Each year tens of thousands of new toxins enter our environment and accumulate in our bodies from the air we breathe, food we eat and water we drink. It is inevitable that these toxins will eventually build up (referred to as bioaccumulation by detoxification specialists) and congest our bodies, thus influencing the onset of illness and disease (toxemia). Research has linked multiple conditions such as; asthma, skin problems, chemical sensitivities, digestive issues, low energy, among many others, with exposure to toxic substances in the environment. In fact, the United States Center for Disease Control estimates that over 80% of all illnesses are due to environmental and lifestyle factors.

Detoxification is becoming a necessary tool for the prevention of bioaccumulation and combating its toxic effects. By supporting our body’s detoxification process we can help dispel further health imbalances, boost the immune system and increase energy to create overall balance within our bodies.

Detoxification has been practiced for thousands of years by cultures all over the world and combines resting, cleaning and nourishing the body with supportive nutrients. Detoxification is based on the belief that accumulation of toxic substances cause illness and by avoiding new toxins and ridding your body of toxic build-up, the healing processes can be initiated. Though our body is well equipped to heal and detoxify itself when we add additional factors like stress, illness and poor diet, we actually hinder this process. This is where a good detoxification program can be a vital aid for health and balance.

There are a myriad of different approaches and techniques utilized for detoxification, from do-it-yourself plans such as; fasting, juice fasts, colon cleanses, and detoxification supplements to professional applications like colon hydrotherapy and clinical fasts, which are implemented under the supervision of a health care practitioner.

Detoxification can also target specific areas of the body: skin, liver, kidneys and most commonly known -the gastrointestinal tract. Accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to toxic colon syndrome or intestinal toxemia, which occurs when the digestive tract becomes unable to digest food properly (due to low fiber, poor eating, overeating and diets high in fat and processed food) therefore, instead of being digested or eliminated it remains in the digestive tract, rotting and producing toxic by-products.

In a market bombarded with fad diets, there are many detoxification products to choose from, so how do you know what you should try or even if detoxification is right for you?

Colon cleanses and supplement detoxification programs tend to be the most popular on the market and we all know a healthy digestive system can have a profound effect on the whole body and overall health. A great number of integrative and alternative health care practitioners recommend that almost everyone needs to cleanse themselves. Some common toxicity symptoms that can signal a toxic overload include; headaches, fatigue, mucus build-up, digestive problems, and low energy; if these types of symptoms are affecting, you may want to try a colon cleanse or detoxification program.

Colon cleanses can consist of herbs, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, psyllium fiber, laxatives or a combination of any of the above; as well as an oxygen based process. The former works as a laxative or bulking ingredient to eliminate build up in the intestinal tract and then typically follows with supplemental nutrients and probiotics to re-establish a harmonious balance. There are many detoxification programs and supplements to choose from depending on your individual needs. The later, an oxygen colon cleanser, is typically taken orally and found in capsule or powder form and is packed full of oxygen-based chemicals. Once ingested, these types of cleansers are said to work by releasing active oxygen through a chemical reaction that then transports oxygen throughout the body, creating a more hospitable environment for the intestines. These products claim to cleanse the intestines and colon without compromising the “good” bacteria and actually promote their growth to assist in digestion. Earth’s Bounty Oxy Cleanse Oxygen Colon Conditioner is a wonderful product to try if this type of cleanse appeals to you.

It is also important to work on a daily basis to help your body eliminate toxins: eat plenty of fiber, drink a lot of water, take vitamin C, breath deeply, exercise and work to reduce stress! Easier said than done, so when you are feeling congested find a detoxification method that works for you and lighten your toxic load!

But always be sure to consult with your health care provider before starting any detoxification program or taking any supplements, especially if you are being treated for a health condition or taking medications.

Live well….naturally! And toxin free!