Detoxing

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم


What is Detoxing?

Detoxing is the course of removing toxins and waste from the body. Our bodies are created with a natural internal detoxification process which many elements of our bodies are involved in; including our organs. The three major involved organs are the colon, kidneys, and liver (1).  

In holistic healing and alternative medicine, natural materials are used to aid this aforementioned process. The beauty in this is that you can receive a wide range of benefits from the natural product you ingest. These may include herbs, teas, fruits, and vegetables.  

The effects of removing toxins and waste vary from type of foods ingested during a detox and from person to person. In general, detoxing can aid in weight loss and boost energy levels. Rebecca Lewis, a registered dietitian at HelloFresh explains, "Detoxing will help boost your energy, support your immune system and even clear your thinking. Not to mention that your skin, hair, nails will all glow with renewed health. Research has even shown that removing unhealthy toxins from our bodies can elevate our mood, decrease depression and help give an overall sense of well-being."

A complete body cleanse will involve removing all foods and environmental factors that the body views as toxins such as processed sugar, heavy metals and pesticides [2]. This requires lots of willpower and discipline to achieve which led me to want to share this list of a few tips that we can incorporate into our daily lives to help aid in our natural detox process.


Drink Lemon Water

Drinking lemon water helps flush out toxins by stimulating the liver which in turn helps the digestion of food. Lemons are known for being an excellent source of vitamin C. More vitamin C can improve our skin health, boost our immune system and prevent cardiovascular disease (3,4).

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is simply swishing oil in your mouth for up to 20 minutes to gain detoxifying benefits. Popular oils that are used are coconut, sesame and sunflower oil. These oils help kill bacteria and remove toxins that could cause a number of conditions such as gingivitis. [5]

Exercise

 Good ole' exercise is an incredible form of detoxification as it circulates blood flow. Increased blood circulation leads to the liver and the lymphatic system (the network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. [6]) working to expel toxins from our bodies. [7]

Eat Whole Foods 

No, I am not talking about the retail market. I am referring to actual natural (and organic) foods that have been minimally processed and free from artificial substances. The benefits are subjective to the types of food you eat but overall you can expect an increase in fiber benefits, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.[8] Your body will also be able to absorb these things more efficiently as well. 

Herbal Teas

Like eating whole foods, herbal teas are subjective to which herbal tea you choose to indulge in. Green tea is one of my favorites as it contains high amounts of antioxidants that aid in cancer prevention, lowers cognitive issues (like dementia) and improves heart health. [9]


There are so many ways that we can aid our bodies in detoxification. These tips do not even scratch the surface! If you are going to try any of these tips remember to try to achieve consistency in small steps first before moving on to big changes. Detoxing can be timely especially after prolonged exposure to many harmful elements. The tools you need to begin with before you even start your shopping list are concrete goals and willpower. This is the foundation of any lifestyle change or improvement. 

Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.



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