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Seeds for Change Wellness
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Details for Detoxification
Details for Detoxification
By Ted H. Spence, DDS, ND, PhD/DSc, MPH
Introduction
Detoxification comes in many forms and refers to many different programs that cleanse the
body of toxins. Today, our environment is toxic and the foods we eat, even the air we breathe
and the water we drink is laden with chemicals foreign to our system. Therefore, everyone is
undergoing some type of detoxification to maintain life and health. Although basic detoxification
begins with diet, detox programs may include nutritional fortification for the liver, lungs,
kidneys, bowels and blood.
We will soon see why these organs are so important in detoxification. Detoxification for the
body may refer to the cleansing of the bowels, kidneys, lungs, the liver or the blood, since
these are the organs involved in detoxification of chemicals and toxins from the body. The liver
acts as an "in-line" filter for the removal of foreign substances and wastes from the blood. The
kidneys filter wastes from the blood into the urine, while the lungs remove volatile gases as we
breathe.
Our body is designed to utilize natural substances, which includes foods, herbs and
phytochemicals. Any foreign substance will serve as a stimulus to our immune system, which
has the function of removing these substances. Although the toxicity of a chemical may vary, it
is the job of the liver to reduce toxins into compounds that the body can safely handle and
eliminate through the kidneys (as urine), skin (as sweat), lungs (as expelled air) and bowels
(as feces). Maintaining these eliminative organs in good working order is essential for one's
good health to continue.
While there are many detoxification programs available, they differ in their actions and their
intent. Some detoxification programs (DP) work only with the bowels, others may cleanse the
liver or the blood, and others may aid the kidneys or the skin in their functions. By combining
these detox programs into a total health program, one can effectively restore their health to an
optimal level and look younger in the process. When the body can eliminate toxins, then health
is restored and energy and vigor are revitalized. Many different approaches to detoxification
and wellness will work, even though they attack the problem at different levels. Any program
that augments detoxification will improve health. Other factors must be considered in
detoxification, like nutrition, water, and exercise, rest, sunshine, and fresh air.
Detoxification Diets
Detoxification diets help the body to eliminate toxins in many ways. First, natural vegetarian
diets include the fiber needed for stimulating good bowel eliminate. They also contain the
proper amounts of vitamins that feed and nourish the bowels and the liver, as well as other
eliminative organs. They also include a valuable source of enzymes since most vegetarian
diets are eaten raw. The elimination of meat from the diet for a short period enhances
detoxification because meat is so difficult to digest and requires many enzymes for its
digestion. Therefore, vegetarian diets are cleansing diets and aid the body in elimination of
toxins.
Of course, changing diets and lifestyle is easier said than done for some people. Many people
want health and will go to any length to improve their health, including dietary changes. But
there are others who do not want to change their life style for anything. These people will be
difficult to motivate and will not stick with the detox programs for one day. They may not want to
give up their sodas, or their cigarettes, their beer or their coffee. They may make a few
changes, like drinking more water, or they may give up completely in a very short notice. Our
way of eating has been cultivated over many years and will not change over night. But to those
who do want better health and do not want to rely on pills/drugs for their existence, nutritional
changes will be welcomed, especially when they start feeling better and having more energy.
Diets are very important and are usually the basis for any detox program, whether it is herbs,
cleansing or other detox programs.[i] Detox diets will generally eliminate trigger foods, which
may cause many problems with digestion and elimination. Foods like wheat (glutens) and dairy
(milk, cheese) are often the cause of allergies. Sugar is eliminated because of its "empty
calories" and tendency to produce hypoglycemia. Meats are eliminated because they may
contain hormones, antibiotics and are difficult to digest. Caffeine is wise to avoid, since it has
many ill effects on the body's digestion. Refined, processed and junk foods are also out for
any detox program to work.
Herbal Detoxification
Generic diets for detoxification are good, but may not stimulate the liver, lungs or the kidneys
as much as one would like. Therefore, herbal cleanses are indicated when we want to hone
our cleanse to a "sharp edge" and be organ specific. Of course, herbs are foods too and
provide one with vitamins, minerals and enzymes for excellent nutrition. Herbs are powerful,
because they may be combined together to fortify those herbs that aid specific organs. For
example, herbal combinations that aid the liver may be found in many organic food stores.
The list below shows how herbal combinations help the various organs.
Herbal Combinations
Liver
LIV-A Dandelion, red beet, liverwort, parsley, horsetail, birch leaves, chamomile, blessed
thistle, black cohosh, angelica, gentian, goldenrod
Kidneys
Uva ursi, parsley, dandelion, juniper berries JP-X Parsley, uva ursi, marshmallow, ginger,
goldenseal, dong quai, cedar berries
Lungs
LH Comfrey, marshmallow, mullein, slippery elm, senega, Chinese ephedra
While herbs may be taken at any time, they are best for detoxification purposes when they are
used with a good diet also. It does not make any sense to take herbs to cleanse the liver if the
bowels are clogged with junk or refined foods, since the liver dumps its toxins into the bowels.
And while detoxification diets are effective by themselves, they may be reinforced and speeded
up with herbs, which stimulate the eliminative organs.
Herbs may be used as teas, powders or extracts. Powders are usually encapsulated for easier
swallowing, but are best when taken with meals and digestive enzymes. Extracts may be used
when specific herbs are needed, but may be extracted with alcohol, which we need to avoid.
Herbal teas are easily made and easily taken all throughout the day. They are mild and gentle
and sometimes refreshing and sometimes bitter. Experimentation may be in order until one
develops the right tea to drink. Herbal teas is a topic in itself, since there are so many and
different ways to make them.
