The Body Detox Method
Scientists and naturopathic physicians agree that toxins are everywhere: in the air we breathe, in the foods we eat and in the water we drink. Many naturopathic physicians say that when these toxins build up in our bodies, they can interfere with the body's ability to fight illness. The best method to counter this, according to some physicians, is to remove these toxins through a program of detoxification.
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How Does Detoxification Work?
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The body has several systems and specific organs that remove impurities from your body. They include the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the liver and kidneys, the lymphatic system and the lungs and skin. A detoxification program will rest the GI system through fasting, force the fatty tissue to release stored-up impurities into the blood where the liver and kidneys can process them, promote elimination through bowel movements and sweating and refuel the body through healthy nutrients.
How Do You Know When To Detoxify?
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Many naturopathic physicians advocate undergoing either a 7 day cleanse at least once per year or a 1 day water or juice fast once a week. According to advocates of the 7 day fast, it takes at least this much time for your body to eliminate toxins. Symptoms that may indicate you should undertake a cleanse may include unexplained fatigue, slow bowel movements, irritated skin, allergies or low-grade infections, bags under the eyes, a distended stomach even if the rest of your body is thin, menstrual difficulties or mental confusion.
Before a Detoxification Cleanse
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Advocates of a detoxification program say that you should begin by cutting out toxins from your lifestyle. While it is difficult to remove pollution from the air, you can eliminate processed sugars, caffeine, carcinogens found in cigarettes, saturated fats and alcohol. You can also limit your exposure to chemicals found in personal care products and chemical-based household cleansers. Additionally, by lowering the stress that you subject your body to, you can eliminate the buildup of toxins caused by an adrenaline rush. These toxins impair your liver's ability to remove toxins from your body.
Selecting a Body Detox
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There are a number of good body detoxification programs available. Some include a water diet, unsweetened tea diet, juice diet or lemon and honey diet, supplemental package fasts that include fiber, vitamins, herbs and minerals, and vegetarian or raw foods diets.
Issues that May Occur
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During a detoxification program, toxins are released into your body in large quantities. Because of this, patients with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses, nursing mothers and children should not undergo a body cleanse. During the cleansing process, a patient may experience boils, cysts or acne eruptions as toxins work their way out of the skin. They may also experience muscle aches, headaches, chills, back pain, dizziness and nausea. This is known as a cleansing crisis. Typically this stage passes quickly. As the body exits this stage, it may enter into a stage of euphoria or a feeling of limitless energy. During this period, it is wise to ignore the feeling and conserve energy.
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