What is Detox?

According to Elson Haas, MD, Oxidized fats (and cholesterol), free radicals, and other irritating molecules act as toxins on an internal level. Functionally, toxicity is increased by poor digestion, colon dysfunction, reduced liver function, and poor elimination through the kidneys, respiratory tract, and skin.

Detoxification is the process of cleansing these systems. It eliminates toxins in three ways: clearing them from the body, neutralizing them, or transforming them. This removes excess acidity, mucus, and congestion.

Detoxification involves dietary and lifestyle changes that reduce toxin intake while also increasing elimination. The essential steps in living a detoxified lifestyle include avoiding chemicals, refined foods, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and caffeine while also drinking extra water, consuming more fruits and vegetables, and increasing fiber intake. In some cases, a more rigorous detox diet (i.e. a diet made up of only fruits, vegetables, whole grains and some nuts and seeds) might be preferable or necessary. Others might prefer a raw foods diet or a brown rice fast (a more macrobiotic approach).

'Staying Healthy With The Seasons' Elson Haas, MD