Example Herbal Cleanse
Rising
Drink a glass of lemon water or drink a glass of water with added: one teaspoon of apple cider
vinegar and one teaspoon of blackstrap molasses
Morning
Drink a glass of water with psyllium husk powder (follow with another glass of water).
Meals
Take 2-3 multi-digestive enzymes
Take liver herbs
In Between Meals
Drink herbals teas which support the liver, including Dandelion/licorice/ginger/fennel
Note: Following a good diet is mandatory for herbs to work optimally.
Skin Cleansing
Detoxification should include some type of skin cleansing, because our skin it one of our best
eliminative organs. Heavy metals are actually released through the skin's pores when we
sweat. Sauna baths and steam rooms are great for removing toxins from the skin and
regenerating one's health and energy. It has been documented that our skin's sweat glands
when combined can perform as much detoxification as one (or both) kidneys. Therefore, it is
very important to support our skin for detoxification to be maximal. If our kidneys are damaged,
then helping the skin will help the kidneys ... indirectly, but effectively.
Good skin care is in order, if one's health is to benefit, also. Using chemicalized skin care
products is not wise, even though they are cheaper. These chemicals may be absorbed into
our circulation and provide more "toxins" for our liver to deal with. We are not made out of cast
iron, and even the chemicals in our soaps and shampoos will make a difference with our
health. Most people do not "see" the ill effects of these subtle chemicals, because their liver is
able to metabolize them. But, individuals who are environmentally toxic will see a great change
in their health when using natural soaps and shampoos. We should take their advice and use
only natural skin care products also.
Cleansing our skin is rather simple. First, we need to bathe daily using natural soaps. Then we
need to care for the skin by using only natural oils and products of natural origin. Even the
clothes we wear can make a big difference in our health. Synthetic fibers do not absorb sweat
(toxins), while natural fibers, like cotton, will absorb toxins. Dry skin brushing helps in removing
the outer dead skin layers and keeps the pores open. Another good method of skin brushing
is with vigorous toweling off after bathing. Towel roughly until the skin is slightly red. Change
towels often because they will contain toxins.
Good skin care also requires good nutrition.[ii] Since our skin is mainly fat, we need high
quality fats and oil from natural sources to give our skin health. Butter and olive oil are two
excellent natural oils, which keep the skin in good condition. As always, the fats/oils should be
natural ... only.
Detoxification Baths
Use 1/2 cup of baking soda or use 1/2 cup of Epsom salt or use 1/2 cup of sea salt. Soak for
15-20 minutes and then scrub the skin gently with soap on a natural fiber. Within a few minutes
the water will turn murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals coming out of
the skin (aluminum and mercury). Do this once a week during detox and once a month for
maintenance.
Juice Fasting
Fasting with vegetable juices can be another excellent way to develop good health and
cleanse the body of toxins. Juices, minus their pulp (fiber), contain an excellent source of
vitamins, minerals and enzymes. When the pulp is not added, one is able to drink more juice
than they are able to eat. For example, one can easily consume the juice of several heads of
lettuce in one sitting, but may not be able to eat the lettuce whole. This allows the body to get
an abundance of nutrients with minimal processing (digestion). Fasting on mono-juices also
allows the body proper time to process these juices and helps to preserve our valuable
digestive enzymes.
Juice fasting has helped many people over come serious diseases like cancer, because it
gave them optimal nutrition and allowed the body to cleanse itself of toxins. [According to many
nutritionists, cancer is merely a toxic condition.] With some juicers, the pulp is discarded, but it
may be saved and added back for fiber (not too much). Juices contain good sources of
antioxidants and enzymes, both of which are needed for cleansing and eliminating toxins.
Juices are also easy to digest and help those with digestive problems.
Flora
Our bowel flora is also important for detoxification and normal health. Probiotics is the term
given to the normal bowel flora, which are taken as supplements. It has been found that these
normal flora actually defend our body from the pathogenic species of bacteria and perform
many vital functions, such as detoxification of toxic chemicals and making valuable vitamins
(mainly the B vitamins). When our normal flora are present they secrete mediators in which
the pathogenic forms cannot grow. But the reverse is also true, that when the pathogenic
forms take over, they will exclude the normal flora with their toxins.
Many scientists feel that it is the toxins secreted from the pathogens and not the pathogens
themselves that create disease. The ability of all bacteria to change and grow under specific
conditions of their immediate environment is called pleiomorphism. Cell wall deficient forms are
"bacteria" which lack a defined cell wall, yet have all the specifications of being bacterial-like.
Even viruses have been found to exhibit morphological forms, which resemble bacteria and
fungus. While this is not widely accepted by modern medical scientists, it hass been proven
beyond a shadow of doubt by eminent scientists, like Virginia Livingston Wheeler, Irene Diller,
and Royal Rife. Their microscopic studies have revealed that bacteria and viruses and fungus
may be all different forms of the same organism, differing only by the environment in which
they are grown.
Antibiotics kill off the good bacteria as well as the bad and allow the bad to repopulate and
develop antibiotic resistance. Natural forms of antibiotics are better, since they do not kill off
the good bacteria with the bad and do not allow drug" resistance to take place. Garlic, for
example, is perhaps, 200 times more effective against pathogens than most antibiotics today.
And it does not produce antibiotic resistance forms, which is a danger to all our health. As
antibiotics become more widely used, more antibiotic resistant forms will be encountered.
Herbal antiseptics and anti-bacterial tonics are far better and less dangerous to our over-all
health, because they do not kill of the good bacteria with the bad.
Replacing our natural flora is a good step for preventing disease and keeping our bowels
healthy and populated with normal flora. Taking probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus
and Bifidus can help us in our detox program and also in repopulating the gut after a cleanse.
Our normal healthy flora should be a part of any detoxification program.
