Many anticipate the end of the year as a time to indulge in holiday treats. However, there are ways to incorporate detoxification into our lifestyle to get a head start. Low energy, poor digestion, and hormonal imbalances can indicate an overload of toxins or parasites. We encounter toxins daily through the food we consume, the products we apply to our bodies, and even the water we drink.
It's crucial to assist the body in eliminating toxins, especially before pregnancy, for both parents. Toxins transferred to the baby can be significant, with over 200 different toxins found in the umbilical cord of newborns. Taking steps to detoxify is a worthwhile investment for the health of the baby.
Common Daily Toxins
Airborne Pollutants
Sources: Car exhaust, industrial emissions, cigarette smoke.
Processed By: Lungs, liver.
Food Additives and Pesticides
Sources: Processed foods, fruits/vegetables sprayed with chemicals.
Processed By: Liver, gastrointestinal system.
Heavy Metals
Sources: Mercury in fish, lead in old pipes or paint, arsenic in water.
Processed By: Liver, kidneys.
Alcohol and Drugs
Sources: Beverages, medications, recreational drugs.
Processed By: Liver (metabolizes ~90% of alcohol).
Personal Care Products
Sources: Parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances in cosmetics and toiletries.
Processed By: Skin absorption, liver.
Plastics and BPA
Sources: Food containers, water bottles, canned goods.
Processed By: Liver, endocrine system disruption.
Toxins can take time to be filtered out of the body, and the detoxifying organs may become quickly overwhelmed depending on the dosage and frequency of exposure.
How Long Toxins Stay in the Body
General Timeframe:
Water-soluble Toxins: Processed within hours to a few days (e.g., caffeine, alcohol).
Fat-soluble toxins: These are stored in fat cells, and elimination can take weeks, months, or longer (e.g., pesticides, BPA).
We consume many of these toxins daily, and if they persist for more than a day, our system becomes increasingly burdened. Certain processed foods, especially those that are deep-fried, may linger in our system for up to six months. If consumed daily, or even multiple times a day, this can significantly overwhelm the liver. This is not to mention the perfumes and toxic beauty products we use every day, along with household products laden with fragrances and toxins.
The message is not intended to alarm you, but rather to highlight the importance of eliminating toxins, particularly for those planning to have children. During pregnancy, the body can transfer toxins to the fetus.
Limiting toxin intake is the most effective strategy. Utilizing stainless steel and glass containers can help reduce the intake of PUFAs. Opt for foods packaged in glass over those in plastic or cans and use glass containers for food storage. Drinking filtered water can also decrease the ingestion of chlorine, bromine, lead, and other carcinogens.
Purchasing organic foods, especially those known as the 'dirty dozen'—strawberries, spinach, kale, collard and mustard greens, nectarines, apples, grapes, cherries, peaches, pears, bell and hot peppers, celery, and tomatoes—can significantly lower your toxic load.
Individuals who work in environments with high levels of toxins, such as chemicals, perfumes, or car fumes, may need to detoxify more frequently and support this process daily if possible. Occupations like mechanics, nail technicians, hair salon workers, and factory workers are particularly exposed to these toxins. Additionally, those living near industrial plants, airports, or active mines may also require support for detoxification due to environmental factors.
Above are just a few methods to assist in detoxification and reducing the toxic load. Our food choices can help the body to metabolize and detox or create its own toxic load. If you want specific help for you set up an appointment today.
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