Detoxification

 

Toxins are substances that create harmful and/or irritating effects on the body, disrupting our health and causing stress on our body's biological functions.  Unwanted toxins build up in our bodies from pollutants found in our environment, our water and the food we consume.  Our bodies undergo a very important process called detoxification that removes toxins from our blood, cells, lymphatic system, liver, bowels, and kidneys.

 

There are two main types of toxins that people encounter - internal and external toxins. External toxins originate outside our bodies.  We encounter them in our environment by breathing them in, ingesting them and through physical contact. Examples of external toxins include pesticides, drugs, food additives, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, cleaning agents, heavy metals and cigarette smoke to name a few. 

 

Internal toxins originate in our bodies through our body's biochemical and cellular activities.  Another major source of internal toxins, for many people, comes from impaired digestion.  With impaired digestion, found will tend to accumulate in the intestines and undergo both fermentation and putrification, both of which produce excess toxins in the intestines. These internal toxins enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, decreasing the delivery of nutrients and impeding the elimination of toxins from our cells.

 

Unfortunately, we are bombarded with both external and internal toxins on a daily basis and toxin exposure can lead to many symptoms including, but not limited to, the following:

 

• Fatigue and sleep issues

• Brain fog

• Skin problems (acne, eczema, psoriasis, hives)

• Hormonal imbalance (PMS, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, heavy bleeding, infertility)

• Digestive disturbance (gas, bloating, heartburn, IBS)

• Allergies and asthma

• Headaches and migraines

• General aches and pains

• Frequent colds and flues

 

It is encouraged, at least a once per year, mainly in the spring and fall to do a detox.  As a result, patients report improved health, energy and vitality.  Doing a detox not only helps to clear symptoms but also helps to treat disease and prevent future problems.

 

There are many detoxification programs some involving just a change in diet to reduce your exposure to toxins.  While others, consist of dietary changes alongside the use of supplements to help your body eliminate toxins.  All detoxes should be customized to your needs and done under the supervision of a physician.