Antioxidants
The use of antioxidants, like vitamins A, E, and especially C, are very essential for
detoxification since they are involved with the detoxification of toxins. Antioxidants are involved
with helping cells to neutralize free radicals that can cause mutations and cellular damage. As
these free radicals are neutralized, the antioxidant vitamins will be used and exhibit low levels.
Vitamin A and E are fat soluble and will be found in our fat tissues/stores, but vitamin C is
water soluble and will be found mainly in our skin (between the cells according to Reams).
Vitamin C is also involved with many other important bodily functions, like collagen formation,
wound healing, energy production and fighting off colds (viruses).
The function of antioxidants is so important that any deficiency of them will be seen as
catastrophic to one's health. When our antioxidants are low, energy is not available and
detoxification cannot take place in a normal fashion. Therefore, toxins accumulate or are
stored until they can be processed. The liver and many other organs are compromised in their
functions when antioxidants are low. Just the lack of energy is enough to cause the body to
have compromised or poor health, because it is energy that is required for the removal of
toxins and wastes.
Vitamin C should be taken with bioflavinoids to ensure that all the components of the vitamin C
complex are taken together, since they work together. Pure ascorbic acid is called vitamin C,
but does little by itself. We tend to think that ascorbic acid as vitamin C, but it is only part of the
vitamin C complex. Vitamin C is very essential to any detoxification program, because that is
what the body uses for energy to process and eliminate these toxic wast Vitamin C can be
taken in very high doses until the bowel tolerance level [BTL] is achieved. This BTL is different
for different people. Some persons reach tolerance at 4-5 grams (4,000-5,000 mg), while
others may not reach tolerance until 10-15 grams (10,000-15,000 mg). Cancer patients
notorously can take 20-30 grams (20,000-30,000 mg) of vitamin C before tolerance is reached
... meaning that they needed more vitamin C than most people.
By taking vitamin C to its tolerance level we find out 1) what our BTL is and 2) how saturated
our body is with Vitamin C. Vitamin C was found by Linus Pauling and Ewan Cameron to be
very effective in helping many patients to over come that killer disease, called cancer.
Perhaps, this was because vitamin C was needed for detoxification of toxins, which "caused"
the cancer in the first place. Although Pauling and Cameron were greatly criticized for their
work with vitamin C, they were able to help many people overcome cancer and without
compromising their health.
Enzymes
The use of enzymes in detoxification is important, because the body needs an adequate
supply of enzymes, not only for digestion, for also for detoxification.[iii] Enzymes are best
obtained from fresh raw fruits and vegetables, but may be taken daily with meals as nutritional
supplements of multi-digestive enzymes. Enzymes in our food helps us to digest that food, but
many foods today are processed, refined, heated (cooked), radiated and stored, which
destroys enzymes and leaves it non-vital.[iv] Foods with enzymes destroyed will have a longer
shelf life, but will not give one health when it is eaten.
Fresh raw fruits and vegetables are the best source for enzymes and help to give one vibrant
health. Enzymes are also used by the body in detoxification of toxic substances. The liver is
the source of most detoxification enzymes, which it must make, or store. To aid the body in
removing and eliminating wastes and toxins, enzymes are best taken in between meals. This
way they do not get involved with digestion, but go to the liver and to the blood for
detoxification.
Many therapies have utilized enzymes for improving health and enzymes have long been the
key to many detoxification therapies which have helped many to over come that dreaded
disease, cancer. Kelley, Gerson, Moerman, and Neiper used alternative nutritional therapies
with enzymes for curing cancer. The famous Wobe Mugos enzymes from Europe were utilized
with Laetrile therapies for cancer. Never was Laetrile give alone, but was used with vitamins,
diet and enzymes. This made the Laetrile therapy very successful in the 1970s. If cancer is a
toxic condition, which many feel that it is, then taking enzymes will help it. And it does.
The use of raw foods in many detoxification diets are using the enzymes found naturally in
those foods. Additionally, these raw foods provide fiber and, with proper food combining, will
not waste the body enzymes reserves. Preserving enzymes is the key to over coming disease
and living to ripe old age and remaining healthy. Yes, vitamins and minerals are important, but
vitamins are enzyme co-factors and many minerals are use to activate enzymes. Therefore,
the vitamins and minerals themselves are only augmenting the role of the enzymes which are
detoxifying toxins and supporting metabolism.
Enzymes also help the bowels in cleansing, because they liquefy the bowel content, which
makes transit much easier. The role of enzymes in digestion is to break down foods for
digestion and absorption. When foods are broken down they become more liquid and the
bowels move much easier and faster. Transit time is decreased and our health is increased
when toxins are removed and eliminated. Perhaps, this is a link to breaking the "constipation
chain." Enzymes are the key to health. Preserve our enzymes and we will be healthy for a long
time.
Bowel Cleansing
Keeping the bowels clean and moving is a major step in regaining our health since the bowels
are crucial in the elimination of toxins, especially those processed by the liver. [The liver
dumps in to the bowel via the gall bladder.] This is why one hears a lot about the bowels, and
bowel cleansing. In severe cases, enemas and colonics may be needed to breakup and
washout long-standing bowel encrustations. Diet may do the same thing as an enema or
colonic, it will just take longer. Also, one should be very diligent in repopulating after a total
washout of the normal flora and probiotics will be necessary to restore that balance.
Constipation is a national pastime and slow bowels are more common today than years
previous. For one thing, people not only ate better 100 years ago, they were more active and
got out doors more. When the bowels slow down, toxins are not eliminated and are
reabsorbed and carried back to the liver for recycling and elimination. Reabsorbed bile salts
have been linked to increased cholesterol levels; therefore, cholesterol is a major indicator of
constipation. Also, when the bowels get slow and toxin levels increase, the pathogenic
microorganisms grow to out-number the normal flora causing dysbiosis. Although flora is
needed to correct this, it is the clogged bowels that are the major problem. When the bowels
move again, everything else will fall into order.
