Detoxing has become synonymous with juice cleanses, fad diets, and trendy products or supplements. However, the body has effective and complex detoxing processes that are constantly in use as the world is full of environmental toxins and agents of illness that can build up over time. Consequently, the body’s ability to detoxify is essential in preventing toxic overload and subsequent disease.
The Body’s Natural Detoxification Processes
Because detoxification is such an important process, there are multiple organs and bodily systems involved.
The Liver
The liver is the body’s primary hub of detoxification. The liver eliminates toxins through the use of two pathways known respectively as phase 1 and phase 2 detoxification. Phase 1 uses various enzymes to break down chemicals and substances with the greatest toxicity into more manageable components. During this process, potentially damaging molecules called free radicals are produced. Unfortunately, increased presence of free radicals raises the risk for serious illness, including liver damage and even cancer.
Phase 2 detoxification, or the conjugation pathway, neutralizes the harmful molecules and toxins that remain after phase 1. Enzymes used in phase 2 convert the lingering substances (drugs, hormones, free radicals, etc.) into water-soluble compounds so they can be easily excreted through bile or urine. HoltraCeuticals’ Phase II supports this process and the removal of harmful substances as they can lead to infection, chronic illness, or other serious diseases.
The Kidneys
The kidneys support many bodily functions, including helping the body to remove toxins. The kidneys are constantly filtering the blood and as part of this process, waste is removed from the bloodstream and excreted as urine.
The Digestive System
The digestive system not only supports the liver by breaking down the food and providing energy it will need for detoxification, but also by eliminating toxins as waste.
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system’s main function is detoxification. The lymphatic system helps cleanse our body from toxins by collecting the waste from cells and helps flush them out of the body.
The Skin
Although the skin may not seem like an obvious component of the body’s detoxification process, it does play an important role. As the largest organ in the body, the skin uses its extensive surface area as a method to expel toxins through sweat.
Signs of Poor Detoxing
If toxins build up in any of the above organs or systems, it can lead to serious health issues. Symptoms of poor detoxing and possible toxin-buildup include:
- Sleep problems
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
- Low libido
- Skin rashes
- Joint pain
- Poor immunity
- Fatigue
Naturally Supporting the Detox Process
In order to avoid the symptoms listed above, it is important to be aware of ways to support the body’s natural detoxification process:
- Exercise: When other bodily systems are overloaded with toxins, the skin and its pores can help. Exercising and breaking a sweat regularly flushes out toxins from the body.
- Saunas: Saunas are another method of getting the body sweating and releasing toxins.
- Hydrate: According to The Institute of Medicine, men should drink at minimum about 13 cups of water a day, while women should drink about 9 cups. Hydration is required for all bodily systems to function properly, especially the kidneys and liver as dehydration puts further strain on these organs when dealing with a toxin buildup.
- Avoid inflammatory foods: As a toxin buildup leads to chronic inflammation, it is important to avoid worsening this problem. Inflammatory foods are typically foods high in sugar, gluten, dairy, and processed foods in general.
Benefits of Detoxing
Focusing on supporting the body’s detoxification will not go unnoticed. There are many potential benefits gained from helping the body eliminate toxins:
- Improved energy
- Mental clarity
- Weight loss
- Resolve of headaches/ migraines
- Improved digestive function
- Improved appearance of skin
Addressing Detoxing Concerns
We are exposed to toxins, disease-carrying substances, and harmful bacteria on a daily basis. As these toxins build up in our system, the body must eliminate them through natural detoxification methods. If the system cannot keep up with the toxic load or is malfunctioning, the risk of developing a serious illness or perpetuating existing conditions increases significantly. It is essential that the body’s natural detoxification systems work as intended.
Resolving a toxin buildup and healing the body’s detoxification processes can require an individualized treatment plan that often includes lifestyle and appropriate nutritional support through diet and supplementation. If you suffer from some or all of the indicators of a poor detoxification process, seek out a doctor who is familiar with identifying and treating this complex condition.
At Holtorf Medical Group, our physicians are trained to utilize cutting-edge testing and innovative treatments to uncover and address conditions such as a compromised detoxification process. If you suspect you may have issues with detoxification, but aren’t getting the treatment you need, contact us to see how we can help you!
