Our bodies are exposed to environmental toxins every day by sources ranging from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Cleansing is a process that involves stimulating the liver to remove stored toxins and promoting elimination of them through the intestines, kidneys, and skin.
Chris Turf, a registered pharmacist and certified herbalist at the Pharmaca in South Boulder, recommends cleansing your body every year. "Most programs call for reducing dietary toxins from alcohol, coffee, tobacco, refined sugars and saturated fats and avoiding exposure to synthetic and petroleum-based toxins as the first steps," says Chris.
Pharmaca carries a variety of guided detoxification kits like Zand Herbals Quick Cleanse and Heel Detox homeopathic oral drops, with time frames ranging from 7 to 30 days in length. "The best programs last for at least two weeks," says Dr. Lisa Ow, a naturopathic physician at Pharmaca's Monterey store. Her absolute favorite is the Supreme Cleanse by Gaia which provides daily routine and dietary suggestions along with fiber and herbal supplements.
Chris encourages people to take a probiotic for immunity support during detox, as people sometimes catch colds due to the stress and toxin release. He also notes that cleanses can aid in weight loss as you eat less during most programs and clear out toxins that might slow the weight loss process. However, it shouldn't be your main motivation for detoxification.
"If you are on medications, be careful," says Dr. Ow. Many detox programs include fiber supplements which can decrease the effectiveness of some prescription therapies. She also advises against detoxification for anyone who is feeling weak due to conditions such as cancer or a long term infection. Pregnant and nursing women should also avoid cleansing to prevent the release of toxins into their bloodstream or milk. "It's not a good time to detox if your body needs to be nourished," she says.
For most people, taking the time to support your system by cleansing can reduce the impact of small, daily chemical accumulations.
Speak with your doctor or a Pharmaca practitioner to find out what program is right for you.