Our endocrine glands that control metabolism are also involved; since it is our thyroid that
controls metabolism and metabolism affects how our bowels are functioning. In this way,
constipation can be seen as a symptom of hypothyroidism. Low body temperatures (a
symptom of hypothyroidism) are very common today ...although they are not "normal" ... as
many authors have reported. One major factor in low body temperatures is the suppression of
thyroid function by heavy metals, like mercury, which binds to our thyroid hormones and
renders them inactive. Eliminate the mercury and the body temperature is likely to return to
normal.
The easiest way to get the bowels moving is by using a high fiber diet consisting of fresh fruits
and vegetables. Sometimes, one may add extra fiber during the day by drinking a glass of
water (juice) with psyllium husk powder. The extra fiber adds to the bulk of the stool and
decreases the bowel transit time, which means better toxin elimination and better health. It
makes sense that if one can eliminate toxins their health will improve.
One of the best ways to improve the bowel function is with herbal remedies that act as bowel
stimulants or laxatives. These products range from the very mild - slippery elm - to the
stimulant - cascara sagrada- to the very harsh - aloes and senna. Everyone may react
differently to these products, so they should be taken cautiously at first. Some persons may
take two aloes with no effect (meaning they are heavily blocked), while others may take a mild
herbal and get a much greater effect than most. Herbal bowel combination formulas are
excellent because they not only stimulate the bowels to move, but give the bowels the
nourishment it needs to move on its own.
Herbal formulas should not preclude a wholesome natural diet, since diet comes first in matters
of health. One should not become overly dependent on herbal laxatives, since they deplete
potassium and may be "addicting" as some authors claim. Yet, herbal products play a key role
in getting the body to eliminate toxins by stimulating the eliminative organs like nothing else
can and, therefore, cannot be ignored.
Herxheimer Reaction
The Herxheimer Reaction occurs when the body is detoxifying too rapidly and toxins are being
released faster than the body can eliminate them.[v] When this occurs, one will suffer from
headaches, nausea, vomiting, and malaise. Even though this is but a short period of the health
program, it can be severe and deter one from reaching their intended goals. Also, the person
may not know what they are experiencing and think that they are regressing.
To minimize the Herxheimer Reaction:
Drinks lots of pure water
Get minimal exercise daily
Lots of sunshine
Take detoxification slowly... one step at a time
Don't increase the dose of herbals
Keep the organs of elimination (bowels, lungs, skin, kidneys) open
Take detox baths
Use aromatherapy oils for aches -like peppermint, birch, and wintergreen
Sweat by using exercise, saunas, baths, and herbs
Avoid foreign chemicals and refined processed foods
If the Herxheimer reaction occurs, cut back on your health detoxification program. Reduce the
dose of herbs and follow the above outline to reduce the symptoms of toxin elimination. The
more toxins there are to eliminate, the sicker one is when they come out. Generally, one will
feel better when all is over and health is restored again. Just remember, don't give up.
Conclusion
Detoxification may produce symptoms of headaches, nausea, malaise and vomiting due to the
toxins being released [Herxheimer Reaction]. If this occurs, one should back off the program
and proceed slowly. Proceeding to fast with detoxification can have disastrous results when
toxins are released into the circulation. Our body should be primed and ready to eliminate
toxins before they are released. We do this by getting the bowels working, keeping the skin
clean and getting the kidneys and lungs operating. Only by having all organs of elimination in
proper operating order can our body begin to dump toxins efficiently and maximally. Keeping
the skin clean and healthy is of prime importance also.
Detoxification is essential for good health to exist. Our body must eliminate toxins daily or we
would die immediately. Since our environment is more toxic today, our livers are over stressed
with environmental toxins to deal with daily. Processing other toxins, when the liver is stressed,
may be delayed. Detoxification is also a lifestyle change. For it is by the way we live that
determines our health and how our liver processes toxins. Detoxification is easy if we eat a
wholesome natural organic diet and live life in a natural way. But for those who want their cake
and eat it too, detoxification may be compromised. A change your lifestyle may be needed and
detoxification will be forthcoming. Nature has afforded us the chance to live in a toxic
environment and not be affected by it. Of course, we have to live right to get that chance.
Without detoxification we may not get a second chance.
Good health is within our reach, but first we must cleanse this "temple" and eat a wholesome
natural diet that provides us with maximal nutrients and fiber. Herbs can help us stimulate the
liver, lungs, kidneys and bowels when needed, but diet is the first priority in any detoxification
program. Don't become overly dependent on herbal laxatives. When toxins are released one
may feel bad for a day or two, but when our good health is restored we will have renewed
energy and will "soar on the wings of an eagle". Many people living today have never known
what good health "feels" like. They survive with an abundance of toxins and an existence less
than healthy.
Good health is not hard to find, but does require diligence and life style changes which are
compatible with toxin elimination. Sir Jason Winters Says, "Death begins in the colon." With
good toxin elimination through natural detoxification programs our health and energy are
restored.
[i]. "The Best Way to Detox," Jill Ruttenberg, Natural Health, Oct 1999, p 88-92, 152.
[ii]. Aubrey Hampton, Natural Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987, Organica Press, Tampa, FL
33614
[iii]. Harold Loomis, DC, Enzymes: The Key to Health, Vol 1, The Fundamentals, 1999, 21st
Century Nutrition, Madison, WI
[iv]. Anthony J Cichoke, DC, Enzymes and Enzyme Therapy, 1994, Keats Publishing, Inc, New
Canaan, CT
[v]. Ibid, p 148.
