Spring has finally sprung, and the sunshine has thankfully graced many of us with its warm embrace. Due to the colder temperatures and darker nights, winter is a time when we tend to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle and it’s not at all unusual to have gained a few extra pounds. Let’s face it…bikini season or winter holidays weren’t posing any immediate threat. On top of that, this year we would surely be forgiven for having a more relaxed attitude towards drinking alcohol and overindulging in energy dense foods due to boredom, stress or even loneliness brought on by lockdown restrictions. However, did you know that along with increased body fat comes an accumulation of toxins? This is because toxins are stored in fat cells to lock them away and prevent them from damaging other organs of the body.
This is the season where we traditionally take to a good ‘spring clean’ of our homes, decluttering them of any unwanted junk and grime, creating a fresh start as we head into the new season. So, after months of accumulation, wouldn’t you agree that this also marks a perfect time to gently spring clean our bodies and support the elimination of those toxins which may have built up throughout the winter, or even over years?
Seasonal cleansing and detoxification practices have been around for centuries and include detoxes which target the bowel, liver, lymphatic system, skin or kidneys.
However, there are those who argue that the body is capable of removing any harmful substances and that detoxification programmes are a complete waste of time and/or money.
That may be true in part as yes, the body is incredibly competent at ‘biotransformation’ – the process of transforming harmful substances into inert ones and eliminating them in our waste – but modern day lifestyles and the environment we currently live in has resulted in ongoing and significant exposure to a concoction of chemicals and it is this that may compromise optimal health.
Signs that indicate toxicity include but are not limited to:
Fatigue, allergies, sinus problems, inflammatory conditions, digestive issues, headaches, low mood, skin problems, brain fog, hormonal imbalances, obesity, poor sleep and chemical and/or food sensitivities.
Research shows that during weight loss, as fat cells are broken down, the stored toxins are liberated, released into the bloodstream and passed through the systems of the body where they can potentially cause damage and burden to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
What’s more, this release of toxins from fat tissue has been shown to actually slow down the metabolism and possibly lead to rebound weight gain.
So What’s the Solution?
Supporting the detoxification processes of the liver together with elimination via the bowels, kidneys, skin and lungs can help to mitigate potential harm from mobilised toxins and assist you in achieving safe and sustained weight loss.
It’s important to note that you don’t necessarily need fancy and expensive detox kits, juice or water fasts – these might work for some but may also be harmful to others. If done incorrectly or too fast you could run the risk of experiencing various side effects. This is because the body requires nutrients as well as adequate time to carry out detoxification processes.
Here are some of my recommendations to support detoxification if you are trying to shed a few pounds of fat or just wish to carry out a little internal cleansing:
Skin Brushing:
Even 2-4 minutes each day of dry skin brushing can help to stimulate the lymphatic system which is involved in the elimination of toxins. It can also support the removal of dead skin cells and help to stimulate the circulation.
Use a natural, dry sisal brush and starting at the feet brush up towards the heart in swift strokes. Follow with a shower.
Aim for Adequate Hydration:
It’s important to support hydration by consuming 1.5 – 2 litres of fluid daily. Adequate hydration has been shown in studies to improve weight loss. It is also needed for the efficient removal of toxins via the kidneys and to help prevent constipation which may occur if your stools aren’t soft enough.
Sauna or Sweating:
Sweating increases the removal of toxins via the skin. I realise most of us don’t have saunas and can’t get to a gym that has one either so, alternatives you might like to try are hot (don’t burn yourself) Epsom Salt baths or exercise that works up a sweat (if this appropriate for you).
To make an Epsom Salt bath run the water as warm as you can safely tolerate and add 2 cups of Epsom Salts while it’s running. Soak up to your shoulders for about 20 minutes. Don’t use any harsh soaps and no need to rinse off the salts.
Eat Sufficient Fibre:
Fibre supports the health of your bowels and the removal of waste from the body. If you aren’t eliminating at least once daily, you increase your risk of reabsorbing toxins from the bowel back into your circulation and this can increase the workload for your liver.
Gradually increase your intake of green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains and low sugar fruits such as berries, apples and pears to a total of approximately 30 grams per day.
Take Steps to Support Your Liver:
Try to reduce your exposure to chemicals by the following:
-
- Don’t over-do caffeine – a couple of coffees or teas each day should be okay for most.
- Avoid processed, junk foods.
- Eat organic produce where possible and try to avoid insecticides, pesticides, artificial sweeteners, colourings, flavourings and preservatives.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and aim to have a 3-4/5 alcohol-free days each week. Government guidelines are no more than 14 units each week, spread over 3 days.
- Use chemical-free hygiene products where you can.
- Choose more natural cleaning products eg.
Method or Surecare.
Eat foods that may help support the liver:
- Asparagus, artichoke, beetroot
- Lemons, limes and grapefruit
- Garlic, onions, shallots and leeks
- Turmeric and ginger
- Cruciferous vegetables – broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, spinach.
- Olive oil, avocados, walnuts, raw nuts, seeds and oily fish which contain essential fatty acids. Green tea
- Beans, peas and lentils
- Apples, pears, berries, chlorella and spirulina
- Whole, unprocessed grains
Experiencing mild symptoms during a detox such as fatigue, bloating and headaches is quite normal but should pass quickly as your body expels the toxins. That said, when done appropriately welcome affects you may experience can include increased energy levels, reduced weight, clearer skin and greater sense of vitality and mental wellness.
I hope you found this information useful and…. Good luck with your detox journey!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
