Should You Try a Detox Cleansing?

Cleaning out your system may seem appealing yet medical experts have long been at odds regarding the effectiveness of a “body cleanse” or detoxification regiment.

Some science has not been able to support this practice while other science cites beneficial results capable of improving one’s quality of life. 

Overall, the practice of detoxification has been around for centuries and many people offer good reports in observational studies. However, it is not for everyone. Some detox methods are described below to see if you should try a detoxification cleansing for better health. 

Human Toxins

Various detoxification techniques have been used during ancient Egyptian times with mention of some even found in the bible. Since these ancient applications humans have been obsessed with ridding themselves of toxins.

Nowadays some practitioners make all sorts of detoxification health claims simply for monetary benefit. However, human waste can accumulate, especially in your colon where toxins have been reported as lining the colon wall and, over time, permeating this barrier, slowly releasing into the bloodstream.

Shedding embedded toxins and “stuck” waste may be possible through simple dietary changes, certain natural applications and as well as plant-based herbal remedies. Each individual responds differently but a smart detox diet just may improve your health in surprising ways.

Colonic Irrigation 

In some people, impacted feces can accumulate on the colon wall. This is usually due to an excessive animal product diet along with primarily processed foods and other poor lifestyle habits such as alcohol, smoking, low hydration, and lack of exercise.

A colonic irrigation could help remove built up toxins in the colon. The procedure entails a sterile tube gently inserted into the beginning of the anus. Then, warm sterile water is slowly pumped into the colon. The attempt is to breakdown embedded waste and clear the colon wall for optimal function.

According to nutritionist Lauren Eyre as reported by The Mirror,

“A diet low in fibre or poor bowel regularity can leave toxins stuck in the colon which will eventually be reabsorbed back into the body. Colonic irrigation ensures toxins are removed from the digestive system.”

After the tube is taken out, some remaining water may be evacuated afterward. It is recommended to do seven colonic treatments until you are clear. Some practitioners use a tube with a small “window”. By the last sessions, you can see the dark embedded waste sloughing off the colon wall along with undigested pieces of food.

Dry Brushing

Your skin is your largest organ. As it is the body’s first responder it can take a beating. Plus, whatever is happening underneath can also affect skin health.

Dry skin brushing is a practice where you use a specially bristled brush to exfoliate and circulate your skin. By gently stroking the brush over your body, toward your heart, you could be shedding dry skin flakes and enhancing blood circulation. 

Step into the shower and before you turn on the water, dry brush your whole body. There is no need to press hard but it is important to brush toward the heart. Although dry brushing hasn’t had much scientific research applied, those that practice it in the morning and at night report one or more of the following benefits:

• Lymphatic drainage assistance 
• Healthier looking skin
• Digestive help
• Cellulite minimization
• Increased energy

Hurry Up and Wait

Fasting has become an easy way to lose weight as well as decrease systemic toxins. When a fasting protocol is followed, less toxins are consumed and more body fat burned. In turn, this process leads to eliminating embedded waste that may otherwise accumulate. 

The Canadian Medical Association Journal published a study on intermittent fasting which found that,

“Fasting has been shown to improve biomarkers of disease, reduce oxidative stress and preserve learning and memory functioning, according to Mark Mattson, senior investigator for the National Institute on Aging, part of the US National Institutes of Health.”

There is no need to do a radical fast protocol of, for instance, only water for ten days to receive detoxification benefits. Simply making minor changes can help. This might include: 

• Eating two meals per day instead of three
• Eliminating snacks
• Curbing recreational toxins such as alcohol, drugs and tobacco
• Intermittent fasting (finish food at 6pm eat next meal at 1pm the next day – times can vary)  
• Increasing clean, filtered water intake
• Eating only fruit for breakfast

Overall, these changes put less of a strain on your body, particularly when it comes to digestion. Therefore, more “cleanup” can commence and assist in detoxification benefits.

If you should try a detox cleansing be sure to keep your body in check. Any dizziness or extreme fatigue may indicate that detoxing is not for you. However, if you can follow one or more of these detox methods, you may experience some beneficial results. 

Sources:

https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/health/the-bizarre-history-of-detox-1677046

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3680567/