By Ted H. Spence, DDS, ND, PhD/DSc, MPH
Introduction
Detoxification comes in many forms and refers to many different programs that cleanse the
body of toxins. Today, our environment is toxic and the foods we eat, even the air we breathe
and the water we drink is laden with chemicals foreign to our system. Therefore, everyone is
undergoing some type of detoxification to maintain life and health. Although basic detoxification
begins with diet, detox programs may include nutritional fortification for the liver, lungs,
kidneys, bowels and blood.
We will soon see why these organs are so important in detoxification. Detoxification for the
body may refer to the cleansing of the bowels, kidneys, lungs, the liver or the blood, since
these are the organs involved in detoxification of chemicals and toxins from the body. The liver
acts as an "in-line" filter for the removal of foreign substances and wastes from the blood. The
kidneys filter wastes from the blood into the urine, while the lungs remove volatile gases as we
breathe.
Our body is designed to utilize natural substances, which includes foods, herbs and
phytochemicals. Any foreign substance will serve as a stimulus to our immune system, which
has the function of removing these substances. Although the toxicity of a chemical may vary, it
is the job of the liver to reduce toxins into compounds that the body can safely handle and
eliminate through the kidneys (as urine), skin (as sweat), lungs (as expelled air) and bowels
(as feces). Maintaining these eliminative organs in good working order is essential for one's
good health to continue.
While there are many detoxification programs available, they differ in their actions and their
intent. Some detoxification programs (DP) work only with the bowels, others may cleanse the
liver or the blood, and others may aid the kidneys or the skin in their functions. By combining
these detox programs into a total health program, one can effectively restore their health to an
optimal level and look younger in the process. When the body can eliminate toxins, then health
is restored and energy and vigor are revitalized. Many different approaches to detoxification
and wellness will work, even though they attack the problem at different levels. Any program
that augments detoxification will improve health. Other factors must be considered in
detoxification, like nutrition, water, and exercise, rest, sunshine, and fresh air.
Detoxification Diets
Detoxification diets help the body to eliminate toxins in many ways. First, natural vegetarian
diets include the fiber needed for stimulating good bowel eliminate. They also contain the
proper amounts of vitamins that feed and nourish the bowels and the liver, as well as other
eliminative organs. They also include a valuable source of enzymes since most vegetarian
diets are eaten raw. The elimination of meat from the diet for a short period enhances
detoxification because meat is so difficult to digest and requires many enzymes for its
digestion. Therefore, vegetarian diets are cleansing diets and aid the body in elimination of
toxins.
Of course, changing diets and lifestyle is easier said than done for some people. Many people
want health and will go to any length to improve their health, including dietary changes. But
there are others who do not want to change their life style for anything. These people will be
difficult to motivate and will not stick with the detox programs for one day. They may not want to
give up their sodas, or their cigarettes, their beer or their coffee. They may make a few
changes, like drinking more water, or they may give up completely in a very short notice. Our
way of eating has been cultivated over many years and will not change over night. But to those
who do want better health and do not want to rely on pills/drugs for their existence, nutritional
changes will be welcomed, especially when they start feeling better and having more energy.
Diets are very important and are usually the basis for any detox program, whether it is herbs,
cleansing or other detox programs.[i] Detox diets will generally eliminate trigger foods, which
may cause many problems with digestion and elimination. Foods like wheat (glutens) and dairy
(milk, cheese) are often the cause of allergies. Sugar is eliminated because of its "empty
calories" and tendency to produce hypoglycemia. Meats are eliminated because they may
contain hormones, antibiotics and are difficult to digest. Caffeine is wise to avoid, since it has
many ill effects on the body's digestion. Refined, processed and junk foods are also out for
any detox program to work.
Herbal Detoxification
Generic diets for detoxification are good, but may not stimulate the liver, lungs or the kidneys
as much as one would like. Therefore, herbal cleanses are indicated when we want to hone
our cleanse to a "sharp edge" and be organ specific. Of course, herbs are foods too and
provide one with vitamins, minerals and enzymes for excellent nutrition. Herbs are powerful,
because they may be combined together to fortify those herbs that aid specific organs. For
example, herbal combinations that aid the liver may be found in many organic food stores.
The list below shows how herbal combinations help the various organs.
Herbal Combinations
Liver
LIV-A Dandelion, red beet, liverwort, parsley, horsetail, birch leaves, chamomile, blessed
thistle, black cohosh, angelica, gentian, goldenrod
Kidneys
Uva ursi, parsley, dandelion, juniper berries JP-X Parsley, uva ursi, marshmallow, ginger,
goldenseal, dong quai, cedar berries
Lungs
LH Comfrey, marshmallow, mullein, slippery elm, senega, Chinese ephedra
While herbs may be taken at any time, they are best for detoxification purposes when they are
used with a good diet also. It does not make any sense to take herbs to cleanse the liver if the
bowels are clogged with junk or refined foods, since the liver dumps its toxins into the bowels.
And while detoxification diets are effective by themselves, they may be reinforced and speeded
up with herbs, which stimulate the eliminative organs.
Herbs may be used as teas, powders or extracts. Powders are usually encapsulated for easier
swallowing, but are best when taken with meals and digestive enzymes. Extracts may be used
when specific herbs are needed, but may be extracted with alcohol, which we need to avoid.
Herbal teas are easily made and easily taken all throughout the day. They are mild and gentle
and sometimes refreshing and sometimes bitter. Experimentation may be in order until one
develops the right tea to drink. Herbal teas is a topic in itself, since there are so many and
different ways to make them.
Example Herbal Cleanse
Rising
Drink a glass of lemon water or drink a glass of water with added: one teaspoon of apple cider
vinegar and one teaspoon of blackstrap molasses
Morning
Drink a glass of water with psyllium husk powder (follow with another glass of water).
