Something you’ve likely read or heard a lot about in recent years is about detoxing your body. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop magazine features near-monthly articles on the topic, along with informative how-tos.
Despite its popularity, there are different theories and ways to detox your body. Some approaches are more strict than others. Regardless of your health strategy, wellness sites such as conservehealth provide guidance for healthy living.
Why Detox Your Body
Whether the body detoxes naturally or needs a little push is a topic hotly debated by the medical community. Many people who go through detoxes report an influx of energy and overall increased well-being.
The purpose of detoxing is to remove harmful toxins from your body, particularly the colon. The body’s organs naturally shed toxins, but often not at a rate equal to the absorption of toxins. Sugar and processed foods are common types of toxins eliminated by the detox practice.
7 Steps for Detoxing
Despite its surge in pop culture, detoxing is not a new thing. In ancient times, bloodletting was a common method used to cure illnesses and improve health. Before you reach for the nearest sharp object, consider these more modern methods for detoxing:
1. Cut back on alcohol consumption. Alcohol hinders liver function. When the liver attempts to metabolize the enzymes in alcohol, it causes a build-up of fat. Which in turn, prevents the liver from working properly.
2. Get enough shut-eye. One of the things the body does automatically when we sleep is to shed the toxins from the organs. Without proper rest, this system is interrupted and unable to regulate itself.
3. Are you drinking enough water? Water is an essential part of the detoxification process. The liquid carries toxins out of the body through urine and sweat. Experts recommend drinking at least eight cups of water per day, minimum.
4. Limit sugary and processed foods. It’s no secret that sugar and processed foods are known to contribute to obesity. Obesity affects the liver and kidneys, two organs that play important roles in removing toxins.
5. Exercise daily to stay active. Exercise can help keep your weight under control. In turn, your organs are able to function as they naturally would, including detoxification.
6. Skip the salt, increase the cilantro. Salt often results in excessive fluids in the body, which cause bloating. Cilantro, on the other hand, helps the body excrete harmful toxins.
7. Choose prebiotic-rich foods. Prebiotic foods assist the intestines in the digestion. Tomatoes, leafy vegetables and apples are high in prebiotics.
Detox Your Life
Your digestive organs aren’t the only thing that can use detoxing. Mental toxins from electronics and stressful events can negatively affect your life. A social media cleanse from time-to-time can help keep your mind fresh and decluttered.
Environmental toxins can also invade the skin. Detoxing your skin can change your appearance and self-esteem.
Medical experts may not have concrete evidence that detoxes work. But the sheer amount of people who attest to the successful process can’t be discounted.
