Spring Detox

by: AndreaDow
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Word Count: 393

Thursday, May 10th

Alicia Potter, writer for Health magazine, helps us clear up some confusion about detox diets. I have never been a fan of these as I truly believe our bodies own detox centers (our internal organs) naturally do all of the detoxifying necessary. Everything from syrup to juice to protein liquids has been promoted in pop culture to clean our systems. Potters tells us that all of these liquids have a few things in common: they are high in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants. If you must do any kind of detoxifying diet, try a one day fast of fresh squeezed juices. A liquid diet fast any longer than one day can deplete your body of important vitamins and minerals.

Our liver is the master and commander of detoxification in our body. Often times, milk thistle (an herb) is recommended to assist the liver. Michael Picco, MD, assistant professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine assures us that a normally functioning liver does not need any assistance. The real way to assist your liver in detoxification is to avoid too much alcohol (1 drink for the ladies, 2 drinks for men per day) and avoid too much acetaminophen.

Absolutely stay away from colonics! Yikes, the thought of this is nauseating. Colonics are very dangerous because they can lead to infection if contaminated tools are used, they can injure the colon area and they remove billions of good bacteria that keep our immune system strong.

Also stay clear of activated charcoal capsules, chelation agents, colonic cleanser kits, excessive sweating, herbal supplements (for the colon, liver or lymph nodes), teas, Ionic foot baths, and patches that promise to pull toxins out of the body. None of these therapies have been proven to work and will just make a dent in your wallet. Lymphatic massages are meant for sick people with specific medical conditions and should be performed by trained professionals. Skip this service at the spa and go for a relaxing massage instead.

With so many options for how to detox out there, stick with the tried and true. Eat well, sleep enough, take time to enjoy life and de-stress, exercise and breath!

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