The Benefits of a Great Detoxification Program
If you’ve never detoxed before, you will be amazed at the mental clarity and increased energy you will experience in just a few short days. Be aware however that you may feel worse temporarily before feeling better, and this is a sign that the detox program is working. Temporary symptoms include bags under the eyes, coated tongue, sore throat, mild nausea, diarrhea, cramping, itching (including skin & genital), insomnia and slight fever and headache- especially if breaking a stimulant addiction. Adverse symptoms should only last approximately 3 days, at which point the body will have begun clearing the toxins, and a sense of wellbeing will prevail. If you do not feel better in about 3 days, this means your detoxification II pathway may be blocked.
There are two phases to healthy detoxification- phase I and phase II. Phase I involves the removal of toxins from the cells in which they are stored. Phase II occurs when toxins are neutralized and moved out of the body through feces, urine, skin, sweat and breath. It is important that your phase II organs are prepared to neutralize and eliminate the toxins. Pathological detoxifiers or those with weak organs need to take extra care to ensure a complete phase I and II detoxification.
A healthy detox program includes a clean diet, stress reduction, rest, light to moderate exercise, and supportive supplements. Start by scheduling time to rest and nourish your body. Decide ahead of time the length of your program, and which foods and supplements you will incorporate. Choose supportive exercise such as yoga, walking, jogging, and/or light muscular exercise. If you expect your detox to be less intense because of a less stringent nutritional protocol or because you’ve detoxed recently, choose more strenuous exercise like weight training and aerobics to promote a better detoxification.
Focus on eating whole natural foods, eliminating toxins such as coffee, alcohol, sugar, most grains, preservatives and chemicals found in inorganic foods. Also eliminate digestive stressors- gluten, dairy, and all foods which you are personally sensitive to. You can have food allergy testing or base your eliminations on known allergens.
By eliminating food toxins, you will allow your body to begin to remove, process, and get rid of stored toxins. By incorporating nutrient-rich foods, you will support your detox organs- the liver, GI tract, skin, nose, throat, lungs, lymph system, kidneys, bladder and gall bladder. Before and during your detox, ensure a diet rich in antioxidants to neutralize the toxins as they enter your bloodstream. Click here to find a list of suggested detox foods. You may amend this list to meet your needs. Also, try our Cilantro Recipes...
Decide ahead of time how you will ensure adequate fluid intake. Water comprises 70% of your body, and if insufficient during detox, toxins will be unable to flush. Plan to drink at least 80 oz. of water a day, adding more if you are sweating or talking a lot. You can add variety to your beverages by adding lemon, lime, Paleogreens, or making a smoothie with frozen berries, Finest Pure Fish Oils or Berry Frutol, and Paleomeal. You may also use non-caffeinated, chemical free teas.
Use supportive supplements during your detox, as they will help provide your body with the extra nutrients needed to ensure a complete detox. Designs for Health has recently published a detox program which has received incredible reviews. Listed below are the supplements recommended to facilitate an optimal detox program.
Paleocleanse by DFH
Functional food powder containing quality hypoallergenic protein and all nutrients needed for fueling detoxification pathways. PaleoCleanse combines a high level of antioxidants for detoxification, full enzyme support, substrates for Phase II conjugation and botanicals to promote liver function and elimination.
Dosing: 1-2 scoops daily.
Amino D-tox by DFH
Formulated to aid the liver in Phase II detoxification of harmful chemicals. This formula is especially recommended for even the most sensitive of patients, such as those with multiple chemical sensitivities.
Dosing: 2 capsules three times per day throughout the detoxification program.
GI Revive by DFH
Provides nutritional support for the regeneration and healing of the gastrointestinal tract lining which is a key component of the detoxification process. This powder easily mixes into any beverage and provides therapeutic levels of gastrointestinal healing nutrients to support optimal function.
Dosing: 1 tsp twice daily.
LV-GB Complex by DFH
LV-GB Complex provides nutritional support for liver and gallbladder function. It aids in the elimination of fatty substances from the liver, as well as promoting proper bile flow. LV-GB Complex was designed with a combination of specific herbs that aid in processing and eliminating toxins.
Dosing: 1 capsule three times per day.
Paleogreens by DFH
The alkalizing action of greens are a natural detoxifier for the body. Alkaline based foods are the greatest biochemical balancer for the person consuming the Western diet.
Dosing: 1-3 TBS mixed in water daily.
Paleofiber by DFH
A combination of 12 fibers derived from fruits, vegetables, roots and seeds. Fiber both protects the intestinal tract from toxins and increases stool matter. This allows toxins to be absorbed and removed from the body. As with all types of fiber, increase your consumption gradually.
Dosing: start with 1 teaspoon per day and slowly increase to 1 per meal, 3 teaspoons daily.
Omega-Ultra Marine or Omega Synergy
Essential fatty acids help cells communicate with one another and act as anti-inflammatory agents throughout the body, enabling all systems to work at their fullest potential.
Dosing: 1-2 capsules three times per day.
Or choose: Finest Pure Fish Oil by Pharmax
This high quality liquid fish oil is an excellent way to dose higher without taking capsules. It tastes good too! Replaces Omega-Ultra Marine or Omega Synergy.
Dosing: 1-2 TBS daily
HLC Probiotics
Probiotics fortify detoxification by producing enzymes and aiding in proper elimination of toxins via improved bowel movements. They also prevent reabsorption of toxins through the gut wall, and aid in immune health. These human grade probiotics are proven effective at adhering to the gut wall and colonizing effectively which will support maintenance of toxin free cells.
Dosing: begin with HLC Intensive, 1 cap three times daily. Then use HLC High Potency 1 tsp 1-3 times daily.
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