluble and can easily get stored in the body’s fatty tissue. By removing or flushing out toxic material and by minimizing the amount of waste taken into the body, one can increase one’s chances of a healthier life.

Why should I detox my body?

In today’s time, toxic agents are present everywhere across the world. Be it the food we eat every day, the air we inhale, house cleaning sprays we use, we can hardly escape it.

Toxins lead to the formation of increased number of free radicals in the body. Constant emotional roller coasters lead to secretion of increased stress hormones which further promote free radical formation. As a human being, it is practically impossible to live a life without being subject to the toxic environment. This is the reason why our bodies are made to filter toxins out every day. Urinating, Crying, Sweating, Defecation are all natural protocols used by the body to get rid of toxins.

In spite of the medical care being so advance our society is getting ill more than ever. Our life expectancy is increased, but we are still surrounded with various diseases. Almost all diseases are due to increased amount of toxic build-up in the body.

Many times toxins bind themselves to sex hormones which slow the pace of metabolism thus causing weight gain. Additionally, toxins are stored in fat cells, also contributing to excess weight.

Here are 5 reasons for you to detoxify your body in order to enjoy improved energy levels.

Toxins weaken our immune system

Our body has a wonderful defense mechanism, but it needs to be kept fighting fit. Detox is a necessity for boosting your immune system. The toxins present weaken the system and the body falls prey to various diseases.

Detoxification heals

Detoxification can contribute to the healing of many acute illnesses that result from congestion and mucus formation due to faulty eating patterns.

Detox leads to weight loss

Another advantage of a detoxification program is weight loss, although it is not its primary purpose. When a person, who normally consumes 3000 to 4000 calories by consuming sweets, fatty foods, refined foods and alcohol, switches to fruits, vegetables, juices, lots of water, whole grains, cereals, and pulses, will naturally lose weight. At the same time, he/she will cleanse his/her system and experience a significant improvement in his/her health.

Energy levels improve significantly after detox

A simple detoxification program helps you a great deal in improving your overall energy levels significantly.

Detoxified body is nutrient receptive

Once your body gets detoxified, it gives you an amazing feeling of rejuvenation and in this state, it is ready to accept all the right nutrient values in the correct proportions.

What can you get started?

They say that ‘you are what you eat’ – this popular proverb holds true in terms of assessing an individual’s immune system, based simply on their day-to-day diet practices. Every morsel of food that passes through your mouth and goes through your digestive tract for processing can impact the condition of the immune system and its capacity to protect the body against unwanted intruders.

A good way to start is to provide your tired body some rest from foods which strain your digestive system. Even before your go for an actual detox start avoiding certain unhealthy foods from your diet.

One such highly processed food is sugar. It does have any nutrient left in it and causes immense harm to your digestive system. Sugar causes energy spikes as well as crashes. Avoid sugar-laden foods such as pastries, cakes, ice creams, biscuits, canned drinks, canned fruits, chocolates and canned juices.

• Try switching refined sugar with stevia.
• Include more fresh fruits. Start by having at least 2 cups of fresh fruits every day.
• Include some simple salad dishes in your meals every day.
• Drink some freshly squeezed vegetable juices.
• Drink 8-10 glasses of clean water.
• Switch your regular cup of tea or coffee with freshly brewed green tea.
• Reduce or quit smoking and alcohol
• Remain calm and stress-free

What are some of the common conditions that suggest you need Detoxification?

1.   One of the most commonly observed symptoms of conditions is Headache. They are a result of too much caffeine, foods, drugs, etc.

2.   Feeling fatigued is a common condition since your body’s strength is directed towards getting rid of accumulated toxins.

3.   The color of urine changes and becomes dark and foul smelling.

4.   Skin often becomes a medium for elimination, causing minor rashes and sores. The tongue might also look slightly white.

5.   Diarrhea is a common complaint when the body is loaded with toxins.

6.   Trouble sleeping

7.   Constipation

Herbs for Detox

Here are some herbs that you can use during detox:

Dandelion

Dandelion has traditionally been used as a diuretic and may help improve liver and gallbladder function.Try steeping the roots to make dandelion tea.

Ginger

Ginger has a powerful cleansing effect on the body, and one of the best features is that it helps the body absorb the nutrients and minerals taken in by eating. It eliminates the build-up of impurities in the colon and liver. Ginger also promotes detoxification through perspiration, boosts circulation and prevents blood clot formation.

Milk Thistle

It is a great liver support and powerful detoxifier. It helps remove toxins from the body while helping the liver rebuild itself. It is very good at naturally reducing the harmful effects of alcohol, pollution, drugs, and other toxic substances.

Cumin

Cumin aids the process of digestion, which is the foundation of any detox strategy. If you are releasing toxins, but your sluggish digestion is not allowing them to be released properly, keeping them stuck inside your body, then it cannot be an effective cleanse, and you may end up reabsorbing them all.

These unpleasant side effects may or may not accompany your detoxification regime, depending upon the amount of accumulated plaque you have built up inside your body over the years. Best would be to start cleaning your diet at least a month before you decide to go on a detox.