Why Detoxify?

We are exposed to many chemicals from pollutants in the air, the products we use on our bodies, food additives and preservatives, herbicides, chemicals and pesticides found in the foods we consume that are not grown organically. When toxins are stored through the whole body they may impair the natural body  functions. These toxins may be the cause of many symptoms in the body and can easily be eliminated with the right detoxing program and moving towards a healthy organic diet.

To do this, they need a variety of nutrients to support the detoxification process. If these nutrients are not available, the body will have a difficult time detoxifying. If the detoxification process is slowed down, the toxins are not effectively eliminated. When this happens, the toxins recirculate and are held in the tissues for later on. As more toxins enter the body, those stored toxins do not get eliminated. As time goes on, the toxins accumulate and eventually the cells are not as able to receive nutrients, and the energy factory of the cells, the mitochondria, become impaired. Symptoms of toxicity appear along with identifiable health issues

How the Body Detoxifies 

Detoxification is primarily performed by the liver, which has the job, along with the immune system of identifying these foreign substances and transforming them into something harmless by turning these harmful toxins into water-soluble intermediate chemicals. Then, through different metabolic pathways according to the type of toxin, amino acids, sulfur, and other natural substances bind (conjugate) to the toxins so that they can be eliminated. IF the nutrients needed to conjugate the toxins are in low supply, the toxins may recirculate as new toxins that are sometimes more toxic than the original substance.

It is not only toxins that are broken down, but also hormones, natural waste products, medications, and fat-soluble vitamins. Some of the nutrients needed for better detoxification are sulfur (cruciferous vegetables, onions, garlic, eggs), vitamin B6 (avocado), zinc (shellfish), and protein (fish, poultry).

As the toxins are being eliminated, free radicals are produced, which must be cleared as well. Antioxidants disarm these harmful oxidants. Thus, it is important to eat a variety of colored fruits and vegetables that contain compounds involved in antioxidant processes on a daily basis, especially when detoxifying.

Effective elimination is another factor in detoxification. It is through our urine and bowel movements that harmful substances are eliminated. Eating a good amount of fiber and hydrating with purified water every day will assist in this elimination process. Fiber is found in such foods as vegetables and fruits. Consuming at least 25 grams of fiber everyday will greatly improve your detoxification capacity. Filtering out chlorine and they typical chemicals found in the water supply before you drink the water will lower your toxic load.

 What Can You Do to Improve Your Capacity to Detoxify? 

Here are some other ways that you can support your liver and assist the clearance of toxins:

• Limit exposure to harmful chemicals

  • Drink purified water in glass bottles, not plastic bottles, which may contain dibutyl phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA)

  • Do not heat food in the microwave, especially in plastic containers. The plastic leaches into the food. Microwaving also significantly depletes the nutrient content of foods.

• Clean your home environment with natural cleaning agents

• Buy materials and home accessories that are less toxic: hardwood flooring that is laid without glue, organic cotton bedding, and lead-free glassware.

• Use an air purifier to clear your home environment of chemicals and dust.

• Purchase a water purifier and put a filter over your faucets and showerheads.

• Eat only wholesome organic, fresh foods in a variety of colors.

• Clean out your heater and air conditioner every season.

• Eat a balanced diet of all food groups: protein, good fats, grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and raw nuts and seeds.

• Do not cook or fry foods in nonstick pans coated with chemicals. High heat wears away the coating which is then cooked into the foods.

• Eat liver- and kidney- enhancing foods: beets, artichokes, dandelion greens, leafy green vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, fermented foods such as sauerkraut.