Despite health professionals warning against detox fads, yes your body can actually detox and in fact, detoxification is a very natural and necessary process that is happening within our body every day. In an ideal world, yes. One where all we ate was the perfect balance of whole foods and we weren’t exposed to any toxins. Here, this process would be very efficient. However the reality is that toxins are unavoidable in our world today; air pollution, pesticides, and fertilizers on food, medication, plastic, fabrics, skincare products and the list goes on. No matter how healthy we try and live, we are all exposed to some level of toxins.
Common symptoms of toxicity include recurrent headaches, skin conditions (e.g. acne), muscle aches and pains, fatigue and lethargy. You can also have poor concentration and short term memory, anxiety and mood swings. Not to mention digestive problems, difficulty shifting weight and more. Completing a ‘detox program’ does not have to mean doing anything crazy or overly restrictive – it can simply be a way to give your body the extra support it needs to better perform its natural detoxification functions. When looking to do a detox there are two things you should look out for:
- That it is the design of a qualified practitioner
- It is whole food based and focused on nourishing foods and habits
- Make sure it’s not overly restrictive and cutting out actual food (like juice detoxes)
Can Our Body Actually Detox?
The biochemical process of detoxification is rather complicated. Basically the aim is to metabolize toxins into less harmful substances that are easier to transport excreted from the body. There are many chemical reactions involved in this process that require the right balance of macronutrients, fluid intake, fiber intake, amino acid supply, antioxidants, inflammation precautions, enzyme co-factors, and increased vitamins and minerals. So it’s not just about the foods and habits that you cut out of your diet when detoxing. It’s just as important, if not more important, to focus on what you are including.
So if you feel like your body needs a detox, understand that no detox program is going to switch your body into detox mode. A well balanced and planned out whole food program is key. It will just be supporting what your body is already doing every day.
With so many people confused about detoxing I have designed my own practitioner guided 21 Day Detox Program where we simply use whole foods and nourishing habits that are sustainable long term to focus on your health. A detox program done right can actually do wonderful things for our body.
While you’re here, check out Zoe Bingley-Pullin’s three low-carb breakfast recipes that won’t make you miss bread.
