Come January many of us are ready to take a break from the indulgence that often goes hand in hand with the festive period. Having gained a few pounds, feeling a little lack luster and with New Years resolutions still fresh this is an ideal time to detox.
Detox is a term so carelessly thrown around it had begun to lose meaning. So What does detox actually mean?
Detoxification is a natural process where unwanted, potentially harmful substances are broken down and excreted via, sweat, bowel movements or urine. Your body is processing toxins all the time, and technically is perfectly capable of detoxing unassisted.
However in the modern world even living like a saint, it is hard to avoid the onslaught of toxins. When the body becomes overwhelmed with the level of toxins, they begin to accumulate and systems become compromised.
By assisting and stimulating the organs and systems associated with the detox process we reduce the stress on the body and aid the elimination of harmful toxic build up.
So what exactly is a toxin? Quite simply a toxin is an undesirable substance which hinders or harms physiological functions within our body, having a detrimental effect on our health. We carry within our bodies a chemical cocktail from alcohol and caffeine, pesticides, food additives, heavy metals, and residues of pharmaceutical drugs. The result of which may be: Lethargy, brain fog, depression, headaches, weight gain, acne, fertility problems, and decreased immune function to name a few.
How can we detox? There are many ways to detox from retreats to supplements, but the easiest and most cost effective method is through your diet. And lifestyle.
Dr Caroline Longmore’s detox tips:
– Every morning have a cup of hot water and juice of one lemon to stimulate detoxification and digestion
– Drink 2 litres of filtered water a day
– Aim to eat 7-8 portions of fruit and vegetables a day
– Body brush every day before you shower
– Soak in Epsom salts to help draw out toxins through the skin
– Cut all stressors from your diet for at least 2 weeks:
Wheat, Dairy, Alcohol, Refined sugar, Caffeine