Meals
Take 2-3 multi-digestive enzymes
Take liver herbs
In Between Meals
Drink herbals teas which support the liver, including Dandelion/licorice/ginger/fennel
Note: Following a good diet is mandatory for herbs to work optimally.
Skin Cleansing
Detoxification should include some type of skin cleansing, because our skin it one of our best
eliminative organs. Heavy metals are actually released through the skin's pores when we
sweat. Sauna baths and steam rooms are great for removing toxins from the skin and
regenerating one's health and energy. It has been documented that our skin's sweat glands
when combined can perform as much detoxification as one (or both) kidneys. Therefore, it is
very important to support our skin for detoxification to be maximal. If our kidneys are damaged,
then helping the skin will help the kidneys ... indirectly, but effectively.
Good skin care is in order, if one's health is to benefit, also. Using chemicalized skin care
products is not wise, even though they are cheaper. These chemicals may be absorbed into
our circulation and provide more "toxins" for our liver to deal with. We are not made out of cast
iron, and even the chemicals in our soaps and shampoos will make a difference with our
health. Most people do not "see" the ill effects of these subtle chemicals, because their liver is
able to metabolize them. But, individuals who are environmentally toxic will see a great change
in their health when using natural soaps and shampoos. We should take their advice and use
only natural skin care products also.
Cleansing our skin is rather simple. First, we need to bathe daily using natural soaps. Then we
need to care for the skin by using only natural oils and products of natural origin. Even the
clothes we wear can make a big difference in our health. Synthetic fibers do not absorb sweat
(toxins), while natural fibers, like cotton, will absorb toxins. Dry skin brushing helps in removing
the outer dead skin layers and keeps the pores open. Another good method of skin brushing
is with vigorous toweling off after bathing. Towel roughly until the skin is slightly red. Change
towels often because they will contain toxins.
Good skin care also requires good nutrition.[ii] Since our skin is mainly fat, we need high
quality fats and oil from natural sources to give our skin health. Butter and olive oil are two
excellent natural oils, which keep the skin in good condition. As always, the fats/oils should be
natural ... only.
Detoxification Baths
Use 1/2 cup of baking soda or use 1/2 cup of Epsom salt or use 1/2 cup of sea salt. Soak for
15-20 minutes and then scrub the skin gently with soap on a natural fiber. Within a few minutes
the water will turn murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals coming out of
the skin (aluminum and mercury). Do this once a week during detox and once a month for
maintenance.
Juice Fasting
Fasting with vegetable juices can be another excellent way to develop good health and
cleanse the body of toxins. Juices, minus their pulp (fiber), contain an excellent source of
vitamins, minerals and enzymes. When the pulp is not added, one is able to drink more juice
than they are able to eat. For example, one can easily consume the juice of several heads of
lettuce in one sitting, but may not be able to eat the lettuce whole. This allows the body to get
an abundance of nutrients with minimal processing (digestion). Fasting on mono-juices also
allows the body proper time to process these juices and helps to preserve our valuable
digestive enzymes.
Juice fasting has helped many people over come serious diseases like cancer, because it
gave them optimal nutrition and allowed the body to cleanse itself of toxins. [According to many
nutritionists, cancer is merely a toxic condition.] With some juicers, the pulp is discarded, but it
may be saved and added back for fiber (not too much). Juices contain good sources of
antioxidants and enzymes, both of which are needed for cleansing and eliminating toxins.
Juices are also easy to digest and help those with digestive problems.
Flora
Our bowel flora is also important for detoxification and normal health. Probiotics is the term
given to the normal bowel flora, which are taken as supplements. It has been found that these
normal flora actually defend our body from the pathogenic species of bacteria and perform
many vital functions, such as detoxification of toxic chemicals and making valuable vitamins
(mainly the B vitamins). When our normal flora are present they secrete mediators in which
the pathogenic forms cannot grow. But the reverse is also true, that when the pathogenic
forms take over, they will exclude the normal flora with their toxins.
Many scientists feel that it is the toxins secreted from the pathogens and not the pathogens
themselves that create disease. The ability of all bacteria to change and grow under specific
conditions of their immediate environment is called pleiomorphism. Cell wall deficient forms are
"bacteria" which lack a defined cell wall, yet have all the specifications of being bacterial-like.
Even viruses have been found to exhibit morphological forms, which resemble bacteria and
fungus. While this is not widely accepted by modern medical scientists, it hass been proven
beyond a shadow of doubt by eminent scientists, like Virginia Livingston Wheeler, Irene Diller,
and Royal Rife. Their microscopic studies have revealed that bacteria and viruses and fungus
may be all different forms of the same organism, differing only by the environment in which
they are grown.
Antibiotics kill off the good bacteria as well as the bad and allow the bad to repopulate and
develop antibiotic resistance. Natural forms of antibiotics are better, since they do not kill off
the good bacteria with the bad and do not allow drug" resistance to take place. Garlic, for
example, is perhaps, 200 times more effective against pathogens than most antibiotics today.
And it does not produce antibiotic resistance forms, which is a danger to all our health. As
antibiotics become more widely used, more antibiotic resistant forms will be encountered.
Herbal antiseptics and anti-bacterial tonics are far better and less dangerous to our over-all
health, because they do not kill of the good bacteria with the bad.
Replacing our natural flora is a good step for preventing disease and keeping our bowels
healthy and populated with normal flora. Taking probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus
and Bifidus can help us in our detox program and also in repopulating the gut after a cleanse.
Our normal healthy flora should be a part of any detoxification program.
