At the start of every new year, we are barraged with the latest trends in detoxification.
Social media introduces us to various cleanses promising to whitewash our poor diet and lifestyle choices, melt away extra weight, and restore the body to pre-holiday, mint condition.
But do these quick fixes work?
Our bodies are constantly exposed to a variety of toxins each day. Physical toxins come from our foods, the air we breathe, and can even be generated internally through normal biological processes.
Toxins of the mind and spirit may come through draining relationships, excessive or prolonged stress, or a lack of meaning and purpose. The body systems work tirelessly to eliminate these toxins and to preventing a build- up that would eventually interfere with healthy functioning of the body.
A quick-fix detox may show short-term results such as increased energy and short-term weight loss. But nurturing your wellbeing throughout the year is far more beneficial in terms of health and longevity.
For a sustainable detox, nourish the body’s natural systems of detoxification and elimination. This will support continuous toxin removal.
Here are some simple yet essential tips for promoting long-term health from Chiva-Som wellness experts.
The basics
by Dr. Jason Culp, Research & Development Director of Chiva-Som
Stay hydrated
Water is essential for all processes of life. Its role in detoxification is to transport metabolic waste and toxins out of the body. It does so through various channels, including the skin (sweat), kidneys (urine), lungs (breath), and bowels (faeces).
Individuals who sweat excessively, talk a lot, drink caffeinated beverages, or fail to consume a healthy diet are at a higher risk for inadequate hydration. You can prevent dehydration and support detoxification by drinking at least 1.5 litres of purified water per day.
Get adequate rest
Sleep is essential to the detoxification process. During the night, your body works overtime to cleanse the residual waste from your daytime activities.
Even the brain goes through a detox by activating the glymphatic system. It clears the brain and central nervous system of metabolic waste products.
Focus on getting 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night and stick to this routine throughout the year. If you have difficulties with insomnia, seek the help of a trusted health practitioner for advice and support on how to achieve restful sleep.
Take care of your liver
The liver is our primary organ of detoxification. It works tirelessly to prepare toxins and metabolic waste products for safe and efficient elimination from the body.
The liver is highly resilient and takes a considerable amount of punishment before it starts losing its ability to function properly.
Consuming unhealthy foods, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, and smoking all have adverse effects on the liver. The reduction or elimination of these lifestyle habits will reduce the amount of toxins taken into the body each day and give your detoxification systems a much-needed break.
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