It’s that time of year again when the mornings are beginning to get brighter and the evenings are longer. We’re looking towards the summer and it’s the perfect time to rejuvenate the body by flushing toxins acquired through the food and daily habits of the winter season and detox your body. If you're looking for a spring clean, we've some easy ways to detox your body naturally.
What is Detoxification?
Detoxification is a natural process within the body. It’s a complicated process involving nearly all of the bodily functions. If the body encounters a toxin, it will either be temporarily stored, or turned into another set of chemicals before being excreted. This process takes up a lot of energy and nutrients.
What are toxins?
Toxins can be poisons. They can be materials your body would do better without or they can be something your body needed but now has no further use for. Alcohol is an example of a poisonous toxin. Hormones are an example of something that had a purpose. But when the body has used them, they need to be excreted otherwise can become harmful.
How do toxins enter the body?
Toxins often enter the body via processed foods especially meat products. Water which is not pure is another toxin as is caffeine, car fumes, cigarette smoke, paint fumes or they can enter via products put directly onto the skin.
Where are the toxins stored?
Toxins often go into the bloodstream. They can also get stored in your connective tissue and joints, and are also stored in the fat cells. This happens with sex or stress hormones in particular. If the body encounters toxins it's not able to immediately deal with, it can lock the toxin away in fat cells.
How do I know if I need to detox?
There are some common signs that your body may be in need of a detox! These include; low energy levels, skin ailments, constipation, bloating, dry hair and even just plain bad breath. These symptoms are the body’s way of telling you that it’s not working optimally and that maybe there are a build-up of every day toxins and pollutants that can and should be removed.
So why not give yourself some gentle assistance? Here are some easy ways to detox your body naturally.
Easy Ways to Detox Your Body Naturally: Gentle Detoxification Steps
Firstly, we're going to take a look at some gentle and easy ways to detox your body naturally. When undergoing a cleansing process it’s advisable to focus on increasing colour and variety of organic fruits and vegetables as well as drinking lots of water to hydrate the body. It's important to remember a detox should predominantly be leaving things out rather than adding in potions and powders.
The following things can be high in toxins. If you leave them out or cut down on them, your body will have less to deal with, leaving you with energy and the time to cleanse and heal.
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Processed foods, especially meats
- Tobacco
- Sugar
- Baked goods
- Dairy products
Drink plenty of water; as soon as you wake up and have a glass right before bed. Try to drink herbal teas and water throughout the day. If you really have to have that coffee, drink a glass of water with it.
These steps alone (if you keep them up for any length of time) are the basis for a healthier, less toxic life.
Easy Ways to Detox Your Body Naturally: Steps For A Full Detox
If you would like to get into the full spirit of a detox, improve your toxin elimination or if you’re planning to exercise more and lose weight, here are some more easy ways to detox your body naturally.
Charcoal
Charcoal is used in filters because it can bind onto toxins. The toxins that are stored in your fat cells are not water soluble, so can’t be removed easily. But charcoal can attach onto them and carry them out. If you're exercising and would like to lose fat, especially around the tummy area, taking a charcoal capsule daily (away from foods and supplements) will help. It can also help those who have digestive issues like irritable bowel.
Milk Thistle Herb
Milk Thistle is traditionally used to support liver function. The liver is the most vital of cleansing organs so the better it works, the more effectively the body can eliminate toxins. Milk thistle is particularly good for those with problem skin, hormonal issues and those who get frequent indigestion.
Greens
Greens such as spirulina, broccoli and kale are nutritional powerhouses essential for detox. Green supplements like spirulina are rich in proteins that help to balance blood sugar levels, making a detox programme or a diet easier and more effective.
Take Probiotic Bacteria
Probiotics come in capsule form or you can get them in foods such as Kefir or natural yoghurts. The bacteria in the gut is an essential part of a lot of toxin breakdown so it’s essential to any detox. Also, taking probiotics can build your immunity for the future.
Think About What You Put On Your Skin
When you put something directly on the skin, often you are actually putting it into your body. Why are nicotine or hormone patches so effective? Because chemicals can be absorbed directly into the body via the skin.
The average woman exposes herself to 100 chemicals while getting ready for a night out. There are so many natural alternatives to skin creams, makeup, shampoo and conditioner and you’re not compromising by using these, you’re investing in your own health. Read all about organic and natural beauty products to try.
Sweat
When you go to the gym, go to the sauna afterwards. The toxins which are stored in subcutaneous fats are the tough ones to get rid of. But some time in the sauna after a workout will help. Don't forget to stay hydrated too.
Why not also take a look at our range of Detox Supplements and Detox Drinks
Please note, this blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice.
It’s always best to consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, treatments or remedies if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
Checked and updated: 21 August 2021