Antioxidants
The use of antioxidants, like vitamins A, E, and especially C, are very essential for
detoxification since they are involved with the detoxification of toxins. Antioxidants are involved
with helping cells to neutralize free radicals that can cause mutations and cellular damage. As
these free radicals are neutralized, the antioxidant vitamins will be used and exhibit low levels.
Vitamin A and E are fat soluble and will be found in our fat tissues/stores, but vitamin C is
water soluble and will be found mainly in our skin (between the cells according to Reams).
Vitamin C is also involved with many other important bodily functions, like collagen formation,
wound healing, energy production and fighting off colds (viruses).
The function of antioxidants is so important that any deficiency of them will be seen as
catastrophic to one's health. When our antioxidants are low, energy is not available and
detoxification cannot take place in a normal fashion. Therefore, toxins accumulate or are
stored until they can be processed. The liver and many other organs are compromised in their
functions when antioxidants are low. Just the lack of energy is enough to cause the body to
have compromised or poor health, because it is energy that is required for the removal of
toxins and wastes.
Vitamin C should be taken with bioflavinoids to ensure that all the components of the vitamin C
complex are taken together, since they work together. Pure ascorbic acid is called vitamin C,
but does little by itself. We tend to think that ascorbic acid as vitamin C, but it is only part of the
vitamin C complex. Vitamin C is very essential to any detoxification program, because that is
what the body uses for energy to process and eliminate these toxic wast Vitamin C can be
taken in very high doses until the bowel tolerance level [BTL] is achieved. This BTL is different
for different people. Some persons reach tolerance at 4-5 grams (4,000-5,000 mg), while
others may not reach tolerance until 10-15 grams (10,000-15,000 mg). Cancer patients
notorously can take 20-30 grams (20,000-30,000 mg) of vitamin C before tolerance is reached
... meaning that they needed more vitamin C than most people.
By taking vitamin C to its tolerance level we find out 1) what our BTL is and 2) how saturated
our body is with Vitamin C. Vitamin C was found by Linus Pauling and Ewan Cameron to be
very effective in helping many patients to over come that killer disease, called cancer.
Perhaps, this was because vitamin C was needed for detoxification of toxins, which "caused"
the cancer in the first place. Although Pauling and Cameron were greatly criticized for their
work with vitamin C, they were able to help many people overcome cancer and without
compromising their health.
Enzymes
The use of enzymes in detoxification is important, because the body needs an adequate
supply of enzymes, not only for digestion, for also for detoxification.[iii] Enzymes are best
obtained from fresh raw fruits and vegetables, but may be taken daily with meals as nutritional
supplements of multi-digestive enzymes. Enzymes in our food helps us to digest that food, but
many foods today are processed, refined, heated (cooked), radiated and stored, which
destroys enzymes and leaves it non-vital.[iv] Foods with enzymes destroyed will have a longer
shelf life, but will not give one health when it is eaten.
Fresh raw fruits and vegetables are the best source for enzymes and help to give one vibrant
health. Enzymes are also used by the body in detoxification of toxic substances. The liver is
the source of most detoxification enzymes, which it must make, or store. To aid the body in
removing and eliminating wastes and toxins, enzymes are best taken in between meals. This
way they do not get involved with digestion, but go to the liver and to the blood for
detoxification.
Many therapies have utilized enzymes for improving health and enzymes have long been the
key to many detoxification therapies which have helped many to over come that dreaded
disease, cancer. Kelley, Gerson, Moerman, and Neiper used alternative nutritional therapies
with enzymes for curing cancer. The famous Wobe Mugos enzymes from Europe were utilized
with Laetrile therapies for cancer. Never was Laetrile give alone, but was used with vitamins,
diet and enzymes. This made the Laetrile therapy very successful in the 1970s. If cancer is a
toxic condition, which many feel that it is, then taking enzymes will help it. And it does.
The use of raw foods in many detoxification diets are using the enzymes found naturally in
those foods. Additionally, these raw foods provide fiber and, with proper food combining, will
not waste the body enzymes reserves. Preserving enzymes is the key to over coming disease
and living to ripe old age and remaining healthy. Yes, vitamins and minerals are important, but
vitamins are enzyme co-factors and many minerals are use to activate enzymes. Therefore,
the vitamins and minerals themselves are only augmenting the role of the enzymes which are
detoxifying toxins and supporting metabolism.
Enzymes also help the bowels in cleansing, because they liquefy the bowel content, which
makes transit much easier. The role of enzymes in digestion is to break down foods for
digestion and absorption. When foods are broken down they become more liquid and the
bowels move much easier and faster. Transit time is decreased and our health is increased
when toxins are removed and eliminated. Perhaps, this is a link to breaking the "constipation
chain." Enzymes are the key to health. Preserve our enzymes and we will be healthy for a long
time.
Bowel Cleansing
Keeping the bowels clean and moving is a major step in regaining our health since the bowels
are crucial in the elimination of toxins, especially those processed by the liver. [The liver
dumps in to the bowel via the gall bladder.] This is why one hears a lot about the bowels, and
bowel cleansing. In severe cases, enemas and colonics may be needed to breakup and
washout long-standing bowel encrustations. Diet may do the same thing as an enema or
colonic, it will just take longer. Also, one should be very diligent in repopulating after a total
washout of the normal flora and probiotics will be necessary to restore that balance.
Constipation is a national pastime and slow bowels are more common today than years
previous. For one thing, people not only ate better 100 years ago, they were more active and
got out doors more. When the bowels slow down, toxins are not eliminated and are
reabsorbed and carried back to the liver for recycling and elimination. Reabsorbed bile salts
have been linked to increased cholesterol levels; therefore, cholesterol is a major indicator of
constipation. Also, when the bowels get slow and toxin levels increase, the pathogenic
microorganisms grow to out-number the normal flora causing dysbiosis. Although flora is
needed to correct this, it is the clogged bowels that are the major problem. When the bowels
move again, everything else will fall into order.
