The concept of detoxifying the body is often predicated on purchasing expensive and trendy raw juices, and coupled with arduous fasting rituals. Boxed in highly effective marketing, the actual act of detoxing the body through these methods of conventional juice & fasting can actually put the sapien in a more toxic state.
The human body stores toxins in the fat; sequestering it somewhat safely. When we go on juice cleanses and extensive fasts, we rapidly burn through stored body fat in the absence of calories: subsequently releasing concentrations of stored toxins and overloading the detox systems past reasonable capacity. Further exacerbating the toxicity, many of the common ingredients found in juice cleanses are often rife with plant defense chemicals and other chelating compounds that act in “anti-nutrient” ways. Paired together, detox creates a pro-tox state.
Detoxification Defined As The Removal Of Natural And Exposure Based Wastes
- Metabolic Waste: by-products of normal cellular metabolism (energy production and usage).
- Hormones: Unused or excess hormones are broken down and eliminated.
- Microbial: Waste products from the activity of bacteria and other microorganisms in the body.
- Environmental Pollutants: toxins from air, water, and food: such as heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals.
- Medications: metabolites from drugs
Organs Responsible For Detoxification
Liver: Major detox center. 2 phase system: Toxins go from fat soluble to water soluble metabolites whereby they are easier to eliminate. These substances are eliminated through the bile, transferred to the intestines, taken into the blood, whereby eliminated by kidney’s & urine.
Kidney: Filters blood by removing waste products and excess substances. Water soluble processed toxins are excreted in the form of urine. These organs also function to regulate blood pressure and electrolyte balance; all contributing to overall detoxification.
Lungs: Respiratory system eliminates toxins through breathing (CO2 is a byproduct of cellular respiration and released from exhalation). This process maintains the body’s PH (acid / base balance).
Skin: Elimination of a wide range of waste through sweat.
Basic Maintenance Of Your Detoxification System
Hydrate, movement, proper fuel (diet), adequate sleep, and stress management will all support and sustain the body’s natural detox mechanisms.
“Let Food Be Thy Medicine”
The below foods can augment and support primary detoxification organs while potentially mitigating conditions where toxin exposure may be chronic or saturated.
Milk Thistle: a herb with active compound of silymarin: known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Primarily supporting liver and lungs by promoting protection and regeneration of cells.
Artichoke: Related to Milk Thistle and containing similar anti-inflammatory & antioxidant properties that help support liver function.
Beets: High in anti-inflammatory & antioxidants, beets contain betalains and betaine compounds that are associated with liver function.
Cruciferous vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and kale all contain sulferaphane compounds thought to modulate detox enzymes: enhancing both phases of liver detoxification.
Dandelion: Aids in increasing urine production: facilitating the elimination of waste and excess fluids.
Turmeric: Containing curcumin, which is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties while aiding in liver function.
Cilantro: Herb that may help remove heavy metals from the body.
Garlic: Sulfur containing compounds may help metal detoxification.
Chlorella & Spirulina: These freshwater algae may help heavy metal detoxification.
Ginger: Known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties thought to support digestion and overall detox.
Parsley: High in antioxidants, and potential for supporting kidney function, and encouraging urination and further elimination of toxins.
Fuel Optimized Detoxification Through Super Stacking
Smoothie: Combine beets, artichoke hearts, ginger, parsley, cilantro, and turmeric.
Salads or bowls: Incorporate any mix of cruciferous vegetables along with dandelion greens and cilantro. Top with a dressing of turmeric, ginger, and lemon.
Soups or stews: Use turmeric, ginger, and garlic as flavorings in soups or stews containing cruciferous vegetables, beets, and parsley.
Herbal teas: Brew tea using milk thistle, dandelion, cilantro, and a pinch of turmeric.
Left Coast Warrior Detox Elixir
- 1 small beet, peeled & chopped.
- 1/2 cup of chopped artichoke hearts (canned or cooked).
- 1 cup chopped cruciferous vegetables of choice (broccoli, kale, bok choy, etc.).
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley leaves.
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger.
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric.
- 1 teaspoon of spirulina and or chlorella powder.
- 1 cup of raw milk, coconut milk, or almond milk.
- Optional toppings of sliced banana, berries, or chia seeds.
