Detoxification Supplements

About Detoxification Supplements

Detoxification is a constantly active process in the body, every single moment of every day and night. The liver plays some of the most crucial roles in the detoxification process, as do the kidneys, bowels and even the skin. There are a number of processes involved in detoxification, which include: phase 1 cytochrome P450 enzymes, phase 2 conjugation enzymes, Nrf2 signalling and metallothionein. Each of these processes is becoming more important in modern times due to global industrialisation and chemical production over the past century. There has been an exponential rise in bio-accumulative toxins in the environment that are linked to endocrine (hormonal) disruption, neurological and cardiovascular issues and much more. 

Detoxification is the process by which natural compounds and toxic chemicals, such as glyphosates (herbicide) in food, air pollution and other environmental toxins like mould spores, are neutralised and prepared to be excreted. The body also detoxifies hormones, such as estrogen, converting these hormones into oestrogen metabolites and other metabolic chemicals. Ideally, human detoxification would be supported on a daily basis with wide range of clean foods, such as fruits, vegetables, plant-based proteins, legumes, nuts and seeds. Then, to minise the burden placed on these systems, exposure to environmental toxins would be limited, reducing the need to detox in the first place. However, this is not easy to achieve, especially with limitations on time.

There are many detoxification products to choose from, ranging from the herbal extract St Mary's Thistle, which protects the liver from damage and enhances detoxification, to greens powders, to complete detoxification kits that involve a set program with instructions. Detox kits involve cleaning up the diet and supplementing with products that enhance the natural detoxification effects of the body. As you can probably imagine, there are plenty of foods that aren't recommended for a detox program, which need to be temporarily cut out. Common foods that need to be removed during a detox program are processed and packaged foods, takeaway meals, meat, excessive dairy, alcohol and sugar-containing beverages, to mention just a few. 

There are varying degrees of detoxification support, which accommodate the needs of different people depending on their level of toxicity. This can be quickly assessed based on the amount of alcohol someone consumes and the amount of take-away and processed food they eat. Equally important is the stress management methods used, such as meditation, self-reflection and exercise that they achieve each week. These are all important factors that support the body's natural detoxification methods. If someone's diet and lifestyle are relatively "clean" and health-focused, then it may be a better idea to simply support the body with St Marys Thistle for one or two months per year, as a complete detoxification protocol may not be necessary. However, if the diet and lifestyle are quite "toxic", a more robust approach may need to be taken, such as a full 15-Day Detox Program.