Spring is typically considered a time of rejuvenation, house cleaning, flowers in bloom, and it’s even a fantastic time for a metabolic cleansing, also known as “detoxing.” 

Spring is the time of year when most of our lives are in full swing, and we’ve forgotten many of our New Year’s resolutions. One of those may have even been weight loss. One great way to “jump start” our metabolism is detoxification. 

Another major reason to detox, is that there are more than 83,000 chemicals registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Most of these have not been thoroughly tested for their effects on human health. Luckily, there are many things that can be done to naturally detoxify the body.

Nutritional Recommendations
Water — Drink enough filtered water to turn urine clear, or at least straw yellow.

Fiber — chia seeds, freshly ground flax seeds and psyllium husks are great sources of fiber. Mix 1 tablespoon of the fiber of choice into 8 ounces of water and drink twice a day.

Liver supportive foods — beets, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, collard greens, cabbage, artichoke, brussel sprouts, ginger, onions, garlic and green tea all support liver health, as do herbs like turmeric and dandelion root.

Antioxidants — organic blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and acai berries are great examples.

Eat organic fruits and vegetables — Check out www.ewg.org/foodnews to see which foods fall under the Dirty Dozen (should buy organic) and which fall under the Clean 15 (fine to buy non-organic).

Detox herbs — There are many excellent teas that can increase the body’s ability to get rid of toxicants, including dandelion root, burdock, fennel and peppermint.

Home recommendations
Epsom salt baths — One cup of Epsom salt in a warm bath can help relax and detoxify the muscles.

Skin brushing — Start with hands and feet and brush inward toward the heart; this will increase blood and lymphatic circulation.

Sweat — one of the best ways to detoxify the body is through exercise, steam rooms and saunas.

Use natural cleaning products — or make them at home, instead of using ones with chemicals.

Use soy or beeswax-based candles — instead of petroleum candles, which release toxins into the air, which can be harmful when inhaled.

Mental Detox
Sleep — Without rest, the body will not be able to detoxify effectively, so it is important to get at least 7 or 8 hours of high quality sleep. 

Stress relief — Make some time each day to do something fun, whether it be listening to music, drinking some tea, taking a walk, reading a book, making a meal, meeting with friends and family, etc.

The above tips are just some basics. There are many more natural and integrative approaches to explore, including vitamins, minerals and herbs. Make an appointment today to discuss other strategies and options for safe and effective detoxification!