Healthy Detoxification!

by Jon Fiume
February 1, 2006

Coming out of the holidays, many people set their sights on changes, including those that are physical. Most often we hear the word diet. However it is not too often that we hear the word detoxification. That's right, cleansing the toxins out of our bodies. Detoxification is not a bad thing to consider, especially after all of the holiday parties where we drank too much of this or ate too much of that. Detoxification is also good for those of us who consistently eat poorly, drink moderately, smoke, and or are exposed to environmental toxins. That pretty much makes each of us the perfect candidate for cleansing.

So before looking at ways to cleanse or detoxify, the question is: Why do it? Truly, who wants to take the time, and most importantly, who wants to give up the good things in life, even for a brief time? It is certainly not an equal exchange of gratification, that is for sure. However, there are some benefits, which include having increased energy. Often times a toxin overload in the body slows us down, creates lethargy, and therefore may contribute to unwanted weight gain. Strengthening the immune system is another benefit. Releasing those toxins allows the immune system to be enhanced and do its job. Cleansing helps keep the skin healthy. The skin is actually an organ, and of course needs to be nourished, as well. Cleansing from the inside helps to do that. When there are too many toxins over an extended period of time, the body is more vulnerable to disease.

There are numerous ways to cleanse or detoxify the body. Programs are available that include supplements, making dietary changes, receiving colonics or fasting at different levels. When you are considering your cleansing program, it is important that you receive the appropriate information and understand what the program entails. Many programs can be done more than just once a year; some require more discipline than others. However, just like any health program, know what it is that you are doing. Some of the approaches include:

- Consuming more water. This is one of the easiest ways to start the cleansing process. One half your body weight in ounces is a good rule of thumb! Depending on your weight, that may sound like a tremendous amount of H2O, but over time your body will adjust.

- Reducing the consumption of highly processed foods, such as baked goods, sodas, and snacks. This is obvious not just for cleansing, but for good health overall.

- Reducing the consumption of fried foods. Ditto!

- Increasing the consumption of raw fruits and vegetables. We all know they are chock full of vitamins and phytochemicals, plus they contain the much needed roughage.

- Using an herbal detox program. There are numerous ones available on the market today, from the simple to the complex. Many contain herbs in one bottle and the fiber in another. Some are available in a tea form, although the majority of those tend to be more driven as a laxative. Some of the herbs that you may see are aloe vera, a natural laxative; milk thistle, cleanses the liver; goldenseal and or red clover, cleanses the blood stream; and psyllium to cleanse the bowels. Make sure to follow the guidelines, and if necessary consult your doctor.

- Supplement with acidophilus the friendly bacteria. Acidophilus helps replenish the good intestinal flora in the gut, thereby regulating the intestinal system. It also helps to strengthen the immune system.

- Increasing fiber has many health benefits, including cleansing the body and helping to lower cholesterol.

- Increasing exercise to sweat out the toxins! This one works every time and has so many run off benefits!

Detoxification. Your new word for the year. Cleanse away!