Spring is a time for renewal, rebirth, new beginnings – and spring cleaning. One survey found that 80% of us embark on at least one spring cleaning project at this time of year. With this focus on fresh starts, it’s also a great time to focus on cleansing your body and recharging your health. Taking some time to make health your priority will help restore your energy and optimize your health.
We are exposed to multiple harmful toxins, on a daily basis. Many of these toxins aren’t readily apparent: we’re often unknowingly exposed to environmental pollution and toxins in our food, air and water. Chronic emotional stress, combined with sedentary lifestyles, contributes to the harmful accumulations of toxins in your system.
The human body is equipped with many “appliances” to help eliminate harmful toxins, including the:
- Liver – the body’s primary filtration system, converting toxins into waste products, cleansing your blood, and metabolizing nutrients and medications to provide the body with some of its most important proteins.
- Colon – removes water, salt, and some nutrients forming stool which excretes toxins.
- Kidneys – purify and filter our blood.
- Lungs – act as filters for the toxins in the air we breathe.
- Lymphatic system – lymph vessels connect to a group of lymph nodes which act as a filter for anything harmful that the body does not need.
- Skin – acts as a barrier for our body and excretes toxins through sweat.
Does Your Body Need A Hand With Detoxification?
Just as we wouldn’t expect our household cleaning appliances to continue performing without some basic maintenance, over time, these organs need some cleansing themselves. Signs that it’s time for a reset include:
- Sluggish digestion
- Mysterious skin issues
- Unexplained fatigue
- Bloating
- Foggy thinking, poor concentration, and impaired memory
Jump Into Spring With A Healthy Detox
The following steps are an important part of a spring detox.
Exercise.
Regular exercise reduces inflammation throughout your body, stimulates the lymphatic system, boosts endorphins, and gives you energy. Plus, the sweat from a good workout can help eliminate toxins such as heavy metals and BPAs.
Support your liver.
The liver functions as the body’s filtration system, so when it is overtaxed, unwanted toxins can overwhelm your body. An important and effective way to support your liver is reducing alcohol consumption. While it is generally recommended that women limit themselves to one alcoholic beverage per day, and men to two, total abstinence is the ideal way to kick off a spring detox. Avoid sugary drinks as a substitute, however, as sugar and high fructose corn syrup contribute to fatty liver disease. Filtred, chemical-free water is always the best option to assist with detoxification and hydration.
Herbs and supplements that support the liver, such as milk thistle and turmeric, can also improve liver functions. The chemical compounds in cilantro have been shown to bind to toxic metals and loosen them for easier transport out of the body.
Traditionally used as a diuretic, studies suggest that dandelion may help improve liver and gallbladder function. The blossoms of red clover support liver function by stimulating bile production and act as an effective diuretic, helping to cleanse the blood and rid the body of excess fluids.
Increase your water intake.
Water flushes out waste products through urine and sweat. Staying hydrated also helps the organs in your body work optimally, so aim for two to three liters of water a day. An eco-friendly water bottle can help you stay on top of water intake, and adding lemon or cucumber support liver health and augments the flavour.
Make smart food choices.
Whole, natural, organic foods help the detoxification process in several ways. This is particularly true for foods high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help combat free radicals, which are unstable molecules that cause cellular damage. Pollution and toxins like alcohol and tobacco lead to the production of free radicals, but antioxidants fight them and reverse the effects of the oxidative stress they create. Foods high in antioxidants include many nuts, brightly coloured produce like blueberries, strawberries, kale, beets, goji berries, and dark chocolate.
Foods high in fiber help with elimination and therefore act as literal cleansers. Foods high in insoluble fiber, such as whole grains, help clean the digestive system as they move through your system. Soluble fiber also supports the production of good bacteria in your gut, which supports the liver and other functions. Good sources of soluble fiber include beans, vegetables like brussel sprouts and broccoli, and fruit like apples.
Detoxify your beauty and healthcare products.
Some beauty and health products contain toxic ingredients like parabens and phthalates, and their negative effects can be more than skin deep. Look for natural ingredients whenever possible. The Environment Working Group (EWG) website gives detailed information on exactly what many products contain and ranks them for their level of potentially harmful toxins.
Declutter your environment.
It’s a different type of cleaning, but getting rid of clutter in your surroundings can have a positive effect on your mental health, and act as an impetus for your spring detox. Be sure to use natural cleaning products!
Stay on top of sleep.
Sleep really does clear your brain, as studies show that the brain gets rid of accumulated toxic byproducts while we sleep. It’s also when your brain processes the events of the day. Plus, being well-rested helps you tackle the other elements of staying healthy.
Don’t delay your spring detox! Your body and soul deserve as much attention as cleaning your home! If you’d like to learn more and create a customized program for you, let’s talk!
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