Our body is designed to detoxify itself naturally. Equipped with several systems that filter and process everyday toxins, it works to maintain a balanced, healthy internal environment.
But in today's world, we are exposed to an abundance of chemicals and pollutants that can build up and overload the body. Decreasing your toxic exposure and performing seasonal detoxes help support overwhelmed body systems and functions that restore wellness by reducing toxins.
When impurities are present, the body knows how to remove them. When unhindered by toxic overload, the body's natural detoxification capabilities can process harmful substances via the following systems:
The lungs work like an air purifier as they filter out toxins. We bring in oxygen and pollutants like smog, cigarette or wildfire smoke, and chemical irritants when we inhale. Upon exhale, we expel toxins along with carbon dioxide. The lungs also expel toxins or harmful pathogens that enter the bloodstream through phlegm production.
The liver is a vital component in the body's detoxification system. It's positioned as a checkpoint for blood as it makes its way from the stomach and intestines. The liver removes foreign substances to filter the blood, transforms toxins into waste products and converts harmful chemicals stored as fat-soluble toxins into less toxic water-soluble compounds, making them safer to eliminate.
The kidneys filter the blood, removing waste while returning beneficial substances and fluid to the bloodstream. The waste is then excreted as urine.
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It aids the detoxification process by expelling toxins through sweat and oil glands. A recent study found that when the skin produces sweat during exercise, it can eliminate heavy metals from the body.
The gut is the barrier between the bloodstream and the outside world. The intestinal wall keeps toxins we get by eating food from permeating into the blood. As food is digested, the small intestine separates nutrients from waste. While nutrients and fluid are absorbed into the bloodstream, the waste products travel to the large intestine. Here, the waste is converted into stool as it prepares to be eliminated from the body.
When the body enters a state of heightened toxicity, unwanted chemicals and other impurities can accumulate in the blood and adipose tissue. Potential sources of toxin exposure include processed, fried and sugary foods, pesticides used on non-organic fruits and vegetables, GMO foods and conventional farming methods, polluted interior and exterior air and household or personal care products. Dramatically reducing or eliminating common sources of toxins can help prevent unwanted symptoms and relieve overtaxed body systems and functions.
But how will you know if your body is struggling with toxin overload? Some common signs are:
While it's impossible to avoid exposure to all toxins, we can significantly decrease their effects on our bodies. A seasonal detox can help support organ function and flush out any accumulated heavy metals and chemicals found in food and elsewhere in the environment. It may also be helpful to test for toxicities, like heavy metals, to find out your current rate of toxin exposure and how best to support it through appropriate nutritional supplementation and lifestyle strategies.
To help your body maintain its detoxification processes and function at its optimal state, avoid toxin overload by decreasing your toxin exposure. Pay attention to ingredient labels on food, cosmetics and household products, and avoid harmful chemicals, including pesticides. Support regular bowel motility and assist the detoxification process by drinking plenty of water.
With fewer toxins to combat, the body can detoxify naturally and ultimately function at a higher state of wellness.
Understand your underlying metabolic health at the deepest level by testing your hormones with this simple at-home lab test.
