How To Detox Your Body

Potential toxins are everywhere—in the foods we eat, the air we breathe, the ground we walk on.  Harmful chemicals we come into daily contact with include things like heavy metals, plastics, pesticides and pollution.  If you want to know how to detox, but are skeptical of flashy marketing claims and false promises, give these easy and inexpensive alternatives a try.  A few simple lifestyle changes may be enough to help you obtain effective body detox.

Always wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly.  This helps remove pesticide residues which have been linked to increased instances of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, arthritis and certain types of cancer.  Go a step further and consider purchasing only organic fresh produce that has been grown without chemical repellents or fertilizers.

Avoid products that contain polyvinyl chloride (PVCs).  These chemicals are typically found in plastic products like shower curtains and mattress pads, and can cause dizziness and fatigue when inhaled.  Choose alternatives made from natural fibers like cotton or hemp instead.

Women over 40 should take calcium and vitamin D supplements and exercise daily to counteract the bone loss and breakage that can occur as they age.  Thanks to past exposure to leaded gasoline, women of this age generally have a higher concentration of lead in their bones, which can be released into the bloodstream when bones become brittle.  This can lead to neurological damage, increased blood pressure and kidney problems.

If possible, limit exposure to perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) that are often found in clothing, furniture, pre-packaged food containers, and the coatings of non-stick pans.  Significant, prolonged contact with PFCs can cause fertility issues and has been linked to reproductive maladies.

Limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of liver damage, neurological disorders and general sluggishness.  Alcohol dependence has also recently been linked to breast cancer.

Frequent hand washing rids the body of germs that produce toxins.  Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a worthy substitute when soap and warm water are unavailable.

One of the most effective ways to conduct a liver detox is to discontinue regular use of over the counter pain medications like acetaminophen.  These pills are harmless in small doses, but prolonged use can cause liver damage.  Use them sparingly and only as recommended on packaging.

Tobacco smoke is one of the most detrimental substances to a proper body detox.  If you smoke, consider quitting; if you don’t, limit your exposure to second- and third-hand smoke to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.  Certain foods like broccoli and cabbage can combat the negative effects of passive smoke.

Spray air fresheners, aerosols and harsh chemical cleaners release toxins into the air.  Instead of spraying chemicals to cover up odors, open windows.  Use natural cleansers like vinegar and baking soda, and decorate with live greenery like ferns and ivy that will help purify the air in your home.

Pesticides, pollen, dust and other toxic particles collect on the soles of your shoes.  One of the simplest ways to detox your body is to wipe your feet or take off your shoes upon entering your home.