To detoxify means to get rid of toxins. The human body is capable of doing this naturally through certain bodily processes, as long as you are in good health. Some herbs and supplements might have the ability to bolster your body's ability to get rid of toxins, in turn benefitting you in certain specific ways.
Defining Detox
The human body is
naturally able to combat toxins, because it is liable to encounter substances that are considered toxic on a regular basis. It's important to note that the toxins we refer to here are separate from drugs and alcohol. Detoxification can also refer to a process that takes place in addiction recovery programs, and this is separate from today's topic.
Toxins can be introduced to the body from exogenous (external) and endogenous (internal) sources. Certain toxins can enter the body through certain foods, and also by
exposure to pollution. The body also produces toxins as a byproduct of certain bodily processes.
A Good Lifestyle Contributes to Natural Detox
If you make diet and lifestyle choices that run contrary to what's healthy for you, then more toxins will be introduced to the body and it will be harder to fight them.
Limiting alcohol intake and curtailing consumption of sugary, highly processed foods are wonderful steps toward good baseline health, as is avoiding toxins that burden the liver, kidneys, heart and other organs.
Additionally,
regular exercise will tend to reduce inflammation, and therefore enable your body to more easily expel toxins. Regularly getting enough restful sleep also helps the body get rid of toxins. Sufficient sleep also assists the brain in getting rid of beta-amyloid, a substance that contributes to Alzheimer's disease over time.
Products to Boost Detox
The following herbs and supplements have the potential to bolster your body's ability to get rid of toxins; they are most helpful when lifestyle factors are already conducive to good health. Talk to your doctor before trying any new supplements.
Prebiotics are a type of fiber that feed good bacteria in the gut, which are called probiotics. prebiotics enable these bacteria to create
short-chain fatty acids, which work for your benefit in your gut. Prebiotics are common to many natural foods, but can also be easily accessible when taking them in supplement form.
Dandelion root is an herb that works both as a diuretic, and as a facilitator of
liver detoxification. It has been touted as a remedy to various ills that accompany the build-up of toxins, such as constipation and water retention.
Chlorella is a nutrient-dense type of green algae grown in freshwater (as opposed to seawater) that gets its name for its inclusion of chlorophyll. Its many nutrients include ample protein as well as iron, fiber, antioxidants, and fatty acids that make it potentially beneficial to an assortment of human health functions. Among those apparent benefits is its ability to help
rid the body of heavy metal toxins as well as other harmful toxins that can wreak havoc on our balance of hormones.
Flaxseed presents a few different benefits for the purpose of detoxification. Flaxseed contains more than one type of fiber, and makes for an effective
digestive cleanser. It also helps to reduce inflammation, and it contributes to healthy cholesterol levels as well.
Hawthorn extract is an herbal supplement known for its ability to help prevent heart disease and high blood pressure. Hawthorn extract contains a generous amount of
antioxidant flavonoids, which help to rid the body of free-radicals, minor toxins which are produced as a waste product. It also helps stave off plaque build-up in the arteries.
All things considered, the potential for toxins to enter the body is fairly high. Along with ensuring your lifestyle is conducive to good health, consider the above herbs and supplements as you ponder methods deemed best to get rid of toxins present in your body.