Our endocrine glands that control metabolism are also involved; since it is our thyroid that
controls metabolism and metabolism affects how our bowels are functioning. In this way,
constipation can be seen as a symptom of hypothyroidism. Low body temperatures (a
symptom of hypothyroidism) are very common today ...although they are not "normal" ... as
many authors have reported. One major factor in low body temperatures is the suppression of
thyroid function by heavy metals, like mercury, which binds to our thyroid hormones and
renders them inactive. Eliminate the mercury and the body temperature is likely to return to
normal.
The easiest way to get the bowels moving is by using a high fiber diet consisting of fresh fruits
and vegetables. Sometimes, one may add extra fiber during the day by drinking a glass of
water (juice) with psyllium husk powder. The extra fiber adds to the bulk of the stool and
decreases the bowel transit time, which means better toxin elimination and better health. It
makes sense that if one can eliminate toxins their health will improve.
One of the best ways to improve the bowel function is with herbal remedies that act as bowel
stimulants or laxatives. These products range from the very mild - slippery elm - to the
stimulant - cascara sagrada- to the very harsh - aloes and senna. Everyone may react
differently to these products, so they should be taken cautiously at first. Some persons may
take two aloes with no effect (meaning they are heavily blocked), while others may take a mild
herbal and get a much greater effect than most. Herbal bowel combination formulas are
excellent because they not only stimulate the bowels to move, but give the bowels the
nourishment it needs to move on its own.
Herbal formulas should not preclude a wholesome natural diet, since diet comes first in matters
of health. One should not become overly dependent on herbal laxatives, since they deplete
potassium and may be "addicting" as some authors claim. Yet, herbal products play a key role
in getting the body to eliminate toxins by stimulating the eliminative organs like nothing else
can and, therefore, cannot be ignored.
Herxheimer Reaction
The Herxheimer Reaction occurs when the body is detoxifying too rapidly and toxins are being
released faster than the body can eliminate them.[v] When this occurs, one will suffer from
headaches, nausea, vomiting, and malaise. Even though this is but a short period of the health
program, it can be severe and deter one from reaching their intended goals. Also, the person
may not know what they are experiencing and think that they are regressing.
To minimize the Herxheimer Reaction:
Drinks lots of pure water
Get minimal exercise daily
Lots of sunshine
Take detoxification slowly... one step at a time
Don't increase the dose of herbals
Keep the organs of elimination (bowels, lungs, skin, kidneys) open
Take detox baths
Use aromatherapy oils for aches -like peppermint, birch, and wintergreen
Sweat by using exercise, saunas, baths, and herbs
Avoid foreign chemicals and refined processed foods
If the Herxheimer reaction occurs, cut back on your health detoxification program. Reduce the
dose of herbs and follow the above outline to reduce the symptoms of toxin elimination. The
more toxins there are to eliminate, the sicker one is when they come out. Generally, one will
feel better when all is over and health is restored again. Just remember, don't give up.
Conclusion
Detoxification may produce symptoms of headaches, nausea, malaise and vomiting due to the
toxins being released [Herxheimer Reaction]. If this occurs, one should back off the program
and proceed slowly. Proceeding to fast with detoxification can have disastrous results when
toxins are released into the circulation. Our body should be primed and ready to eliminate
toxins before they are released. We do this by getting the bowels working, keeping the skin
clean and getting the kidneys and lungs operating. Only by having all organs of elimination in
proper operating order can our body begin to dump toxins efficiently and maximally. Keeping
the skin clean and healthy is of prime importance also.
Detoxification is essential for good health to exist. Our body must eliminate toxins daily or we
would die immediately. Since our environment is more toxic today, our livers are over stressed
with environmental toxins to deal with daily. Processing other toxins, when the liver is stressed,
may be delayed. Detoxification is also a lifestyle change. For it is by the way we live that
determines our health and how our liver processes toxins. Detoxification is easy if we eat a
wholesome natural organic diet and live life in a natural way. But for those who want their cake
and eat it too, detoxification may be compromised. A change your lifestyle may be needed and
detoxification will be forthcoming. Nature has afforded us the chance to live in a toxic
environment and not be affected by it. Of course, we have to live right to get that chance.
Without detoxification we may not get a second chance.
Good health is within our reach, but first we must cleanse this "temple" and eat a wholesome
natural diet that provides us with maximal nutrients and fiber. Herbs can help us stimulate the
liver, lungs, kidneys and bowels when needed, but diet is the first priority in any detoxification
program. Don't become overly dependent on herbal laxatives. When toxins are released one
may feel bad for a day or two, but when our good health is restored we will have renewed
energy and will "soar on the wings of an eagle". Many people living today have never known
what good health "feels" like. They survive with an abundance of toxins and an existence less
than healthy.
Good health is not hard to find, but does require diligence and life style changes which are
compatible with toxin elimination. Sir Jason Winters Says, "Death begins in the colon." With
good toxin elimination through natural detoxification programs our health and energy are
restored.
[i]. "The Best Way to Detox," Jill Ruttenberg, Natural Health, Oct 1999, p 88-92, 152.
[ii]. Aubrey Hampton, Natural Organic Hair and Skin Care, 1987, Organica Press, Tampa, FL
33614
[iii]. Harold Loomis, DC, Enzymes: The Key to Health, Vol 1, The Fundamentals, 1999, 21st
Century Nutrition, Madison, WI
[iv]. Anthony J Cichoke, DC, Enzymes and Enzyme Therapy, 1994, Keats Publishing, Inc, New
Canaan, CT
[v]. Ibid, p 148.