There are thousands of different chemicals in the environment that may cause adverse human health effects. Little is known about the toxicological properties of most of these chemicals. Additives, preservatives and coloring agents, pasteurization & homogenization of our dairy industry, non-organic foods poisoned by pesticides and herbicides that suppress our immune and endocrine systems, low fat sugar-laden foods, fluorinated and chlorinated water loaded down with prescription medicines, antibacterials and hormones, household cleaning agents, personal care products and cosmetics heavy with parabens, phthalates, or phenoxyethanol, and the list goes on.
Toxicity and our health
Exposure to environmental toxins has been associated with many types of cancers and syndromes characterized by fatigue, muscle weakness, and cognitive dysfunction. Strong associations exist between the initiation or progression of a variety of cancers and exposure to various toxins, including organochlorinated pesticides, which have been shown to damage chromosomal DNA.
The health of our adrenals, thyroid and sex hormones are closely related to the health of our gut and liver. A proper cleansing protocol can assist in rebalancing these systems. 90% of thyroid conditions are auto-immune. 70% of our immune system is in our gastro-intestinal (GI) tract. The thyroid hormone T4 needs to be converted to the active T3 hormone, this is done by a healthy liver. The same applies to the elimination of excess estrogens, and of xeno-estrogens. Xenoestrogens are artificial forms of estrogens produced by the chemical industry; they mimic the effects of natural estrogens and can alter normal hormonal activity. Xenoestrogens contribute to excess estrogen in relation to progesterone or what is called “a state of estrogen dominance”. A burdened liver is unable to break them down. We are constantly assaulted by xeno-estrogens in our environment from the food we eat, the water we drink and bathe in, and the chemicals we use.
The detoxification process
Detoxing requires commitment. And we need to do so for the right reasons. Done effectively, detoxification can heal the body and the mind, it has physical and emotional effects; it rejuvenates the soul. It can rebalance the body.
The detoxification system is highly dependent on nutrient support for optimal functioning. In order to remove diverse toxins, the body needs to convert them to water-soluble molecules, after which they can be excreted via biliary routes, kidney, lungs, or skin. This is a complicated process, which requires a multitude of co-factors such as enzymes, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and anti-oxidants. This occurs primarily in the liver, but also in the entire GI tract, kidneys, lungs, and brain. Nutrient support while doing a detoxification is vital for optimal functioning of the cellular detoxification pathways. Healthy digestion can also have a profound effect on detoxification. In addition, adequate intake of water is essential as well as dietary fibers to support healthy excretion.
Fats can be problematic, since many people consume too much of the wrong kind. Provision of a highly bio-available source of healthy fats that can be used to support energy production is beneficial. Being deficient in any one of the co-factors necessary for the detoxification processes can significantly increase susceptibility to toxicity. Nutrient support for all cellular detoxification activities is thus essential to achieving healthy, balanced, and complete detoxification.
Critical considerations for an effective detoxification protocol:
•Decrease exposure to all toxins
•Provide nutritional support for:
▪all phases of detoxification
▪energy production
▪anti-oxidant mechanisms
▪heavy metal detoxification
▪digestion support
▪proper excretion
Some level of fasting may enhance a detoxification program. Our body does not have the time to heal if it is too busy eating and digesting. A detoxification is also a great way to start a health program if we have food sensitivities. It cleans the toxins out of the bowels. Doing an elimination diet while doing a 28-day detoxification program is effective in finding out if our health issues are related to some food sensitivities, which commonly are. Therefore, a low-allergy dietary protocol that provides a full spectrum of detoxification co-factors, and that supports proper excretion, is essential in promoting balanced detoxification to help support optimal health throughout life.
As you detox your body, you may need to bath more often until you purge all toxins from your body. You may also experience headaches, initially, or flu-like symptoms. Epson salts in your bath and dry skin brushing are beneficial while doing a detoxification program.
What is your body’s weakest link? This is where toxins within your body will be noticed first. Dr Janet Starr Hull wrote in her book – How to prevent radiation, heavy metals, and food chemicals from destroying your health- “By removing all chemical toxins from your diet and environment, you can focus on strengthening your weaknesses rather than slowly tearing them down over time”.
During your detoxification program:
•Remove all chemicals from your diet and lifestyle
•Replace processed foods with whole foods
•Learn how to read your body. Do a food & symptom journal
•Be happy with yourself and your commitment to the detoxification program
•Restore depleted nutrients
•Get control of your life
•Drink water, water, water
•Eat raw organic foods at every meal
•Consume green live foods
•Exercise and get plenty of rest
Visualize the end of the detoxification program; see how you will feel. There are no quick fixes to health issues.
In 1948, the WHO cited: “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” When it comes to our health, there should not be “I will start tomorrow”. Tomorrow might be disease. Detoxification, eating right and exercising should be part of our lifestyle today. Health is happiness. Let’s take care of our body. It is the only place we have to live in. “The Part can never be well unless the Whole is well.” Plato
A detoxification or cleansing program helps the body’s own healing processes and everyone should do it at least once a year.
Wellness Rising 