Most of us are very hard on our bodies, especially those of us who live in an urban environment: We breathe in thousands of toxins daily, not to mention the large quantities of processed, unhealthy food we consume regularly.
Body cleanses and detox treatments have numerous benefits which aid in the restoration and rejuvenation our bodies - inside and out - and are one of the oldest and most effective natural healing methods.
What Are The Benefits?
When administered properly, cleanses help to restore a pH (acid/alkaline) balance in our systems.
An alkaline imbalance sets up an environment for many diseases, so restoring a healthy equilibrium reduces the likelihood of illness. When done properly, cleanses also help to restore the body's natural digestive enzymes.
The aim of a cleanse is to flush toxins from the body in order to start fresh, re-establish a healthy balance and clear out any congestion. There are a variety of body cleanses available that focus on different parts of the body such as the colon, the liver, and the gallbladder. Naturopaths may recommend cleanses for the relief of the following problems:
- Chronic constipation
- Frequent gas & bloating
- Excess weight
- Acne
- Poor Circulation
- Frequent fatigue
- Impaired digestion
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Candida infection
- Parasite infestation
- Recurring headaches
- Bad breath
- Hemorrhoids
- Irritability
Types of Cleanses
De-toxes can be performed in a variety of ways including fasts, eating only a specific number of foods, or a mixture of a juice/shake fasts, and/or consuming special herbal tonics.
Detoxification treatments vary in intensity and longevity, and need to be done in moderation with a holistic approach. Some treatments should only be performed before or after other specific cleanses, and they can last anywhere from one or two days to over 21 days.
Do your research and consult with an experienced naturopath to find the most appropriate cleanse for you. Virtually everyone can benefit from a cleanse, however they are often intense and require discipline.
Precautions of Doing Detoxes or Cleanses
It is important to note that hese processes can be hazardous when abused or performed improperly. Always consult with a physician or naturopath before initiating drastic changes to your diet, and stick with de-tox processes through to completion in order to allow your body to benefit from the cleanse and to avoid dangerous shocks to your system.
It is essential to remain hydrated during the cleansing process, as fluids will allow you to effectively flush the toxins from your system. Initially, you may tired, irritable, hungry, and possibly achy, but like anything, once the first, most difficult, part is over, your will begin to experience the benefits.
When the cleanse is completed, it is important to re-introduce foods you would normally consume slowly and at specific time intervals for the first few days after the treatment. This ensures that the body will maintain the positive effects of the cleanse and that the new (less polluted) status of the body will not be disturbed.
Expending too much energy while performing a cleanse can cause dizziness, nausea, and even fainting, so de-toxes should be performed when you can stay close to home without too much activity going on around you. Detoxing is both physically and emotionally challenging, and should be approached as a calm, relaxed, spiritual journey to better health. It is not recommended to perform cleanses more than three to four times a year.
