With spring here (and summer around the corner,) this is the time of year I hear people discussing their “detox” experience. Some experiences maybe better than others, but when following a qualified detoxification program; the results can invigorate the mind and body!
But what is a good or bad Detox? Below, I provide what to look for and what to avoid.
What is Detox?
Detox, short for detoxification, is the body's natural, ongoing process of neutralizing or eliminating toxins from the body (the key eliminative organs being, liver, digestion, kidneys, lungs and skin.) Sources of toxins include those produced in the body during normal metabolism and chemicals such as pesticides, household cleaners, food additives, pollution and heavy metals that enter the body when we ingest or inhale them. A growing body of research suggests that many of the chemicals we ingest daily through food, water, and air can build up in our system. A diet that lacks certain nutrients may also impair our natural ability to detoxify chemicals, which further leads to their build-up in the body.
Along with a healthy lifestyle, cleansing programs may help to support the healthy functioning of the key eliminative pathways and help to promote vitality and overall well being. Depending upon your health goals and lifestyle, It is best to do a cleanse every 3 or 4 months. Watch out for cleanses that promote very low calorie diets or contain harsh laxatives and diuretics.
Benefits of a Detox - People often report improved energy, clearer skin, improved digestion, weight loss and increased concentration and clarity.
Which method is best Diet, Juicing or Nutraceuticals? Dietary cleanses, although effective over the long term may be harmful and too restrictive to follow. Juicing cleanses have become popular, but can be inconvenient and too restrictive for most of us to comply with. More sophisticated detoxification programs are nutraceuticalbased natural health products,that can be easily incorporated into lifestyle (without harsh restrictions.) Since most people want something that is easy to follow and feel the benefits from the cleanse, nutraceuticals seem to be a popular choice within spa programs. Many spas that I work with incorporate this type of program along with their cleansing body wraps or cellulite treatments to enhance the overall effects of the treatments and offer their clients “at home” care.
Detox anyone?
Yours in Health & Beauty,
Paula Simpson
About this Author
Paula Simpson, B.A.Sc (Nutrition), RNCP.
Paula retains experience in consulting, public relations, product formulation and program development for the Nutraceutical and Medical Aesthetic Industry. Her role as a Scientific Evaluator and Regulatory Consultant for Health Canada and some of the top nutraceutical companies worldwide has solidified her reputation as a leader in research and development for innovative natural health products. As the Project Leader, Paula developed and guided an international weight loss program towards a successful launch in North America and Europe. As the Program Director for a prestige medical spa, she developed a weight loss and longevity program that was the impetus for the company’s rapid growth from an independent location, to a successful nationwide franchise.
With international recognition as a Nutrition & Fitness Expert, her strength in natural health and sports nutrition proved successful for many clients including children and competitive athletes. She’s worked with many top celebrities and models over the years and currently is too. With her background in medical aesthetics and product development, Paula is the co-founder and one of the formulators behind the GliSODin Skin Nutrients Nutricosmetic Line. She regularly appears on top news & networks as an expert beauty nutritionists and often sought by many of the leading health and beauty publications in North America. As their Expert Nutritionist, Paula is currently on New Beauty Magazine’s and Aesthetic Trends & Technologies wellness advisory boards.