Detox 101

Detoxification is the process of removing toxins from the body. Our body has its own natural detox methods and constantly eliminates waste through the liver, sweat and urine. However, sometimes these vital organs work too hard and show symptoms of imbalance and excess fatigue. If we give them a break, we allow them to repair, restore and work better. It’s like pressing a reset button and rebooting the system.

As a Health Coach, I encourage my clients to go on a Detox with the change of seasons and every time their bodies show signs of imbalance or excess fatigue. 

In another article we covered what Detox is and its benefits (read post “Top 10 Benefits of Detoxing”). Today, we’ll go over a natural, mild, yet effective version of Detox, which I use on my clients all the time.

1. Drink more water 

As my teacher David Wolfe says, “Hydration is nature’s solution to pollution”.  Your body is made up of 70-80% water and needs a minimum of 8 glasses a day in order to stay hydrated and to help to flush out the toxins.  During the Detox process, I invite you to take it up to at least 10 glasses a day.

First thing in the morning: drink 2 glasses of water. Add a squeeze of lemon and a tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar for an extra cleansing boost. 

Make sure your water is filtered and avoid plastic bottles. Spring water in glass bottles is best.

2. Boost your vegetables and fruit intake

Eat lots of vegetables and whole fruit. Dramatically increase your dark leafy greens: spinach and kale are my favorites.  Add a variety of fruits into your diet, especially berries (more vitamins, less sugar vs. other fruits).

A great way to increase your fruit and veggie intake is through smoothies and fresh juices. I often recommend my clients to have a big smoothie in the morning, after their 2 glasses of H2O.

3. Go Organic 

Eat organic food to minimize your intake of toxic pesticides and preservatives. Give your organs a break, allow your body to unclutter and absorb nutrients better. Organic fruit and vegetables contain higher amounts of vitamins and minerals. 

4. Eat Natural

Avoid processed foods and refined sugar. Avoid ingredients you don’t know (good rule of thumb: if you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it). Avoid prepackaged, precooked food. 

5. Avoid usual suspects

While you don’t need to be vegan to Detox, try to reduce your red meat intake. If you don’t need animal protein, avoid it altogether for a few days.

For the purpose of Detoxifying, avoid gluten, soy and dairy. They tend to confuse your body in different ways and provoke inflammatory reactions.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate your body. 

If you haven’t done so, eradicate tobacco, as it will seriously inhibit your body’s ability to naturally cleanse. 

6. Get moving

Movement and sweat are your best friends during a detox process. Sweating accelerates toxin elimination; so try to break into a sweat at least 3 times per week. I recommend daily moderate exercise for improved circulation, faster detoxification and better energy flow. 

Yoga is an excellent way to move your body and promote toxin flush: grab some classes at The Yoga Collective and practice yoga from the comfort of your home. 

7. Go non-toxic

Chemicals and toxins are not just found in your food, but also in cosmetics and cleaning products. Go for organic, natural, non-toxic alternatives. 

8. Catch some sleep

Get at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. Your body cleanses itself while you are asleep: processing toxins, restoring all functions and replenishing energy. All of this is essential for effective detoxing. 

9. Be mindful 

Slow down and pay attention to everything you do. Focus on one thing at a time. Eat slowly and savor every bite. Drink very slowly, a few sips at a time. Breathe slowly and deeply. Focus on your presence and being in the here and now. Promote constructive thoughts; avoid critics and unnecessary mind chatter. 

10. Foster good relationships

Avoid people who drag you down or make you feel stressed. Spend more time with loving people who care about you and inspire you to shine.

The world needs you in full shape, so you can feel great and share your amazing gifts with others. A natural Detox will improve your health, energize you, help you manage your weight and inspire you to continue being healthy. I encourage you to try it for 2 weeks at a time: whenever you want to boost your health and wellbeing.