Part 2: Eight Ways to Increase the Removal of Toxins From the Body

1. Chelation Therapy: Chelation is a medical therapy administered by a medical practitioner that involves the administration of chelating agents, which are substances that bind to heavy metals in the body and help facilitate their excretion through urine or feces. This treatment is typically administered in cases of acute heavy metal poisoning or chronic metal toxicity and is generally done with a supervising medical professional.
   

2. Dietary Changes: Taking time to consume whole organic foods and herbs that support the body’s elimination of toxins has been shown to decrease toxins in our urine and breast milk. Decreasing consumption of pesticides and excess hormones by eating organic whenever possible can decrease exposure. In addition, certain foods and nutrients may help support the body's natural detoxification processes and promote the removal of toxins and heavy metals. These foods rich in chlorophyll, polyphenols, and antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs like cilantro and parsley, may help protect against toxicity. Additionally, sulfur-containing foods like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussel sprouts) can support liver function, which plays a crucial role in detoxification. Including multiple plants in your diet, like in a whole food cleanse, has been shown to be protective of the body because antioxidants in the plants clean up free radicals, repair cellular damage, and give the body good nutrition and fuel to heal the body.  We are basically walking bags of food and bacteria. Everything we eat can either promote and support the repair and regeneration of our body, or it can contribute to damage of the body.
   

3. Participate in a Cleanse: There are several herbs that are good for detoxifying the body including dandelion root, milk thistle, and burdock root. Many of these are found in herbal formulas meant to help with detoxification and cleansing the body. Talk to your healthcare provider to find a cleansing herbal formula that is right for your needs. 
   

4. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps support kidney function and promotes the excretion of toxins, pesticides, and heavy metals through urine. Recent research also shows that staying hydrated can decrease blood pressure. In addition, it is essential for overall health and may help facilitate the removal of additional poisonous substances from the body.
   

5. Dry brushing Dry brushing is a technique that involves using a dry, stiff-bristled brush to exfoliate the skin and stimulate blood circulation. This ancient practice, rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, has the benefits of unclogging pores and detoxifying the skin by promoting lymph flow and drainage. This aids in the elimination of toxins as we sweat. It also stimulates the nervous system and promotes circulation bringing nourishment to the skin. Remember that while dry brushing is beneficial, it’s essential to be gentle, especially if you have sensitive skin.
   

6. Sauna Therapy: Sweating through sauna therapy can help eliminate toxins and heavy metals through the skin. Regular sauna sessions may support detoxification and promote overall health. In addition, it is recommended that you do not go over 30 min in a sauna, it's essential to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes when engaging in sauna therapy. 
   

7. Supplements: Certain supplements may support detoxification of the body. Examples include alpha-lipoic acid, glutathione, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), which are antioxidants that can help protect against toxicity and support liver function. Speak to your natural medicine healthcare provider about high quality supplementation.
   

8. Avoiding Exposure: While we cannot fully eliminate our exposure to toxins, minimizing exposure is crucial for preventing accumulation in the body. This includes avoiding contaminated water sources, reducing consumption of fish high in mercury, avoiding lead-based paints and products, reconsidering mercury fillings, and using personal protective equipment when working in environments with known toxins and potential heavy metal exposure.

Read on to Part 3 to learn some of the benefits of doing a cleanse.